Fire Science CSC

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PURPOSE

The Fire Science Career Studies Certificate Program (CSC) is designed to provide comprehensive education and training for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in firefighting and emergency services. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in the dynamic field of fire science. The purpose is to produce competent and well-prepared professionals capable of responding effectively to emergencies, ensuring the safety of communities, and prioritizing firefighter safety and health. Please note a student cannot become a firefighter by completing this program.

OCCUPATIONAL OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion, program graduates will be prepared for a range of occupational roles within the firefighting and emergency services sector, including:

Firefighter: Responding to fires, accidents, and other emergencies to protect life and property

Introduction to Fire Inspections, Codes and Regulations: Ensuring compliance with fire safety codes and regulations

Introduction to Fire Investigation: Determining the cause of fires and conducting investigations

Fire Prevention Specialist: Educating the public on fire safety and implementing prevention measures

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Explain foundational fire science principles, including the organization and function of fire protection services, fire behavior and combustion, fire prevention strategies, and emergency services operations. Identify national standards and regulatory frameworks applicable to fire services (e.g., NFPA standards, Virginia Department of Fire Programs curriculum). Describe the roles and responsibilities of various positions in fire and emergency services (e.g., firefighter, inspector, fire prevention specialist).
Analyze case studies of fire events to draw conclusions about cause, prevention, and potential improvements in operational response.
Prepare for entry-level employment in fire and emergency services through mastery of core competencies required for firefighter or related positions.
Demonstrate readiness for continued professional development, including advanced certifications and potential leadership roles (e.g., Fire Officer progression).

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT THROUGH FESHE MODEL

Fire Science CSC at Reynolds integrates the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model to enhance professional development and facilitate career advancement. The FESHE model emphasizes key components:

Core Competencies
Aligning the curriculum with national core competencies ensures that graduates possess a standardized skill set recognized within the fire and emergency services community
Professionalism
Instilling a sense of professionalism through ethical behavior, effective communication, and leadership skills to foster career growth
Continuous Learning
Encouraging a commitment to lifelong learning, staying abreast of evolving industry standards, and pursuing advanced certifications for career advancement

FIREFIGHTER SAFETY AND HEALTH

Recognizing the inherent risks in firefighting, the Fire Science Career Studies Certificate Program places a strong emphasis on firefighter safety and health.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

High School Diploma or Equivalent
A minimum educational requirement to ensure a foundational level of academic preparation
CPR Certification
Basic life-saving skills are essential, and applicants may be required to obtain CPR certification
Background Check
Given the nature of the profession, applicants may undergo a background check

TRANSFER INFORMATION

Credits from other institutions or programs may be transferred to the Fire Science CSC program based on criteria including:

Accreditation
Credits will be considered from institutions accredited by recognized accrediting bodies
Course Equivalency
Transfer credits will be evaluated on a course-by-course basis for equivalency
Grade Requirements
Transfer credits typically require a minimum grade for acceptance

COMPUTER COMPETENCY REQUIREMENT

Technology plays an increasingly crucial role in emergency services. Therefore, Fire Science students are expected to meet a basic level of computer competency. This may involve proficiency in using software for incident reporting, data analysis, and communication.

Reynolds is committed to preparing individuals for successful and impactful careers in firefighting and emergency services, emphasizing a balance of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, technological proficiency, and a strong dedication to firefighter safety and health.

Curriculum:

Courses should be taken in the order listed.

FST 100 - Principles of Emergency Services Credit Hours: 3
FST 110 - Fire Behavior and Combustion Credit Hours: 3
FST 115 - Fire Prevention Credit Hours: 3
FST 121 - Principles of Fire and Emergency Services Safety and Survival Credit Hours: 3
FST 215 - Fire Protection Systems Credit Hours: 3
FST 220 - Building Construction for Fire Protection Credit Hours: 3

Total: 18 Credit Hours

Planning Tools

Is it right for you? Career Connect Center at Reynolds College for tools to explore career options, develop professional skills, and connect with employers.

What’s next? Check out TransferVA to learn how your Reynolds classes may transfer to in-state colleges.

Customized program maps: Once enrolled, students will have access to our Navigate software, with options to customize their program maps based on post-graduation and transfer goals.