Watch Commander Overview

Required Education and Training To Become a Watch Commander

Best Schools to become a Watch Commander in U.S. 2024

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX

In-State Tuition:$5,856
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,648
Admission Rate:85%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:21,480

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV

In-State Tuition:$6,840
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,840
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:48,668

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$10,080
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,356
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:45,125

Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ

In-State Tuition:$2,040
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,824
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:10%
Total Enrollment:17,078

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA

In-State Tuition:$18,059
Out-of-State Tuition:$53,325
Admission Rate:19%
Graduation Rate:95%
Total Enrollment:26,082
Watch Commander Job Description:
  • Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.

Required Skills and Competencies To Become a Watch Commander

Job Duties for Watch Commanders

  • Explain police operations to subordinates to assist them in performing their job duties.

  • Supervise and coordinate the investigation of criminal cases, offering guidance and expertise to investigators, and ensuring that procedures are conducted in accordance with laws and regulations.

  • Train staff in proper police work procedures.

Technologies and Skills Used by Watch Commanders

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft Access
  • National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Computer aided composite drawing software
  • DesignWare 3D EyeWitness

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Understanding people's reactions

Current Job Market and Opportunites for a Watch Commander

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Watch Commander

FAQs About Becoming a Watch Commander