Wildland Fire, Fire Technology, AAS

Program Code:

This is a draft edition of the 2026-2027 catalog. Information is subject to change.

Program Description

The Associate of Applied Science, Fire Technology, Wildland Fire focuses on preparing students for careers in fire suppression and management, specifically in wildland fire situations. This program emphasizes both the technical skills and knowledge needed for effective wildfire response and prevention. 

Students will engage in a curriculum that includes practical training and theoretical course work, covering essential topics such as fire behavior, suppression techniques, leadership, prevention and safety protocols. The degree also serves as a stepping stone for those interested in pursuing a BAS, Emergency Management, offering pathways into management and leadership roles within the field. 

For individuals who have completed the Fire and Rescue academy, credits from the academy may be applied towards this degree, enhancing the learning experience and providing a comprehensive education in fire technology. Elective courses in fire suppression systems further enrich the program, preparing graduates for various career opportunities in fire service and related fields. 

This degree does not guarantee employment or promotion but will prepare the student to increase their chances of being hired or promoted. Students may be placed in a physically demanding environment designed to introduce the student to job tasks and skills required to operate in the fire and emergency services.

Fire Science Technology Career Map

Recommended Course Schedule

Plan of Study Grid
1st semesterUnits
EMS 101 CPR and First Aid 1
FT 110 Basic Wildland Firefighting 3
U.S. and Nevada Constitutions 2 3
English 2 3
Fine Arts/Humanities/Social Science/Diversity 3 3
FS 107 Course FS 107 Not Found 3
 Semester Total16
2nd semester
FT 212 Fire and Ecology 3
EMS 108 Emergency Medical Technician Training 6
Mathematics 2 3
WF 280 Fire Service Leadership 3
 Semester Total15
3rd semester
EMHS 200 ICS/NIMS/EOC 3
FS 150 Physical Fitness and Nutrition for Fire Service 3
FT 113 Basic Air Ops, S-270 3
FT 131 Hazardous Materials 3
FT 146 Wildland Tactics and Strategy I 3
 Semester Total15
4th semester
FS 265 Public Education 3
FT 115 Course FT 115 Not Found 1
FT 218 Intermediate Fire Behavior, 290/390 3
WF 205 Course WF 205 Not Found 3
 Semester Total10
Summer
FT 109 Internship in Firefighting 7
 Semester Total7
 Total Units63
2

See the approved General Education list for the AAS Degree. 

3

See program recommendations.

Program Requirements

AAS degrees are generally non-transfer degrees designed for students to enter the workforce.

To earn an AAS degree, students must:

  1. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (see requirements for graduation.)
  2. Complete a minimum of 15 units within the college.
  3. Satisfy General Education requirements for the AAS.
  4. Have no financial or library obligation to the college.
General Education Requirements
English 13
Communications3
Required:
FS 107
Course FS 107 Not Found
Human Relations3
Required:
Fire Service Leadership
Mathematics 13
Science3
Required:
Fire and Ecology
Fine Arts/Humanities/Social Science3
Recommended:
Race and Ethnicity in Everyday Life
Additional College Requirements
U.S. and Nevada Constitutions3
Diversity(3)
Recommended:
Race and Ethnicity in Everyday Life
Degree Requirements
EMHS 200ICS/NIMS/EOC3
FT 110Basic Wildland Firefighting3
FT 113Basic Air Ops, S-2703
FT 131Hazardous Materials3
FT 146Wildland Tactics and Strategy I3
EMS 108Emergency Medical Technician Training6
FS 150Physical Fitness and Nutrition for Fire Service3
WF 205Course WF 205 Not Found3
FT 115Course FT 115 Not Found1
FT 218Intermediate Fire Behavior, 290/3903
FS 265Public Education3
EMS 101CPR and First Aid1
FT 109Internship in Firefighting7
Total Units63
1

See the approved General Education list for the AAS Degree. 

Program Outcomes

Student completing the degree will:

PSLO1: Firefighting Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in wildland firefighting techniques, including suppression strategies, safety protocols, and various tools and equipment operation.

PSLO2: Describe and Interpret principles of the fire triangle, including  the principles of fire behavior. Also the factors that influence fire spread and intensity, enabling effective tactical decision making.

PSLO3: Emergency preparedness: Develop and implement comprehensive emergency response plans for wildfire incidents, including risk assessment and resource allocation.

PSLO4: Communication Skills, Team work Leadership: Effectively articulate  with team members, agencies, and the public regarding fire management practices, safety measures, and prevention strategies. Exhibit the ability to work collaboratively in team settings and assume leadership roles during firefighting operations and emergency responses.

PSLO5: Environmental Awareness: Recognize and describe the ecological impacts of wildfires and the importance of fire management in maintaining healthy ecosystems and preventing future fire hazards.

PSLO6: Regulatory Knowledge: Displaying the ability to conduct activities within the legal and regulatory frameworks governing wild land fire management, including land use policies and environmental regulations.