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Public Safety Communications
CERTIFICATE IN PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS
DESCRIPTION
In 1990, Kwantlen introduced the first Public Safety Communications Program in Canada.
This unique, 8-month program prepares students for a growing industry that requires professionally selected and trained public safety communicators. A 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. For further information you can also visit our website at www.kwantlen.ca/pscm
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.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the Kwantlen general entrance 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
- Complete English Placement Test (EPT) or submit proof of an LPI score of level 4 or higher
- Submit a researched, 500 word essay detailing the job function of a public safety communicator
- Submit a resume with 3 current, signed letters of reference
- Pass a basic criminal record search (Students will be required to complete a Reliability Status Security Screening through the RCMP prior to registration in the second semester)
- Achieve keyboarding speed of 40 wpm or higher (students are required to complete 50 wpm to graduate)
Note: A hearing exam, while not mandatory, is recommended as many agencies require them for employment.
Step 2
- Participate in an interview that includes a performance evaluation
To receive an information package detailing the program, career prospects and admissions procedures, please contact Enrolment & Registrar Services. Information sessions are held in the fall and spring; contact 604.598.6118 for details.
Students with mental or physical impairments who may require program or practicum accommodations, should contact the Program Coordinator at 604.598.6118 to discuss required skills and competencies and a Disability Advisor at 604.599.3233 to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.
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 committee and with the field generally, and through the procurement of appropriate equipment. Program curriculum is continually updated to industry needs.
- Semester 1 – September – December
Note: Reliability Status Security Screening through the RCMP must be completed prior to registration in the second semester.
- Semester 2 – January – May
GRADUATION
Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Certificate in Public Safety Communications.