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FIRE ACADEMY PROGRAM

Thank you for your interest in the Imperial Valley College Basic Fire Academy Program.  We hope this program will help you prepare for a career in Fire Service.  Please read the information below as it will guide you in applying to the Academy.

Below are the courses required for the program: 

FIRE 130	Basic Fire Academy I	5.5 units
FIRE 131	Basic Fire Academy II	6.0 units
FIRE 105	Emergency Medical Technician I	7.5 units
FIRE 120	Hazardous Material First Resp.	3.0 units
PE 100	Lifetime Exercise Science	2.0 units
PE 104	Weight Training	1.0 unit
FIRE 121	ICS 200 Incident Command System	1.0 unit
FIRE 122	Confined Space Awareness	0.5 unit
	Total Units	26.5

Completion of the above courses with a grade of C or better allows the student to receive a certificate of completion from IVC as a Firefighter I for the State of California.  Courses are taken in sequence, however, students may complete the PE and FIRE 105 courses out of sequence.  PE 102, Physical Fitness (1 unit) may substitute PE 104.

Courses are broken down into two (2) semesters:

Classes will be offered twice a week in the evenings.  A more detailed schedule will be available during summer. 

 Students who have completed the FIRE 105 (EMT I) course should attach a copy of the official certification with the application along with an IVC transcript (downloaded through WebSTAR at www.imperial.edu).  Students completing the course outside IVC must attach an official transcript and copy of the official certification.

Minimum Requirements:

Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the program:

• Completion of the application packet

• Meet physical standards

• Be 18 years of age or older

• High School Graduate (or completion of GED)

• Pass Entrance Exam

• Take IVC Reading Placement Exam

 Entrance Exam:

 All students must pass an entrance exam with 70% or higher prior to being accepted.  The exam consists of 100 questions.  Study guides are provided once the application has been received.  Students are notified when to take the exam, which is scheduled through the Nursing Division Office. 

 Reading Placement Exam:

 Students can schedule to take the Reading Placement Test (DRP) through the IVC Assessment Office.  For times and an appointment, please call (760) 355-6447.  Students who have taken the test within the past year can submit a copy of results with the application.  If a passing score of 64 is not achieved on the test, students may opt to take the required course (ENG 89) and pass it with a grade of C or higher, or retake the test.

 BLS Healthcare Provider Card (CPR):

 Students will complete a BLS Healthcare Provider class during the FIRE 105 course.  Students who already have a BLS card should submit a copy with the application.  Cards must be from the American Heart Association.

 Costs:

 Students pay a per unit cost at IVC of $26.  Other costs for the program will include textbooks, a materials fee, and any related uniform costs.  A more detailed breakdown of costs will be available in the summer.  Students are encouraged to check with the IVC Financial Aid Office for financial aid eligibility. 
They can be reached at (760) 355-6266. 

Physical Training:

Physical training is an important part of the Academy.  Students must be in good physical condition before entering the program.  Students will be required to complete a personal history form that must be signed by a physician or health examiner stating the student is free of any physical disabilities that would restrict participation in the program. 

Conduct:

 It will be expected of students to adhere to strict rules of conduct.  Appearance and grooming standards will be enforced.  More operations and expectations in this area will be discussed at the beginning of the program.

Application Process

 

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Contact Information:

For more information or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the IVC Nursing/EMS Office at (760) 355-6348  or by email laura.hartsock@imperial.edu