Police Dispatcher Training Programs and Education Requirements

Police dispatchers make up the first line of communication for police and emergency services. Dispatchers monitor emergency phone calls, send out appropriate emergency vehicles and provide accurate contact information for police officers, firefighters and paramedics. Employers often train new hires, but many employers prefer applicants who have completed a dispatcher certificate or certification program.

View 28 Popular Schools »

Training Programs for a Police Dispatcher

Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that police dispatchers usually receive on-the-job training from experienced dispatchers, there are other training options available (www.bls.gov). For instance, individuals may choose to enroll in an emergency services dispatcher certificate program, which usually takes one year to complete. While not required, individuals may also enroll in an associate's degree program in public safety services.

Emergency services dispatcher certificate programs teach students how to talk with emergency victims. As such, coursework generally includes suicide intervention, customer service care, crisis intervention and stress management. Since dispatchers often instruct 911 callers to perform basic lifesaving techniques until help arrives, they may receive training to help callers perform rescue techniques, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Many certificate programs also include criminal justice courses, such as criminal and civil law, domestic violence and law enforcement strategies.

Certification Programs for a Police Dispatcher

States may require dispatchers to become certified through a nationally recognized trade organization, such as the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch, prior to employment. Police dispatcher certification programs usually involve applicants passing a test to prove knowledge in a particular field. Some certification programs also require applicants to participate in training workshops before taking final exams. Passing an emergency services dispatch certificate program may also qualify individuals to sit for certification exams.

Educational Requirements for a Police Dispatcher

The BLS indicated that employers may favor applicants who have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some states may have additional education requirements, such as completing postsecondary coursework related to public safety or secretarial work. Other states may not have a minimum educational requirement, but they may require applicants to pass standardized tests in order to prove reading, writing, verbal and problem solving skills.

Show me popular schools

Related to Police Dispatcher Training

  • Related
  • Recently Updated
  • Popular
Police Dispatcher: Job Information for Students Considering a Career As a Police Dispatcher

Do you like working in customer service? Do you thrive in high-pressure situations? If you answered 'yes' to both...

Communications Dispatcher: Job Description and Requirements

A communications dispatcher, sometimes called a 911 dispatcher or 911 operator, answers calls from the public and...

MTA Dispatcher: Job Description and Information About Becoming an MTA Dispatcher

An MTA Dispatcher is responsible for overseeing a city's public and private transportation. MTA Dispatchers work with...

Emergency Dispatch Certification and Certificate Program Info

Any individual who calls 911 in an emergency situation will be immediately connected with an emergency dispatcher....

911 Emergency Dispatcher: Required Skills, Duties and Responsibilities

28 Popular Schools

Popular Schools

Avg. Wages For Related Jobs

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics