Northland Pioneer College’s Fire Science program is designed to:
- Prepare students for a career in Fire Science or a related field;
- Provide students with a better understanding of fire and related hazards and challenges faced in providing public safety services, and
- Provide training to professional fire service personnel in order that they may perform their duties in the safest, most efficient means possible.
The curriculum is designed after the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy (NFA) Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model in order to provide consistent training as offered in participating colleges around the United States.
Degree Requirements
The Fire Science Certificate of Proficiency (CP) program prepares you for service as a firefighter in rural settings. These certificates emphasize professional firefighting skills corresponding to the everyday demands of the profession. It is designed for both individuals serving in the profession as firefighters and as a preparatory program for those seeking a career in firefighting.
Live-train at the Northeast Arizona Training Center (NATC) in Taylor, an “all-risk” facility complete with burn tower, flash chamber and 10-acre defensive driving track.
First Responders
Not only is fighting fires dangerous and complex, as a firefighter you are frequently the first emergency personnel at the scene of a traffic accident or medical emergency and may be called upon to treat injuries or perform other vital functions. In addition, some firefighters work in hazardous materials units that are specially trained for the control, prevention and cleanup of dangerous substances.
Through cooperation with local fire departments, you’ll train to deal with these and other fire situations, as well as the use of specialized emergency equipment.
Career Opportunities
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of firefighters is projected to grow 5 percent through 2024. Physically fit applicants with high test scores and paramedic training will have the best job prospects.
Return to: