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Welcome to Hutchinson Community College

Fire Science

Hutchinson Community College Fire Science

Lighting the Way for Future Firefighters!

Hutchinson Community College Fire Science prepares students and professionals for careers in the fire service.

As a premier, degree-based program, HutchCC Fire Science offers academic degrees, certification courses, and professional training for both new and experienced emergency service personnel. Courses are delivered on campus and online to meet the needs of today’s students.

With a dedicated and experienced faculty and staff, HutchCC Fire Science provides an educational environment that is challenging, rewarding, and meaningful, preparing students for successful service in the fire profession.

Program Options

Fire Science - AAS

DetailsDegree Pathway

Fire Science - CERT

DetailsDegree Pathway
HutchCC fire fieldday

Academy Training

Our academy-style training delivers Firefighter I & II through an accelerated, hands-on format, combining required online coursework with an intensive two-week Fire Academy, preparing students for NFPA 1001 Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations (IFSAC) certification.

More Information

Fire Academy Dates

Complete your Firefighter I & II training through an accelerated, hands-on Fire Academy experience. 

Students will complete NFPA 1001 Firefighter I and Firefighter II training through a blended format, consisting of required online coursework followed by an intensive two-week, in-person Fire Academy.

This hands-on academy prepares students for Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations (IFSAC) certification testing. The program emphasizes the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors necessary to function as an entry-level member of a fire department.

During the Firefighter I and II Academy, students experience a fire department–style training environment. Instruction includes required online pre-work, daily quizzes on cognitive material, classroom lectures, demonstrations, and extensive hands-on skill practice.

Academy students respond on fire apparatus, perform vehicle extrication, participate in live interior and exterior fire evolutions, complete night drills, and train in teamwork, safety, and accountability.

Upon successful completion of the academy, IFSAC certification testing is offered.

Enrollment in a Firefighter I & II Academy is completed through the Public Safety Advisor.
Prospective students must contact the Public Safety Advisor in person or by phone to enroll.

Public Safety Advisor
Phone: 620-728-4404
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST

A $250 deposit is required at the time of enrollment.

For additional information, contact 620-728-4404 or email mccandlessm@hutchcc.edu.

Fire Academy Dates: Spring 2026

Firefighter I and II Academy: Online begins January 5, 2026.  Face-to-face meets February 21, 2026 - March 6, 2026. (Registration is FULL and CLOSED)

Firefighter I and II Academy: Online begins February 16, 2026.  Face-to-face meets April 4, 2026 - April 17, 2026. (Registration is FULL and CLOSED)

Firefighter I and II Academy: Online begins March 23, 2026.  Face-to-face meets May 9, 2026 - May 22, 2026. (Registration is FULL and CLOSED)

Fire Academy Dates: Summer 2026

Firefighter I and II Academy: Online begins June 1, 2026.  Face-to-face meets July 11, 2026 - July 24, 2026. (Registration is FULL and CLOSED)

 

cpat testing is done at our Fire Science East facility

Candidate Testing

Contact Details

Fire Science
mccandlessm@hutchcc.edu
620-728-4461
1-888-GO-HUTCH ext. 4461

HutchCC firescience program

Fire Officer Leadership

Hutchinson Community College Fire Science provides flexible, fire service–focused leadership education for current and future fire officers.

Hutchinson Community College Fire Science offers online leadership education for current and aspiring fire officers. All coursework is available in a fully online format, allowing students to complete their education while balancing shift work and professional responsibilities.

Fire Officer courses are designed specifically for the fire service and can be completed from the station or home with reliable internet access. The curriculum focuses on leadership, supervision, and decision-making, and is structured to provide maximum flexibility with minimal impact on days off.

For eligible career firefighters and their departments, HutchCC also offers an approved Fire Officer Leadership Apprenticeship through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Additional information is available below, or by contacting Chief Jeff Deal (Retired) at 620-728-4465 or dealj@hutchcc.edu

Apprenticeship Program Apply Here
field day at HutchCC

Field Day

 Fire Science High School Field Day – Sign-Up Now LIVE!

Are you ready to gear up and experience the excitement of fire service training firsthand? Our Fire Science High School Field Day is just around the corner, and registration is officially open! 

Event Date: April 2, 2026
Location: HutchCC Fire Science Building 3211 E 4th Hutchinson, Kansas
Time: 9 am-2 pm

Join us for a day filled with hands-on activities, live demos, team challenges, and an inside look at what it takes to become a firefighter. Whether you’re considering a future in fire service or just want to experience the action, this event is for you!

Open to Juniors and Seniors in high school 
 Limited spots available – sign up today!

 Register here:HutchCC Fire Science Spring 2026 Field Day Sign Up Link

Don’t miss out—ignite your passion for public safety at the HutchCC Fire Science Field Day!

Lunch will be served for all who attend!

For questions or more info, contact: 620-728-4460