BE A HERO.
Our community needs skilled firefighters! Get the knowledge you need to respond to emergencies and keep everyone safe.
TCL’s Fire Science Technology program equips you with the skills to begin or advance your career in the fire service industry. Learn essential aspects of fire service operations, leadership and safety.
Click here to see the curriculum
The Career
Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to address the challenges of modern fire services and to serve their communities with excellence. With further certifications and experience, you’ll be set to pursue leadership roles such as fire chief or fire marshal.
The S.C. annual mean wage for firefighters is $44,550. Meanwhile, the S.C. annual mean wage for firefighter supervisors is $72,850, according to 2023 reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Program
NEW THIS SPRING!
This all-new program kicks off this spring during the Spring 3 (10-week) semester. Classes start Feb. 17! The Fire Causes and Detection (FST 204) course will be offered on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m., and the Fire Behavior and Combustion (FST 208) course is offered on Thursday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. These classes will be offered LIVE on Zoom but will also be recorded to accommodate those who may need to attend at another time. Apply now!
THE DETAILS
This 18-credit-hour certificate program can be completed in as little as two semesters. The program covers key areas such as the role of a fire supervisor, leadership and ethics, the fundamentals of firefighting and safe incident operations. With a strong focus on safety, efficiency and the effective management of fireground operations, you’ll be ready to excel at the start — or top — of the career ladder.
Classes include:
- FST 106 – Building Construction for Fire Protection
- FST 108 – Fire Protection Systems
- FST 109 – Fire Service Hydraulics and Water Supply
- FST 204 – Principles of Emergency Services
- FST 206 – Leadership and Ethics
- FST 208 – Fire Behavior and Combustion
In addition, certificate courses will transfer into the Business Administration Associate Degree for individuals choosing to seek a degree.
Career Coach
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Quick Facts
A GREAT CAREER
The S.C. annual mean wage for firefighters is $44,550 and $72,850 for supervisors.
EXPERT INSTRUCTORS
Learn from faculty experts who have a variety real firefighting and teaching experience.
MOVE-UP
Be better prepared to assume leadership and supervisory roles within the fire service.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
ACCREDITATION
Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
PROGRAM COST
Tuition: 18 credits x $222 per credit = $3,996.*
Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many TCL students attend for free. See more about paying for TCL.
*Based on Fall 2024 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary; all subject to change.
Is this program right for you?
The program is a great fit for those who:
• Have a desire to give back to the community through public service
Program Dean
Karen Smith
Dean, Business & Industrial Technologies
843-525-8323
Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 14, Rm. 118
Instructors
