A career as an emergency dispatcher is fast paced and can be quite rewarding. Training programs for aspiring emergency dispatchers are offered by community colleges and specialty schools dedicated to public safety training.
Schools for Emergency Dispatchers
These schools offer training programs for emergency dispatchers at varying levels.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition and Fees 2018-2019* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anna Maria College | Paxton, MA | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Master's | $37,860 (Undergraduate) |
| Barry University | Miami, FL | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's | $30,014 (Undergraduate) |
| Ohio Christian University | Circleville, OH | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Graduate Certificate | $20,806 (Undergraduate) |
| Schenectady County Community College | Schenectady, NY | 2-year, Public | Associate's | $4,944 in-state, $9,360 out-of-state (Undergraduate) |
| St Petersburg College | Clearwater, FL | 4-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's | $2,682 in-state, $9,286 out-of-state (Undergraduate) |
| Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood, CO | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $4,158 in-state, $15,246 out-of-state (Undergraduate) |
| Philadelphia University | Philadelphia, PA | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Graduate Certificate, Master's | N/A |
| Saint Louis University | Saint Louis, MO | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Graduate Certificate, Master's | $43,884 (Undergraduate) |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Aspiring emergency dispatch workers may want to consider the following when choosing a school:
- State licensure requirements vary from state to state, so students should check to see what is required in their area.
- Students may want to consider what type of program they are interested in; some programs cover the basics, which others give more in-depth career training.
- Equipment and practical experience opportunities are important to many students; some programs include hands-on simulations and ride-alongs which can provide students valuable experience.
Certificate Program for Emergency Dispatchers
Students in an emergency dispatch training program might learn appropriate responses to specific emergency situations, such as domestic incidents, missing person cases or attempted suicides. Programs typically include simulation training so students can learn the practical skills they need to handle emergency calls. Most programs require students to hold CPR certification prior to enrollment or to earn it over the course of their studies.
Programs for emergency dispatchers are available at a variety of levels and training areas. Students should look for programs that prepare them for licensure and include practical experience opportunities.
