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Credit for Prior Learning

PVCC has a credit for prior learning program. In Fire Science we award credit for a student's previous fire service training, education and experience. This credit is awarded based on professional standards, specifically the awarding of credit for certification and experience meeting or exceeding National Fire Protection Association standards. The Fire Science Advisors can discuss this program with you to determine how you can be awarded college credit for your fire service experience. Please email or call (602) 787-6782 for more information.
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To Get Started

1)   Do a admissions form on-line (click here) or on campus.
     
2)   Have previous college transcripts sent direct to PVCC from that college, if applicable.
     
3)   Do a college placement test at PVCC. Contact PVCC testing at (602) 787-7050 for information on type of testing needed.
     
4)   Look at or talk to an advisor about the Fire Science Program (see degress offered, top right of page). Call (602) 787-6782 for more information.
     
5)   Register for classes by calling (602) 787-7000, online, or in person.

Fire Science Questions & Answers

I want to be a Firefighter what do I need to do to get hired?

See our ‘Guide to Get Hired’ for a detailed list to this question.

What is the testing process to be a Firefighter?

Most Fire Department’s have the same testing process.  First when openings are available the Department releases applications and you must fill one out to begin the testing process.  The second step is a written examination.  This step is where the Fire Departments differ. For example, Phoenix gives you a study guide about their department while Gilbert has a behavioral test where there is not studying required.  The third step in the testing process is a physical.  All the Phoenix Metro area Fire Department’s participate in the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).  The CPAT is an 8 event physical that is similar to Firefighting operations.  See the Fitness/CPAT page for more information.  The last step in the testing process is the Oral interview.  This is the toughest part of the testing process.  You will be asked questions, such as ‘why you want to be a Firefighter’ to ‘what have done to prepare for the job of a Firefighter.’  The best way to prepare for the Oral board interview is take FSC 101 (introduction to Fire Service Selection) or join a Firefighter mentorship organization. See the ‘Guide to Get Hired’ step 6 for more information.

Now that I have my EMT can I get a job with this certification?

Of course, See our job page for more information.

I'm wishing to transfer to the PVCC Fire Science program how do I?

You will need to transfer all your transcripts to PVCC.  Next you will need to contact the advising office at (602) 787-7060 or the Fire Science Department at (602) 787-6782 to make an appointment to review your transcripts.

I hear that getting hired by a Fire Department is hard to do?

That is correct, but right now for the next five years in the Phoenix area is the best time to test.  Phoenix is expected to hire over 300 in the next 3 years compared to the Los Angeles County Fire Department who will be hiring 100 candidates and had over 7,000 test for the first time in seven years.

My Fire Department or company wishes to receive training from PVCC how do we so?

PVCC can accommodate your needs.  Contact the Fire Science Department at (602) 787-6782 or email to make arrangements.

I want to pursue a bachelors degree, how do I plan my degree to accommodate this?

The best way to do this is contact the school you’re wising to transfer to and ask them these questions:

  • How many credits can I transfer to your institution?
  • If I pursue an A.A.S. degree from PVCC will your school accept all the credits?
  • What are the requirements to graduate from your institution?

Also talk to an advisor from P.V.C.C. to help with this process.  Contact the advising office at (602) 787-7060 or view their website

How much are classes?

For updated information please see the cashiers office by clicking here.

 

EMT Questions & Answers

Contact Ariona DHS for any further questions you have.

(800) 200-8523 & Website.

What is an EMT-B?

An Emergency Medical Technician EMT-B is a trained individual who provides basic life support at the scene of a medical emergency to prevent further injury after the initial incident. The EMT-B maintains necessary body functions of the victim prior to the arrival of advanced life support units and during transport to the nearest hospital.

How do I gain certification in Arizona as an EMT, EMT-I, or EMT-P?

To become certified as an EMT at any level in Arizona you must successfully complete a Department approved training course (EMT 104), submit required certification application and necessary forms, and successfully pass the National Registry written examination within three attempts with a score of at least 70% within one year of the official course ending date.In addition, Intermediate and Paramedic applicants must pass the National Registry practical examination.An out-of-state applicant who already holds a current and valid National Registry card at the Basic or Paramedic level may obtain a temporary 6-month certification and become eligible for permanent Arizona certification by completing the statewide standardized training required under A.R.S. 36-2204 (1) or pass the standardized certification test required under A.R.S. 36-2204 (2).

What are the requirements to pass EMT104?

Students are required to pass the course with an 80%, pass all skills evaluations, complete the final with an 80% or better, and complete two hospital rotations.You are given three chances to pass the final.

If I have a criminal history can I take EMT 104?

The answer is Yes and No. You can take EMT-104 but if you wish to be a registered EMT you must contact Arizona DHS to find out if they will accept your application. Thier phone number is (800) 200-8523 and thier website is http://www.azdhs.gov/bems/

What are the physical exam and criminal disclosure requirements for EMT104?

Students are required to complete Physical Verification, Criminal Disclosure, and a drug test forms by the first day of class.These forms will be submitted to the State Office of EMS.Both forms are available are in the EMT 104 Checklist.

How do I become a certified EMT Basic in Arizona?

Upon successful completion of the EMT 104 course, you must take the National Registry examination for EMT Basic.There is a $20 fee for this exam.The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions.You must score at least 70% to pass.If, upon successful completion of the National Registry exam, you meet the physical and criminal history standards established by the AZ Dept. of Health Services Office of EMS, then you will be issued an Arizona EMT Basic Certification.

How do I renew my Arizona EMT Basic certification?

You must take an approved EMT Basic Refresher Course every two years prior to your expiration date.Your CPR must also be current.

How do I renew my National Registry EMT status?

Currently, Arizona does not require that you maintain your National Registry status for recertification purposes.You must maintain your AZ EMT-B certification. Consult the National Registry of EMTs for information on how to renew you National Registry status.

My certification has expired.How do I get recertified?

If your certification is more than two years expired, then you must repeat the initial EMT-B program.If your certification is less than two years expired, you must take an approved refresher course and complete the National Registry exam.Contact the AZ Dept. of Health Services Office of EMS at (602) 364-3150 for further information.

Why do you require a drug test?

Paradise Valley Community College doesn’t require a drug test to pass or enter EMT 104 but the hospitals do.In order to pass the class you must do one ten hour hospital clinical. If you have a letter from your employer stating that you passed a drug test that will be fulfill this requirement.

 

 
Paradise Valley Community College- 18401 N. 32nd Street - Phoenix, AZ 85032 - 602-787-6500