This two-year program of study prepares students for a career in the fire service as well as for career advancement for incumbent workers. The purpose of the degree is to prepare students for the pre-employment examination and screening processes they may undergo at local fire departments as a firefighter candidate, ready to engage in recruit training. It will also enable current firefighters to qualify for career advancement opportunities.The curriculum is based on the National Fire Academy Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model curriculum for fire science. Students will graduate with the academic credentials necessary to enter a two-year community college baccalaureate program, such as the online Homeland Security Emergency Management program or the new Fire Science Leadership Management program at Pierce College.