The Career
Firefighter is a term that may represent a variety of occupations such as entry-level firefighters, municipal firefighters, forest firefighters, fire engineers and fire inspectors or investigators. These professionals control and extinguish fires, as well as protect people against injury, loss of life and destruction of property. Firefighters are frequently the first emergency personnel at the scene of a traffic accident or medical emergency and may be called upon to treat injuries or perform other vital functions.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Be courageous
- Have mechanical aptitude
- Demonstrate endurance and strength
- Have a sense of public service
- Exercise good judgment and initiative
Employment and Salary Information
The firefighter profession is experiencing slower-than-average job growth, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By 2020, the number of positions is expected to increase by nine percent.
In May 2013, median annual earnings of firefighters in Missouri were $45,600. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,110 and $60,520. The lowest 10 percent made $21,960, and the highest 10 percent earned $80,430.
| Firefighters |
$45,600 |
| Fire Inspectors and Investigators |
$48,080 |
| Forest and Conservation Technicians |
$39,770 |
Missouri Division of Fire Safety
It is the responsibility of students to apply to the Missouri Division of Fire Safety (MDFS) for appropriate certifications. Students are also responsible for meeting general requirements as detailed on the MDFS Web page at: www.dfs.dps.mo.gov
The Program
ECC offers two programs of study in fire technology: an associate of applied science degree and a certificate of achievement. The certificate track provides students with the courses to meet entry-level skills necessary for employment as firefighters. Those seeking promotion or career opportunities tend to utilize the associate of applied science degree option. The college recognizes and articulates coursework acquired through approved training agencies and articulates specific certificates offered in training through the University of Missouri - Columbia.
The rapid growth of Franklin County and adjoining counties has resulted in increasing demands to provide necessary community service courses. The ECC Fire Technology program meets the needs of both volunteer and professional firefighters. The courses are designed to develop the fire protection specialist’s qualifications in supervision and fire control techniques. Among other topics, the courses address: basic fire protection, alarm systems, general building construction, hazardous materials, inspection, fire prevention, fire investigation, fire fighting tactics/strategies, apparatus driver/operator and rescue techniques.
Admissions Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Transfer Options
The AAS degree is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. However, many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, may qualify as transfer credit at four-year schools. These decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution, not ECC. Students seeking to transfer are advised to contact the institution of their choice before beginning a program or reviewing other degrees and coursework offered through East Central College.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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