Fire Science Technology

Full-time Fire and Rescue Academy

Mission Statements

TMCC Fire Technology Mission Statement

The mission of the Truckee Meadows Community College Fire Technology Program is to prepare students for entry-level positions and to enhance the career of current fire-service personnel by providing quality, certified classes.

Academy Mission Statement

The mission of the Northern Nevada Fire and Rescue Academy at Truckee Meadows Community College is to develop the cadet toward a career in the fire service through a process of rigorous academics, realistic hands-on training, attitude development, fitness improvement and strict discipline.

Format and Standards

The student must follow strict "military type" standards throughout the academy. These standards have been set and agreed to by the college and the participating fire departments. The student must agree to follow the standards prior to starting the academy and failure to maintain these standards may result in dismissal from the program.

The full-time academy starts at the beginning of each semester and runs for 16 weeks (including some holidays). Class starts each day at 7:00 a.m. and can last until 6:00 p.m.

See Also: Cadet Training Manual PDF icon

Academic StandardsProfessional DemeanorGroomingPhysical FitnessInsurance
  • Maintain an 80% or above academic average
  • Master and pass all required components
  • Treat all instructors, fire department personnel, and fellow students in accordance with academy standards
  • Do not misrepresent the academy by poor off-duty conduct
  • Maintain professional hygiene and appearance
  • Hair Length
    Men- Above the collar, neatly cut and trimmed
    Women- Maintained above the collar, can be tied or braided
  • No jewelry (except wedding rings)
  • Uniform maintained, clean, pressed, shoes/boots shined
  • Participate in all physical activities (unless excused)
  • Meet fitness standards for each stage of the academy
  • Maintain individual insurance as required by academy standards

Cost

The total cost for in-state students to attend the academy is between $4,000.00 and $5,000.00. For more information on out-of-state/good neighbor fees and charges, visit the TMCC Controller's Office.

Following is the approximate cost breakdown for 28 credits at current per credit fee:

ItemCost
Applicant Fee (TMCC)
  • $10.00
Lab Fees
  • $400.00
Uniforms
(Note: prices are specific to Uniformity of Nevada and are subject to change)
  • $150.00
Books
  • $150.00
Other Equipment
  • $75.00
Personal Protective Gear
(Note: Turnouts and SCBA (air pack) may be rented from the academy; if associated with a department that is able to provide you with suitable alternatives, these fees will be waived.)
  • Turnouts
  • SCBA
  • $550.00
  • $150.00

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Entry Requirements

  1. Successfully complete Introduction to Fire Protection (FT 101) OR Entry Level Firefighter (FT 102) with a grade of C or better. Optional, but not required, is the FS 150 Physical Fitness and Nutrition for Fire Service class (highly recommended).
    We may accept fire department experience or related courses from other colleges.
  2. Obtain a physical exam and meet academy standards
  3. Pass a physical ability test. The physical ability consists of fire related performances such as pulling hose, crawling through obstacles, lifting ladders, etc. You can prepare by:
    • Being able to run a 10-minute mile
    • Doing 20 push-ups and 50 sit-ups
    • Developing upper body strength
  4. Complete a formal oral interview

Due to the high mental and physical demand of this career, some accommodations that can be made in the classroom may not transfer to employment. Qualified, self-identified students with documented disabilities have the right to free accommodations to ensure equal access to educational opportunities at Truckee Meadows Community College. For assistance, contact TMCC's Disability Resource Center.

How to Apply

Submit an online academy application by August 1. You must also be enrolled at TMCC, which can be done online for a one-time application fee of $10.00. Letters/emails detailing testing dates and requirements will be sent to you as soon as possible after the application deadline.

  • Application deadline date for fall semester is August 1.
  • Application deadline date for spring semester is October 15.
  • Students will be notified of academy start dates within their acceptance letter.

Orientation

An academy orientation is mandatory. Students will be notified of specific dates and times within the acceptance letter.

Further Information

If you have additional questions, please contact us.