The BCC Fire Science program, which is shared with Greenfield Community College, focuses
on fire prevention and fire protection principles and techniques. Students also take
general education courses, including human behavior and written and oral communication.
All FIS-designated coursework is aligned with FESHE Standards; the program covers
material on the most recent developments in the field and provides excellent preparation
for those who work in occupations such as fire protection or insurance underwriting.
Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of fire development, cause and prevention;
Apply theoretical knowledge of hydraulic principles to solving water-supply problems
for fire protection;
Identify hazardous materials, hazardous properties and successful emergency-scene
operations;
Recognize the importance of building-construction concepts and materials in fire safety,
the effects of heat and fire on buildings, and the impact of fire to personal safety
of building occupants;
Explain the benefits of fire protection systems in various types of structures;
Discuss and describe the scope, purpose, and organizational structure of fire and
emergency services;
Define how the concepts of risk management affect strategic and tactical decision-making;
Describe the history and philosophy of fire prevention; and
Demonstrate and use basic interpersonal, group and public communication skills.
Admission Requirements
After you have applied to BCC, email your high school and/or college transcripts to
admissions@berkshirecc.edu.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a degree in this program, a student must complete all program and general
education credits, plus the following Additional Requirements.
Program Courses
Course Number
Course Title
Credits
CIS-102
Fundamental Computer Literacy
3
FIS-101
Principles of Emergency Services
3
FIS-106
Fire Behavior and Combustion
3
FIS-123
Building Construction for Fire Protection
3
FIS-128
Protection Systems
3
FIS-145
Fire Prevention
3
FIS-221
Principles of Fire and Emergency Services Safety and Survival
3
FIS-206
Fire Investigation
3
PSY-
Psychology
3
Or
SOC-105
Introductory Sociology
ENG-
English Composition/Writing
6
MAT-
Mathematics
3
Total Program Credit Hours:
36
General/Program Electives
Course Title
Credits
General Electives
9 credits
Program Electives
Required: 15 credits (listed in chart below)
Credits for prior learning will be awarded for Firefighter I and II, Hazardous Material
Certification and EMT Certification — up to 15 credits for prior learning can be awarded
toward degree.
