Fire Science Technology

Associate of Applied Science Degree

Certificate of Completion

(575) 527-7746

Every year, fire and other emergencies take thousands of lives and destroy property worth billions of dollars. Firefighters help protect the public against these dangers. They are frequently the first emergency personnel at the scene of a traffic accident or medical emergency and may be called upon to put out a fire, treat injuries, or perform other vital functions.

Firefighters work in a wide variety of settings, including urban and suburban areas, airports, chemical plants and other industrial sites, and such rural areas as wildlands and forests. When wildland fires break out, crews of firefighters are brought in to suppress the fires with heavy equipment and hand tools. In addition, smoke jumpers parachute into inaccessible areas. Others who have been trained for the control, prevention, and cleanup of hazardous materials incidents work in hazardous materials units.

This program does not emphasize firefighter operations. Instead, it focuses on theory, investigation, prevention, and management. Students wishing to enter the fire service may benefit from the general background provided and may receive Firefighter I certification through the New Mexico Firefighters Training Academy in Socorro, N.M.