Fire Science Technology 
Associate of Applied Science Degree Certificate of Completion: Basic Firefighter
NOTE: 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 certifications in various fire-related areas through the New Mexico Firefighters Training Academy in Socorro, N.M.., and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).
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. Employment of firefighters is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, as fire departments continue to compete with other public safety providers for funding.
According to the United States Fire Administration, nearly 70 percent of fire companies are staffed by volunteer firefighters. Most job growth will occur as volunteer fire-fighting positions are converted to paid positions. In addition to job growth, openings are expected to result from the need to replace firefighters who retire, stop working for other reasons, or transfer to other occupations.
Doña Ana Community College provides training for firefighting personnel through its Fire Science Technology program, which is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. This program provides classroom instruction leading to an associate of applied science degree in fire science technology or a certificate of completion in firefighting.
It is suited to those who are new to the field, as well as seasoned firefighters: Career and volunteer firefighters and NMSU student firefighters will improve their job performance and prepare for higher level positions in the fire protection fields.
Students who wish to enter the field of fire protection will benefit from the basic foundations provided in the technical courses as well as general education courses.
Medical/Accidental Injury Insurance Notice DACC does not provide medical insurance for students. DACC students are encouraged to obtain their own medical insurance for any illness, accident or injury that might occur during the span of this course. Visit www.healthcare.gov to shop for, compare costs and coverage benefits, and enroll in insurance coverage.
NOTE: An articulation agreement exists with the New Mexico Firefighters Training Academy that makes it possible to receive college credit for experience and IFSAC certification.
All courses in this program may be applied toward a Bachelor of Applied Studies or Bachelor of Individualized Studies degree at NMSU. Students must receive a C or better in each course in order for it to apply toward graduation.