Firefighter Basic Operations

Career Certificate
Cost
$4,882*

Become a firefighter

Fight fires safely

Get to work protecting the people and property in your community. With a Firefighter Basic Operations Certificate, you get the training you need to quickly begin your firefighting career.

This streamlined path includes three semesters of focused learning to prepare you to become a first responder. By completing this certificate, you qualify to sit for the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal's Basic Operations Firefighters certification examination.

What can you do with a Certificate in Firefighter Basic Operations?

With this certificate, you are prepared for an entry level position in fire science. If you choose to continue your education, the courses you take for this certificate apply toward the Firefighter Basic Operations A.A.S.

Highlights

  • State Certifications

    Earn state certifications upon course completion.
  • Top-Notch Facilities

    Gain practical skills on campus and at the Grayslake Fire Station.
  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
  • Career Certificate

    Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.
  • Program Length: 1.5 Years

    Full-time students can complete in 1.5 years.

Career Outlook

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available
  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120 2
    FST 111 3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code FST 111
      Course Title
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    FST 130 4
    FST 192 3
    • Course Code FST 130
      Course Title
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code FST 192
      Course Title
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    FST 131 4
    FST 132 4
    • Course Code FST 131
      Course Title
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code FST 132
      Course Title
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

20

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.




Female student taking notes in class

Fire Science Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Learn about courses, faculty, related programs and more.

View the Fire Science Technology Program Overview

Frequently asked questions

  • Photo of Joshua Cardin

    Joshua Cardin

    Graduate

    “While I was in the Coast Guard, I’d take a class here or there online with other colleges. None of them hold a candle to CLC. It’s unbelievable how far the college is looking forward and how many opportunities are available for the people of Lake County.”


    Joshua studied Fire Science Technology at CLC after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. He now works as a firefighter and is studying Emergency Medical Technology to also become a paramedic.

    Read Joshua's story

    Photo of Joshua Cardin

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