This is an ARCHIVED version of the Kwantlen University College Calendar for
2004-2005 and is provided for historical reference only. See the current version of the
Calendar for updated information.
The on-line version of the University College Calendar is the Official version.
In the event of conflict between the printed version and the online version, the
on-line version will prevail.
Effective date of this course calendar information, unless otherwise indicated, is Sept. 1, 2004 to Aug. 31, 2005.
Public Safety Communications
Offered at Newton
Full-time
Start date: September
Limited Enrolment
Certificate
Description
In 1990, Kwantlen introduced the first Public Safety
Communications Program in Canada.
This unique, eight-month program prepares students for a growing
industry that requires professionally selected and trained public
safety communicators. 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 the trades website at www.kwantlentrades.com.
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.
Admission Requirements
In addition to the Kwantlen general admission 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
Submit proof of an LPI score of level 4 or higher
Achieve keyboarding speed of 40 wpm or higher
Submit a researched essay detailing the job function of a public safety communicator
Submit a resume with 3 current letters of reference
Pass a basic criminal record search (Note: students will be required to complete an Enhanced Security/Reliability Screening through the RCMP prior to registration in the second semester.)
A hearing exam, while not mandatory, is recommended
Step 2
Participate in an interview, which includes a performance evaluation (Note: selection criteria subject to change)
To receive an information package detailing the program, career
prospects and admissions procedures, please contact Surrey
Admissions. Information sessions are held in October and
February; contact 604.599.2916 for details.
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
board and with the field generally, and through the procurement of
appropriate equipment. Program curriculum is continually updated
to industry needs.
