Valencia College in collaboration with Central Florida fire agencies has established the premier Fire Rescue Institute to provide career pathways to meet the needs of the fire service community in Central Florida, nationally and globally. Our programs infuse high quality and diverse learning and training opportunities to advance all professionals in the industry. The Institute prepares all levels of fire service professionals, including the fire fighter, fire officer, fire inspector, fire investigator and fire instructor. Also, the Fire Science Technology Associate in Science degree program provides opportunities for students to continue on to a bachelor's degree.
Fire Science Academy Track
Mandatory Information Session Dates
The Fire Science Academy Track is a unique degree-granting program that provides students with three components of career development in just two years.
Upon completion, students will receive:
- A.S. degree in Fire Science Technology (60 credits)
- EMT (Emergency Medical Technology) Technical Certificate (must pass a state exam)
- Minimum Standards Training – Firefighter I and Firefighter II (must pass a state exam)
Associate in Science Degree
With specializations in: Fire Officer, Fire Prevention
This two-year Fire Science Technology A.S. program offers a scientific understanding of fire and emergency hazards, with emphasis on effective prevention, control and management. It is a path to employment, a bachelor's degree and career enhancement. Valencia also offers an A.S. degree in Emergency Medical Services Technology, through the division of Allied Health.
Related Certificate: Fire Officer Supervisor
Many certificates can be completed in less than a year and credits earned apply toward the A.S. degree in Fire Science Technology.
Fire Fighter Minimum Standards Class
This program fulfills the requirements of the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training for students to take the state certification exam to become a certified fire fighter in the state of Florida.
Fire Apparatus Operator
This course covers the laws, rules and driving techniques for emergency vehicles, as well as fire service hydraulic. This course will include 40 hours of classroom and 40 hours of practical training on the training grounds. The practical training will include fire ground hose evolutions and a driving course.
Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training Certifications
Valencia offers sets of courses that qualify students to test for the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training certifications. Students must complete the Valencia courses and meet other requirements set by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. Students should check with the Bureau for the most current requirements.
- Fire Officer I
- Fire Officer II
- Firesafety Inspector I
- Firesafety Inspector II
- Fire Safety Investigator I
- Fire Service Instructor
Pathways to Advanced Degrees
Bachelor's Opportunities
Valencia’s Associate in Science degree graduates have the opportunity to transfer into the Bachelor of Applied Science degree offered at the University of Central Florida’s regional campuses, as well as other Florida public universities. Also, graduates from select A.S. degrees are guaranteed* admission to the University of Central Florida through DirectConnect™ to UCF (*Consistent with university policy). Students who wish to transfer to a university should contact their school of choice about transfer requirements, and meet with a Valencia advisor for assistance with education planning. UCF also offers master’s degree-level credits for participation in Valencia’s Public Safety Leadership Development Certification Program.
Master's Opportunities
Advanced Specialized Training and Continuing Education
Courses and Training
Professional training courses cover the most recent updates, topics and equipment for fire service professionals of all levels to refresh skills and build on experience in order to stay safe and stimulate career advancement. Topic areas include training in fire fighter survival, rescue and vehicle operations, fire apparatus operations, leadership development and more.
The Public Safety Leadership Development Certification Program
This four-week program focuses on developing public safety professionals into innovative leaders. It is offered in partnership between Valencia College Continuing Education, Valencia’s Criminal Justice Institute and Fire Rescue Institute, and the University of Central Florida’s Criminal Justice Program.
Non-Credit Courses
For students not wishing to pursue a degree, we offer all of the Fire Science Courses at a reduced rate of $150 plus required text. These courses will not transfer for college credit however, they will meet the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training requirements for certification as a Fire Inspector, Fire Officer, etc.
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