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WE ARE THE FIRST RESPONDERS
We serve our community through the principles and best practices of Public Safety. We are the law enforcement officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, crime scene investigators, corrections officers and public safety dispatchers.
LAW ENFORCEMENT/CORRECTIONS
BASIC/ENTRY-LEVEL
ADVANCE SPECIALIZED TRAINING
DEGREES & CERTIFICATES
FUTURE FIRE ACADEMY STUDENTS
ADVANCE FIRE COURSES
DEGREES & CERTIFICATES
Fire Academy (CCP)
Fire Officer Supervisor (Officer 1) (CCC)
Fire Science Technology (AS)
Meet Our Team
Know your Leaders
Patricia Richie
Dean, Trade & Industry, Business & Computer Science and Public Safety
Campus: Lake Worth
Email:Patricia Richie
Barbara Cipriano
Public Safety Associate Dean
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Barbara Cipriano
Marcela Alvarez
Administrative Assistant II to the Associate Dean
Campus: Lake Worth
Email:Marcela Alvarez
Emergency Medical Service
Matthew Keeler
Director of EMS (Interim)Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Matthew Keeler
Carla Robinson
EMS Administrative Assistant II
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Carla Robinson
Crystal White
Interim EMS Compliance Officer
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Crystal White
Fire Science
Kerry Weiss
Fire Academy Director
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Kerry Weiss
Monique Sheriffe
Fire Administrative Assistant II
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Monique Sheriffe
Chad W. Crouse
Fire Science Dept. Chair
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Chad Crouse
Criminal Justice Institute
Christine Todaro
Selection Center Coordinator
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Christine Todaro
Joseph Tata
Interim Criminal Justice Director
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Joseph Tata
Tawanna Wilson
Administrative Assistant II
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Tawanna Wilson
Dr. Paul L. Friedman
Criminal Justice & CSI Dept. Chair
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Paul Friedman
Edgard Richard
Administrative Assistant II
Campus: Lake Worth
Email: Edgard Richard
Criminal Justice Institute: Law Enforcement/Corrections Officers
The academy offers Basic Recruitment training for new/entry level Law Enforcement officers, information on Preparing for the Physical Agility Test (PAT), 911 Telecommunication training, Advanced & Specialized Training for veteran law enforcement officers and Exemption from Training (EFT) for previously Florida and Out-of-state Law Enforcement Officers.
Program Description
The Advanced and Specialized Courses are Limited Access courses for Florida-certified Law Enforcement and/or Corrections officers for Mandatory Retraining or Salary Incentive credit.
Priority is given to Region XII officers. Out-of-region officers will be put on a waiting list and will be added to the class if space is available. To register for these courses, officers must coordinate seating through their agency's training department.
For questions and availability, please call 561-868-3773.
All training held at the Lake Worth campus, unless otherwise noted.
| Course Name | Course Date | Total hours of course |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence Intervention and Investigations | Canceled | 40 |
| Conducting Background Investigations | Canceled | 40 |
| Body Language and Deception in High Risk Environments | Canceled | 40 |
| Field Training for Law Enforcement | Canceled | |
| Crisis Intervention | Canceled | |
| FDLE DT Instructor Update | Canceled | 32 |
EFT (Exemption from Training)- Law Enforcement
This course is for previously Florida certified Law Enforcement Officers and out-of-state Law Enforcement Officers seeking certification as Florida certified law enforcement officers. This course consists of state examination preparation and the demonstration of proficiency in the four high liability categories (Defensive Tactics, First Aid, Vehicle Operations and Firearms). "Qualification Courses"
Contact: Coordinator Philip Berlingo 561-868-3378
Program Length: 76 Hours
Admission Requirements
This is a Limited Access program for previously Florida-certified Law Enforcement
Officers or out-of-state Law Enforcement Officers. Applicants must submit a completed
and signed CJSTC Equivalency Form 76, and if being authorized by an agency, an Authorization
to Attend Form and sponsorship letter must be submitted by the agency.
Completion Requirements
Successful demonstration of proficiency in all four high liability areas.
Approximate Cost of Program: $800.00
Next Class: TBA
Program Offered: Lake Worth
The course information above may change without notice.
EFT (Exemption from Training) - Corrections
This course is for previously Florida certified Corrections Officers and out-of-state Corrections Officers seeking certification as Florida certified corrections officers. This course consists of state examination preparation and the demonstration of proficiency in the three high liability categories (Defensive Tactics, First Aid, and Firearms). "Qualification Courses"
Contact: Coordinator Phil Berlingo - 561-868-3378
Program Length: 46 Hours
Admission Requirements
This is a Limited Access program for previously Florida-certified Corrections Officers
or out-of-state Corrections Officers. Applicants must submit a completed and signed
CJSTC Equivalency Form 76, and if being authorized by an agency, an Authorization
to Attend Form and sponsorship letter must be submitted by the agency.
Completion Requirements
Successful demonstration of proficiency in all three high liability areas.
Approximate Cost of Program: $565.00
Next Class: Offered yearly in March, July and October
Program Offered: Lake Worth
The course information above may change without notice.
APPLICATIONS AND CJSTC 58 FORM
Register Blast for Payment - click below
For information:
Annette Rodriguez
Phone: 561-868-3398
Email: rodriga1@palmbeachstate.edu
| Academy Name | Dates for Accepting Applications |
|---|---|
| BLE 208 | TBD |
| BLE 209 | TBD |
| COT 173 | TBD |
Application Procedures
The following minimum requirements for entry into the Basic Recruit Training Academies for Law Enforcement and Corrections at Palm Beach State College have been established through the college, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Region XII Training Council. These requirements apply to all individuals who are seeking to sponsor themselves in the academy.
- Be able to complete the entire academy program with the scheduled time frame.
- Be at least 19 years of age at the time of application.
- Be a citizen of the United States.
- Not have been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement.
- Not have received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States.
- Be a high school graduate or its "equivalent" as the commission has defined the term by rule. Official transcripts required.
NOTE: High school and ALL college transcripts (if applicable) MUST be received/accepted by Palm Beach State College in order to be admitted into the college. Please contact your high school (and college(s), if applicable) as soon as you start the selection process and have transcripts sent to Criminal Justice, MS #36, Palm Beach State College, 4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth, FL 33461-4796. Transcript request forms and additional information. To see if Palm Beach State College has received your transcript(s), go to Pantherweb.
Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement is not eligible for entry into the academy, not withstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.
Any person who has pled nolo contendere to a misdemeanor involving a false statement,
prior to December 1, 1985, and has had such record sealed or expunged shall not be
deemed ineligible for acceptance into the academy.
Application Forms
- Medical History and Physicians Clearance to Test Form
- Authorization to Attend form (Required by hiring agencies)
After all eligibility requirements* for acceptance into the selection pool have been satisfied, the following point system will be utilized for selection into the full background portion of the selection process.
All documents must be on file in the Criminal Justice Institute's Selection Office prior to the deadline date.
1. Veteran of the United State Military with honorable discharge: 2 points
(copy of DD-214 or active duty military ID is required to receive points)
2. College Education (nationally recognized accredited institution)
(copy of transcript or diploma is required to receive points)
- 30 to 59 college credits: 1 point
- 60 or more college credits or AS or AA degree: 2 points
- Bachelor's: 3 points
- Master's degree: 4 points
3. Completed 3 years in a H.S. Criminal Justice Academy: 1 point
Maximum Points Possible: 7 points
*(CJBAT, Physical Ability Test (PAT), official high school transcript and application)
- Must possess a valid Florida driver's license. Candidates with valid out of state licenses must obtain a Florida driver's license before they submit the application.
- Must possess an acceptable driving record, (Law Enforcement only)defined as:
- Less than three moving traffic violations within the last two years
- Free from driver's license suspensions for the past three (3) years.
- Free from any convictions for criminal traffic offenses (DUI, Reckless driving) within the past five (5) years.
- Have not used or possessed marijuana in the one (1) year prior to applying to the academy.
- Have not used or possessed any other illegal drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy.
- Have not misused prescription drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy.
- Have not sold, transported, delivered or trafficked in any illegal drugs and/or fraudulently obtained any prescription drugs.
Tattoos include any tattoo, scar, branding, mark or other permanent body art or modification deliberately placed on the body for purposes of decoration, ornamentation or adornment. Any of the following will be cause for denial for entry into the academy:
- Tattoo(s) on the fingers, hands, neck (visible when wearing a collared shirt), face or head.
- Tattoo(s) commonly associated with gangs, organizations or groups which advocate hate, intolerance or discrimination.
- Tattoo(s) which depict, describe or otherwise refer to sexual conduct, acts, organs or preferences.
- Tattoo(s) which depict, describe, or refer to intolerance of, or discrimination against any race, religion, gender or national origin.
- Complete the Basic Abilities Test (B.A.T.) with a score of 70 or better for Law Enforcement or 70 or better for Corrections.
- Complete and pass the Physical Abilities Test.
Upon acceptance to the program:
- Successfully complete a polygraph examination.
- Successfully complete a psychological examination.
- Be in good physical shape as determined by a licensed physician.
- Be drug free as determined by a 7-panel drug test.
- Pass a thorough background investigation.
- STEP 1 - Submit a Non-Degree/Non-Credit application for admission to Palm Beach State College. This will begin the application process and enter your
name and information into Palm Beach State College's student records system.
- STEP 2 - Contact the Testing Center on the Lake Worth campus (561.868.3012) for instructions on how to proceed to take the Basic Abilities Test (BAT). The BAT Test is required for all Law Enforcement (LE) and Corrections (COR) Academy applicants. Advise the testing center of which program (LE or Corr) that you are taking the test for. The testing fee is $45.00. View materials to help you prepare for BAT test.
- STEP 3 - Take the Basic Abilities Test (BAT)
- Go to pearsonvue.com/fdle to schedule test at least 24 hours prior.
- Check Testing Center hours by calling 561-868-3012
- STEP 4 - When the applicant passes the Basic Abilities Test (BAT), and the Physical Agility
Test (PAT law enforcement only), the self sponsored student will receive a Personal
History Questionnaire and a medical packet to complete and return to the Criminal
Justice Institute. Once both are completed and returned a personal interview will
be conducted. If the applicant is accepted into the self-sponsoring process, Phase
One, the background investigation will begin.
- STEP 5 - Psychological examination and fingerprints.
- STEP 6- After completion of the above steps, the applicant and his/her file will be reviewed for acceptance into the next available requested academy program. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OF ACCEPTANCE, EVEN IF A STUDENT MEETS ALL SELECTION CRITERIA. The Selection Center will follow the standard criteria set forth by Palm Beach College, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards Training Commission as outlined in 943.13 Florida Statutes, 11B of the Florida Administrative Code, and the Region XII Training Council.
The Selection Center is for prospective law enforcement and corrections officers who wish to enter the Basic Law Enforcement or Basic Corrections Academies. The Selection Center is not a hiring agency.
The Full Time Law Enforcement Academy is approximately 24 weeks, Monday through Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm OR Monday through Thursday 12:00pm - 9pm and 4 hours on Friday (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $4,000.00 for Florida residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency. For out-of-state applicants, tuition is substantially higher.
The Part Time Law Enforcement Academy is approximately 33 weeks, Monday through Thursday 5:30pm to 10:00pm and Saturday, 6:00am to 5:00pm (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $4,000.00 for Florida residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency. For out-of-state applicants, tuition is substantially higher.
The Corrections Academy is approximately 12 weeks, Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 5:00pm (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $2,000.00 for Florida Residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency.
Additional costs will include, but are not limited to, the cost of uniforms at approximately $300.00
*All fees are subject to change without notice.
STUDENTS APPLYING FOR CROSSOVER TRAINING, AND COMPARATIVE COMPLIANCE COURSES WILL BE SUBJECT TO SOME OR ALL PORTIONS OF THE SELECTION PROCESS DEPENDING ON THEIR EMPLOYMENT STATUS.
Register for the PAT
The Criminal Justice Institute has adopted single norm testing of academy applicants. This physical testing has been validated by FDLE and the Region XII Training Advisory Board.
A single norm standard is defined as follows; all persons taking the Physical Agility Test (PAT) must meet the same standards regardless of gender or age. These standards require the same level of performance regardless of age and gender (same job = same standard).
There are certain factors to remember. First, be honest with yourself. If you have not exercised and prepared for this test in a safe manner, it is unrealistic to think that you would pass the PAT on test day. Criminal Justice Staff and this brochure will assist you in preparing for the exam.
This test measures both cardiovascular fitness, as well as dynamic strength. This
refers to the aerobic capacity of an individual as well as their anaerobic capacity.
Endurance and dynamic strength are factors for overall fitness.
Getting Ready
First you must acquire a Physicians Clearance to Test Form at the Criminal Justice
Institute Palm Beach State College Lake Worth Campus. The form must be completed by
a Florida Licensed Physician and returned to the CJI. When the form is returned the
student will be allowed to sign up for the Physical Agility Test at the cost of $40.00.
This test is valid for a period of six months from the date of administration. The
Physicians Clearance to Test Form and receipt of payment must be returned to the Criminal
Justice Institute Selection Center.
The Day of the PAT
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time. This will give you a chance
to adjust, complete any necessary paperwork and not feel rushed. Dress in appropriate
clothes for the PAT. T-shirts, gym shorts, socks and appropriate footwear for the
run are essential. No offensive logos or caricatures should appear on any outerwear.
You might want to bring your own water bottle.
Prior to the exam you should hydrate well with water. Sports drinks might help after the test, but water is the most important fluid to drink prior to taking the PAT.
Caffeine should be eliminated the morning of the PAT as often it can elevate your heart and blood pressure rate.
Applicants are encouraged to avoid taking "supplements." Often, these items can have
adverse physiological effects unless prescribed by a licensed physician or registered
dietician.
Testing
The Physical Abilities Test is to be conducted in the following manner:
Task 1: Exit Vehicle/Enter Trunk
Attributes Measured: Eye-hand coordination, reaction time, finger dexterity and flexibility.
Task Description Participant begins course seated in a full size automobile, seat belt on, with hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions on the steering wheel. The participants will wear a pull-away flag belt around his/her waist. The trunk key is in the closed glove compartment. A revolver and a flashlight are positioned in the front center part of the trunk. The trunk is closed and locked.
Instructions
- On the command “go” the stop watch is started and the participant will unfasten his/her seat belt, open the glove compartment and remove the key.
- With key in hand, exit the vehicle (closing the driver’s door upon exit).
- Upon exiting the vehicle, reach to the back of the belt and pull the belt off (letting the belt to fall to the ground).
- Move to the trunk, unlock and open the trunk with the key.
- Remove the revolver and the flashlight and close the trunk.
- Place the revolver and keys on the stool, located at the side of the passenger side of the vehicle.
- Keep the flashlight in hand and carry it with him/her throughout the 220 yard run (and obstacle course).
- After placing the handgun and keys on the stool, (with flashlight in hand) begin the (first) 220 yard run.
Task 2: 220 Yard Run
Attributes Measured: Anaerobic capacity (muscular endurance).
Task Description: While carrying the flashlight the participant runs 220 yard on a flat surface to the entrance of the obstacle course.
Instructions
- Run 220 yards with flashlight in hand.
- After completing the run, proceed to the obstacle course.
- Keep flashlight in hand.
Task 3: Obstacle Course
Attributes Measured: Mobility, anaerobic capacity (muscular endurance), flexibility
and coordination.
Task Description: Upon completion of the 220 yard run the participant passes through the pylons at the entrance to the obstacle course, consisting of the following tasks.
Instructions
- Climb over a 40 inch wall.
- High step or jump over a series of three (12”, 18” and 24”) hurdles.
- Serpentine through a forty foot course of nine pylons.
- Low crawl eight feet, under three 27” high hurdles.
- Leave the flashlight at the end of the low crawl and move to the “dummy drag” task.
Note: If at any time, the participant knocks over a hurdle or pylon, they
immediately stop and repeat that portion of the obstacle course.
Task 4: Dummy Drag
Attributes Measured: Muscular endurance, strength/power, flexibility, agility.
Task Description: The participant sprints from the obstacle course, 50 feet, to the 150 pound dummy and drags it 100 feet on a cut grass surface.
Instructions
- Sprint 50 feet to the dummy.
- Drag or move the dummy 100 feet.
- Move back to the obstacle course.
Task 5: Obstacle Course (Repeat of Task 3 in Reverse)
Task Description: Upon completion of the dummy drag, sprint back to the obstacle course,
pick up the flashlight and complete the obstacle course in reverse (low crawl, serpentine,
high step, wall). After the wall climb, repeat the 220 yard run.
Task 6: 220 Yard Run (Repeat of Task 2)
Task 7: Dry Fire Weapon
Attributes Measured: Strength/power, muscular endurance and finger strength.
Task Description: After completing the (second) 220 yard run, place the flashlight on the stool and pick up the revolver; using a one-handed grip fire six round with each hand.
Instructions
- Place flashlight on the bench.
- Pick up revolver.
- Assume a firing position while keeping arm completely outstretched at shoulder height and parallel with the ground.
- Fire six rounds with each hand.
Task 8: Enter Trunk/Enter Vehicle (Repeat of Task 1 in Reverse)
Task Description: After firing the weapon place the weapon and flashlight in the trunk,
close the trunk. With key in hand, reenter the vehicle, close the vehicle door, place
the key in the ignition, fasten the seat belt and place both hands on the steering
wheel. Time stops when participant’s hands rest on the steering wheel.
Instructions
- Pick up flashlight and handgun.
- Place both items in the trunk.
- Close trunk and remove key.
- Reenter the vehicle.
- Close the vehicle door and place key in the ignition.
- Fasten seat belt.
- Place both hand on the steering wheel.
THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE TIME FOR A PASSING SCORE IS 6:04 MINUTES
Palm Beach State College highly values the Criminal Justice professionals who serve as instructors and staff in the Criminal Justice Institute.
Application Process for Instructors
Basic Requirements: Current CJSTC-FDLE Instructor’s certificate in specialization area, specified in FAC 11B-20. Minimum academic degree must be at the same level at which the faculty member is teaching.
Helpful Resources
- PantherNet commands you should know/FERPA
- Academic Management Manual web page
- Registration guide for Continuing Education students
- Grade Change Form
- EmployeeWeb - Access class rosters and grading
- Class Grading web page
Internal Forms
- Class Check-Out Form
- Completion Verification Form - (coming soon)
Region XII encompasses Palm Beach County, Florida. Local police and corrections officials serve on the college's Region XII Advisory Council, as required by FAC 11-B rules to oversee the college's trust fund.
Region XII Agencies
- Atlantis Police Dept. - 260 Orange Tree Drive - Atlantis, FL 33462 | 561-965-1700
- Boca Raton Police Dept. - 100 NW Boca Raton Blvd. - Boca Raton, FL 33432 | 561-338-1234
- Boynton Beach Police Dept. - 100 E. Boynton Bch Blvd. - Boynton, FL 33435 | 561-742-6100
- Delray Beach Police Dept. - 300 West Atlantic Avenue - Delray, FL 33444 | 561-243-7800
- FAU Campus Police Dept. - 500 NW 20th Street - Boca Raton, FL 33431 | 561-297-3500
- Greenacres Public Safety- 2995 Jog Road - Greenacres, FL 33463 | 561-966-2109
- Gulfstream Police Dept. - 246 Sea Road - Gulfstream, FL 33483 | 561-278-8611
- Highland Beach Police Dept. - 3614 S. Ocean Blvd. - Highland Bch., FL 33487 | 561-266-5800
- Juno Beach Police Dept. - 340 Ocean Drive - Juno Beach, FL 33408 | 561-626-2100
- Jupiter Inlet Police Dept. - 1 Colony Place - Jupiter, FL 33469 | 561-746-3787
- Jupiter Police Dept. - 210 Military Trail - Jupiter, FL 33458 | 561-746-6201
- Lake Clarke Shores Police Dept. - 1701 Barbados Rd. - Lake Clarke, FL 33406 | 561-964-1515
- Lantana Police Dept. - 500 Greynolds Circle - Lantana, FL 33462 | 561-540-5700
- Manalapan Police Dept. - 600 S. Ocean Blvd. - Manalapan, FL 33462 | 561-585-4030
- North Palm Beach Public Safety - 501 US Highway One - N. Palm Bch., FL 33408 | 561-881-4425
- Ocean Ridge Public Safety - 6450 N. Ocean Blvd. - Ocean Ridge, FL 33435 | 561-732-8331
- Palm Bch Co. School Dist. Police - 3330 Forest Hill Blvd. #B121 - WPB, FL 33404
- Palm Bch Co. Sheriff's Office- 3228 Gun Club Road - W. Palm Bch., FL 33406 | 561-688-3540
- Palm Bch Gardens Police Dept. 10500 N.Military Tr. - PB Gardens, FL 33410 | 561-799-4445
- Palm Beach Police Dept. - 345 S. County Road - Palm Beach, FL 33480 | 561-838-5454
- Palm Bch Shores Police Dept. - 247 Edwards Lane - Palm Bch Shores, FL 33404 | 561-844-3457
- Palm Springs Public Safety - 226 Cypress Lane - Palm Springs, FL 33461
- Riviera Bch Police Dept, 600 W. Blue Heron Blvd. - Riviera Bch, FL 33404 | 561-845-4123
- South Palm Bch Police Dept. - 3577 S. Ocean Blvd. - S. Palm Bch, FL 33480 | 561-586-2122
- Tequesta Police Dept.- P.O. Box 3272 - Tequesta, FL 33469 | 561-575-6210
- West Palm Bch Police Dept.- 600 Banyan Blvd. - W. Palm Bch, FL 33401 | 561-653-3411
Region XII Council Members
Chief Frank Kitzerow, Chairman, School District of Palm Beach County.
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office
Chief Craig Hartmann, Highland Beach Police Department.
Chief Rick Jenkins, North Palm Beach Police Department.
Chief Robert Mangold, Atlantis Police Department.
Major Ron Mattino, North Region, Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
Interim Director Joseph Tata, Palm Beach State College
Chief Clint Shannon, Palm Beach Gardens Police Department.
There are over 6,000 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the United States of America. This course will teach the skills and knowledge to be able to work in any of those PSAPs, and the skills are easily-transferable to other employers.
There is a 19% nationwide turnover of employees in the 9-1-1 profession. There is a high demand for employees who can successfully perform these job skills.
Locally, in Palm Beach County, salary ranges are $31,046 - $66,300.
Employment in this field is steady, reliable and typically comes with excellent benefits packages for health insurance and retirement.
911 Telecommunicator Catalog Details
Next classes:
- TBD
The Palm Beach State College 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy meets or exceeds the State of Florida Department of Health requirements for certifying students, and preparing them to succeed at the State Exam. Our faculty members serve on numerous State and National boards and committees, ensuring the information we teach is the most current and relevant to today's issues in the emergency 9-1-1 profession.
As a student in this 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy, you will be exposed to many facets of emergency public safety services. Many of the classes include the same information that is taught to Police, Fire, and Rescue recruits.
Training topics include:
- 10 codes and signals
- Operational skills
- Suicide awareness and prevention
- Telecommunications best practices for responding to missing and exploited children
- Active shooter
- Sit-ins at real 9-1-1 dispatch centers
- K9/SWAT Demonstrations
- Hazardous material (HAZ-MAT) demonstrations
- Critical incident stress management
- Hostage negotiations
- How to interview well for a job in 9-1-1
- Radios & telematics
- Trauma hawk and trauma center tour
- Test preparation to pass the state exam
Contact Info
Phone: 561-868-3378
Email PublicSafetyTelecommunications@palmbeachstate.edu
Phil Berlingo, Coordinator
Palm Beach State College utilizes adjunct instructors who are recognized subject matter experts in their field. They are all well-versed in the class subjects they are selected to teach, and are passionate about delivering this education to the students.
After graduation, these instructors function as valuable personal contacts within the 9-1-1 industry for the students.
Director: Rick Rocco
Program Coordinator: Philip Berlingo
Having been hired by the Sheriff's Office, David continued to work part-time for the Royal Palm Beach Police Department until April 1999. Growing within the Sheriff's Office brought new opportunities; David became a member of A.P.C.O. (Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials) and completed the A.P.C.O. Communications Training Officer course in his pursuit on becoming a Communications Training Officer which he accomplished in August 2003. David continued to train and mentor new telecommunicators hired at the Sheriff's Office until April 2006 when he was promoted to Communications Supervisor.
In June 2011, David was hired with Palm Beach State College as an Adjunct Instructor to assist in teaching the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Program. Once a person completes this program and passes the state exam they are then certified by the State of Florida to be 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator. David is also a member of T.E.R.T. (Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce), is C.I.T. (Crisis Intervention Team) certified and C.I.S.M. (Critical Incident Stress Management) certified. David continues to grow in his career, he strives to make a difference in the telecommunications field mentoring, molding and teaching the dispatchers of tomorrow along with serving the citizens of Palm Beach County.
Michael Messineo began his public safety career with the Lynbrook Fire Department in NY in 1988 as an EMT and later became an AEMT-CC and Field Training Officer. Since relocating to Florida in 1996, Mike has worked both on the road and in administration for LifeFleet Atlantic Ambulance, American Medical Response and Medics Ambulance. In 2004 he returned to the Fire department and began working in the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Communications Center as a Communicator III/CTO. He is currently an APCO certified Public Safety Telecommunicator instructor and Certified Training Officer and has assisted the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Communications and other local law enforcement agencies by teaching the Fire components of their programs. He has been an adjunct instructor with Palm Beach State College since 2009 at the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Training Center and has been with the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy since the inception of the program. When he's not working or teaching he likes to spend time with his wife and 4 kids.
In 1996, Dan moved south to Florida and continued his career in Public Safety. Several turns of events had his career path focus on Dispatch and Communications. He worked for North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Shores in full and part-time capacities, respectively, before accepting a position with the Palm Beach Police Department. Here he served as CTO and Supervisor. During this time, he was instrumental in assisting with the growth of All-Risk Incident Dispatch Teams (IDT) nationwide and is a charter member of the National Incident Dispatch Association. Dan has taught Incident Dispatch Teams across Florida and the U.S. He has also had articles published in 9-1-1 Magazine about IDT. Other duties in Palm Beach included serving as Florida Department of Law Enforcement Terminal Agency Coordinator and on the department's Awards Committee.
Manalapan (FL) Police Department hired Dan in May 2005 as their Support Services Manager. In this capacity, he was responsible for the Administrative Branch of the Police Department. This included oversight of the administrative functions of the department including communications, records, training, personnel, fleet and facilities, evidence and crime scene. He served as Secretary on the Board of Directors of the Special Operations Leadership Association (SOLA) of Palm Beach County.
In 2011, Mr. Koenig accepted a position as 9-1-1 Coordinator with Palm Beach County Public Safety Department. Currently, Dan serves on the project team overseeing the implementation of the County's new 30 million dollar NG9-1-1 network and system as the NG9-1-1 Planning Coordinator. During emergency management activations, he serves as the Resource Unit Leader. He is a member of both APCO and NENA. While serving in various areas and aspects of public safety, Dan has always remained focused on training and public education.
Team Leader for over 10 years. He has handled many events including radio coordination and activities during the United States of America Presidential Debate in 2013 at Lynn University in Boca Raton. He remains trained as a Hostage Negotiator and responds to all major Police and Fire events in Boca Raton.
Ms. Ross enjoys the love of music and singing. Since 2003, she has been a member of the Ebony Chorale of the Palm Beaches in the Alto section, and also sings as an Alto/2nd Soprano in her membership church Trinity United Methodist choir in West Palm Beach, FL.
Class 002 students were interviewed by Ricardo Martinez of the 9-1-1 podcast show Within The Trenches, on a break from their Active Shooter Class at the South Florida "Mini-C" Miniature Training Conference April 3rd, 2013, in Boca Raton, FL. Hear what they had to say about getting started in the 9-1-1 field, their experiences in the Academy, and their advice for anyone thinking about taking this class and becoming a 9-1-1 dispatcher! Listen to the podcast.
The Denise Amber Lee Act
The Denise Amber Lee Act was passed unanimously by the Florida Legislature on April
24, 2008, as Florida State Statute 401.465. This law mandates minimum training standards
and certification for Florida's 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicators.
Denise Amber Lee was a 21-year old loving mother of two young boys who was kidnapped, raped, and murdered on the west coast of Florida on January 17th, 2008. Through a series of mis-steps and negligent errors, 5 separate 9-1-1 calls were made concerning her case that day, including one from Denise herself. Despite their best efforts, law enforcement authorities were not able to save her in time. When it was later discovered that a 9-1-1 operator had failed to broadcast critical information in time to the responding units, the Lee family (and Denise's father, Detective Sgt. Rick Goff) pursued legal action and pushed for passage of this law.
The Lee and Goff families have established the Denise Amber Lee Foundation whose mission is: to promote and support public safety through uniform training, standardized protocols, defined measurable outcomes, and technological advances to the 9-1-1 system. http://deniseamberlee.org
Florida State Statute 401.465
The intent of the Legislature in adopting Chapter 2010-188, Laws of Florida, appears
to have been the professionalization of E911 service by creating a mandatory statewide
system for the certification and training of these personnel. Palm Beach State College
seeks to contribute to this professionalization through its support and hosting of
the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Dispatch Academy. This is the only Academy
of its kind in South Florida with enrollment open to self-sponsored students interested
in entering this career. View Florida State Statute 401.465
911 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy
Palm Beach State College was approached by a local 9-1-1 Manager in February 2011,
and began working on the logistics of organizing, hosting, and supporting this Academy.
The first class (#001) session officially began June 19th, 2012, with a class enrollment
of 14 students. Through cooperative agreement with the Palm Beach County 9-1-1 Training
Committee, additional local 9-1-1 Telecommunicators who already held state certification
participated in, and contributed to, select classes.
Our Logo
The "Together As One" logo was created by Class #001 graduate, Billy Osment. This
design signifies the three Public Safety disciplines: Law Enforcement, Fire Services,
and Emergency Medical Services all under the watchful headset of the 9-1-1 Public
Safety Telecommunicator. 9-1-1 Dispatchers are responsible for not only the safety
of their callers, but also their co-workers in the field.
PST # 1
PST # 2
PST # 3
PST # 4
PST # 5
PST # 6
Criminal Justice Institute: Degrees & Certificates
Basic Law Enforcement Auxiliary Academy prepares students as entry level Auxiliary officers in the State of Florida. This program is sometimes referred to as Reserve Law Enforcement Officers.
Coursework will include introduction to law enforcement, legal concepts, patrol and professional communications, interactions in a diverse community, calls for service and arrest procedures, traffic stops and crash investigation, crime scene to courtroom procedures as well as training and proficiency demonstration in dart firing stun gun, firearms, defensive tactics, vehicle operations and first aid.
- Duration: 364 Hours or 10 weeks.
- Program offered at Lake Worth campus.
- Pass all modules with a minimum 80%.
- Meet the 100% attendance requirement established by FDLE.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
The following minimum requirements for entry into the Basic Recruit Training Academies for Law Enforcement and Corrections at Palm Beach State College have been established through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Region XII Training Council. These requirements apply to all individuals who are seeking to sponsor themselves in the academy.
- Be able to complete the entire academy program within the scheduled time frame.
- Be at least 19 years of age at time of application.
- Be a citizen of the United States.
- Be a high school graduate or its “equivalent” as the commission has defined the term by rule. Certified transcripts required.
- Not have been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement.
- Not have received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States'
- Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement is not eligible for entry into the academy, notwithstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.
- Any person who has pled nolo contendere to a misdemeanor involving a false statement, prior to December 1, 1985, and has had such record sealed or expunged shall not be deemed ineligible for acceptance into the academy.
- Must possess a valid Florida driver’s license. Candidates with valid out of state licenses must obtain a Florida driver’s license before the start of the academy.
- Must possess an acceptable driving record, (Law Enforcement only) defined as:
- Less than three moving traffic violations within the last two years
- Free from driver’s license suspensions for the past three (3) years.
- Free from any convictions for criminal traffic offenses (DUI, Reckless driving) within the past five (5) years.
- Drug use history: Have not used or possessed marijuana in the one (1) year prior to applying to the academy. 2. Have not used or possessed any other illegal drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy. 3. Have not misused prescription drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy. 4. Have not sold, transported, delivered or trafficked in any illegal drugs and/or fraudulently obtained any prescription drugs.
- Tattoos – tattoos include any tattoo, scar, branding, mark or other permanent body
art or modification deliberately placed on the body for purposes of decoration, ornamentation
or adornment. Any of the following will be cause for denial for entry into the academy:
- 1. Tattoo(s) on the fingers, hands, neck (visible when wearing a collared shirt), face or head.
- 2. Tattoo(s) commonly associated with gangs, organizations or groups which advocate hate, intolerance or discrimination
- 3. Tattoo(s) which depict, describe or otherwise refer to sexual conduct, acts, organs or preferences.
- 4. Tattoo(s) which depict, describe, or refer to intolerance of, or discrimination against any race, religion, gender or national origin.
- Achieve a passing score on the Basic Abilities Test (B.A.T.)
- Complete and pass the Physical Abilities Test.
- Be in good physical shape as determined by a licensed physician.
- Be drug free as determined by a 7-panel drug test.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
CJ BAT (Criminal Justice Basic Abilities Test)
- Administered at Lake Worth campus Testing Center.
- Call 561-868-3012 for testing hours and information.
PAT (Physical Abilities Test)
- Administered at the Lake Worth campus every other Thursday morning at 6:30 AM. (Not-withstanding holidays or weather conditions)I would like to add a link to a calendar here that does not presently exist.
- PAT Registration Click Below:
AT A GLANCE
Correctional Officer Cross-Over Training to Florida Law Enforcement 5613
The Criminal Justice Academy is a limited access program governed by Palm Beach State, Region XII Justice Training Council and the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. The Correctional Officer Cross-Over Training to Florida Law Enforcement prepares students as entry-level law enforcement officers in the State of Florida.
Practical skills and simulated activities complement the classroom instruction. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida Department of Law Enforcement State Certification Examination.
This minimum class standards is regulated by Florida statutes and is a highly structured and disciplined program with special rules, policies and procedures.
PROGRAM INFO
-
Limited Access Program
-
Program at Lake Worth location
-
Total program hours: 518
-
Duration: Approximately 7 months, part time
PROGRAM & APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
All candidates entering the program must have proof of a standard high school diploma or U.S. GED and are required to complete the Selection Center Testing through Palm Beach State or enter under the auspices of a Palm Beach County Law Enforcement agency.
Additionally, they must complete a Palm Beach State application, achieve passing scores on the Basic Ability Test (BAT), a medical examination, a complete drug screen, and a criminal background investigation that includes a military, employment and education check. All candidates must be Certified Correctional Officers in the State of Florida, employed as one or State Certified from a complete Florida Academy within the last four (4) years.
Meeting with Rules and Regulations:
Students registering in the Law Enforcement, Corrections or Crossover Academy must
meet and abide by the rules and regulations of the Palm Beach State Criminal Justice
Institute. These rules are provided in the Academy Rules and Regulations. Further,
students are also subject to the rules and regulations of the Criminal Justice Standards
and Training Commission (CJSTC) and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Modular Examination Failure:
Failure of any modular examination in academy training will entitle the student recruit
to one re-test (not the same test), which must be taken before the academy ends. Failure
of the re-test will result in the student repeating the module.
Statewide Examination and Failure:
At the completion of academic training, the applicant must file with CJSTC to take
the statewide certification examination. There is a $100.00 fee for filing. The test
will be developed and administered by CJSTC. A total of three (3) attempts will be
permitted. Failure of the third test attempt will necessitate repeating the complete
academy training program.
The Criminal Justice Academy is a limited access program governed by Palm Beach State,
Region XII Justice Training Council and the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and
Training Commission.
The Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Training prepares students as entry-level law enforcement
officers in the State of Florida.
Practical skills and simulated activities complement the classroom instruction. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida Department of Law Enforcement State Certification Examination.
This minimum standards class is regulated by Florida statutes and is a highly structured and disciplined program with special rules, policies and procedures.
- Limited Access Program
- Program at Lake Worth location
- Total program hours: 770
- Duration: 6 months full time, 9 months part time
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All candidates entering the program must have proof of a standard high school diploma or U.S. GED and are required to complete the Selection Center Testing through Palm Beach State or enter under the auspices of a Palm Beach County law enforcement agency.
Additionally, they must complete a Palm Beach State application, achieve passing scores
on the Basic Ability Test (BAT), and successfully pass a fitness ability test, a medical
examination, a complete drug screen, and a criminal background investigation that
includes a military, employment and education check. All candidates will be required
to successfully pass a psychological exam and a polygraph exam.
Meeting with Rules and Regulations:
Students registering in the Law Enforcement, Corrections or Crossover Academy must
meet and abide by the rules and regulations of the Palm Beach State Criminal Justice
Institute. These rules are provided in the Academy Rules and Regulations. Further,
students are also subject to the rules and regulations of the Criminal Justice Standards
and Training Commission(CJSTC) and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Modular Examination Failure
Failure of any modular examination in academy training will entitle the student recruit
to one re-test (not the same test), which must be taken before the academy ends. Failure
of the re-test will result in the student repeating the module.
Statewide Examination and Failure
At the completion of academic training, the applicant must file with CJSTC to take
the statewide certification examination. There is a $100.00 fee for filing. The test
will be developed and administered by CJSTC. A total of three attempts will be permitted.
Failure of the third test attempt will necessitate repeating the complete academy
training program.
The Corrections Basic Recruit Training prepares students as entry level corrections officers in the State of Florida. Practical skills and simulated activities compliment the classroom instruction.
The Criminal Justice Academy offers this course meeting all requirements established by Palm Beach State College, the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Region XII Training Council.
Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida Department of
Law Enforcement State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE). This minimum standards
class is regulated by Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code and is a highly
structured and disciplined program with special rules, policies and procedures.
- Limited Access Program
- Total program hours: 420
- Approximate program length: 3 months if taken full time
- Lake Worth Campus
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All candidates entering the program must have proof of a standard high school diploma
or U.S. GED and are required to complete the Selection Center Testing through Palm
Beach State or enter under the auspices of a Palm Beach County law enforcement or
correctional agency.
Additionally, they must complete a College application, achieve passing scores on
the Basic Ability Test (BAT), a medical examination, a complete drug screen, and a
criminal background investigation that includes a military, credit, employment and
education check. All candidates will be required to successfully pass a psychological
exam and a polygraph exam.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Modular Examination Failure:
Students are entitled to one re-test should they fail any of the examinations or proficiency
tests which must be taken before the completion of the academy. Failure of the re-test
will result in the student repeating that module.
State Officer Certification Examination:
At the completion of the academy, the applicant must file with the Criminal Justice
Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) to take the officer certification examination.
A student has three attempts to pass this examination and if the examination is not
passed after three attempts, the student must take the entire academy program over.
AT A GLANCE
The Criminal Justice Institute (CJI) offers this course meeting all requirements established
by Palm Beach State College, the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission
and the Region XII Training Council.
The Law Enforcement Officer Cross-Over to Correctional Officer prepares currently
certified Law Enforcement Officers to become certified Correctional Officers in the
State of Florida. Practical skills and simulated activities complement the classroom
instruction. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida
Department of Law Enforcement State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE). This
minimum standards class is regulated by Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative
Code and is a highly structured and disciplined program with special rules, policies
and procedures.
PROGRAM INFO
- Total Program Hours is 198
- Lake Worth campus
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Be an active certified officer in the discipline the officer is moving from; or
- Have successfully completed a Commission-approved Basic Recruit Training program and passed the State Officer Certification Examination within four years, for the discipline the officer is moving from.
- Provide a letter of good standing from their agency.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Modular Examination Failure:
Student are entitled to one re-test should they fail any of the examinations or proficiency
tests which must be taken before the completion of the academy. Failure of the re-test
will result in the student repeating that module.
State Officer Certification Examination:
At the completion of the academy, the applicant must file with the Criminal Justice
Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) to take the officer certification examination.
A student has three attempts to pass this examination and if the examination is not
passed after three attempts the student must take the entire academy program over
Course content includes standard telecommunication operating procedures for police, fire and emergency medical services. This course is the certification course for all Public Safety Telecommunicators.
The Palm Beach State College 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy meets or exceeds the State of Florida Department of Health requirements for certifying students, and preparing them to succeed at the State Exam. Our faculty members serve on numerous State and National boards and committees, ensuring the information we teach is the most current and relevant to today's issues in the emergency 9-1-1 profession.
As a student in this 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy, you will be exposed to many facets of emergency public safety services. Many of the classes include the same information that is taught to Police, Fire, and Rescue recruits.
What you will Learn
- 10 codes and signals
- Operational skills
- Suicide awareness and prevention
- Telecommunications best practices for responding to missing and exploited children
- Active shooter
- Sit-ins at real 9-1-1 dispatch centers
- K9/SWAT Demonstrations
- Hazardous material (HAZ-MAT) demonstrations
- Critical incident stress management
- Hostage negotiations
- How to interview well for a job in 9-1-1
- Radios & telematics
- Trauma hawk and trauma center tour
- Test preparation to pass the state exam
- 232 hours of required course material as well as an additional 16 hours for state certification examination preparation.
- Program offered at Lake Worth campus.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED;
- Complete an Application for Admission
HISTORY
The Denise Amber Lee Act
The Denise Amber Lee Act was passed unanimously by the Florida Legislature on April
24, 2008, as Florida State Statute 401.465. This law mandates minimum training standards
and certification for Florida's 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicators.
Denise Amber Lee was a 21-year old loving mother of two young boys who was kidnapped, raped, and murdered on the west coast of Florida on January 17th, 2008. Through a series of mis-steps and negligent errors, 5 separate 9-1-1 calls were made concerning her case that day, including one from Denise herself. Despite their best efforts, law enforcement authorities were not able to save her in time. When it was later discovered that a 9-1-1 operator had failed to broadcast critical information in time to the responding units, the Lee family (and Denise's father, Detective Sgt. Rick Goff) pursued legal action and pushed for passage of this law.
The Lee and Goff families have established the Denise Amber Lee Foundation whose mission is: to promote and support public safety through uniform training, standardized protocols, defined measurable outcomes, and technological advances to the 9-1-1 system. http://deniseamberlee.org
Florida State Statute 401.465
The intent of the Legislature in adopting Chapter 2010-188, Laws of Florida, appears
to have been the professionalization of E911 service by creating a mandatory statewide
system for the certification and training of these personnel. Palm Beach State College
seeks to contribute to this professionalization through its support and hosting of
the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Dispatch Academy. This is the only Academy
of its kind in South Florida with enrollment open to self-sponsored students interested
in entering this career. View Florida State Statute 401.465
911 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy
Palm Beach State College was approached by a local 9-1-1 Manager in February 2011,
and began working on the logistics of organizing, hosting, and supporting this Academy.
The first class (#001) session officially began June 19th, 2012, with a class enrollment
of 14 students. Through cooperative agreement with the Palm Beach County 9-1-1 Training
Committee, additional local 9-1-1 Telecommunicators who already held state certification
participated in, and contributed to, select classes.
Our Logo The "Together As One" logo was created by Class #001 graduate, Billy Osment. This design signifies the three Public Safety disciplines: Law Enforcement, Fire Services, and Emergency Medical Services all under the watchful headset of the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator. 9-1-1 Dispatchers are responsible for not only the safety of their callers, but also their co-workers in the field.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Student must pass the mid-term and final exam with a 70% or better and must have a final average of 70% to pass the course.
AT A GLANCE
This college credit certificate program will prepare the student to operate behind
the yellow crime scene tape. Crime scene technologists locate, collect, and identify
physical evidence used to solve crimes. The student will learn how to properly collect
and preserve physical evidence, how to photograph crime scenes and how to reconstruct
crime scenes and vehicle accidents.
Course content includes crime scene photography, fingerprint classification, crime
scene safety and biological evidence.
PROGRAM INFO
- Total program credits: 28
- Lake Worth campus
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Complete an Application for Admission
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
This degree program will prepare the student to operate behind the yellow crime scene
tape. Crime scene technologists locate, collect, and identify physical evidence used
to solve crimes. The student will learn how to properly collect and preserve physical
evidence, how to photograph crime scenes and how to reconstruct crime scenes and vehicle
accidents.
Course content includes crime scene photography, fingerprint classification, crime
scene safety and biological evidence.
- The program can be finished in two years if you attend full time or three years if you attend part time.
- Lake Worth campus.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Complete an online Application for Admission.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
This degree program is for students wanting a degree in Criminal Justice Technology,
but are not sworn officers.
Course content includes police administration, criminal law, probation & parole, and
criminal investigation.
Lake Worth campus
The program can be finished in two years if you attend full time or three years if you attend part time.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Complete an Application for Admission
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Successfully complete all of the courses in the program.
AT A GLANCE
An Associate's degree in Criminal Justice Technology will prepare the student for a career in the Criminal Justice system.
It is a limited access program for the Criminal Justice Academy student (Corrections and Law Enforcement certificate program students) and/or the correction and law enforcement officer who wishes to advance in his or her career. The student must contact the Criminal Justice Institute regarding admission requirements to the Academies prior to entering the Criminal Justice Technology program.
PROGRAM INFO
Total Program Credits: 60
Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida Department of Law Enforcement State Certification Examination.
The program is offered at the Lake Worth campus.
Approximate program length: two years full time or three years part time
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
Course content includes police administration, criminal law, criminal psychology, forensic science and criminal investigation.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA to be admitted into this program.
Students who wish to be admitted to the Criminal Justice Institute should seek counseling from the Institute.
Those who wish to be admitted to the A.S. degree program should seek counseling from the Criminal Justice Department.
This program requires that the student hold a Florida Law Enforcement or Corrections Certification or that the student plans to attend the Palm Beach State Criminal Justice Institute for Law Enforcement or Corrections.
POSSIBLE OCCUPATIONS
Upon completion of this program, you may seek employment as a Law Enforcement Officer. It is necessary to complete the Police Academy to be hired as a Law Enforcement Officer in Florida.
FURTHER EDUCATION
Courses from this program may transfer into Palm Beach State’s Bachelor of Applied Science program in Supervision and Management.
In addition, courses from this program may transfer to other colleges and universities which allow students to transfer into a four-year program.
Source: https://www.onetonline.org/
AT A GLANCE
Criminal Justice includes the study of crime, the law and the justice system. Job
opportunities are available in a wide variety of fields and include federal, state
and local government as well as the prive sector.
Region XII Training Council – 2019/2020
Chief Frank Kitzerow - Chairman Palm Beach School District Police - LE
Chief Clinton Shannon - Co-Chairman Palm Beach Gardens Police Department - LE
Chief Robert Mangold - Atlantis Police Department -LE
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw - Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office -CO - LE&CO
Chief Craig Hartmann - Highland Beach Police Department -LE
Major Adam Hirsch - Jupiter Police Department - LE
Chief Rick Jenkins - North Palm Beach Police Department - LE
Major Ron ‘Mattino - Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office – LE
Major Michael Devoter - Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office - CO
Interim Director Joseph Tata - Palm Beach State College – Criminal Justice Institute
Region XII Training Council Meetings – 2020
All meetings begin at 08:45 at Palm Springs Village Hall prior to the LEPC meeting:
- January 23, 2020
- April 23, 2020
- August 27, 2020
- October 22, 2020
Location:
Palm Springs Village Hall
226 Cypress Lane
Palm Springs, FL 33461
PROGRAM COMPLETION OPTIONS
There are two options for completing the AA track.
Option 1:
15 to FINISH: 4 semesters with 15 credits per semester
Semester Courses maps below
Option 2:
FLEX to FINISH: 6+ semester with 6-11 credits per semester.
Semester Courses maps below
ONCE YOU COMPLETE THE PROGRAM
Palm Beach State College's Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree track is designed for the student who plans to transfer to a Florida public university or state college as a junior to complete a bachelor's degree.
The Criminal Justice Institute at Palm Beach State College offers a full range of professional training opportunities in the Criminal Justice field.
Criminal Justice graduates can go on to pursue jobs such as corrections officer, police officer, security guard, crime scene investigator, paralegal and crime analyst.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS): EMT/Firefighters | Paramedics
The academy offers Basic Recruitment training for new/entry level Law Enforcement officers, information on Preparing for the Physical Agility Test (PAT), 911 Telecommunication training, Advanced & Specialized Training for veteran law enforcement officers and Exemption from Training (EFT) for previously Florida and Out-of-state Law Enforcement Officers.
AT A GLANCE
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
EMT: This program is offered for the student who wishes to complete the core curriculum and be eligible for certification by the State of Florida to practice as an Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B). Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers trained to the EMT-B level provide basic life support for both medical and trauma-related emergencies. The course content for EMT-B includes lecture, skills lab, and hospital/fire rescue rotations as outlined in the core requirements of the Emergency Medical Services A.S. degree program.
Furthermore, the EMT-B Program is a prerequisite for Fire Academy AND the Paramedic Program.
Students MUST have Internet access.
FIRE: The Basic Firefighter Program is a physically demanding course that prepares students for the safe, dependable and prompt performance of duties in the fire station as well as in the community. It includes orientation to the fire service, instruction in fire alarms, vehicles, and apparatus and equipment. Those students who successfully complete the course may participate in the State of Florida certification examination. Certification is required in the State of Florida for employment as a Firefighter.
FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid is currently available for this program.
Please speak to your financial aid advisor to discuss financial aid options and scholarships.
Apply early at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Financialaid.
A FAFSA form is required, which is found at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
In addition, a limited number of scholarships are also offered through the Palm Beach State College
Foundation at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Foundation.
EMS Policies
Program Application
Requirements for Selection/Consideration
Accepted students will need a clear criminal history background, drug and alcohol screening and acceptable medical exam, completed at their own expense, prior to starting the emt/firefighter program. Details and deadlines regarding this procedure will be discussed at the mandatory orientation.
First-time Palm Beach State College Students:
Submit a completed Palm Beach State general credit application at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions, click “apply now” and pay the appropriate fee by the deadline date.
New students will be assessed a $40 nonrefundable fee. International (F-1/M-1) students will be assessed a $75 nonrefundable application fee.
Be sure to insert your current and active email address where requested, and be specific regarding your program of study.
Once submitted, a confirmation page with conditions of admission will be sent to the e-mail address provided in the college application.
Print the confirmation page and follow the instructions within. Applicants must also submit the Limited Access EMT program application contained in this packet and submit it to the Admissions office.
Returning Palm Beach State College Students:
Students who have not enrolled in the last three terms must reapply to the College prior to submitting this Limited Access application.
Those students who are reapplying and wish to declare Florida residency must do so upon submitting their online application.
If you forgot to submit Florida documents in the web application, the Florida Residency Declaration for Tuition Purposes form can be found at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions under “forms” and you may bring the form to any campus admissions office.
Official high school transcripts must be submitted to the Admissions Office proving a standard high school diploma, GED, or validated foreign equivalent (Transcripts are considered official if sent directly to Palm Beach State College from the previous institution or are hand-delivered in a sealed envelope sealed by the issuing institution). All applicants – new, current, and college transfer students - must have their official high school or GED transcript on file at the college, however, the high school transcript may be waived for admissions purposes if a student has earned an Associate, Bachelor, or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
You may download the transcript request form from our website at - www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions/Transcript- request.aspx
Students who received a Florida GED can request their scores online, by visiting www.ged.com.
Transcripts scores must be on file at the College Admissions Office in Lake Worth on or prior to the deadline date.
Official college transcripts must be submitted from ALL attended post-secondary institutions (transcripts are considered official if sent directly to Palm Beach State College Admissions Office from the previous institution(s) or hand-delivered in an envelope sealed by each issuing institution).
You may download the transcript request form from our website at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions/Transcript-request.aspx.
The high school transcript may be waived for admissions purposes if a student has earned an Associate, Bachelor, or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
All post-secondary records from out of the country must be submitted with a foreign credentials (course by course) evaluation.
Commercial evaluation of foreign transcripts must be conducted by approved evaluators listed at http://www.naces.org/members.htm
All applicants must provide documentation of completion of a current American Heart Association BLS provider course. PLEASE NOTE: No other CPR certifications will be deemed acceptable.
Palm Beach State College offers the course for this certification. You may search for the next available class (CPR Course ID# is AHO0123) by clicking: https://webservices1.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/registration/coursesearch.jsp.
For additional questions about this course, or for CPR classes held at Palm Beach State College, you may call the Public Safety Corporate Continuing Education office at 561-868-3775 or go on Panther Web at www.palmbeachstate.edu/CCE (CPR Course ID# is AHO 0123).
Applicants must take the I/O Solutions National Firefighter Selection Inventory (NFSI), within two years of the application deadline date and score at least a 75% grade competency level in order to be considered for selection. The NFSI is offered at the College Testing Centers located on the Lake Worth, Boca Raton, Belle Glade or Palm Beach Gardens Campuses. Study guides may be purchased at the Lake Worth College Bookstore.
For additional information on taking the NFSI at a College Testing Center go to: www.palmbeachstate.edu/testing.
For additional information on the NFSI go to: www.publicsafetyrecruitment.com.
Note: ALL applicants are required to take the NFSI – regardless of having an A.A., A.S., A.A.S. or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution OR having already met the minimum cut scores, within the past two years, on the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT), SAT1 or ACT-E exams. The applicant’s scores on the NFSI will serve as the tie-breaker should applicants have an equal number of points for determining acceptance into the program. Applicants who wish to retake the NFSI in an effort to improve their score may do so as long as they have not taken the exam within the Past 30 days.
Applicants must register for the CPAT online or at any Palm Beach State College location and successfully complete it to be considered for selection. CPAT scores are valid for one year prior to the application deadline.
A valid CPAT Certificate from other providers is acceptable. Any CPAT, whether from Palm Beach State College or another provider, must be submitted prior to the program deadline. For CPAT tests taken outside of Palm Beach State College: a paper printout of a score report provided by the student cannot be considered official.
It is the responsibility of the student to sign a release form at the institution/location where they took the exam and to request that his/her CPAT scores be sent directly to any PBSC Testing Center via email or fax.
The email address and fax numbers for all PBSC Testing Centers may be found at the link: www.palmbeachstate.edu/Testing/
Email is preferred. When the scores are received, the testing center will enter them in the student’s account, so long as the student has a PBSC student ID.
Applicants are required to take the TABE Full Battery Level (A) test PRIOR to graduation from the Fire Academy.
Once accepted and enrolled, the student will need to pass with a score of 10th-grade level or higher in reading, language, and math to be eligible to graduate.
There is a $25 fee for this exam.
Please pay the cashier and report to the Testing Center (with photo ID) to arrange to take the exam. If you are a first-time applicant, the application fee covers the price of the first test.
PROGRAM INFO
PROGRAM LENGTH
EMT: Approximately 16 weeks, 300 hours, a full college semester/term - 12 college credits.
FIRE: Day Academy: 6 weeks Firefighter I, 6 weeks Firefighter II. Total weeks = 12
INFORMATION SESSIONS
All students are encouraged to attend one of the following information sessions
PROGRAM LOCATIONS
All EMT and Fire Academy classes, labs and drills will be held at the
Public Safety Complex on the Lake Worth campus located 4200 Congress Avenue, Lake Worth, Florida 33461.
EMT Clinical sites will be designated per the Clinical Coordinator and are subject to change throughout the program.
PROGRAM COST
EMT: Tuition and Fees* (FL resident) total $1,173.00 (costs are approximate and subject to change).
FIRE: Firefighter I $750.18 Firefighter II $769.76. Total tuition and fees for both programs:$1,821.94
*Include parking decal, Medical Accident Insurance and Liability Insurance assessed. They do not include textbooks, uniforms, and pre-screening costs (drug/alcohol screening, medical exam and criminal background).
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
National Registry EMT Basic Exam passing score, Florida Board of Licensure Exam passing score.
AT A GLANCE
This college credit certificate program is offered for the student who wishes to complete the core curriculum and be eligible for certification by the State of Florida to practice as an Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B).
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers trained to the EMT-B level provide basic life support for both medical and trauma-related emergencies. The majority of the EMS care delivered, on both a local and national level, falls within the scope of practice for the EMT-B provider.
The course content for EMT-B includes lecture, skills lab, and hospital/fire rescue
rotations as outlined in the core requirements of the Emergency Medical Services
A.S. degree program. Furthermore, the EMT-B Program is a prerequisite for the Paramedic
Program.
Furthermore, the EMT-B Program is a prerequisite for Fire Academy AND the Paramedic Program.
Students MUST have Internet access.
Classroom study and clinical work equip the student with the skills in patient assessment,
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), oxygen therapy, shock prevention, bandaging,
splinting, spinal immobilization and vehicle extrication that are necessary for a
career in out-of-hospital emergency medicine.
Information Session - Online/Video
You are required to complete a short quiz at the end of the Information Session, the quiz link is below:
- EMT Info Session Quiz (testmoz.com/2456089)
- The passcode for the quiz is pbscems (lowercase)
- The pass rate for the quiz is included in the Information session
Limited Access Application
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 1, 2020
FALL ENTRY PROGRAM START DATE: AUGUST 2020
Program Email: robinscm@palmbeachstate.edu
Phone: (561) 868-3840
Application checklists
- Palm Beach State College ID & Email Required
- Not a student, Apply NOW!
- Visit with an Academic Advisor to have any questions answered
- Documents you will need electronic copies to upload with your ONLINE application.
- Veterans? Copy of DD214
- Copy of your Driver's License
- NFSI Test Taken in last 2 years? Date taken and score report
- Apply now with our ONLINE Limited Access application
- Questions or issues email LimitedAccessApps@palmbeachstate.edu
- Pay the limited access application fee. The application fee is:
- $20
- Non-refundable
- Payable by secure transaction Credit/Debit card online through the PBSC eMarket payment portal
- We recommend that you complete the application first before paying the fee.
- Note: Your application is not complete until the fee has been paid.
- How to Guide(s)
- Find your submitted application
- Resume working on a saved application
- Upload missing documents
- Communicate with your reviewers
Step 1: Login to Engage (PBSC username & password) https://palmbeachstate.campuslabs.com/engage/
Step 2: Go to your account
Step 3: Click on Submissions
Step 4: Choose to view your application (this will show you the status of your application.
Step 5: If you need to complete your application or upload missing documents or communicate with your reviewers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- How can I get in contact with an EMS representative for specific questions?
- You may contact our department at 561-868-3355, email garciaal@palmbeachstate.edu, or visit us in the PSC Building @ PSC 5
2. When are the applications open?
May - June for the Fall Term starting in August
October- November for the Spring Term starting in January
February-March for the Summer Term starting in May
3. Does Palm Beach State maintain a waiting list?
No! A point scale system is utilized to determine entry into the program. The maximum amount of points a student can receive towards their application is 7. Please watch the on-line information session to find out the breakdown of points. The points system is subject to change.
4. How can I transfer in my credits from another college/university?
Please have the prior college send an official copy of your transcripts to any one of the Palm Beach State Admissions offices.
5. How long is the EMT program?
The EMT Program is one semester long.
6. How many students are selected for the EMT program each semester?
Fall (Aug-Dec) semester accepts 96 students total.
-24 will be assigned to each of 3 day classes and 1 night class.
Spring (Jan-May) semester accepts 96 students total.
-24 will be assigned to each of 3 day classes and 1 night class.
Summer (May-Aug) semester accepts 72 students total.
-24 will be assigned to each of 2 day classes and 1 night class.
7. What pre-entrance requirement will Palm Beach State accept?
- The student must take a AHA BLS for Provider Class (Red Cross or other CPR certifications will not be accepted).
- Additionally, the student must take the National Firefighter Selection
Inventory (NFSI) Exam. Only a score of 75% or greater will be accepted. The NFSI can be taken at any PBSC Testing Center. Contact the Testing Center for specific details @ 561-868-3012
8. Does the day class follow a fixed schedule?
NO! We follow a Shift schedule. See the last page for Shift examples.
9. Does the day class follow a fixed schedule?
The EMT Night Program is Monday through Thursday evenings and all-day Saturdays
- How do I enroll for Fire Academy or Paramedic School when I finish EMT? You are required to do a separate application for each. Please refer to their respective web pages for more
11. Where should I turn in my completed EMT application?
The application is completely on-line at the PBSC Website. The application and attachments must all be submitted by the deadline. No late applications or accompanying documents will be accepted.
12.If a student has a prior conviction, will it hinder them from being accepted to the EMT program?
- Background checks, fingerprint and drug screens from NMS are required for
all accepted students to the EMT program. All students conditionally accepted to the program will pay out of pocket for these screenings. Financial Aid does not cover the cost of required screenings.
- The student must have a clean background. While felonies are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, students will NOT be permitted if they have been convicted of Arson, Perjury, Domestic violence, Child abuse, Patient misconduct/abuse, or any conviction involving physical
- All records will be sent directly to the PBSC Background specialist, not the EMS Program. These files will not be part of the student’s college records. The drug screen details are known only to the screening agency's MRO. They can discuss results with the student in
13. How old must you be to apply?
The student must be 18 yeas old BEFORE the first day of class. This is not negotiable or flexible.
- How many students apply to the EMT program each semester? Approximately 150-200 students for the Spring Term and Fall term. Approximately 100-150 students for the Summer Term
15. What is the approximate cost of the EMT program?
In-state residents will spend approximately $2000-$2400.
16. Is there Financial Aide?
Students taking just EMT are not eligible for federal aid. Students taking EMT that are enrolled as degree seeking for their AS in EMS will be eligible for financial aid.
For more information contact Financial Aid at 561-868-3330
17. Is there an online component to the class?
Yes! In addition to classroom lectures and hands-on labs, there are online lectures and quizzes.
18. Is there a Combo Class every semester?
NO! The Combo class only runs once per year and begins in the Spring (January)
Shift Schedule for day classes
The EMT Day Program does not have fixed days such as every Monday, Wednesday, etc. We follow a Shift Schedule similar to what you will work in the field. The 24/48 shift schedule uses three teams (i.e. Shifts) to provide 24/7 coverage. It consists of a 3-day cycle where each team works one 24-hour shift followed by 2 consecutive days (48 hours) off duty. While our class meets only during regular hours, we do follow the 1 day-on / 2 days-off rotation. There is an additional half day of lab on some weeks. In the example below, you go to school only on the same colored days (I.E., only red, only blue, only green).
The calender below is generic, and is used only to explain shift rotations. It is not specific to any month or year, and not to be used for any class. Your specific calender will be emailed to you by your lead instructor approximately one week before class begins.
For additional information call:
Palm Beach State College EMT Program (561) 868-3355
Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm Palm Beach State College is an Equal Opportunity Institution
Palm Beach State College Application Facts
Official high school transcripts must be submitted to the Admissions Office proving a standard high school diploma, GED, or validated foreign equivalent (Transcripts are considered official if sent directly to Palm Beach State College from the previous institution or are hand-delivered in a sealed envelope sealed by the issuing institution). All applicants – new, current, and college transfer students - must have their official high school or GED transcript on file at the college, however, the high school transcript may be waived for admissions purposes if a student has earned an Associate, Bachelor, or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
You may download the transcript request form from our website at - www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions/Transcript- request.aspx
Students who received a Florida GED can request their scores online, by visiting www.ged.com.
Transcripts scores must be on file at the College Admissions Office in Lake Worth on or prior to the deadline date.
Official college transcripts must be submitted from ALL attended post-secondary institutions (transcripts are considered official if sent directly to Palm Beach State College Admissions Office from the previous institution(s) or hand-delivered in an envelope sealed by each issuing institution).
You may download the transcript request form from our website at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Admissions/Transcript-request.aspx.
The high school transcript may be waived for admissions purposes if a student has earned an Associate, Bachelor, or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
All post-secondary records from out of the country must be submitted with a foreign credentials (course by course) evaluation.
Commercial evaluation of foreign transcripts must be conducted by approved evaluators listed at http://www.naces.org/members.htm
All applicants must provide documentation of completion of a current American Heart Association BLS provider course. PLEASE NOTE: No other CPR certifications will be deemed acceptable.
Palm Beach State College offers the course for this certification. You may search for the next available class (CPR Course ID# is AHO0123) by clicking: https://webservices1.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/registration/coursesearch.jsp.
For additional questions about this course, or for CPR classes held at Palm Beach State College, you may call the Public Safety Corporate Continuing Education office at 561-868-3775 or go on Panther Web at www.palmbeachstate.edu/CCE (CPR Course ID# is AHO 0123).
Applicants must take the I/O Solutions National Firefighter Selection Inventory (NFSI), within two years of the application deadline date and score at least a 75% grade competency level in order to be considered for selection. The NFSI is offered at the College Testing Centers located on the Lake Worth, Boca Raton, Belle Glade or Palm Beach Gardens Campuses. Study guides may be purchased at the Lake Worth College Bookstore.
For additional information on taking the NFSI at a College Testing Center go to: www.palmbeachstate.edu/testing.
For additional information on the NFSI go to: www.publicsafetyrecruitment.com.
Note: ALL applicants are required to take the NFSI – regardless of having an A.A., A.S., A.A.S. or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution OR having already met the minimum cut scores, within the past two years, on the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT), SAT1 or ACT-E exams. The applicant’s scores on the NFSI will serve as the tie-breaker should applicants have an equal number of points for determining acceptance into the program. Applicants who wish to retake the NFSI in an effort to improve their score may do so as long as they have not taken the exam within the Past 30 days.
PROGRAM INFO
This program is approved by the Florida Department of Health Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (Ch 401, FS, Ch. 64J-1, FAC) and follows the most current U.S. Department of Transportation National Standard Curriculum
PROGRAM LENGTH
Approximately 16 weeks, 300 hours, a full college semester/term - 12 college credits.
PROGRAM LOCATIONS
Classes and labs will be held at the
Public Safety Complex
Lake Worth campus located 4200 Congress Avenue,
Lake Worth, Florida 33461.
Clinical sites will be designated per the Clinical Coordinator and are subject to change throughout the program.
PROGRAM COST
Tuition and Fees (FL resident) total $2200 (costs are approximate and subject to change).
Total $2200 approximate cost includes parking decal, Medical Accident Insurance and
Liability Insurance assessed, textbooks, uniforms, and pre-screening costs (drug/alcohol
screening, medical exam and criminal background check.
FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid is currently not available for this program, however, you may speak
to your financial aid advisor to discuss other financial aid options and scholarships.
Apply early at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Financialaid. A FAFSA application is required, which is found at www.fafsa.ed.gov. In addition, a limited number of scholarships are also offered through the Palm Beach State College Foundation at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Foundation.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Must be at least 18 years of age on or before the start of the program
- Complete an Application for Admission
- Complete a limited access EMT program application
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
AT A GLANCE
This college credit certificate program is offered for the student who wishes to complete the core curriculum and be eligible for NREMT certification or certification by the State of Florida to practice as a paramedic.
Paramedics are trained to provide advanced life support in medical and trauma related emergencies. The course content includes lecture, skills lab and hospital/fire rescue rotations as outlined in the core requirements of the Emergency Medical Services A.S. degree program.
This intensive three-semester program beings the fall semester of every calendar year. The program consists of class lecture days and additional clinical days adhering to a firefighter shift schedule. Clinical Shifts involve time in area hospitals, variety of ancillary medical facilities, as well as responding in local fire station rescue vehicles to emergency calls.
Virtual Information Session
As part of the Information Session, there is a short quiz to be completed as an attendance check.
- Quiz Website: testmoz.com/3711892
- Quiz Password: infoquiz2020 (lowercase)
Limited Access Application
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 1, 2020
FALL ENTRY PROGRAM START DATE: AUGUST 2020
Program Email: robinscm@palmbeachstate.edu
Phone: (561) 868-3840
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
- Palm Beach State College ID & Email Required
- Not a student, Apply NOW!
- Visit with an Academic Advisor to have any questions answered
- Documents you will need electronic copies to upload with your ONLINE application.
- Veterans? Copy of DD214
- Copy of your Driver's License
- Licensed EMT?/Florida Department of health licenses
- NFSI Test Taken in last 2 years? Date taken and score report
- Apply now with our ONLINE Limited Access application
- Questions or issues email LimitedAccessApps@palmbeachstate.edu
-
Pay the limited access application fee. The application fee is:
- $20
- Non-refundable
- Payable by secure transaction Credit/Debit card online through the PBSC eMarket payment portal
-
We recommend that you complete the application first before paying the fee.
-
Note: Your application is not complete until the fee has been paid.
- How to Guide(s)
- Find your submitted application
- Resume working on a saved application
- Upload missing documents
- Communicate with your reviewers
Step 1: Login to Engage (PBSC username & password) https://palmbeachstate.campuslabs.com/engage/
Step 2: Go to your account
Step 3: Click on Submissions
Step 4: Choose to view your application (this will show you the status of your application.
Step 5: If you need to complete your application or upload missing documents or communicate with your reviewers.
State Regulations & Program outcomes
Program Accreditation
The Paramedic Program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation by the Committee on Accreditation for EMS Programs (CoAEMSP)
4101 W. Green Oaks Blvd.
Suite 305-599
Arlington, Texas 76016
Ph: (817) 330-0080, and approved by the Florida Department of Health Bureau of Emergency
Medical Services (Ch 401, FS, Ch. 64J-1, FAC). The training program follows the most
current U.S. Department of Transportation National Standard Curriculum [FS 401.2701(1)(a)
5a].
PROGRAM INFO
PROGRAM LENGTH
Approximately 3 semesters Fall, Spring & Summer: 42 credits
GPA REQUIREMENT
Grades in all classes have to be 80% and above to be considered passing.
INFORMATION SESSIONS
Attend one of our information sessions to learn more about our programs.
TBA
PROGRAM LOCATIONS
Classes and labs will be held at the
Public Safety Complex
Lake Worth campus located 4200 Congress Avenue,
Lake Worth, Florida 33461.
Clinical sites will be designated per the Clinical Coordinator and are subject to change throughout the program.
PROGRAM COST
Tuition and Fees (FL resident) total $5600 (costs are approximate and subject to change). Total $5600 approximate cost includes parking decal, Medical Accident Insurance and Liability Insurance assessed, textbooks, uniforms, NFSI testing, FISDAP, EMS testing, and pre-screening costs (drug/alcohol screening, medical exam and criminal background check.
.
FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid is currently available for this program.
Please speak to your financial aid advisor to discuss financial aid options and scholarships.
Apply early at www.palmbeachstate.edu/Financialaid.
A FAFSA form is required, which is found at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
No scholarships are available at this time.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Complete an Application for Admission
- Be a certified Florida EMT or eligible for the Florida EMT exam to apply and must score a 75 on the NFSI.
- Complete a limited access Paramedic program application
- Clear criminal history background, drug, and alcohol screening and acceptable medical exam, completed at student’s expense, prior to starting the program. Details discussed at mandatory orientation
- “Take and pass the NFSI test with a 75 or greater. Tests available BY APPOINTMENT ONLY by contacting the testing center
- Be a certified Florida EMT or eligible for the Florida EMT exam to apply
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Courses must be completed with a score of 80% or better. Students must meet program standards to successfully complete BLS, ACLS, PHTLS, and PALS.
This degree program is designed for the student who wishes to increase his/her opportunities
in the EMS field.
In addition to the EMT and Paramedic Certificates, students will complete general
education courses and electives.
Lake Worth campus
The program can be finished in two years of full-time enrollment or three years part time.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
High school diploma (or equivalent) and Palm Beach State College Admission Application.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
Fire Science: Advanced Training | Entry-Level Firefighters
The academy offers training for new/entry level Firefighters, information on Preparing for the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), EMT/Firefighters combination, Telecommunication training, Fire Advanced courses for veteran Firefighters and Fire Officer Supervisor training and an Associate in Science (AS) degree in Fire Science Technology.
Working in the fire service is an exciting, challenging career with virtually unlimited opportunities for advancement.
- The Fire Academy is offered five times a year – three full-time day, two part-time night.
- Day Fire Academy: Monday-Friday, 0830 – 1730. Approx. three months.
- Night Fire Academy: Monday-Wednesday, 1800 – 2200, Saturday 0830 – 1730. Approx. six months.
What are the requirements for the program?
- Preferred certified 40-hour First Responder, EMT, or Paramedic.
- Must take CPAT, NFSI, and T.A.B.E.* tests. *Exemptions apply, see below.
- Must be 18 years of age on or before the first day of the program.
- Must be able to complete a background check with the State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training.
What is the cost for the Fire Academy? Does Financial Aid cover all or part of the costs?
The current in-state approximate costs for Firefighter I (FFP0030) is $707.23 and for Firefighter II (FFP0031) is $1071.53, not including textbooks, uniforms, turnout gear, and pre-screening costs. Unfortunately at this time Financial Aid does not usually cover the cost of the Fire Academy.
Do I have to pay for Firefighter I and II at the same time?
Although it is recommended that both FFP0030 and FFP0031 be paid together, it is not required. Each course must be paid for before the first day of class, and before the session payment due date.
What campus is the Fire Academy offered on?
The program is only offered at the Lake Worth campus.
How many students are selected for the program? How does the selection process work?
There are 24 students accepted into the Firefighter program. Students are selected on a points-based system, which is listed within the application packet.
Where do I submit the application?
The Fire Academy application, along with all required documents, are to be submitted to the Admissions office on any Palm Beach State College campus. All documentation must be turned in prior to the deadline date or you will be disqualified from the selection pool.
If you are a first time student at Palm Beach State College, you will have to apply for the college before applying to the Fire Academy. You need to send your official high school and college transcripts to the registrar’s office prior to the application deadline.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
- Proof of passing the CPAT test from any IAFF certified CPAT test provider. High school and college transcripts, sent via U.S. mail from the educational institution or in a sealed envelope.
- Proof of age (copy of driver’s license) or similar government issued ID.
- EMT/First Responder/Paramedic Certificate.
What is the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)?
Applicants must register for the CPAT online and successfully complete the test prior to consideration for placement into the selection pool. CPAT Certificates are valid for one year prior to the application deadline.
A valid CPAT Certificate will be acceptable from other IAFF Certified CPAT providers and must be submitted prior to program deadline.
What is the National Firefighter Selection Inventory (NFSI) - Test?
Applicants must take the I/O Solutions NFSI Test (National Firefighter Selection Inventory – Form 3 Test) within the past two years of application deadline date and score at least a 75% in all subject areas (Reading, Language and Math) in order to be eligible for consideration for selection. Information about this test and study guides can be found at www.publicsafetyrecruitment.com.
The Palm Beach State College Lake Worth book store will have a study guide in stock. The test is conducted at the Palm Beach State College testing center. Check with the testing center on the campus near you for availability as not all testing centers offer the NFSI test. There is a fee for this test. See www.palmbeachstate.edu/testing.
Do I have to take the T.A.B.E. (Test of Adult Basic Education)?
All enrolled students who do not possess an AS or AA degree or higher must take and pass the TABE Full Battery Level (A) with a score of 10th grade level or higher in reading, language and math to be eligible to graduate. There is a $25 fee for this exam. Please pay the cashier and report to the Testing Center (with photo ID) to arrange to take the exam.
The Candidate Physical Ability Test is a minimum requirement for the Fire Academy.
The job of a Firefighter is one of the most physically demanding jobs, it requires a high level of cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength and muscular endurance.
The CPAT consists of eight critical physical tasks that simulate actual job duties on the fire ground. They are:
- Stair Climb
- Hose Drag
- Equipment Carry
- Ladder Raise & Extension
- Forcible Entry, Search
- Rescue and Ceiling Breach & Pull.
Registration for CPAT Exam
The fee for a Practice Session is $55.00.
The fee for a Testing Session is $150.00.
PLEASE NOTE: Registration fees are non-refundable. Because of this, we urge you to be thorough while registering.
Rescheduling your CPAT Exam
Registration closes one day prior to the Test or Practice date. If you wish to reschedule, you must reschedule with NTN at least seven days in advance of your scheduled session. To reschedule, please contact NTN Customer Service at 1-866-563-3882.
CPAT exams - Do's & Don'ts
- Register for an Orientation, Practice or Test Session online via the registration link.
- Bring a valid picture ID.
- DRESS CODE: long pants, closed-toe shoes with a back, single shirt (no double clothing), no head wear, no jewelry other than wedding ring, no shorts.
- Students MUST arrive 15 minutes PRIOR to scheduled start time. Anyone arriving late will not be allowed to participate or test.
Fire Science: Degrees & Certificates
For students seeking state certification as a firefighter, classes are offered on both daytime and nighttime schedules in the Fall and Spring terms of each academic year. The program follows the curriculum established by the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training of the Florida State Fire College in Ocala.
The CCP firefighter program is a two-part (2) course.
Part I (Firefighter I)
Covers orientation; safety; fire behavior; building construction; protective clothing; SCBA; portable extinguishers; ropes and knots; building search and victim removal; forcible entry tools; construction and techniques; ground ladders; ventilation; water supply; coupling; loading and rolling hose; laying, carrying and advancing hose; water fire streams; Class A, C, D; vehicle and wild land fire control; sprinkler system fundamentals; salvage, overhaul and protecting evidence of fire cause; fire department communications; equipment and techniques; fire prevention and public fire education.
The course also includes Awareness-Level Hazardous Materials Training. Upon completion of the course and a written state certification examination, the student will receive a Certificate of Competency from the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training as a Firefighter I.
Part II (Firefighter II)
Prepares the student to meet the requirements to become a state certified firefighter. Subjects include implementing the incident management system; construction materials and building collapse; rescue and extrication tools; vehicle extrication and special rescue; hydrant flow and operability hose; tools and appliances; foam fire systems; ignitable liquid and gas fire control; fire detection; alarm and suppression systems; fire cause and origin; radio communications and incident reports pre-incident survey and wildlife firefighting - 5130 & 5190.
Those students who successfully complete the program may participate in the state exam for certification as a Firefighter II.
This exam encompasses both written and practical skills tests. Certification is required
in the state of Florida for firefighters.
Limited Access Application
Fire Academy Night Program Limited Access application:
Application Deadline: May 20, 2020 (Application closed)
Fire Academy Day Program Limited Access application:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 31, 2020
PROGRAM START DATE: SEPTEMBER 2020
Program Email: FireAcademy@palmbeachstate.edu
Phone: (561) 868-3900
APPLICATION CHECKLISTS
- Palm Beach State College ID & Email Required
- Not a student, Apply NOW!
- Visit with an Academic Advisor to have any questions answered
- Documents you will need electronic copies to upload with your ONLINE application.
- Veterans? Copy of DD214
- Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) exam
- Copy of your Driver's License
- Post Secondary Education? College(s), Date(s), Location(s)
- Fire Rescue Affiliation? Proof of Affiliation letter
- NFSI Test Taken in last 2 years? Date taken and score report
- Apply now with our ONLINE Limited Access application
- Questions or issues email LimitedAccessApps@palmbeachstate.edu
- Pay the limited access application fee. The application fee is:
- $20
- Non-refundable
- Payable by secure transaction Credit/Debit card online through the PBSC eMarket payment portal
- We recommend that you complete the application first before paying the fee.
- Note: Your application is not complete until the fee has been paid.
- How to Guide(s)
- Find your submitted application
- Resume working on a saved application
- Upload missing documents
- Communicate with your reviewers
Step 1: Login to Engage (PBSC username & password) https://palmbeachstate.campuslabs.com/engage/
Step 2: Go to your account
Step 3: Click on Submissions
Step 4: Choose to view your application (this will show you the status of your application.
Step 5: If you need to complete your application or upload missing documents or communicate with your reviewers.
- 492 hours (13 weeks) for the day program and six months for the night program.
- Lake Worth campus
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED;
- Complete an Application for Admission.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
Students must pass with the following minimum Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) scores: Reading: 10; English: 10; Mathematics: 10 or qualify for TABE exemption (www.palmbeachstate.edu/academicservices/curriculum-and-programs).
This program academically prepares the firefighter to assume the responsibility as
a first line fire officer, and to challenge the state certification exam.
This program is geared for the sitting and prospective company officer. It trains
the firefighter to lead in-service company fire safety inspections, use proper strategies
and tactics to fight fire, be an effective incident commander, and serve as a trainer,
mentor and middle manager.
Place your right column text here
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Have a standard high school diploma or GED
- Complete an Application for Admission
- Must be a working or volunteer firefighters.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS & TESTING
Students must successfully complete all courses listed in the catalog for this program.
This degree program is designed for the current firefighter who wishes to advance
in various fire service areas.
Course content includes tactics & strategies, fire prevention, fire investigation,
company officer, and fire apparatus & equipment.
- The program can be finished in two years of full-time enrollment or three years part time
- Lake Worth campus.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Have a standard high school diploma or GED
Complete an Application for Admission.
Other than the “Fire Inspector” classes which can be taken by civilian students, the
technical proficiency needed for this program requires that the student be a certified
firefighter or fire inspector before being accepted into any of the technical core
or elective classes that make up this curriculum.
| Course Title | Reference # | Start Date | Register Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| FFP2120 -- Building Construction Fire Protection (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2521 -- Blueprint Reading and Plan Examination (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2720 - Company Officer and Leadership (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2810 -- Firefighting Strategy and Tactics 1 (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2811 -- Firefighting Strategy and Tactics 2 (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP1505 -- Fire Prevention (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2612 -- Fire Behavior and Combustion (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2740 -- Fire Service Course Delivery (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP1301 -- Fire Hydraulics (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2770 - Legal and Ethical Issues for the Fire Service (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2510 -- Related Fire Codes and Standards (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2206 -- Principles of Fire and Emergency Services Safety and Survival (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP1540 - Private Fire Protection Systems I (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2741 -- Fire Service Course Design (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
| FFP2111 - Fire Chemistry (AS) | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Mission
The U.S. Fire Administration established the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) as an organization of post-secondary institutions to promote higher education and to enhance the recognition of the fire and emergency services as a profession to reduce loss of life and property from fire and other hazards.
Goals
- To establish a formal network for post-secondary institutions that offer degree programs in fire and life safety and emergency response.
- To assist institutions in establishing relationships between degrees and professional certifications.
- To provide national models for a college curriculum leading to career tracks in fire protection, life safety and emergency services including associated allied professional fields.
- To encourage the establishment of partnerships between individual education institutions, and other local, state, and federal fire and emergency related training agencies and organizations.
- To promote quality assurance through mechanisms such as accreditation.
- To further the concept of higher education and its positive effect in the overall mission of the fire protection, life safety and emergency service providers.
- To promote the concept of integrated life-long education and training for fire protection, life safety and emergency services providers.
- To collaborate with the National Fire Academy in meeting the goals stated in America Burning and other national initiatives that involve degree-granting institutions.
- To enhance the professional qualifications and development of the faculties at institutions offering courses related to these programs.
- To encourage ongoing development of the quality, content and delivery of these programs.
- To encourage the exploration of innovative program enhancements.
- To explore and facilitate the integration of technology in all aspects of the educational programs.
- To impact the mission of the participating educational institutions.
- To promote inter-institutional recognition of courses.
