Associate in Science Degree in Fire Science Technology

Associate’s Degree

Credits or Hours: 60

Earn your associate degree in fire science technology through our flexible program. This program is designed to work with your busy schedule while teaching you the skills and knowledge you need to advance your career.

You will learn about the science behind fire hazards and fire control, including the most effective operating procedures for fires and other emergencies.

With this degree, you’ll be prepared to work as a leader in firefighting or pursue related careers like investigator, fire protection and detection specialist, fire engineer or safety inspector.

Basic Recruit Fire Academy

Career and Technical Education Programs

Location: Treasure Coast Public Safety Complex

The Indian River State College Basic Recruit Fire Academy is certified by the Bureau of Firefighter Standards and Training and serves agencies throughout the Treasure Coast region.

The Fire Academy manages both:

• The Basic Recruit Fire Academy, and
• Fire Service Pre-Employment Testing

From the Firefighter Physical Agility Test (FPAT) to academy application and required hiring assessments, IRSC provides the training, testing, and resources needed to launch a firefighting career.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be a high school graduate or equivalent (GED)
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Possess a valid Florida driver’s license
• Applicants may be disqualified based on driving history
• Be of good moral character
• Have no felony convictions, misdemeanors involving perjury, false statements, domestic violence, or crimes involving moral turpitude
• Have never been affiliated with a criminal gang (as defined by FSS 874.03)
• Have been honorably discharged from the military (if applicable)
• Be EMT certified (EMT training is offered at IRSC)
• Pass:
  • Drug screening
  • Fingerprinting
  • Level 2 background check
  • Medical and hearing examinations
  • Physical ability requirements without restrictions

Scholarships may be available. Applicants are encouraged to consult Financial Aid.

Firefighter Physical Agility Test (FPAT)

We have reached our limit of 50 applicants for the FPAT for Fall 2026.

The next FPAT will be for Spring 2027 and will open August 21, 2026.

The FPAT is a required step for Fire Academy admission.

Upcoming FPAT Dates – Fall 2026 Term:

• April 22 – Practice Day – Morning and Afternoon Sessions Available
• April 28 – Official Testing Day – Morning and Afternoon Sessions Available

Applicants should continue to check back for the FPAT application opening date. Applications are first-come, first-served.

Step 1: FPAT Application Process

• Fall classes begin August 10, 2026
• Complete and submit FPAT application (online) – Opens March 23, 2026 for 50 candidates
• Pay FPAT fee (GoSignMeUp)
• Receive letter from Executive Dean
• Receive and complete medical waiver form
• Top 30 student cadets selected

Step 2: If Selected

NOTE: Students must also apply to the College after academy admittance.

• Apply to Indian River State College
• Complete formal Fire Academy application (online)
• Fingerprinting
• Tobacco affidavit
• Drug screening
• Face-to-face screening
• Orientation
• SCBA fitting

Academy Schedule

Day Program

• August 10, 2026 – November 12, 2026
• 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday

Cohort enrolls 30 student cadets.

Fire Service Pre-Employment Testing

The National Firefighter Selection Inventory is a computerized test that contains both cognitive and behavioral orientation components. Please check with the agency you are applying for to see if this is a required part of the application process.

Test length
2 ½ hours / 155 questions.

Cost
$80.00 per attempt

Your paid receipt and your driver’s license are required for entrance into the exam. No one will be admitted if either of these documents are missing.

Study guides may be purchased from http://www.publicsafetyrecruitment.com/

For additional questions about the test or test day procedures please contact the Selection Center at 772-462-7961.

Additional Fire Academy Links & Documents

• Fire Academy Regulations Manual (provided first day of class)
• FPAT Brochure
• Medical Waiver – FPAT
• Comprehensive Medical Form
• Drug Screening Form
• Tobacco Affidavit
• Fire Academy Application

Program Contact

Phone: 772-462-7150
Fax: 772-462-7955

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