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Upon successful completion of FIRS 1401, FIRS 1407, FIRS 1413, FIRS 1419, FIRS 1433, EMSP1501, EMSP 1160, and certification as EMT-B, students may apply to the Commission for Texas Basic Structure Fire Protection Certificate. Students are also eligible to apply for Firefighter I and II Certification from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).

The part-time schedule offers courses in the evenings and on weekends and requires three semesters to complete the FIRS and EMSP courses. The full-time schedule offers courses during the day, Monday through Friday, giving students the ability to complete all FIRS and EMSP courses in two semesters.

There are additional requirements associated with entry into the Certificate of Completion, Fire Technology Academy. In order to enroll, students must be advised by the Fire Technology Counselor at the Valle Verde campus. Students will be required to take TSIA placement tests or equivalent, and achieve the following levels of course placement or higher: INRW 0311 or 0312 and NCBM 0302.

After completing the placement testing, the students will attend a mandatory orientation and a scheduled physical agility exam (CPAT) prior to beginning the Firefighter Certification courses (FIRS). Students must provide certification from a doctor indicating they are physically capable of performing firefighter training evolutions. Students will be required to sign a release of liability relieving the college and the facility provider of liability for injuries to students. FIRS 1103, Firefighter Agility and Fitness Preparation course is a prerequisite to the Firefighter Certification Courses (FIRS).

In addition to regular textbooks, students will be required to purchase Texas Commission on Fire Protection Curriculum and Performance Skills Manuals. Students will be required to be uniformed, which includes two shirts, pants, belt, and shoes. The purchase of sweatshirts and jackets are optional. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): helmet, gloves, and hoods will be required of the student prior to entering the certification program.

Students are responsible for testing and certification fees with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. At the mandatory orientation, students will be informed of the approximate cost and where items can be purchased. The FIRT 1311, Fire Service Hydraulics, may be taken for certification as Driver/Operator-Pump with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.