Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become an entry-level firefighter with this 18-credit-hour certificate program. Instruction is aligned with the Basic Operations Firefighter Job Performance Requirements established by the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1010: Standard on Professional Qualifications for Firefighters.
The program includes preparation for the firefighter hiring process, including testing requirements and interview readiness, and provides structured training that integrates classroom instruction, firefighter skill development, hazardous materials operations, and live fire evolutions conducted at Harper College’s Emergency Services Training Center. The Basic Operations Firefighter Academy is the limited-enrollment component of the certificate program. The academy consists of FIS 110, FIS 111, FIS 112, and FIS 132, which must be taken together in sequence as a structured training block.
This program is delivered at Harper College’s Emergency Services Training Center. Courses are taught by experienced instructors who are professionals in the fire service field. Credit earned for this program can be applied to the Fire Science Technology AAS Degree.The 18 credit-hour Basic Operations Firefighter Certificate consists of the following required courses:
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| FIS 106 | Fire Service Career Exploration Practicum | 1 |
| FIS 107 | Introduction to Firefighter Operations | 2 |
| FIS 110 | Basic Operations Firefighter: MOD A | 4 |
| FIS 111 | Basic Operations Firefighter: MOD B | 4 |
| FIS 112 | Basic Operations Firefighter: MOD C | 4 |
| FIS 132 | Hazardous Materials | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 |
Successful completion of FIS 110, FIS 111, FIS 112, and FIS 132 qualifies students for eligibility to test for Basic Operations Firefighter certification through the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM).
The program is presented in modular format and integrates classroom instruction, firefighter skill development, hazardous materials operations training, and live fire evolutions conducted at Harper College’s Emergency Services Training Center.
Each module concludes with written and practical examinations covering course content presented in that module. A minimum score of 70% is required on all written examinations and practical skill evaluations. Failure to meet the minimum passing standard may result in course failure in accordance with academy policies.
The Basic Operations Firefighter Certificate is a limited enrollment program.
Applicants must:
Unless sponsored by an Illinois fire department, applicants must provide:
Candidates sponsored by an Illinois fire department must verify affiliation with the registering department and confirm they are rostered with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. Sponsored candidates may enroll directly in the academy modules without completion of FIS 106 and FIS 107.
Review the full list of Basic Operations Firefighter Admission Requirements. Candidates affiliated with and sponsored by an Illinois fire department must verify department affiliation and confirm they are rostered with the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal. Certain entry requirements may be satisfied through department sponsorship.
If you have not already done so, submit the Harper College Application for Admission.
The Basic Operations Firefighter Academy is a limited enrollment program. Secure your spot by submitting the Basic Operations Firefighter (BOF) Academy Application. Required documentation must be submitted and approved prior to enrollment in FIS 110, FIS 111, FIS 112, and FIS 132.
For additional information about Harper's Fire Science Technology program, please contact the Admissions Outreach Office at 847.925.6700.
Please note: Information provided on this page is subject to change.