2026-2027 Course Catalog
Fire Protection Technology, Certificate
Location(s):
Ankeny
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 Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
The Fire Science Certificate Program provides students with the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for entry-level and advanced roles in the fire service. This comprehensive program integrates classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare students for real-world emergency response situations. Upon successful completion of the program, students will have completed courses that meet the Job Performance Requirements (JPRs) outlined in the following National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards:
• NFPA 470: Standard for Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Emergency Response Competence – Students will complete a Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations course designed to develop the competencies required for identifying, responding to, and mitigating hazardous materials incidents safely and effectively.
• NFPA 1001: Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications – Students will complete Firefighter I and Firefighter II courses that cover the essential knowledge and skills necessary to perform firefighting operations under both supervision and independent command, including fire behavior, rescue operations, and fire prevention.
• NFPA 1002: Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications – Students will complete Fire Service Hydraulics and Pumper Operations courses, emphasizing apparatus operation, water supply, pump theory, hydraulic calculations, and safe driving practices.
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Students start Fall and Spring semesters only
Program Entry Requirements
Enrolled in Fire Technology AAS, Paramedic/Fire Concentration AAS, or Fire Department sponsored student. Graduation Requirements
To earn a Fire Protection Technology certificate, a student must complete all course work as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change. Varied Costs
| Costs | Semester1
| | Books (approximate) | 405 | | Equipment Maintenance Fee | 150 | | State Certification Fee | 50 |
Approximate total for the program: $4,260**
**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost. What Kind of Work Will You Do?
Students entering the Fire Protection Technology Certificate program can expect a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and physical conditioning designed to prepare them for a career in firefighting and emergency response. The program emphasizes fire behavior, suppression techniques, safety procedures, and the operation of firefighting tools and equipment. Students develop physical strength, endurance, teamwork, and communication skills through drills and live-fire simulations. Coursework also covers hazardous materials identification and decontamination, fire protection systems, and emergency medical response. Emphasis is placed on safety, professionalism, and ethical responsibility, preparing students for state certification and entry-level positions in the fire service.
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
To be successful in the Fire Technology Certificate program, students need a combination of physical, technical, and personal skills. Strong physical fitness, stamina, and coordination are essential for performing demanding tasks like carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and working in extreme conditions. Students also benefit from mechanical and problem-solving abilities, as they’ll need to understand fire behavior, operate complex tools, and make quick, sound decisions under pressure. Effective teamwork and communication skills are vital for working safely and efficiently with others during training and emergencies. Attention to detail, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility help students throughout this program. Finally, emotional resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to public service are key traits that enable students to manage stress, stay focused, and succeed in the challenging and rewarding environment working within the fire service.
What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?
A person may be drawn to a career in the fire service out of a desire to serve their community, work as part of a close-knit team, and face challenging, dynamic situations daily. The job demands physical fitness, mental resilience, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies, including fires, medical calls, and hazardous incidents. Firefighters must be prepared for shift work, high-stress situations, and occasionally dangerous conditions, but the career also offers personal fulfillment, professional growth, and the satisfaction of making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
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Program Competencies
- Demonstrate the basic skills needed to become accredited as a Firefighter I based on the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1001.
- Demonstrate the basic skills needed to become accredited as a Firefighter II and I based on the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1001.
- Identify the elements of construction and design of structures and explain how they relate to preplanning fire operations, inspecting buildings, and operating at emergency incidents.
- Examine the theories and fundamentals of how fires start, spread, and are controlled.
- Explain how to apply complex fire regulations using plan review, the fire code process, inspections, and system testing and fire investigation as well, as how it applies to fire prevention regulations.
- Develop the skills necessary to meet NFPA 1021 (Fire Officer Professional Qualities) utilizing effective communications, management of resources, leadership, personnel safety, fire prevention, and investigation.
- Examine the basic principles and history related to the national firefighter life safety initiatives, focusing on the need for cultural and behavioral change the emergency services.
- Demonstrate the principles of water and its movement, determining accurate discharge pressures and fire flows, and effective means for supporting fixed fire suppression systems using different types of fire apparatus and pumps.
Competencies revised date
FY2022 Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026) |
Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
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