Fire fighters fighting a car on fire

Who We Are

To be a certified firefighter, students must successfully complete two programs - Fire Fighter and Emergency Medical Technician. The Fire Fighter program introduces students to the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to safely and dependably perform fire/rescue duties during emergency and non-emergency response situations. Students learn the tasks, duties, and responsibilities of a firefighter in accordance with N.F.P.A. Standard 1001, Florida Administrative Code 69A-37, and Florida State Statute 633.

From basic firefighting training to degree programs for advancement in the field, the School of Emergency Services Fire Science programs have what you need. You can get minimum standards training, specialized training, and your Associate's degree right here at Daytona State College.

Fire Fighter is a contiguous program, in which Firefighter I and Firefighter II are offered in a series. Students desiring to obtain a State of Florida Certificate of Compliance (Firefighter II) must successfully complete the series (492 contiguous hours). They may then participate in the written and practical examinations administered by the state. This certification, along with certification as an Emergency Medical Technician, is required for employment as a firefighter. 

Fire Fighter is certified through the Florida State Fire College.

Admission to Daytona State College does not guarantee entrance into a limited access program.

Fire Fighter FAQs

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  • What are the basic requirements to get into the Fire Fighter Program?
    • Must apply for admission to Daytona State College - in person or online
    • Must be 18 years of age at the time of application
    • Must not have used tobacco products (cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, etc.) for one year prior to applying for the program
    • Must not have been convicted (a finding of guilt or the acceptance of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere) of a misdemeanor relating to the certification, or to perjury or false statement, or a felony or a crime punishable by imprisonment of one year or more
    • Must have a standard high school diploma or a GED®
    • Must not have been dishonorably discharged from any of the US Armed Forces
    • Must complete Fire Fighter Program application, which includes a state-mandated background check, physical examination and other departmental forms
    • Must attend Fire Fighter Orientation, where information on ordering classroom uniforms, renting bunker gear, purchasing textbooks and classroom supplies/materials, enrolling in the program and paying tuition/lab fees will be reviewed
  • What is the cost of the Fire Fighter Program?

    Approximately $3,400.00 – includes tuition, lab fees, state fees, physical, bunker gear rental, uniforms, personal protective gear, books, and supplies.

  • Can I get financial aid for the Fire Fighter Program?

    Financial Aid is not available for Fire Fighter, due to the length of the program. Students can apply for scholarships.

  • What is the schedule for the Fire Fighter Program?

    Two 15-week full-time programs are offered each year

    • Spring (January to May) is a daytime program and meets Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
    • Fall (August to December) is a daytime program and meets Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

    One 24-week part-time program is offered each year

    • Summer/Fall (May to December) is a night-time program and meets Monday - Thursday 6 - 10 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • When are the Fire Fighter Program applications available?

     

    Applications are available in October for the Spring program, in March for the Summer/Fall program and in June for the Fall program.

  • How do I get a job as a firefighter?

     

    Students must successfully complete Fire Fighter (Program Code 121700) and Emergency Medical Technician (Program Code 096000). Students must successfully pass the Florida State Firefighter Certification Exam and the EMT Certification Exam. Students can then apply for any firefighter position at any fire service agency in the state Florida.

fire fighter with hose

Additional Information about the Fire Fighter Training Certificate

fire fighter in uniform at scene

key dates

Spring (Jan. - May)

Day Program
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Applications available in October

Summer/Fall (May - Dec.)

Night Program
Monday - Thursday: 6 - 10 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Applications available in March

Fall (Aug. - Dec.)

Day Program
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Applications available in June

Contacts