Fire Training Academy

Train to Become a Firefighter

The Tri-C^® Fire Training Academy, established in 1971, is one of the largest fire training programs in Northeastern Ohio. The Fire Training Academy is chartered by the State of Ohio, Department of Public Safety, Division of EMS, Charter Number 003.

The academy includes the Firefighter I and II courses which prepare you for entry level firefighter positions. We offer several training options for those interested in the fire and EMS professions including a seven-week daytime academy, 10-week daytime academy and a 17-week evening/weekend academy.

Program Features

• Classroom training and hands-on skill development
• Day or evening fire training academies to fit your schedule
• Earn 13 college credits toward an Associate of Applied Science degree while in the Fire Training Academy
• Training facilities include firehouse, fire apparatus, a two-story Class A burn building, training tower, dual burn trailers and confined-space rescue prop
• Financial aid and scholarship opportunities available for qualified students
• EMS and paramedic training available on campus
• Degree and advanced-training opportunities

Program Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• 18 years or older
• Mandatory attendance for duration of the academy
• Valid Ohio driver’s license with full driving privileges
• In good health as documented by physical exam signed by licensed physician and copy of medical insurance coverage
• Successfully pass background check
• Successfully pass Physical Agility Test
• Completion of NIMS 100 and 700 (Visit FEMA website to take courses)
• Current CPR/BLS Card

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Tuition and Fees

• Cuyahoga County residents: $2,689.02*
• Out-of-county residents: $3,073.04*

Tuition includes: cost of 13 academic credit hours (based on residency) and academy non-credit fee.

Equipment rental, uniform and lab fees:

• Bunker Gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): $500
• Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) only : $350
• One academy polo required for classroom, two t-shirts, one sweatshirt, P.T. shorts: $60
• Required books:
• Fire Fighter Skills and Hazardous Materials Response which includes Navigate 2 Preferred Access, Fourth Edition (ISBN: 9781284151299): approximately $130 if purchased from Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• BLS for Health Care Providers: $15
• Lab Fees: $105

Career Outlook for Firefighters

• Jobs for firefighters are expected to grow 7% through 2026
• Professional opportunities include firefighter, fire inspector, fire investigator, forest fire inspector or fire prevention specialist, hazardous material technician, fire captain or fire chief.