Dispatcher training can be found in a number of fields including health care, public safety, or aviation. Some of these fields and programs only consist of one class, and it should be kept in mind that each field has different licensure requirements.
Schools with Dispatcher Training Programs
The following list includes a number of private schools that offer dispatcher training programs.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Prescott, AZ Daytona Beach, FL | 4 year, Private | Certificate | $35,654 |
| Academy College | Bloomington, MN | 4 year, Private | Certificate | $17,661 |
| California Baptist University | Riverside, CA | 4 year, Private | Bachelor's | $33,478 |
Sources: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Selection Criteria
There are several things to keep in mind when picking a dispatcher training program.
- While general dispatcher training is available, many programs focus specifically on either public safety, health care or aviation dispatcher training.
- For those interested in medical dispatcher training, it's important to find programs that offer the training manuals for emergency medical dispatchers (EMDs), including the Scenario Manual.
- An aircraft dispatcher program prepares students for their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams. This type of program might have an age requirement of 21 or higher and licensure requirement of being 23.
- Dispatcher training can be pursued at the certificate or bachelor's level, or through online studies.
Dispatcher Training Program
The classes and requirements of dispatcher training programs vary depending on which field a student wishes to enter. For example, aviation dispatcher programs have course requirements that include meteorology, dispatch operations, aircraft performance, air traffic management, and domestic versus international navigation. Public safety trains students to work as dispatchers for police forces, and may include hands-on experiences, such as 'ride-alongs' with local dispatchers. Health care dispatcher programs may require completion of courses in human anatomy, first aid skills, and radio and phone operations. However, some colleges and schools offer general dispatcher training. Course requirements for these programs include computer literacy, business communication and problem-solving skills
There are a few certificate and bachelor's degree dispatcher programs available at private colleges and universities in the United States. It is an option to pursue studies on site or through online courses.
