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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

Note: A hearing exam, while not mandatory, is recommended as many agencies require them for employment.

Step 2

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:

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

Semester 2 – January – May

Graduation

Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Certificate in Public Safety Communications.

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