Fire Science Technology: Career Associate

The Fire Science Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and essential career in fire service and emergency response. This comprehensive program provides students with fundamental knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in fire prevention, firefighting operations, rescue techniques, and emergency management. Throughout the coursework, students learn about fire behavior, building construction, hazardous materials, and safety protocols, equipping them with a solid foundation to respond effectively to emergency situations. The program emphasizes hands-on training through simulations and practical exercises, allowing students to develop confidence and competence in real-world scenarios. Additionally, students gain insight into fire investigation, code enforcement, and community risk reduction strategies, fostering a holistic understanding of fire service operations. The curriculum is carefully aligned with industry standards and certification requirements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level positions in fire departments, emergency services, and related fields. Students also have opportunities to participate in internships and cooperative education experiences, enabling them to connect classroom learning with practical application in the field. The faculty, comprised of experienced professionals in fire science and emergency management, provide mentorship and guidance to help students succeed academically and professionally. Upon graduation, students receive an associate degree that can serve as a stepping stone toward further education or certification in specialized areas of fire service. The program is ideal for individuals passionate about serving their communities, ensuring public safety, and pursuing a rewarding career in fire prevention and emergency response. With a focus on safety, teamwork, and leadership, the Fire Science Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College prepares students to meet the challenges of today’s dynamic fire service environment and to make a positive impact in their communities.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3
ENGL 104 Technical Writing  3
COMM 101 Effective Speaking   (or)  3
  COMM 203 Interpersonal Communication  (3
Core A Elective  3
Core B Elective  3
Core C Elective  3
Free Elective  3
Physical Education & Wellness  1

Major Requirements   
FIRE 101 Principles of Emergency Services     3 
FIRE 102 Fire Prevention  3 
FIRE 103 Principles of Fire & Emergency Services Safety and Survival  3 
FIRE 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection  3 
FIRE 106 Fire Behavior and Combustion  3 
FIRE 201 Fire Protection Hydraulics & Water Supply  3 
FIRE 202 Hazardous Materials Chemistry    3 
FIRE 203 Fire Protection Systems  3 
FIRE 204 Fire Investigation I  3 
FIRE 207 Educational Methodology  3 
FIRE 209 Fire & Emergency Services Administration  3 
FIRE 210 Strategy and Tactics  3 

Other Required Courses   
CIS 105 Intro to Software for Business  3 

This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:

Identify the requirements of various fire protection environments and operate the equipment related to those environments

Recognize the prevention and suppression of hazards by means of building inspections and hazard descriptions; the application for safety codes; and the use of proper procedures for hauling and storing hazardous materials

Explain the operations of fire extinguishing and warning systems

Conduct fire investigations

Manage a fire protection organization through effective use of manpower and equipment

Write and speak effectively

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Fire Science Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers within the fire service industry. This program provides a comprehensive education in fire science, including fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous materials handling, and fire prevention techniques. Students gain practical skills through hands-on training and simulation exercises, which are essential for responding effectively to emergencies. The curriculum emphasizes the development of both technical knowledge and leadership abilities, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work as firefighters, fire inspectors, or emergency responders. The program also covers topics such as fire investigation, building codes, and safety protocols, giving students a well-rounded understanding of the fire service field. Courses are often delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and field experience, fostering applied learning and real-world readiness. Upon completing this associate degree, students are prepared to pursue entry-level positions within fire departments or continue their education toward advanced certifications and degrees. The program might also include opportunities for internships or cooperative education experiences with local fire agencies, providing valuable networking and employment prospects. Overall, the Fire Science Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College aims to produce competent, responsible, and prepared fire service professionals who can contribute effectively to their communities' safety and emergency response efforts.