Fire Science Technology Skills Guide
Recommended High School Level Background Courses
- *Algebra I
- Physics
- Speech
- *Chemistry I
- *Composition
- Keyboarding
* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center
Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job
Reading
The purpose of this program is to provide both a theoretical and technical background in the fire science profession, primarily for people already employed in the field. Students will be reading scientific texts for their chemistry and physics courses as well as technical program texts which include tables and diagrams of equipment. The approximate readability of a typical fire science text is college level. In addition to their own textbooks, students will be reading reference materials in the library.
Graduates who apply for government jobs must prepare for a Civil Service examination which has a reading component. On the job, firefighters will consult building and fire codes and read fire science journals. Continuing education is vital to this profession. The trend is to require more formal postsecondary education; many firefighters can expect to pursue at least a four-year degree.
View more information on reading skills in the Fire Science Technology program.
Language
Students may choose one of two speech courses to complete their Associate in Science degree: Fundamentals of Oral Communication (SPC101) or Interpersonal and Small Group Communication (SPC 126). In their program coursework, they can expect to make class presentations of written reports. On the job, firefighters will interact with coworkers, insurance investigators, media representatives and the general public. They may be expected to make group presentations regarding fire safety, and they may be called upon to testify in court.
Two writing courses are required in this program: Composition I (ENG 105) and Composition II (ENG 106). Other writing activities include reports and short answer essay tests. In the work place, firefighters must keep accurate records, which may be used by investigators in determining the causes of fires.
View more information on language skills in the Fire Science Technology program.
Math
To complete their AS degree, students must complete one college-level math course, typically Finite Math (MAT 141), which has one year of high school algebra as a prerequisite. Students will also apply basic math and algebra skills in their physics and chemistry courses. In fire science coursework and on the job, they will make careful measurements and use formulas as they investigate causes of fires.
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Learning
Students in this program must use high-level thinking skills, often in stressful circumstances. Observation, inference, causal analysis, and problem-solving are interconnected skills used during fire investigations and safety inspections.
View more information on learning skills in the Fire Science Technology program.
Computer
Word processing skills will be helpful for students in this program and on the job, as they are required to prepare typed reports.
View more information on computer skills in the Fire Science Technology program.
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