Dispatch Training

Become a Dispatcher in just 12 weeks!

Considering a new career as a dispatcher? Cuyahoga Community College can provide you with the skills and training you need in police, fire and emergency medical dispatching. We offer a 12-week Dispatch Communications course.

Dispatch Communications Course

• Twelve-week, 192-hour dispatcher course combines classroom and hands-on dispatch training.
• Practice handling single and multiple simulated calls with scenarios in law, fire and EMS using a 911 dispatch software.
• Exercises to learn to read maps effectively.
• Keyboarding and listening and responding to actual 911 and non-emergency calls.
• Skill-building exercises using computer-aided dispatch (CAD).
• Basic introductory course to emergency medical dispatch (EMD).
• Skills assessment exam to prepare students for Dispatcher Civil Service Exam.
• Training on how to mitigate active threats.
• Incident Command Training with FEMA ICS 100.
• Job readiness and professionalism.

This course is not financial aid eligible.

Upcoming Courses

• Dispatch Communications

Fall 2023

Saturdays and Sundays 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dates: Aug. 19 - Nov. 5
Orientation: Aug. 12

If you are interested in the Spring 2024 dispatch academy, please fill out the interest form.

Career Outlook

The demand for qualified dispatchers continues to grow. Dispatchers work for police departments, fire departments, law enforcement agencies, colleges and universities, hospitals, ambulance services, telematics call centers and transportation/freight companies.

The course is designed to prepare US based students to take a national exam that leads to job placement. The course does not meet the criteria for either the student or visitor visa rules with regards to studying.

Program Cost

$1,700* – includes textbook, class materials and certification test fee

 *Program costs subject to change without notice.
  This course is not eligible for Financial Aid.

 Class dress code:

• White polo shirt (short or long sleeves)
• Navy or black pants (no leggings or yoga pants) 
• Dark-colored shoes and socks
• Academy jacket (approximately $40)

Program Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or be enrolled in a Adult Diploma program
• 18 years old or older; if under 18 pre-approval from program director
• No criminal history

Program Completion

Upon completion of the program, students will receive the following certifications:

• National Emergency Communications Certification.
• Certification in 911 Telecommunications, including Police, Fire and EMS.
• Certification in FEMA-ICS 100, Active Shooter, A.L.I.C.E. and Keyboarding.
• Tri-C Certificate of Completion.