911 and Emergency Services Communications

Program Description

This full-time program is a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training. You will learn the principles and skills necessary to react competently and effectively in dealings with the public and with emergency services personnel. This knowledge, combined with practical reality-based scenario training will give you the competencies, skills and confidence to perform under often stressful conditions.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)

Applicant Selection:

• Program orientation session.
• College admissions tests of English language skills and reading comprehension.
• Academic achievement (grade in the prerequisite English subject or its equivalent).

Desirable:

• Although not required for admission, good computer literacy skills, presentation and speaking skills are required.
• Students are required to be highly literate in the English language, both written and oral, and to have good analytical and multitasking skills to be successful in this program.

The Importance of Learning Skills:

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Your Career

Emergency services communications centres are the public’s link to emergency services in times of distress and crisis. The appropriate emergency response begins with the emergency services communicator. The communicator is often the first person involved with an emergency or incident. As a graduate of this certificate program, you may find employment as an emergency communications operator and/or dispatcher with 911 Call Centres, police, fire, Emergency Medical Services (ambulance/paramedic), private police, security, alarm response, and other public safety agencies.

Affiliations and Associations

• APCO - Association of Public Safety Communications Officials - Canada
• Association Public-Safety Communications Officials
• Canadian Society for Industrial Security
• Ontario Association of Police Educators
• International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association
• NENA-National Emergency Number Association

Additional Graduation Requirement

All students are required to complete First Aid (Standard Level) and C.P.R. (Basic Rescuer/Level C) from St. John Ambulance or Canadian Red Cross. Certifications cannot expire during their calendar year of graduation. It is the responsibility of the student to provide proof of certifications prior to graduation.

Curriculum

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