Program and Career Description:
The Fire Science Certificate at Columbia State is designed to prepare current and future firefighters for careers and advancement in the firefighting profession. Coursework will be delivered in a blend of on-ground, hybrid, and online formats.
The program is designed for those who have little or no experience with the fire service industry in preparation for entry-level positions. The certificate may also allow experienced firefighters to expand learning with credit for knowledge and skills gained through training and certifications.
How long is the program?
The Fire Science Certificate can be earned in as few as two semesters on a full-time basis or paced part-time for individual students.
What does the program provide?
Outcome based classroom learning combined with practical experiences which prepare students for state credentialing, gainful in-field employment, career satisfaction, and advancement potential.
How is the job market?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be an increase of 17,4000 Firefighter jobs from 2014 to 2024, which is a 5% growth rate.
|
Career
|
Entry-Level Pay
|
Median Pay
|
Experienced Pay
|
|
Fire Fighter
|
$22,910
|
$30,810
|
$65,050
|
Career and salary information taken from PayScale.com, JOBS4TN.GOV, and Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor on the internet at www.bls.gov. Check out the Occupational Outlook Handbook on this website for additional information about similar occupations, education and requirements and abilities, and job outlook for these careers. Salaries are not guaranteed.
Transfer Options
Courses may be combined with selected courses from another degree/certificate to develop a personal academic plan for the General Technology AAS. Students with a General Technology AAS degree have multiple options for university transfer. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the receiving institution. Students are advised to inquire directly with advisors at the university of choice regarding expectations for transfer.
What Kind of Work Will You Do?
The Fire Science program provides fundamental knowledge that applies to a variety of jobs within the fire science. Depending on your career choice duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Maintain fire equipment
- Control and extinguish fire
- Inspect facilities for fire safety purposes
- Conduct fire safety education programs
- Instruct and/or advise others on the use of equipment
- Prepare reports and maintain records
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
Depending upon the chosen area within the fire industry must be able to:
- Lift a reasonable amount of weight
- Visually assess a situation
- Respond to auditory signals
- Communicate verbally and in writing
- Analyze problems and determine solutions
- Work independently and in cooperation with others
Program Entry Requirements
- Complete an application for admission
- Satisfy the rotation requirements
- Attend any required information/registration sessions
Requirements for Graduation include:
- Earn 25% of total program credits in residence at Columbia State.
- Earn a GPA of at least 2.0 in program courses.
- Earn A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
AdmissionsColumbia State - A great place to start!
AcademicsThe courses offered at Columbia State are gateways to growth. Through the gateways–and in those classes–you’ll learn about your world and about yourself; you’ll discover new careers and you’ll grow.
Campus LifeWe understand that your personal and professional growth isn’t limited to what you learn in the classroom. Or rather, at Columbia State, the entire campus and its surrounding community is your classroom.
AthleticsColumbia State fields five NJCAA Division I teams. The Chargers have routinely moved on to Division I programs, been drafted by Major League Baseball clubs, and more. Go Chargers!
Arts & EntertainmentWe celebrate the important role of the arts in a well-rounded education. In addition to the books read, tests taken and study groups formed that make up our students’ academic growth, we also provide a wide range of cultural and intellectual opportunities.
Workforce & Continuing EducationIf you want to develop new skills, improve your organization’s performance or just learn new things, you have found the right place!
