Fire Protection Technology, A.A.S.

Degree: Associate in Applied Science
HEGIS Code: 5507
Curriculum Code: 0639
Campus Location: South
Business & Public Service Division

Pre-Admission Recommendations: 2 years Math, 2 years Science
Recommended H.S. Courses and/or Experiences: Chemistry
Career Opportunities/Further Education: Firefighting Agencies, Insurance Firms

Program Description

In an increasingly complex world of changing technologies, synthetic materials and budget crises, the fire chief and line officers must not only be an authority on fire suppression and prevention, but must also be skilled in the fields of management, manpower utilization and personnel development. The Fire Protection Technology curriculum combines all the elements necessary to prepare the paid and volunteer fire fighting professional. The objectives of this program are to:

• promote effective fire fighting strategies;
• develop qualities of leadership necessary in fire administration and supervision; and
• provide firefighters, officers and chiefs with a comprehensive background and updated information in the fire protection area, with an emphasis on the management and administration of fire departments large and small.

This curriculum introduces students to the latest techniques of fire fighting and fire prevention, and employs faculty members from among the ranks of the fire fighting community. Lectures, demonstrations, field trips and discussions will lead the student through the basics of fire protection equipment and building construction, radiological theory, resource typing, grant writing, fire investigations, handling of hazardous materials, and handling terrorist situations. Fire operations strategy gives the students an opportunity to utilize all the acquired skills and to improve them through the information acquired in the management and leadership courses.

The Fire Protection Technology Program courses and the general studies courses combine to prepare the firefighter, fire officer and fire investigator for the challenges of modern day fire fighting. Graduates of this curriculum are qualified to accept leadership positions as fire officers, chiefs, marshals, arson investigators and safety officers in both the public and private sectors.

Program Competencies

Upon graduation with the Associate in Applied Science degree in Fire Protection Technology, the graduate will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of fire protection and control by describing the various types of fire suppression systems and their component parts and applying the tactical and technical skills necessary to direct fire personnel in the performance of fire prevention, suppression and control activities;
• display a working knowledge of the responsibilities of fire standards, codes and investigation by determining the cause of fire, describing the principles of fire investigation, and listing the New York State laws and the criminal procedures regarding the fire service;
• acquire comprehensive knowledge of a building’s fire hazards and safety concerns by evaluating the effects of fire on various types of structures; respond to disasters involving hazardous materials by identifying the dangers of hazardous materials including radiological substances and conducting a risk analysis; and 
• exhibit management, leadership and knowledge of the internal workings of fire departments by listing and describing the principles of securing evidence at a fire scene, and of record-keeping and documentation and the principles of leadership, supervision, and human resources management.

Curriculum

Total Degree Credits: 60.0