Online Dispatcher Course and Class Overviews

Online dispatcher courses are available on a limited basis in the fields of emergency services and aviation. Courses are generally open for continuing education units (CEUs) or a certificate. Most courses are offered in partial-residency hybrid formats due to the need for hands-on practical training.

Overview of Online Dispatcher Courses

Dispatchers coordinate operations and communications through direct relay of information to various units within an organization. Emergency medical services (EMS) or 9-1-1 dispatchers gather relevant information from those needing aid and coordinate police, fire and EMS responses. Flight dispatchers ensure the safety of aircraft during takeoff, landing and flight by monitoring progress and communicating with flight crew.
Emergency dispatcher courses are available fully online for training, continuing education or certification exam preparation. Flight dispatcher training courses are also available online and are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Both types of courses can have limited availability online and may have prerequisites for enrollment. Generally, flight dispatcher training programs include a hybrid component in which students must spend up to two weeks receiving supervised training on-site.

Course Requirements

Courses require the use of a computer with audio, video and Internet capabilities. Software such as Adobe Reader and Microsoft PowerPoint may be needed to access course documents. Web discussion forums and e-mail are used for communication in classes. Web seminars and conference calls may be required for course completion. Training materials can include textbooks and manuals which are mailed to students following enrollment. Further materials can be found online on school teaching platforms such as Blackboard. Flight dispatcher courses utilize specialized software programs for practice simulations and visual familiarity. Some travel may be required for on-site training.

List of Courses

Emergency Medical Dispatch Course

This course provides a comprehensive overview of emergency dispatcher job responsibilities. Discussion also covers legal and ethical concerns. Students practice methods for obtaining information from callers and stress management techniques through simulated calls. This course may involve Web seminars and conference calls.

Aviation Regulatory Requirements Course

Students focus on qualifications and regulations for the aviation industry. Coursework explains the rules for domestic, flag and supplemental operations. Safety standards according to FAA regulations are stressed for both passengers and crew.

Navigation and Aircraft Navigation Systems Course

Aircraft navigation is monitored through complex computer systems and programs. This course helps familiarize students with these systems. Students also learn how to read and apply navigational charts and airspace plans. The course may utilize computer programs for simulated exercises.

Air Traffic Control Procedures Course

Air traffic control refers to the management and coordination of flights departing, arriving and en route. Air traffic control procedures and responsibilities are taught in this course with topics such as separation minimums, holding procedures and priority handling. Airspace classifications, route structure and flight plans are other topics of study.