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Area of Study: Public Safety

  • Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Training

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    CORRECTIONAL OFFICER BASIC RECRUIT TRAINING

    Prepare for a career safeguarding facilities, maintaining order, and serving the justice system as a correctional officer.

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    STUDENTS IN THIS PROGRAM WILL…

    • Learn duties essential to the care, custody, and control of individuals in prisons, jails, and other correctional facilities.
    • Receive training in firearms, self-defense, and first aid.
    • Participate in simulated activities that reinforce classroom instruction and build practical skills.
    • Develop professionalism, discipline, and situational awareness required for correctional environments.
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    AVAILABLE PROGRAM

    Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Training

    Career and Technical Education Programs

    Credits or Hours: 444

    The Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Training program is a minimum standards class regulated by Florida Statutes. It is a highly structured and disciplined program with special rules, policies, and procedures.

    Program Overview

    • Total training hours: 444
    • Program length: approximately four months
    • Schedule: Daytime, Monday through Friday
    • Offered once or twice per year, based on student enrollment and regional agency demand
    • Student-recruits wear academy uniforms and participate in a structured classroom and training environment

    Graduates of this program are eligible to take the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) State Certification Examination and may then seek employment with local or state correctional agencies.

    Important Financial Aid Note: 
    This program is not eligible for financial aid.

    Law Enforcement Officer Crossover from Correctional Officer Training

    Currently certified correctional officers may be eligible to transition into law enforcement through the Law Enforcement Officer Crossover from Correctional Officer Training program.

    This pathway allows certified correctional officers to complete required law enforcement coursework without attending a separate Law Enforcement-to-Corrections academy.

    Crossover Program Highlights:

    • Total training hours: 222
    • Offered based on demand
    • Designed for currently certified correctional officers

    Accreditation and Certification

    The Indian River State College Criminal Justice Institute is certified by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to conduct authorized Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission courses.

    Academic Catalog

    WE’RE HERE TO HELP

    If you are considering the Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Training program, we encourage you to reach out for additional information before applying. Our team is available to answer questions and guide you through the next steps.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour

  • Criminal Justice

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    CRIMINAL JUSTICE

    Protect and serve the public with one of our degree programs in criminal justice at Indian River State College—home to some of the most advanced training experiences in the country.

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    AT THE RIVER, YOU…

    • Can get hands-on learning experience at the Institute for Cold Case Investigation, where you’ll work with local law enforcement on open, unsolved criminal investigations.
    • Will take courses at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, which is one of the most comprehensive and technologically advanced public safety training facilities in the country.
    • Will learn about criminal and constitutional law, the court system and the function of police in a democracy.

    AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

    Associate in Arts

    Associate’s Degrees

    An associate degree lets you build a strong foundation in corrections and the law. Learn more about the wide range of career paths available in the criminal justice fields, from law enforcement to crime scene investigation to working within the court system.

    When you complete your associate degree at The River, you are guaranteed the right to transfer as a junior to a bachelor’s degree program at a Florida public university—or continue in a bachelor’s degree program here, like the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

    Degree Requirements and Courses

    Associate in Science Degree in Criminal Justice Technology

    Associate’s Degrees

    You’ll take courses in criminal justice, corrections and the law, along with elective choices in areas like evidence, terrorism and crime scene investigations.

    You can also save money in this program by taking advantage of our Open Educational Resources for criminal justice courses, which provide customized materials and eliminate the need and cost for textbooks.

    Degree Requirements and Courses

    Associate in Science Degree in Crime Scene Technology

    Associate’s Degrees

    The Indian River State College, Public Service Education Division’s Associate in Science in Crime Scene Investigations Technician is designed to prepare students for employment in field related to crime scene investigation.

    Those who complete the program will be able to locate, preserve, develop, collect, analyze and present physical evidence relating to a crime.

    Students will learn the skills necessary to accurately map out, collect and log evidence, develop and preserve fingerprints, photograph crime scene and evidentiary materials, write reports, and present courtroom testimony all while maintain their personal safety on a crime scene and in a crime laboratory.

    Degree Requirements and Courses

    Criminal Justice (B.S.)

    Bachelor’s Degrees

    Start or advance your career in law enforcement and corrections with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

    This program will prepare you for a leadership role in law enforcement at the local, state or federal levels, including probation, corrections, juvenile justice and private security services. This program also provides a strong foundation for graduate school or law school.

    You’ll take classes with hands-on experiences and dive deep into a wide range of subjects that are relevant throughout the criminal justice field.

    Degree Requirements and Courses

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    WE’RE HERE TO HELP

    Interested in learning more about how The River’s criminal justice programs can help you reach your career goals? Reach out to get more information or speak to an admissions counselor.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour

  • Emergency Medical Services

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    EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

    Prepare for a rewarding career as an emergency medical technician or paramedic with Indian River State College’s emergency medical services training programs.

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    AT THE RIVER, YOU…

    • Will be eligible to take your certification exam — either the National Registry of Emergency Paramedics or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians — in Florida after you graduate.
    • Can join the Health Occupations Students of America, where you can develop the personal and professional skills needed in healthcare.
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    AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

    Associate in Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services

    Associate Degrees

    Note that illicit drug use, background check findings, convictions and immunization status may prevent future employment. In addition, externship sites and employers may have regulations about drug use, criminal backgrounds and immunization status.

    Take the courses you need to become a skilled EMT and paramedic with an associate degree in emergency medical services.

    This program combines the general education foundation of an Associate in Science degree with the 53 credits required by the National EMS Education Standards in State of Florida statutes and administrative code for emergency medical technicians and paramedics.

    The Indian River State College EMS Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professional (CoAEMSP).

    Degree Requirements and Courses

    Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

    Technical Certificate

    EMT open enrollment for Summer 2026 is from January 10 to March 10, 2026

    Download Schedule (PDF)

    The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program prepares students for entry-level roles in emergency medical services, public safety communications, and ambulance operations.

    Admissions Requirements

    Admissions requirements for the EMT program are outlined in the EMT Application Book and include:

    • Must be 18 years of age or older
    • Must be high school graduate or equivalent (GED)
    • Must complete fingerprinting, a Level 2 background check, and a self-assessment
    • Submit FBI/FDLE criminal background inquiry and drug screen conducted through American Data Bank’s Complio.
    • Complete the Physical Examination and Immunization Form (IRSC 515A)
    • Must have been released or discharged from the military honorably (If Applicable)
    • Must never have been convicted of any felony, misdemeanor involving perjury, a false statement, or domestic violence. An applicant shall also be disqualified if they have committed a misdemeanor that involves “moral turpitude”. Legally, moral turpitude has been defined as “conduct contrary to justice, honesty, modesty, or good morals”.
    • Must pass a thorough medical and hearing examination
    • Must have the ability to participate in vigorous physical activities without restrictions
    • Must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License (An applicant may be disqualified based on traffic violations. This would be due to the number and type of violations reported on their driver’s license history report.)
    • Must be a U.S. citizen
    • Must be drug-free
    • Must never have been in a formal or informal criminal gang or associated with any gang members as defined by FSS 874.03.

    Admissions Information

    First Step:

    To apply for a future term, please visit the IRSC apply link at: https://irsc.edu/admissions/apply/ 

    Second Step:

    You must attend a mandatory orientation on April 1, 2026 at 9:00 am.  It will be held at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, Frank and LeVan Fee High Liability Building Auditorium, 4600 Kirby Loop Rd., Fort Pierce 34981.  If you missed this event, you will need to wait until the next offering this spring for the summer program.

    Program Contact

    Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex 
    Phone: 772-462-7150

    Requirements and Courses

    Paramedic

    Technical Certificate

    The Paramedic program prepares students to provide advanced life support care to patients experiencing serious illness or injury.

    As a paramedic, you will:

    • Assess complex medical emergencies
    • Prioritize patient treatment
    • Administer advanced medical interventions
    • Support patient stabilization and transport

    Trainings include:

    • Classroom instruction
    • Clinical experiences
    • Supervised field experiences

    Accreditation

    The Paramedic program at Indian River State College is accredited by CAAHEP upon the recommendation of CoAEMSP.

    Accrediting Agencies:

    Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs 
    9355 – 113th Street North, #7709 
    Seminole, FL 33775 
    Phone: 727-210-2350 
    Website: www.caahep.org

    Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions
    8301 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 111-312 
    Rowlett, TX 75088 
    Phone: 214-703-8445 
    Fax: 214-703-8992 
    Website: www.coaemsp.org

    Important Disclosure

    Illicit drug use, background check findings, convictions, and immunization status may impact eligibility for employment and clinical placement.

    Program Contact

    Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex 
    Phone: 772-462-7150

    Requirements and Courses

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    WE’RE HERE TO HELP

    Reach out to learn more about the EMT or paramedic program. We’re happy to answer any questions and help you through the admission process.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour

  • Fire Science

    AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

    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.

    Requirements and Courses

    Basic Recruit Fire Academy

    Career and Technical Education Programs

    Download Events Schedule (PDF)

    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)

    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
    View Demonstration Video

    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.

    FPAT Application

    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.

    Program Contact

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

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    FIRE SCIENCE

    Get hands-on training to help people in need, save lives and protect property through our fire academy and fire science degree programs.

    Request Info

    AT THE RIVER, YOU WILL…

    • Get hands-on experiences at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, one of the most comprehensive and technologically advanced public safety training facilities in the country.
    • Complete certified training courses required by the Bureau of Firefighter Standards and Training.
    • Receive training to become a certified firefighter or advance your career in emergency and fire response.
    Indian river state college welcomes world champion alumni firefighters for an exclusive media demonstration.

    CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

    At Indian River State College, our students who study Fire Science Technology can go into these careers:

    WE’RE HERE TO HELP

    Interested in learning more about how The River’s fire science programs can help you reach your career goals? Reach out to get more information or speak to an admissions counselor.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour

  • Law Enforcement

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    LAW ENFORCEMENT

    Learn what it takes to protect, serve, and uphold the law as a law enforcement officer.

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    AT THE RIVER, YOU WILL…

    • Train at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, one of the most comprehensive and technologically advanced public safety training facilities in the region
    • Prepare to become a certified law enforcement officer in the State of Florida
    • Learn the wide range of responsibilities required of law enforcement officers, including enforcing laws and regulations, writing reports, maintaining records, and testifying in court
    • Develop professional standards centered on ethics, accountability, and public service
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    AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

    Law Enforcement Officer Crossover from Correctional Officer Training

    Career and Technical Education Programs

    The Law Enforcement Officer Crossover from Correctional Officer Training program is designed for currently certified correctional officers who wish to transition into a career in law enforcement.

    This program provides the additional training required to meet state certification standards for law enforcement officers in Florida.

    Program Overview:

    • Available to certified correctional officers
    • Program length: approximately eight months
    • Offered based on demand
    • Combines classroom instruction with practical, scenario-based training
    Requirements and Courses

    Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Academy

    The Indian River State College, Criminal Justice Institute is certified by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct authorized Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission courses, to include the Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Training Program, or more commonly known as the Police Academy. Law enforcement officers are responsible for the investigation of crimes and enforcement of state statutes and local ordinances.

    Class Schedule

    The Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Training Program consists of 864 hours of training, with hours being incorporated into either of the two academy schedule options.

    Daytime Academy:

    • Approximately 24 Weeks in Length
    • Generally meets Monday-Thursday with some Fridays possible

    Admission Requirements

    Applications for Law Enforcement academies are accepted throughout the year.

    This is a selective admission program. Acceptance is based on successful completion of the selection process.

    • Be at least 19 years of age by the time of academy completion.
    • Be a citizen of the United States
    • Have graduated from High School or have obtained a state-issued GED certificate or equivalent, as determined acceptable by the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.
    • Possess a valid driver’s license. The applicant must have a valid Florida Driver License at the time of the Academy entry.
    • Be of good moral character, as defined in the Selection Center Policy Manual. 
    • Not have been convicted of ANY felony, or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statements as the terms are defined by law, regardless of whether or not adjudication has been withheld. 
    • Not have been dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States.
    • Not have falsified their application or personal history forms.
    • Not have used marijuana for one year prior to application. 
    • Not have ever used, transported, grown, manufactured or sold any illegal substance other than the marijuana exception as previously noted. 
    • Not have had a suspended driver license for three years prior to application (unless the suspension/revocation was due to an administrative error or financial error.
    • Other eligibility requirements are defined in greater depth in the Selection Center Policy Manual.
    • Successfully pass the Basic Abilities Test (BAT) and Physical Abilities Test (PAT)
    Requirements and Courses

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    CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

    Graduates of Law Enforcement programs at Indian River State College may pursue careers in:

    WE’RE HERE TO HELP

    Interested in learning more about Law Enforcement training at Indian River State College? Our team is ready to answer questions and guide you through the admissions process.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour

  • Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Applications

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    SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS AND APPLICATIONS

    Commercial drone pilots are in high demand. Whether monitoring construction sites, mapping development or inspecting public utilities, there’s a need for skilled and certified operators.

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    THIS PROGRAM…

    • Is one of the most affordable and best unmanned aircraft (drone) certification programs in Florida.
    • Focuses on concepts, techniques, and software tools for aerial photo and video collection.
    • Prepares you for the FAA107 Commercial Remote Pilot Exam.
    Unmanned aircraft feature

    AVAILABLE PROGRAM

    Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Applications

    Technical Certificate

    This practical training program begins with comprehensive flight training on a simulator, followed by indoor obstacle flight labs. Finally, you’ll move outdoors to complete flight missions on the most popular drone vehicles.

    Degree Requirements and Courses

    Fly High at The River

    Career Services

    We’re available to help you explore professional opportunities in your chosen field—from the job search to interview preparation.

    See Career Resources

    QUESTIONS ABOUT REMOTE PILOTING?

    Learn more about how The River can prepare you for a successful career. Reach out for information or speak to an admissions counselor.

    Request Info

    NEXT STEPS

    APPLY TO THE RIVER

    Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

    Start Your Application

    PAYING FOR COLLEGE

    We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

    Financial Aid
    Tuition & Fees

    VISIT CAMPUS

    Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

    Schedule a Tour