Fire Science Technology Fire Science Technology Associate in Science Build your knowledge of every aspect of fire—the science behind it, its prevention and suppression and its impact on lives and property with GCC’s fire science technology degree program. Request Information Apply Now Program Contact Dawn Josefski (413) 775-1761 josefski@gcc.mass.edu Program Overview Degree Requirements Learning Outcomes Faculty Career Outlook Start your career in fire safety or enhance your skills and knowledge. The major covers the technical and strategic aspects of fire safety, including fire protection, fire prevention, hazardous materials and department and fire scene organizational management, and provides academic enhancement to the training firefighters receive at state and national academies. You’ll study the causes, development and prevention of fires, firefighting tools and strategies, risk management, emergency services, hazardous materials, building construction and firefighting ethics and leadership. 60-63credits Associate in Science Associate in Science (AS) degrees are typically completed in two (2) years and designed for immediate workforce entry Learn more What's Next?The fire science technology program provides an excellent academic foundation if you’re beginning your career, and will prepare you to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. Graduates go on to careers in firefighting, fire prevention, fire investigation, fire safety education, fire science education, emergency management, building inspection, suppression and alarm systems maintenance, insurance or emergency medicine. If you’re already working in the field, the program will enhance your career and support your advancement into leadership positions. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of fire development, cause and prevention Apply theoretical knowledge of hydraulic principles to solving water-supply problems for fire protection Identify hazardous materials, hazardous properties, and successful emergency-scene operations Recognize the importance of building-construction concepts and materials in fire safety, the effects of heat and fire on buildings, and the impact of fire to personal safety of building occupants Explain the benefits of fire protection systems in various types of structures Discuss and describe the scope, purpose, and organizational structure of fire and emergency services Define how the concepts of risk management affect strategic and tactical decision-making Describe the history and philosophy of fire prevention Demonstrate and use basic interpersonal, group and public communication skills These are just examples of jobs that someone with an associate degree in Fire Science Technology might pursue. Our programs provide a solid foundation for many careers, but some paths may require additional education, or even a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Don’t worry! Our advisors are here to support you in planning your educational journey.