Fire Science Degree

The fire science program at Southwest Virginia Community College prepares students for careers as firefighters, fire inspectors, fire investigators, first line supervisors, or managers of firefighters. The program focuses on the duties of firefighters. Program courses include: firefighting equipment operation and maintenance, principles of fire science and combustible substances, methods of controlling different types of fires, hazardous material handling and control, fire rescue procedures, public relations, and laws and regulations. Get more details below including other Virginia colleges that offer fire science degrees.

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Southwest Virginia Community College

Also known as Southwest Virginia

109 Campus Drive, Alberta, VA

Southwest Virginia Community College, located in Richlands, Virginia was founded in 1968 to serve residents of Russel, Tazewall, and Buchanan Counties, and partially serves Dickenson County. The school is one of 23 that comprise the Virginia Community College District.

SWVCC has an annual enrollment of over 4000 students, and is dedicated to providing them with the best education possible through a qualified faculty and support services. Southwest Virginia CC also regularly review programs and facilities, ensuring they are up to date and meet the needs of current and future students.

Academics

Southwest Virginia Community College offers a number of programs that allow students to choose a career training or academic transfer track that best fits their needs. Career training programs prepare students for careers in a chosen area of study. Enrolled students will be able to enter the work force as professionals upon completion of their program, having been through the necessary courses, which include study in theory, practice, application and methodology.

Practical experience is gained through controlled and supervised settings that allow for error and growth. A program takes between one and two years to complete, resulting in a certificate or degree which assists graduates in seeking employment at the entry level.

Academic transfer is achieved through the completion of the first two years of a four year education at SVCC, followed by applying  for transfer to a college or university and finishing the final two years of study and earning one's bachelor's degree.

Enrolled students applying to Virginia public institutions will have ease of transfer through agreements that guarantee admission if certain academic prerequisites are met. Transfer to out of state or private schools will require the student to requirements of the individual school to be considered for admission, and as a result should consult a counselor and research his or her desired schools prior to applying.

Programs offered include:

• Business Administration
• Liberal Arts
• Psychology
• Accounting
• Practical Nursing

Admissions and Financial Aid

Individuals interested in enrollment at Southwest Virginia Community College may do so through the school's open enrollment policy, which only requires the applicant to be 18 years of age or have a high school diploma or GED. Those who meet the minimum requirements must submit a completed application and pay all fees prior to the start of classes in order to enroll.

Prospective SWVCC students are also asked to supply previous transcripts and standardized test scores if available, the information from which may be used to substitute the required placement exam. A visit to a counselor and participation in new student orientation are also encouraged.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the financial aid office to construct a aid plan that is based on the student's need and aid program eligibility. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Municipal Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisors

Description

Supervise fire fighters who control and extinguish municipal fires, protect life and property, and conduct rescue efforts.

Municipal Firefighters

Description

Control and extinguish municipal fires, protect life and property and conduct rescue efforts.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, municipal firefighters employment is expected to grow at a rate of 5.3% from 2014 to 2024

Fire Inspectors

Description

Inspect buildings and equipment to detect fire hazards and enforce state and local regulations.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, fire inspectors employment is expected to grow at a rate of 5.5% from 2014 to 2024

Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists

Description

Enforce fire regulations, inspect forest for fire hazards and recommend forest fire prevention or control measures. May report forest fires and weather conditions.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists employment is expected to grow at a rate of 13.1% from 2014 to 2024

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).