A.A.S. Degree: 63 Hours
Career departments, volunteer departments and departments with both career and volunteer firefighters combine to comprise approximately 100 fire departments throughout southwest Missouri. The Fire Science Technology program provides learning opportunities which introduce, develop and reinforce academic and occupational knowledge, skills and attitudes required for job acquisition, retention and advancement. Additionally, the program provides opportunities to retrain and upgrade present knowledge and skills. Career choices for Fire Science Technology students include the following: firefighter, fire inspector, fire instructor, fire investigator, fire protection systems installer, U.S. Forest Service, as well as various military branches. OTC graduates have employment opportunities locally, statewide, nationally and internationally. The program is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).
OTC has developed procedures for evaluating past training experiences and certification; inquiries should be directed to the lead instructor or department chair.
Students wishing to transfer to a four-year institution are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of the lead instructor or department chair of the FST program to determine courses appropriate for transfer.
This program is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), 1812 Tyler Avenue, Stillwater, OK, 74078-8705, (405) 744-8303.