Pikes Peak Community College - Fire Science Technology Program

Why Choose Fire Science at PPCC?
When studying Fire Science Technology at PPCC you will learn from top instructors and be part of a FESHE accredited program that has served the Pikes Peak Region for 25 years. Our program has a fire academy that provides foundational firefighter knowledge attainment, practical skills development and physical ability preparation. Plus the degree can be completed 100% online or on campus. The majority of courses are eight weeks, which ensures a quick completion of the degree. within eight weeks. PPCC is one of the most versatile programs in the country and credits earned will transfer to other four-year schools.  In addition, you will receive course credit for current firefighting certifications that are held.

What will I study?
PPCC’s Fire Science program focuses on every aspect of working as a firefighter and will teach you about all aspects of the fire service. You will learn about entry level firefighter courses to officer level instruction and leadership courses. You will learn about topics such as:

• firefighter career overview and preparation,
• firefighter occupational safety and health,
• fire prevention practices,
• building construction,
• fire protection systems,
• hazardous materials,
• instructional methodology,
• strategy and tactics,
• hydraulics,
• fire codes and ordinances,
• fire investigation, and
• wildland firefighting.

Degrees Offered in Fire Science:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Fire Science Technology
A two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) with a Fire Science Technology designation is a terminal degree designed for those seeking entry-level Firefighter positions, or for those already working in the Firefighting profession. 

This degree will:

• Prepare individuals with little or no experience in the firefighting profession for entry-level positions in the fire service industry; and
• Provide students with essential knowledge and skills to participate in the fields of fire protection, emergency management, firefighting, and wildland firefighter knowledge.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Fire Science Management
Fire Science Technology and Management graduates are prepared to enter a fire service career. Within the fire service career, one can work in the Operations Bureau of a fire department, as well as the Support Services Bureau.  Skills obtained with this degree:

• Comprehension of terms & tactic considerations skills in fire suppression, fire prevention, safety, building construction;
• Application of fire and rescue skills to include strategy and tactics of a fire scene;
• Technical and general education skills necessary to obtain State of Colorado; Certifications
• Successful communication in active listening, critical thinking, instructing and decision making; and
• Knowledge of public safety & security, customer and personal service, mechanical aptitude and administration management.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Wildland Firefighting:
The Wildland Fire Science degree teaches students to become proficient with knowledge of fire behavior, safety, strategy and tactics, changing fire conditions through topography and weather and basic wildland procedures. This degree is for those students who have a number of NWCG certifications. (At this time the program is not geared towards students who have no NWCG certifications.)

This degree will prepare you to:

• Operate in multiple agency jurisdictions;
• Apply standardized wildland firefighting principles as identified by the National Wildland Coordinating Group;
• Introduce you to the principles of emergency management preparedness,mitigation, response, and recovery; and
• Prepare you to attain a career and to enhance a career in wildland firefighting and related disciplines.

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