Our Associate Degree in fire science gives a strong background in fire science core curriculum and general education. Training in this field is designed for fire service personnel and for individuals seeking careers in fire protection and prevention. A degree in fire science will open up opportunities for promotions within your department, enhance your potential for a lateral transfer, or improve career opportunities in the field of arson investigation, industrial safety, fire insurance or fire protection engineering.
With the ability to complete at least 80% of the program through distance learning, the QCC Fire Science program offers the convenience and flexibility you need combined with the experience and solid curriculum you would expect from a designated Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) College recognized by the National Fire Academy.
You will test your skills and knowledge in our laboratories to provide you with hands-on experience facing and solving problems in areas such as fire dynamics, fire detection and alarms, automatic sprinklers, and fire/arson investigation. Some of the knowledge you will gain through this program includes recognizing and identifying chemical and physical properties of hazardous materials; characteristics and behavior of fire and extinguishing agents; methods of controlling and extinguishing various types of fires; and the reaction to heat and fire of various types of construction. You will leave this program with a solid foundation in firefighter safety, building codes, fire prevention, code inspection, and firefighting strategy and tactics.
All our instructors have hands-on experience in the field that adds up to combined dozens of years of service within various areas in the field of fire protection. Our adjunct instructors are professionals in the public and private sectors and interact with firefighters on a regular basis. This gives them the necessary knowledge in the latest research in fire safety and technology so they can then pass it on to you.
Where are the classes offered?
Most of our fire science courses are offered in-person at the Worcester campus. Most classes are held in evenings during the week. There are some classes that are offered off campus at the instructor’s discretion.
Do you offer any online courses?
Currently, QCC only offers less than 25% of the fire science classes online. However, we are working on adding more online courses in the near future. Any questions regarding online courses can be directed to the program coordinator at 508.854.7498.
Can I receive credit for fire-related certifications?
Yes. QCC offers credits for many fire-related certifications that are obtained through the Massachusetts Fire Academy and the National Fire Academy. Courses must be at least 45 hours and include a testing component at the conclusion of the course. Examples of certifications include Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Hazardous Materials Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, Fire Officer I, Fire Investigator, and Public Fire Educator. For a complete list of all certifications please contact the program coordinator or the Prior Learning Credit Office located on the Worcester campus Room 278A.
Do I have to get my EMT?
No. However, the EMT course counts for two free electives which is the equivalent of two classes (6 credits). We also highly recommend the EMT course to enable students to be more competitive in the open job market.
What is the Fire Science Certificate?
The Fire Science Certificate Program allows students to obtain recognition within one-year of program entry. This program provides the student with essential entry-level courses that are based on important fire service knowledge for safety and education (25 credits). The certificate program also includes the EMT Basic course. The certificate program is available to current students and transfer students as of Spring 2015. New students will be allowed to enroll in the certificate program in Fall 2015.
What advantages does the program give me?
Our Fire Science Program here at QCC is nationally recognized and fully accredited. Those students who earn their Associates Degree, including their EMT, have a substantial advantage in the open job market. Emergency Service departments across the country strongly prefer those candidates that have post-secondary education and related field experience.