Degree and Certificate Options
Fire Science, A.A.S.
Fire Science/Firefighter Technology Certificate
$51.9K
Potential Salary*
1 Year
Estimated Program Length
What Will I Learn?
The fire science program provides educational experiences in fire protection and firefighter safety so every firefighter can safely return home. The programs sharpen students’ situational awareness, critical thinking, decision-making, and incident priorities.
Both options include instruction in the four key areas required by the fire service industry: Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Hazardous Materials, and Emergency Medical Technician. Upon completion, students are eligible to take state certifications for each area.
The certificate is for students who are seeking employment with a fire department. The associate of applied science degree encompasses the full spectrum of fire and emergency medical services.
Students holding state certifications in EMT, Firefighter I, Firefighter II, and Hazardous Materials Operations may also be eligible for Advanced Standing credit at the completion of the required core fire science courses.
Career Paths
The fire science program opens opportunities to become firefighters, apparatus driver operators, fire management specialists, fire officers, fire investigators, rescue technicians, wildland firefighters, forest fire suppression specialists, forestry fire technicians, wildland fire equipment operators, emergency medical technicians and paramedics. Graduates can also pursue further education toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Points of Pride
The program provides an innovative, up-to-date learning environment that supports student achievement of personal, professional, and educational goals while preparing for the workplace or additional education.
The KCKCC curriculum is recognized by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education Initiative (FESHE) as it follows national educational guidelines for the fire service industry.
The practical application classes are constructed with flexible schedules to fit the needs of fire service professionals.
Student Perspective
“The KCKCC Fire Science program is very rewarding. If you do what you’re told, don’t procrastinate, volunteer at every chance you get and give it your all, you will succeed in not only the program but also in your future career.”
*Potential salaries use third-party national and regional aggregated data, some of which may be estimates. Results may not reflect local or timely trends. Some careers listed may require additional education or degrees beyond those offered at KCKCC. Completing a program, degree, or certificate does not guarantee employment or a specific salary.