APCO Institute Online conducts courses via the Internet. The courses are accessible 24/7, making them ideal for shift-working PSAP employees. Students and instructors see all responses to the assignments and to each other. Students have the opportunity to gather information from small, large or combined PSAPS. Institute Online assignments are posted weekly so students and instructors have ample time to absorb and respond to the information presented. APCO Institute tuition includes textbooks and other materials, and current APCO International members receive a tuition discount.

Learn more about the APCO Institute Online.

APCO Institute

APCO Institute links students from all over the world in our virtual classrooms. These courses are conducted entirely over the Internet through your Web browser and your email. The virtual classroom is an asynchronous environment, meaning that classmates and instructors do not have to be on-line at the same time. This is especially convenient for shift workers, enabling students to visit the classroom during the week according to their own schedule. This teaching method also makes APCO even more affordable by eliminating travel costs. APCO’s tuition fees include the students’ manuals and classroom materials, as well as priceless interaction between the students and the instructor.

Get the schedule and course descriptions here.

APCO "Virtual College" is a cooperative effort between the Association of Public Safety Communication Officials International, Inc. (APCO) and the Institute for Emergency Preparedness (IEP). APCO "Virtual College" is an Internet based distance learning academic program designed for, and directed specifically toward individuals in the public safety communications and 9-1-1 profession. All of the academic programs are offered by the participating institutions of the IEP. APCO provides advice and assistance to insure that the courses meet the needs of the Public Safety Communication Community. 

The first of its kind in the world, this program will afford individuals the opportunity to advance in their chosen careers through on-line education accessed from their home or office. Imagine being able to complete your education without leaving your home or office. However, you will have the college campus experience though a virtual classroom environment. The virtual classroom will allow you to interact with your instructor and other students in the class. Through the virtual classroom you will share information with students from all over the world. The virtual classroom is available 24 hours a day, allowing you to complete the courses at your convenience regardless of your work schedule

Leadership Certificate Program

The APCO Institute Leadership Certificate Program is a comprehensive 12 month online program leading to the professional designation of Registered Public-Safety Leader (RPL). RPL recipients receive a certificate of acceptance into the APCO Institute Registry of Public-Safety Leaders, a formal and prestigious acknowledgment of excellence within our industry. Whether you are the leader of a work team in your agency, a volunteer task force or committee, or an entire organization, there are certain things you need to know and skills you need to develop to be successful. If you are willing to work at developing your leadership potential, this program will prepare you for the challenges and opportunities of leadership.

Learn more about the Leadership Certificate Program.

Products & Publications

We'd appreciate your feedback on possible future subjects for CPRA-sponsored training courses. Please forward your comments and suggestions to the Membership Committee Chair