Consequently, in California especially, employment opportunties are best in newly developed areas that are undergoing rapid growth and expansion. In recent years, however, the pool of qualified applicants has been consistently greater than the number of openings available. Advancement in most fire agencies is by competitive exam. Firefighters seeking promotion are typically required to particiapte by continuing their education to keep current with the latest procedures pertaining to fire suppression, medical training, and public management. Pre-Service day classes vary each semester, and students should check the schedule of classes.
All classes are one semester long and begin when the semester does.
There is not set order in which to take the Fire Technology Courses. A Certificate of Completion shows that a student has completed the course of study prescribed for the major. There is no General Education component to a Certificate. While completing the courses required for a Certificate will give a student the training and knowledge necessary to work in the fire service, an individual holding an A.S. Degree could appear more marketable to an employer. There is no separate application process for the Fire Technology Program, and students will register for Fire Technology classes as they would for other courses offered on campus.