Academic Programs and Services
Fire Science
Continued technical progress and expanded emphasis on fire prevention and fire safety have created increased demands for skilled fire service personnel. This curriculum is designed to serve the needs of Philadelphia firefighters and volunteer firefighters desiring to progress in expertise, skill and rank, as well as of individuals interested in developing competence as fire safety professionals. They may work as fire code enforcement officers, fire protection technicians and designers, fire prevention equipment sales representatives or technical experts, and fire safety officials for businesses and government agencies. The program also prepares high school graduates or those pursuing a career change to become firefighters or enter the expanding fire safety and public safety administration fields. These private sector occupations involve building inspections, code enforcement, fire protection equipment testing, fire investigation and
fire prevention.
Most program course offerings are held evening and weekends to accommodate diverse schedules. The program has an articulation agreement with Holy Family University for students desiring to continue study leading to a baccalaureate degree which guarantees students junior standing.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate skills needed for leadership in the fire service or a position in a related field such as code enforcement, pre-fire planning, building inspection, risk management or emergency planning.
- Demonstrate their understanding of fireground strategy and tactics, the occupational risks firefighters face and the health and safety management strategies available to reduce injuries.
- Articulate the requirements for fire detection and suppression systems in various types of buildings.
- Prepare a pre-fire plan for a building using computer-assisted design software to draw floor and site plans.
- Articulate their understanding of the scientific approach to fire investigation as well as the important role that fire investigation and fire prevention programs play in reducing a community’s risk of fire.
- Demonstrate their understanding of building construction and hazardous materials.
Program Entry Requirements:
This program is open to all interested students. New students are normally required to take College placement tests at their time of entry. Students identified as needing developmental course work must satisfactorily complete the appropriate English and mathematics courses as part of their degree program.
Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:
To qualify for the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Fire Science, a student must complete a minimum of 62 credits as prescribed and attain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 ("C" average).
Download a printable degree description (PDF File) that includes a recommended course sequence grid.