Fire Science Technology

What is Fire Science Technology?

If you are interested in a career in the fire service, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College's Fire Science Technology program will prepare you for the challenges facing today's emergency responders.  In the program, you will learn the skills of fire suppression and prevention, technical rescue, hazardous materials, emergency medical care, and leadership.  This program is beneficial whether you are seeking a career in emergency services (fire, rescue, EMS, or emergency management) or if you are already involved in providing fire, rescue, or EMS services in your community.

What are my career choices?

You may enter the program with or without experience in emergency services.  The degree, certificate, and diploma programs we offer can help you in obtaining employment in various emergency service fields or, if you are already a firefighter, help you get that promotion you have been waiting for.

What classes do I have to take?

You will complete approximately 18 credit hours of general education coursework and 46 credit hours of fire/rescue/EMS classes to receive an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree.  If you have prior firefighting experience, you may be able to bypass many of the classes by taking the Firefighter 1 and 2 International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) accredited certification testing.

What are my degree, diploma, and certificate options?

Degrees and Transfers

• Fire Science Technology - Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

ECTC has numerous partnerships with 4-year universities. If you are interested in a transfer pathway in this field, check out our partnering university pathways. Find more information on transferring from ECTC.

Diploma Options

• Fire Chief - Diploma

Certificate Options

• Advanced Firefighter - Certificate
• Basic Firefighter - Certificate
• Emergency Medical Technician - Certificate

Field Licensure Requirements

Some employers will require certification through the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress in addition to completion of the program.

Where do I start?

Apply for admission to ECTC to receive information from the Admissions Office about submitting your placement test scores (ACT or other exams) and to schedule a meeting with an advisor to register for your classes.

Length of Program

You can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.

This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog.  You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.