Fire Protection Technician 
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Oak Creek Campus

Program code: 10-503-2

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

This page was last updated in July 2007.

Overview — Fire Protection Technician is an associate degree program that prepares students for employment in the fire service and/or fire-related functions within private industry. The objectives of the program are twofold: to instruct qualified high school graduates who are seeking a career in the fire service and to update firefighters and officers on new and advanced firefighting techniques. Through the program, students have the opportunity to obtain five Wisconsin certifications which exceed entry-level firefighter requirements, and which will better prepare them for career advancement. Because firefighting is a physically demanding career, students also are given the opportunity to take a candidate physical agility test (CPAT) which is recognized as the minimum physical standard for entry into most departments. Core skills include the ability to work under stress and interact effectively with people, be a team player, and basic mechanical aptitude.

Career Outlook — Fire technology is becoming more complex, and the challenges and responsibilities that a firefighter assumes are becoming increasingly demanding. Therefore, well-trained and educated firefighters are being sought by public and private concerns alike. Providing that a candidate can pass the required medical, physical and written tests, a typical program graduate exceeds entry-level firefighter requirements and is better prepared for career advancement through competitive examination. Opportunities also are available within private industry.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Employers expect you as a program graduate to be able to:

• Apply skills to identify and solve firefighting problems
• Apply tactics and strategies to emergency fire incidents
• Utilize fire protective equipment
• Demonstrate fire safety procedures
• Determine causes of fires
• Demonstrate knowledge of arson investigation procedures
• Respond to emergencies related to hazardous materials
• Demonstrate ability to function as a member of a team
• Demonstrate physical fitness and health consciousness

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• One year of high school-level algebra
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment

Additional courses in chemistry and other sciences would be helpful. A good mechanical aptitude is also important. Because fire fighting is a physically demanding career that requires you to pass a rigorous physical endurance examination, you should be in excellent physical condition and have no disabilities that would preclude you from admission into fire service.

Future Opportunities — If you are interested in a baccalaureate degree upon completion of the program, check with a program counselor or advisor, and the institution you plan to attend regarding the transfer of MATC credits.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Firefighter
EMT
Industrial Fire Prevention
Industrial Safety

Related Programs:

Criminal Justice — Law Enforcement
EMS — Emergency Medical Services 

For more information, call 414-571-4500.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009. 

TOTAL CREDITS: 70

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL EDUCATION courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.