Program Accreditation Information

Post

Accreditation

International Fire Service LogoThe fire science technology associate degree program at COTC is the only degree program in central Ohio accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). ​

The Fire Science Technology Program at COTC was the first program in the central Ohio to be recognized by U.S. Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) and follows the FESHE recommended curriculum.

Fire Science Learning Outcomes​​

​At the completion of the plan of study, students with an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science Technology will be able to:

  1. Apply strategies, tactics and incident command/incident management skills to emergency incidents
  2. Application of management and leadership principles to fire department operations, interagency cooperation and implementation of policies and procedures
  3. Development of skills and education for employment and advancement in fire and emergency services
  4. Identify, examine and apply current and emerging concepts and practices in fire and emergency services
  5. Exhibit an understanding of basic principles of safety related to firefighter life safety initiatives and focusing on the need for cultural and behavioral change in fire and emergency services
  6. Identify the knowledge/skills required for operation, testing, inspection and maintenance of automated fire protection and suppression systems as well as operation at facilities equipped with these systems

Graduate Survey Data

FST Withdraw Rate Trend Report 2020-2023

Graduates by Semester

Ohio Firefighter I and II certification pass rates 2017-2022

Student Performance program outcomes SP16–AU22

The three-year graduation rate for the autumn 2019 fire science technology entering cohort was 20%.
Recent Fire Science Technology graduates reported being employed as full or part time in their field of study at a rate of 100%.

The COTC fire science technology program awards an Associate of Applied Science through an excellent curriculum designed to provide education and skills essential for those who are seasoned professionals seeking career advancement and for those who are new to fire science and emergency medical services professions and would like to pursue a career in these fields. COTC’s associate degree was the first FESHE-recognized program in central Ohio. 

​​​