This is an ARCHIVED version of the Kwantlen University College Calendar for
2003-2004 and is provided for historical reference only. See the current version of the
Calendar for updated information.
The on-line version of the University College Calendar is the Official version. In the event of conflict between the printed version and the online version, the on-line version will prevail.
Effective date of this program calendar information, unless otherwise indicated, is Sept. 1, 2003 to Aug. 31, 2004.
Public Safety Communications
Offered at Newton
Start date: September
Full-time
Certificate
Description
In 1990, Kwantlen introduced the first Public Safety Communications Program in Canada.
This unique, eight-month program prepares students for a growing industry that requires professionally selected and trained public safety communicators. Public safety communicator's expertise means the difference between life and death for a caller. Rapid technological changes, as well as greater social and cultural diversity, have heightened the need for communicators who can successfully function under considerable pressure.
The introduction of 9-1-1 throughout North America has brought increased public attention to the role of the public safety communicators. While the duties performed by communicators vary considerably according to the function and structure of the organization, there is a simple common element: the communicator critically links the public to those who provide police, fire, and emergency medical assistance.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program can apply for entry-level positions as police, fire, and emergency medical communications operators and related fields. They bring to prospective employers the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to function effectively as communications operators within the public safety industry, call centres, and dispatch operations.
Student Profile
A desire to help people is an important qualification for public safety communicators but it does not ensure success in this demanding career. The public safety communicator must have superior multi-tasking abilities, be able to simultaneously manipulate telephones and radios while thinking quickly and critically, and make necessary decisions with limited information. The communicator must have excellent listening skills, be assertive but not aggressive, be able to maintain emotional control, and work well in a team setting.
Students must be prepared to work hard, actively participate in all facets of the program, show enthusiasm and commitment, and be willing to accept constructive criticism to attain the skills necessary for employment. Ideally applicants will have some experience in related fields such as victim's assistance and crisis management.
Admission Requirements
In addition to the Kwantlen general admission requirements, students admitted to the program will have completed the following steps in order:
Step 1 - Provide proof of high school graduation (or completion of the GED) or equivalent. Submit proof of an LPI score of level 4 or higher, achieve keyboarding speed of 40 wpm or higher. Submit a researched essay detailing the job function of a public safety communicator. Submit a resume with 3 current letters of reference and pass a basic criminal record search. (A hearing exam, while not mandatory, is recommended.)
* Step 2 - Participate in an interview, which includes a performance evaluation.
Step 3 - Pass an enhanced security/reliability screening through the RCMP.
To receive an information package detailing the program, career prospects and admissions procedures, please contact Surrey Admissions. Information sessions are held in October and February; contact 604.599.2916 for details.
*Selection criteria subject to change
Content
This intensive Certificate program is organized according to the following learning goals:
The development of an appropriate level of understanding of practical and theoretical concepts that graduates of the program will be expected to apply in industry.
The provision of hands-on training in our lab with various communications systems similar to those used in the field. The comprehension of human behaviour patterns and development of the interpersonal skills needed to effectively manage crisis calls, relate to co-workers and supervisors, and cope with on-the-job stress.
The integration of learning through a wide variety of experiential activities, oral and written presentations, field trips, and agency practicums.
Components of the program focus on cultural and societal diversity and teamwork.
Courses are kept up-to-date through instructors' professional development, through consultations with the program's advisory board and with the field generally, and through the procurement of appropriate equipment. Program curriculum is continually updated to industry needs.
Semester 1 - September - December
PSCM 1100 Call Processing
PSCM 1120 Radio Communications
PSCM 1140 Human Behaviour
PSCM 1150 Legal & Regulatory Influences
PSCM 1400 Emergency Planning
Semester 2 - January - May
PSCM 1200 Police Communications
PSCM 1240 Human Behaviour II
PSCM 1260 Practicum
PSCM 1300 Fire Communications
PSCM 1500 Emergency Medical Communications
Graduation
Upon successful completion of this program, students are
awarded a Certificate in Public Safety Communications.
Public Safety Communications Faculty
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