Fire Science
The Basic Fire Academy is designed to give the student a well-rounded education for a professional career in the fire service.
> PROGRAMS > HEALTH SCIENCES > FIRE SCIENCE
Firefighters control and put out fires and respond to emergencies involving life, property, or the environment. On the scene of a fire or other emergency, their work may be dangerous. On call at fire stations, firefighters sleep, eat, and perform other duties during shifts that often last 24 hours. Most work full time.
Following the successful completion of the Fire Science program, you’ll be able to enact the desirable qualities of a basic firefighter that contribute to high professional and ethical standards. You’ll function effectively during high stress situations which may include physical exertion, intense environments, victim rescue, life support treatments, victim rescue, and fire suppression. You’ll be able to coordinate scene management during hazardous situations, communicate with first responders, agencies, patients, victims, and the public, and document, written and oral communications, events relative to emergency care, rescue, and fire incidents.
Courses are taught through lecture, written assignments, skills demonstrations, and hands-on training. Clinical experiences and Internships are completed through local fire departments.
Degrees
You may choose to earn a Certificate or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Fire Science or an AAS Degree in Fire Administration from NCTC. Courses from the Certificate Program will readily transfer to the Degree programs.
Fire Science Basic Certificate
Courses are taught through lecture, case study skills, written assignments, skills demonstrations, and extensive hands-on training. Internships are completed through area fire departments. The fire academy program at NCTC is Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) approved. The Basic Fire Academy program is provided in both day and night class settings. The Day Class is designed to take 1 semester to complete and the Night Class is designed to take 2 semesters. Both class options consist of the following suggested pathway or course of study.
Fire Administration AAS
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) - Fire Service Administration degree prepares students for leadership positions within the fire service. Introductory and advanced courses emphasize: Administration, management, and leadership of municipal fire services, Fire protection and prevention strategies, Fire investigation, and Community and political dimensions of fire service administration.
This degree can be completed through a mix of face-to-face and online classes.
Fire Science AAS
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) - Fire Science degree prepares students for leadership positions within the fire service. Introductory and advanced courses emphasize: Management and leadership of municipal fire services, Firefighting strategies & tactics, Firefighter safety & health, Fire inspection, and Fire behavior.
NCTC Dual Credit Fire Science receives award for excellence.
The Dual Credit Fire Science program was presented with a 2021 Program of Excellence award at the 2021 Texas Association of College Technical Educators (TACTE) virtual conference. Fire Science Instructor and Program Chair Strider Floyd accepted the award on behalf of the department. Floyd credited the success of the program to the support they have received from not only NCTC administration, but also from the local school districts and fire departments.
“Our biggest asset, though, would be our instructors,” said Floyd. “They are all currently working in the field across North Texas and bring hands-on experience to the classroom.”
Admissions Steps
Step 1: Apply to NCTC.
Step 2: Attend an EMS & Fire Science information session.
Once all admission requirements are met, you will be notified by the Admissions Office of your acceptance to NCTC. You will need to schedule an information session by contacting:
Claudia Leuschner
Emergency Services Administrative Assistant
(940) 498-6237
cleuschner@nctc.edu
Step 3: Register for the HESI Entrance Exam.
HESI testing information will be sent after you sign up for an information session. The candidates that pass the HESI Exam will be invited to the Physical Ability Exam. Once testing is done you can complete and submit an online EMS & Fire Science Application.
Step 4: Apply to the EMS & Fire Science program.
Login to the MyNCTC
Under Student Services, select EMS & Fire Science Application.
Fill out the form and attach copies of your transcripts.
Once you have completed all sections of the application along with your HESI test scores, submit your application.
After applications have been processed, you will be notified by email of your status in the EMS & Fire Science program.
Criteria for Enrolling into the Fire Program
Must have a social security number.
Must be at 18 years old.
Must be a high school graduate or have a GED.
Must have medical insurance (can be purchased through agencies that work with NCTC).
Step 5: If accepted to the program, you will need to complete...
Drug Screen
Physical
Physical Agility Exam Waivers
CPR Certification (Healthcare Provider only)
Job Outlook
$24.38/hour
Median Pay
No 4-year Degree Needed
8%
Job Growth 2020-2030
89%
Employed by local (city) government
Places of Employment
Private/Municipal/State/Federal
Fire Suppression or Public Safety Organizations
Private Fire Alarm/Sprinkler Companies
Private Insurance Companies
Jobs
Structural Firefighter
Wildland/Forestry Firefighter
Fire/Arson Investigator
Building Inpector
Fire Officer/Fire Chief
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT Basic)
Fire Protection Systems Installation Technician
Get Started
At NCTC
Contact us.
Claudia Leuschner
Emergency Services Administrative Assistant
(940) 498-6237
cleuschner@nctc.edu