Fire Science is an especially important field of study in California, as the state often faces devastating wildfires. Through this program at Mendocino College, you can explore career paths such as that of a firefighter, fire investigator, or EMT, in addition to many others.
Fire Science is an especially important field of study in California, as the state often faces devastating wildfires. Through this program at Mendocino College, you can explore career paths such as those of a firefighter, fire investigator, or EMT, in addition to many others.
Fire Science
Now Recruiting for Spring 2026 - Fire Fighter I Academy
Description:
Our Firefighter 1 Academy is offered through partnerships with the Mendocino County Fire Chiefs Association, the Ukiah Valley Fire District, and CalFire. Mendocino College collaborates with the College of the Siskiyous (an Accredited Regional Training Program) to offer Capstone testing to graduates of the Mendocino College Firefighter 1 Academy.
This course will give students the skills and knowledge needed for the entry-level professional firefighter to perform their duties safely, effectively, and competently.
For more information and an enrollment packet, contact Chris Dewey at cdewey@mendocino.edu.
Program Information
Mandatory Orientation: October 2025 and November 2025, Mendocino College, Ukiah Campus
Class Dates: January - May 2026
Class Times: Monday thru Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Mendocino College, Ukiah Campus, and other off-site Fire Agencies
Prerequisites: The following pre-enrollment requirements must be completed to enroll in the class:
- A fire program Medical Clearance (less than one year old);
- An EMT, EMR, or Public Safety First Aid certification and ICS100, IS700, and IS800 certifications.
- Complete the mandatory orientation below.
Applicants must complete the application process and attend the scheduled orientation sessions to gain acceptance into the Fire Academy.
Spring 2026 Academy - Orientation Dates
- October 2025 (Mandatory Attendance Required)
- November 2025 (Mandatory Attendance Required)
Dates to be determined
Enrollment Fees, Material and Uniform Costs: Students must purchase their own uniforms and some personal protective equipment (footwear, hoods, gloves, for health reasons). Students must rent wildland and structural turnouts, bunker boots, SCBAs, and other specific safety equipment. Specifications and sources for these items will be provided upon enrollment in the Academy.
Estimated Total Costs (Course Fees, and Course Materials) $4,000
Financial Aid: Some students may be eligible to receive financial aid. Financial Assistance may be an option for students seeking assistance. Learn more about seeking financial assistance, visit the Mendocino College Financial Aid Office.
Once you’ve successfully completed the Academy and Capstone testing, you will meet the training requirements for the California State Fire Marshal Firefighter 1. You will be able to apply for your Firefighter 2 certification after successful completion of the task book and experience requirement of:
- 1 year as a volunteer or reserve firefighter, or
- 6 months as an intern/full-time paid firefighter with a California fire department.
The California State Fire Marshal Firefighter 1 and 2 curriculum is Nationally Accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board). Students who complete the Academy and Experience requirements can apply for National Certification in addition to California Certification.
