Fire Academy - Basic Firefighter Certification
Our Fire Academy can bring you closer to a brighter future by preparing you to take the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) firefighter license examination.
This program will provide training to newly hired firefighters from the local departments as well as provide ongoing training to current veteran firefighters who serve in either a professional or volunteer capacity.
Fire Academy Admission Requirements
Following admission to South Texas College, the minimum requirements for acceptance into the Fire Academy are outlined below:
- Must be 18 years old
- U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident
- Honorable discharge from the military (if applicable)
- Not been convicted of a Class A Misdemeanor or above
- Not been convicted of a Class B misdemeanor within the last 10 years
- GED or higher
- Physical fitness exam
An application for the fire academy also needs to be filled out in addition to the application to South Texas College in order to be considered for the program.
Applicant Qualification Section
Fire Academy Application Form
Fire Academy Agility Test
The physical agility test consists of rowing 2000 meters on a Concept 2 rowing machine with the resistance set to 5. The time that the applicant will need to complete the test will be determined by using a fitness calculator that the DPS website provides:
https://www.dps.texas.gov/ETR/FitnessWellness/concept2RowerCalc.htm
Taking application now! Please call 956-872-4200 for more information.
Location:
Regional Center for Public Safety and Excellence
3901 S. Cage Blvd.
Pharr, TX 78577
Tuition Exemption for Firefighters Enrolled in Fire Science Courses
This program provides an exemption from tuition and laboratory fees to eligible persons employed as firefighters by a political subdivision of this state or who are active members of an eligible organized volunteer fire department in this state. Texas Education Code, § 54.353
Visit College for All Texas for more information.
For details on tuition and fees, the cost of attendance or ways to pay for college, please see the following:
Tuition and Fees | Cost of Attendance | Paying for College
Basic Firefighter Certificate
TSI EXEMPT
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| FIRS 1301 | Firefighter Certification I | 3 |
| FIRS 1407 | Firefighter Certification II | 4 |
| FIRS 1313 | Firefighter Certification III | 3 |
| FIRS 1319 | Firefighter Certification IV | 3 |
| FIRS 1423 | Firefighter Certification V | 4 |
| FIRS 1203 | Firefighter Agility and Fitness Preparation | 2 |
| FIRS 1329 | Firefighter Certification VI | 3 |
| FIRS 1433 | Firefighter Certification VII | 4 |
| Credit Hours | 26 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 26 | |
Contact Fire Science Program
Amy Espericueta
Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence
3901 S. Cage Blvd. Pharr, TX 78577
Phone: 956-872-4200
Request Information
Taking the next step in your education is easier than ever. Completing this form will put you in touch with a South Texas College staff member who can help you navigate the process and achieve your goals.
