Fire Science Technology Program
What do you think of when you hear the word "firefighter?" The movie The Towering Inferno? Smokey the Bear's admonition, "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires?" The hook and ladder truck that comes to the rescue of small children and cats stranded in trees?
Any or all of these images is accurate, because the work of a firefighter is some of the most dangerous and rewarding there is. Fire Departments across the nation estimate they will be replacing 50-55% of their current workforce in the next five years.
Red Rocks Fire Science Technology AAS Degree prepares you for entry into the Fire Service, promotion within the Fire Service or advancement to a four-year college. At 71 credits, this program takes only about two years to complete. Areas of Emphasis include EMS / Paramedic, Wildland Firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Codes and Ordinances, Fire Investigations, and Fire Service Management. With courses covering all aspects of firefighting, 50 hours of Fire Academy and internships with local fire departments, graduates are ready to enter the world of firefighting.
What Firefighters Do
Although they are best known as those who extinguish fires, much of their work is in preventing it in the first place. Modern firefighters are experts in prevention and suppression, life safety, emergency medicine, protection of property and problems associated with hazardous materials and arson. They conduct public education programs, inspect buildings for fire hazards and fire law prevention violations, and give emergency first aid. They must be physically fit; able to deal with people in crisis; work in stressful, dangerous situations; critical thinkers and excellent communicators.
The Fire Science Technology Program at Red Rocks Community College
To assist you with proper placement in the program, you must take an assessment test and consult with a Fire Science instructor/advisor prior to enrollment. The program includes opportunities for internships with local fire departments. Click here for degree requirements.
Job Prospects and Income
There will be lots of competition for the openings that the Colorado Department of Labor projects over the next year. About half of the state's 5,000 fire fighters work in the Denver Metro area, for salaries that begin at $16,000 and range up to $58,000, depending on experience and rank.
Fire Service Management Program
Build upon your firefighting training - become an officer! If you are interested in moving up the ladder in your firefighting career, we have the perfect next step. The Fire Science Management degree delivers the training you need to move into officer positions. If you already have an associate's degree in Fire Science Technology, you can earn this advanced degree with only six classes (18 credits). The majority of this associate of applied science degree is offered online, so you can study at your convenience, even if you work full time. Click here for degree requirements.
Transfer to Regis for a Bachelor's Degree
Interested in transferring to Regis University's Bachelor of Applied Science program? Transfer 90 credit hours to Regis University. Choose from one of nine Bachelor's of Applied Science specialization areas (Management, Social Violence, Practical Psychology, Community Interpreting, Homeland Security and Disaster Response, Business of Government, Social Justice, Decision Making or Educational Interpreting) and take 30 credit hours in that area from Regis University to earn your bachelor's degree! You may also choose from other Regis University Programs such as Public Administration, Criminology and Organizational Development. Click here for more information.
