Cochise Newsroom

Those interested in becoming firefighters can begin their training at Cochise College through Fire Science classes offered in Sierra Vista and Douglas, earn a certificate or associate degree, and continue their education with a bachelor’s degree in Leadership, Management and Operations at Cochise College.

 

Registration is now open for the college’s second 8-week fall session, giving prospective and current students another opportunity to get started this semester. Those interested in Fire Science are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor this week to begin the enrollment process, explore available classes and build a plan that fits their goals.

 

The Fire Science Technology program helps learners build practical skills, explore careers in the fire service and work toward a college credential with instructors who bring professional experience into the classroom.

 

“We’re excited to offer Fire Science classes in both Sierra Vista and Douglas,” said Matthew King, Fire Science instructor. “Giving students more options for where they can take classes makes it easier to begin their training and start working toward a career in the fire service.”

Courses focus on applied learning and include basic firefighter training and certification test preparation, firefighter fitness, fire apparatus and driver operations, and field experience in firefighting.

 

The Firefighter I/II and Driver/Operator courses also provide opportunities to earn certifications in those respective areas through the state of Arizona and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress, or IFSAC. IFSAC-accredited certifications can provide greater portability for fire service professionals because they may be recognized by participating agencies and jurisdictions in Arizona, across the country and internationally.

 

That means participants can gain more than classroom experience. They can work toward industry-recognized credentials that may support employment and career advancement in fire service agencies beyond the local area.

 

For those considering becoming firefighters, the program offers more than one way to get started. Cochise College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science Technology as well as a Fire Science Technology Certificate. The certificate can be completed in less than a year, providing a shorter pathway for those who want to begin developing career-focused skills.

 

Certificate coursework can also apply toward the associate degree. Those who want to continue their education can build on that foundation and pursue Cochise College’s bachelor’s degree in Leadership, Management and Operations.

 

“Students don’t have to have everything figured out before they begin,” King said. “Fire Science classes give them an opportunity to learn about the profession, build their skills and see where a career in the fire service could take them.”

 

With classes available in Sierra Vista and Douglas, Cochise College offers more options to begin Fire Science education closer to home and continue progressing toward long-term career and educational goals.

New students interested in Fire Science Technology are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor this week to review program requirements, apply to the college and begin the enrollment process.

 

To get started, email advising@cochise.edu or call (520) 417-4038 in Douglas or (520) 515-5483 in Sierra Vista.

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