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Printed on 4/30/2025

Fire Protection Technician

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10-503-2 Associate Degree (AAS) Part Time, Full Time 64 Credits Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

Firefighters provide a special service to the community, protecting people and their property with fire prevention and protection efforts. To prepare for this career field, you’ll learn the principles of fire behavior, management, prevention and protection systems, as well as other emergency services. Your training will include knowledge of building construction and the use of water in fire protection. You’ll also learn about hazardous materials, rope, confined space and trench rescue, as well as EMT-Basic certification training. Through realistic classroom simulation and hands-on experience, you will master the knowledge and techniques to save lives and property in our FESHE aligned program. With this training, you’ll be ready for numerous Wisconsin firefighter certifications. Get started on this exciting, rewarding career.

The Fire Protection Technician program meets the professional licensure or certification educational requirements for Wisconsin and the College is not aware of whether the program meets the requirements for other states. [Learn more about professional licensure](https://www.fvtc.edu/about-us/facts/student-consumer-information/professional-licensure-and-certification-disclosure) for this program.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Technical Studies (46 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Technical Rescue
    10-503-105
    3Credit
    162
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 162
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 10503105
    • Credits: 3.00

    Exposes the student to labor-intensive requirements in team-based technical rescue. Students will be trained in rope rescue, confined space rescue, and trench rescue to the operations level.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503141 - Firefighting Principles ​

    • FIRE 10503143 - Building Construction

    • FIRE 10503149 - Hazardous Materials Technician

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503192 - Principles Emer Svcs Sfty Surv
  • Fire Protection Internship
    10-503-130
    2Credit
    432
    0

    • Instructional Hours: 432
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 10503130
    • Credits: 2.00

    Provides an opportunity for students to perform the duties of a municipal firefighter while serving the typical 24-hour shift, excluding FVTC class periods, at one of several fire departments. Fire department officers evaluate student performance. Department consent required.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503135 - Firefighter Functional Fitness

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs

    • EMS 10531169 - EMT - Basic

    • Instructor Consent
  • Firefighter Functional Fitness
    10-503-135
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10503135
    • Credits: 1.00

    Assess existing physical fitness abilities; improve upon the existing physical fitness level; and survey requirements for fire department physical agility testing as part of the hiring process.

    Student is in progress in Fire Protection Technician (10-503-2) Program of Study
  • Fire Fighting Principles
    10-503-142
    4Credit
    90
    126
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 126
    • Course Number: 10503142
    • Credits: 4.00

    Describes basic fire behavior, techniques used to control structural and related fire emergencies, and life safety practices. Students perform all practical evolutions necessary to control and extinguish fires and otherwise meet all requirements for Firefighter I certification with the State of Wisconsin.

    FIRE PROTECTION TECHNICIAN (10-503-2)

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503149 - Hazardous Materials Technician​

    WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER (10-058-1)

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • Accuplacer Reading 250+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT Reading 18+ OR Reading Level 3 Coursework

    • Accuplacer Sentence 250+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT English 18+ OR English Level 2 Coursework

    • NATURE 10058179 - Fire Experience

    • FIRE 10503103 - Hazmat Awareness & Operations OR FIRE 10503153 - HazMat Awareness & Ops

    • Student is in progress in Wildland Firefighter (10-058-1) Program of Study
  • Building Construction for Fire Protection
    10-503-143
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10503143
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course provides the components of building construction related to firefighter and life safety. The elements of construction and design of structures are shown to be key factors when inspecting buildings, preplanning fire operations, and operating at emergencies.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles​

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Hazardous Materials Technician
    10-503-149
    3Credit
    90
    72
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 72
    • Course Number: 10503149
    • Credits: 3.00

    Provides a student, through this 90-hour course, with the information and skills needed to meet the training requirements and knowledge cited in NFPA 1072, Awareness, Operations (including mission specific competency) and Technician levels. The student will learn to recognize, evaluate, mitigate and control incidents involving the release of hazardous materials. This course meets OSHA 1910.120 and EPA 165.5. and prepares a student for IFSAC and ProBoard certification.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following: 

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503141 - Firefighting Principles
  • Fire Prevention
    10-503-151
    4Credit
    72
    144
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 144
    • Course Number: 10503151
    • Credits: 4.00

    This course provides fundamental knowledge relating to the field of fire prevention. Topics include: history and philosophy of fire prevention; organization and operation of a fire prevention bureau; use and application of codes and standards; plans review; fire inspections; fire and life safety education; and fire investigation.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Strategies, Tactics, and Incident Management Systems
    10-503-156
    4Credit
    72
    144
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 144
    • Course Number: 10503156
    • Credits: 4.00

    Provides the principles of fire ground control through utilization of personnel, equipment, and extinguishing agents. Prepares students to pursue current national ICS training requirements.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503143 - Building Construction

    • FIRE 10503149 - Hazardous Materials Technician

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs

    • FIRE 10503192 - Principles Emer Svcs Sfty Surv
  • Fire Investigation
    10-503-157
    3Credit
    54
    108
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10503157
    • Credits: 3.00

    Provides learners with the fundamentals and technical knowledge needed for proper fire scene investigations.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles​

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Principles of Emergency Services
    10-503-191
    2Credit
    54
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10503191
    • Credits: 2.00

    This course introduces the student to the organization and management of a fire and emergency services department and the relationship of government agencies to the fire service. Emphasis is placed on fire and emergency service, ethics, and leadership from the perspective of the company officer.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503149 - Hazardous Materials Technician
  • Principles of Emergency Services Safety and Survival
    10-503-192
    3Credit
    54
    108
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10503192
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course introduces the basic principles and history related to the national firefighter life safety initiatives, focusing on the need for cultural and behavior change throughout the emergency services.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    ​

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Fire Protection Systems
    10-503-193
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10503193
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course provides information relating to the features of design and operation of fire alarm systems, water-based fire suppression systems, special hazard fire suppression systems, water supply for fire protection and portable fire extinguishers.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Fire Protection Hydraulics
    10-503-194
    3Credit
    90
    72
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 72
    • Course Number: 10503194
    • Credits: 3.00

    Provides instruction and opportunity to understanding and put into practice basic defensive driving techniques. This course meets the requirements of NFPA 1002, Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications, Driver/Operator – Pumper Job Performance Requirements (JPRs).

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • Fire Behavior and Combustion
    10-503-195
    3Credit
    54
    108
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10503195
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course explores the theories and fundamentals of how and why fires start, spread, and are controlled.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • FIRE 10503142 - Fire Fighting Principles

    • FIRE 10503191 - Principles of Emergency Svcs
  • Emergency Medical Technician - Basic
    10-531-169
    5Credit
    180
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 180
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10531169
    • Credits: 5.00

    Presents and evaluates the knowledge and skills needed by ambulance personnel to respond to and treat cardiac arrest and critical medical and trauma situations. Extrication and ambulance operations are also covered.

    FIRE PROTECTION TECHNICIAN (10-503-2)

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • SCIENCE 10806189 - Basic Anatomy

    • Student is in progress in Fire Protection Technician (10-503-2) Program of Study

    EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN (30-531-3)

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • Student is in progress in Emergency Medical Technician (30-531-3) Program of Study

    General Studies (18 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • English Composition 1
    10-801-136
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801136
    • Credits: 3.00

    Learners develop and apply skills in all aspects of the writing process. Through a variety of learning activities and written documents, learners employ rhetorical strategies, plan, organize and revise content, apply critical reading strategies, locate and evaluate information, integrate and document sources, and apply standardized English language conventions.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Oral/Interpersonal Comm
    10-801-196
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801196
    • Credits: 3.00

    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • College Mathematics
    10-804-107
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10804107
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course is designed to review and develop fundamental concepts of mathematics in the areas of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement and data. Algebra topics emphasize simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, solving proportions and percent applications. Geometry and trigonometry topics include; finding areas and volumes of geometric figures, applying similar and congruent triangles, applying Pythagorean Theorem, and solving right triangles using trigonometric ratios. Measurement topics emphasize the application of measurement concepts and conversion techniques within and between U.S. customary and metric system to solve problems. Data topics emphasize data organization and summarization skills, including: frequency distributions, central tendency, relative position and measures of dispersion. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, critical thinking and logical reasoning, making connections, and using calculators.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • Accuplacer Arithmetic 263+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT Math 18+ OR Arithmetic Level 2 Coursework

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Basic Anatomy
    10-806-189
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10806189
    • Credits: 3.00

    Examines basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology. Learners explore the structure and function of all body systems.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Intro to Sociology
    10-809-196
    3Credit
    54
    108
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809196
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces students to the fundamental sociological concepts, including sociological perspectives, research methods, the significance of culture in society, and the socialization process. Other topics include deviance, the impact of groups on behavior, societal inequities, global changes, the role of social institutions, and social stratification.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Intro to Psychology
    10-809-198
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809198
    • Credits: 3.00

    This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognition, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, abnormal psychology, physiological factors, social influences, and development.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
×

Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
×

Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

×

Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.