Public Safety Telecommunication, C.C.

Location(s): Highlands Campus

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Program Code: 3352

The certificate in Public Safety Telecommunication (PST) is designed to prepare you as a dispatcher in public safety situations. You will learn the role as a dispatcher for police, fire, and ambulance emergency dispatch processes. In this program, you will be trained to operate telephones, radios, and computer terminals responding to emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance. As a dispatcher, you will obtain vital information regarding the nature and location of requests to dispatch assistance as appropriate.

The 232-hour content includes, but is not limited to, ethics and the role of the telecommunicator; standard telecommunication operating procedures; relationship to field personnel; understanding of command levels; typical layouts of message centers; use of performance aids; overview of emergency agencies; functions and terminology; use of correct words and grammar; communications equipment, functions and terminology; types of telecommunications equipment; malfunctions and maintenance agreements; proper and correct telephone and dispatching procedures and techniques; cooperation and reciprocal agreements with other agencies; federal, state, and local communication rules; emergency situations and operating procedures; emergency medical dispatch procedures; employability skills; leadership; human relations skills; and health.

This program is taught by certified PSTs and meets the educational requirements for Florida Department of Health 911 Emergency Dispatcher Certification.

Length: 232 contact hours / 7.73 occupational credits

Admission Requirements

You must:

^●	have a high school diploma or equivalent;
^●	be at least 18 years of age by the end of the program;
^●	be a U.S. citizen of the United States of America;
^●	possess a valid driver’s license or valid photo ID;
^●	submit to a valid background fingerprint check through the SFSC Criminal Justice Academy;
^●	not have a conviction of any felony offenses;
^●	not have a record of conviction for any misdemeanor offenses involving perjury, false statement, or domestic violence;
^●	be of good moral character;
^●	not have a record of a dishonorable discharge from U.S. Armed Forces;
^●	be proficient in using the keyboard and typing (prospective employers will set their agency standards);
^●	pass criminal history and background checks;
^●	complete a Public Safety Telecommunication Application (application can be found online at the SFSC Criminal Justice Academy website); and
^●	complete the SFSC Application for Admission at the Admissions, Registration, and Records Office.

Approximate Program Costs

Resident PSAV Tuition	$ 698
Application for admission to SFSC	15
Books	50
Fingerprinting	45
Graduation Fee	15
Total	$ 823

Nonresident PSAV Tuition	$ 2,792
Application, fees, books	125
Total	$ 2,917

Required Courses

EMS 0002 - Dispatcher: Police, Fire, and Ambulance