Police Academy, Certificate

Police Academy, Certificate

Train to serve and protect your community with confidence and skill.

The successful completion of this program is mandatory for anyone seeking law enforcement licensing in the State of Michigan. The Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) and the WCC Police Academy Advisory Committee have created the course content. The WCC Student Handbook, the MCOLES Policy and Procedure Manual, and the WCC Police Academy Daily Rules and Regulations will govern student conduct. The police academy is structured as an adult learning experience, and will require significant self-discipline on the part of the student. Teamwork is required. Just as sworn law enforcement officers operate under a code of honor which requires them to be above reproach in ethics and behavior, students will also be held to this same standard. MCOLES pre-enrollment is a corequisite of this course. Prospective students should review the "Selection and Employment Standards for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers" on the MCOLES website.

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police academy graduates

Career Outlook in Michigan

Career Title Median Salary Annual Openings
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $74,349 1,452
Correctional Officers and Jailers $65,250 819

What do Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers do?

  • Identify, pursue, and arrest suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts.
  • Provide for public safety by maintaining order, responding to emergencies, protecting people and property, enforcing motor vehicle and criminal laws, and promoting good community relations.
  • Record facts to prepare reports that document incidents and activities.

What skills do Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers have?

  • Social Perceptiveness: Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Did You Know?

Programs for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers can lead to other interesting professions, including:


How much does it cost?

WCC is consistently rated one of the most affordable colleges in the country. Check out the Tuition Rates and see how WCC compares to peer institutions.

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