Fire Technology and EMT

FAQs

FAQs

It is possible that when selecting the correct courses when working toward the Associate in Science degree, a student is meeting the requirements for the intended transfer university. For UC and CSU campuses, you can use Assist.org. We always recommend you speak with your counselor before enrolling to ensure that the course you will be taking will meet your requirements for the UC you will be attending.

Yes, there are general studies. Obtaining the Associate in Science Degree requires 60 units towards your educational goal, including general ed and at least 30 units in the specific major such as Associate in Science.

A student can move on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science. With this degree, you can pursue careers in firefighting, fire supervisor, or fire inspector. Some agencies offer higher salaries with a higher degree vs. those with associates or certifications. There are some programs where you can concentrate on areas such as fire service administration or fire safety. Essentially it will prepare you for a specialized career.

It is highly recommended that you obtain your CPR for Healthcare Provider certification prior to the start of class. The certification must meet Title 22 Division 9 regulations as a Basic Life Support CPR course for healthcare providers. Acceptable certifications include those from the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross. If you are with State Parks, some CPR certifications will state on the card "Meets Title 22 Div. 9 Regulations," which would also be accepted.

If you need to obtain or renew your CPR certification, a class will be offered during the semester. Please note that a current and valid CPR certification is required for course completion and National Registry.

For any further questions, contact Director Roth at LeRoth@cabrillo.edu.

Yes, completing this program will qualify you to take the NREMT state board exam. However, you must pass both the lecture course (FT183) and the lab course (FT183L) with a grade of 80% or higher to obtain a course completion certificate. This certificate is necessary to clear you for the NREMT exam, which is a key requirement for obtaining your state licensure through a county.

No, completing the program alone does not immediately qualify you to work as an EMT. After finishing the program, you must pass the NREMT exam. Once you have passed, you are qualified to submit an application for certification through the county of your choosing. For example, if you choose Santa Cruz County, you would visit the County of Santa Cruz EMS Agency website, select "initial EMT certification," and follow their instructions, including paying the required fees. After obtaining your state license, you will be eligible to work anywhere in California.

Yes, there are additional fees associated with becoming state licensed. Initially, these costs can be quite pricey and they do vary based on needs and where you obtain specific requirements such as medical examiners certifcations. However, once an agency hires you, they typically cover most additional fees, except for your state recertification fee which varies county to county. Additionally, if you choose to obtain your Ambulance Driver’s Certification or Firefighter Endorsement, you will need to pay for Livescan background checks through the DMV, as well as a physical exam.

Yes, physical training is an integral part of this program. Physical fitness and awareness are crucial in this industry, as most agencies require a physical exam as part of the hiring process. Being an EMT and preparing for the fire academy involves more than just academic knowledge; it requires a significant physical component, which we incorporate into this course. We ensure that all training sessions are modified to accommodate all levels of fitness, and we teach students proper lifting and moving techniques to help prevent on-the-job injuries.

Yes, our program is structured in an academy format. This approach is designed to encourage teamwork, emulate industry expectations, and develop communication and leadership skills. It also prepares cadets for what to expect in fire or police academies. Beyond these skills, the academy format fosters strong team dynamics and lasting relationships among cadets. The program also emphasizes understanding and operating within a chain of command, which is critical in both emergency services and public safety professions.

Approximate Cost Of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Program

Semester Estimated Costs Subject to Change

Included in $100 Tuition Fee

Uniform Pants $30.00

Uniform Shirt $25.00

Belt $10.00

Physical Training (PT) Shirt $15.00

Lab Book $15.00

Program ID Card $5.00

Additional Required Fees

Watch with Second Hand $10.00-$50.00

Boots $25-$150.00

Current CPR Card for Healthcare Providers $75-$100

Textbooks/Software

MyLabBrady $90.00-$150.00

PocketPrep $65.00-$80.00

EMSTesting $45.00-$65.00

Skills Lab Supplies

Tennis/Running Shoes $15.00-$50.00

Shorts for PT $5.00-$25.00

Additional Optional Fees

Stethoscope & Blood Pressure Kit $25.00-$100.00

Sweats for PT $5.00-$25.00

Transportation – Total of two round trip trips.

In addition to the above, there are Cabrillo College fees. Consult your class schedules and/or college catalogue. PLEASE NOTE: Costs listed above are only approximate and may vary depending on where you purchase the items concerned.

Revised 8/14/2024