Harper College will be closed on Wednesday, February 12 in observance of Lincoln's Day.
Earn your bachelor's in public service management from SIU -- right here at Harper College Find out how
Harper College's Fire Science Technology program is recognized as one of the top fire service-oriented programs in Illinois. Led by Palatine and Chicago suburbs-area firefighters, our program is designed to meet today’s industry standards. The program focuses on the foundational firefighter curriculum set by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) as well as operational firefighter skills using both classroom and hands-on teaching methods.
This program prepares students for a career in the fire service industry and guides them through the fire department application process. Graduates of our program will be prepared for positions in fire prevention, insurance investigation, fire investigation, hazardous materials spills, and public education.
Current fire service professionals may use Harper credentials for career advancement to the rank of lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, or deputy chief. We also offer Firefighter Professional Development Courses approved by the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal, which count toward our Fire Science and Technology degree program requirements. The curriculum is suitable for experienced firefighters as well as individuals wishing to explore the fire service as a new career.
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree is designed to prepare you for immediate entry into this career field. Coursework in the AAS may also prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or university. To learn more, visit our Transfer Information page or see your advisor.
Learn more about a career in fire science on our Program Highlights page.
After completing the A.A.S. degree in Fire Science, you can continue your studies and earn a bachelor's degree in Public Safety Management from SIU -- right on Harper's campus. Learn more at the University Center.
Learn more about career outcomes for Harper's Fire Science Technology degree programs. Each career profile offers a complete picture of the local job market, including salaries, open positions, top local employers, and more. To learn more, visit our Fire Science Technology Careers page.
For more information about starting your career at Harper, please contact Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form.
Get the latest news and updates from the Harper Fire Science Technology department.
"This career will not be handed to you on a silver platter. I had to work hard to achieve my dreams and I love being able to help my students achieve theirs." – Jeanine Liska, Fire Science Technology Alumni, Faculty and Firefighter/Paramedic at Schaumburg Fire Department Read More