Firefighter Training Information
If you’re preparing to enter firefighter training, you probably already know that it’s going to be a big undertaking.
And you’re ready to take on the challenge! After all, you need to learn how to fight fires, manage equipment, work as a team with your colleagues, find a job with a fire department, and more. All that takes time, energy, and commitment. But before you enroll, do you have a picture of what the training period will look like? It’s best to go in more prepared than less, so you can focus on your studies and training and be as well-positioned for success as possible.
Associates Degree in Fire Science from HCI
Health Career Institute offers a 60-credit program to help you earn your associates degree in fire science, which prepares you to work as a firefighter, and become eligible for promotions to positions like fire inspector or fire chief.
- The two-year program consists of courses including:
- Fire prevention best practices
- Fire codes and standards
- Firefighting tactics and strategies
- Fire investigating
Because the program is a full associates degree, you will take general education coursework in English and mathematics, and electives as well. HCI allows fire science degree students to select major electives from this list:
- Basic–Intermediate ICS
- Ethical & Legal Issues For The Fire Service
- Fire Department Administration
- Fire Hydraulics
- Fire Apparatus & Equipment
- Fire Chemistry
- Fire Investigation & Arson
- Hazardous Materials I–III
- Latent Investigation
- Private Fire Protection Systems II
- Public Information Officer
Physical and Other Firefighter Training
Beyond the indicated coursework, part of your firefighter training will include physical tests and practical, hands-on learning about how to use all the necessary equipment, both for your physical safety and for essential functions of the job. Firefighters are responsible not only for running into burning buildings, but also for maintaining the engine and all related equipment. You will likely simulate scenarios to practice fast-acting and quick-thinking skills and test your ability to work as part of a team.
