The fire service is a noble and gratifying career. Firefighters are called upon to respond to many different situations. The main goals of a firefighter are to save life, protect property, to render humanitarian and special services, and to safeguard the environment. On any given day a firefighter may be called upon to respond to structural fires, car fires, animal rescues, brush fires, childbirth, hazardous materials incidents, water rescue, and more. Firefighters are confronted with challenging situations and must act quickly and decisively to mitigate these incidents to protect the public and themselves from harm. Firefighters are held in high regard by the public they serve. Today’s firefighters are cross trained to also serve as paramedics. A firefighter/paramedic is ready to serve the public at all levels of emergency response.

Stark State College offers a two-year associate in applied science degree of emergency fire services technology. The level I and II firefighter certification course, EMT-Basic, and paramedic certification courses are included within this degree pathway, as well as courses designed to enhance the skills necessary to function as a firefighter/paramedic. The associate degree of emergency fire services will provide the initial knowledge and skills necessary for this profession.

According to various sections of the Ohio Law and Regulations for Certification and Licensure Boards, persons convicted of any felony will not be accepted into the emergency fire services and the emergency medical services programs at Stark State College. Persons convicted of a misdemeanor may not be accepted into the emergency fire services and emergency medical services programs at Stark State College. For more information, contact the dean of student services and the applicable licensure/certification board