If you are interested in a career in the fire service, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College’s Fire/Rescue Science Technology Program will prepare you for the challenges facing today’s emergency responders. In the program you will learn the skills of fire suppression and prevention, technical rescue, hazardous materials, emergency medical care and leadership. This program is beneficial whether you are seeking a career in emergency services (fire, rescue, EMS or emergency management) or if you are already involved in providing fire, rescue or EMS services in your community. Students can download the most current KCTCS Course Catalog for information on degrees and certificates.
What are my career choices?
You may enter the program with or without experience in emergency services. The degree, certificate and diploma programs we offer can help you in obtaining employment in various emergency service fields, or if you are already a firefighter, help you get that promotion you have been waiting for.
What classes do I have to take?
You will complete approximately 18 credit hours of general education coursework and 46 credit hours of fire/rescue/EMS classes to receive an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. If you have prior firefighting experience, you may be able to bypass many of the classes by taking the Firefighter 1 and 2 IFSAC Accredited Certification testing. Select this link to download a list of classes that can be bypassed. You can also download degree information
Can I specialize my degree, diploma or certificate options?
Absolutely! You may obtain an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in fire/rescue science technology, receive a Fire Chief Diploma, or work toward receiving a Certificate in Basic and Advanced Firefighter or become a Nationally Certified Emergency Medical Technician.
What are the admission requirements?
There are no special admission requirements, however you must meet the admission requirements for KCTCS colleges to enroll.
Other Important Information
Many of the general education course requirements are available through distance learning and through scheduling with other colleges within KCTCS. The framework provides for transfer of course work to four-year institutions if you are seeking to further your education. Please contact us toll free at 888.234.7201 or 270.706.8860 for more information.
Elizabethtown Community and Techical College is Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097: Telephone 404.679.4501, to award Associate Degrees.