Fire Academy

Program Information

Firefighters are trained to extinguish and control fires in response to situations where property, life, or the environment is in danger. At the scene of an emergency, firefighters perform tasks assigned by their commanding officer. Depending on the situation, they may need to provide medical attention, break through debris, operate fire hoses, or enter a burning building. Firefighters are often first responders to car accidents, heart attack scenes, and other medical emergencies that do not involve fire.

The Firefighting Certificate program is a one semester program. For students that don’t hold a EMT or Paramedic License the Firefighter/EMT Program is recommended. For students that don’t hold these certifications, the Firefighter/EMT Program is a two semester program consisting of one semester of Fire Academy and one semester of EMT.

Applicants to this program must have a high school diploma or GED and meet other applicable admission criteria. If the number of qualified applicants to the program exceeds the number of openings, students will be accepted using a Selective Admission Point System. Applications received after the deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to availability. Contact the Firefighting Office at (850) 729-5378 for additional information.

How to Apply

Apply for admission to the Fire Academy by applying online. Select “VC-Firefighter Basic” or “VC-Firefighter / Emergency Medical Technician” from the dropdown box under “Intended Program of Study.”

Before program admission

•  If you don’t currently have an EMT or Paramedic certification, it is recommended you apply for the FF/EMT Program.
• Must never have been convicted of a felony (must be in compliance with S 112.011(2)(b))

After program admission

• Medical Examination
• Take the TABE test (if applicable)
• Submit sworn nonuser of tobacco/tobacco products affidavit