Fire Protection Technology

Do you want a career built on service, discipline, and hands-on skill? Fire Protection Technology puts you on the path to becoming a certified structural firefighter, and MCC can help you get there in one semester.

Spring 2027 Fire Academies — Classes #70 and #71

Applications are open now for the Spring 2027 fire academies. Pre-registration opens in October 2026, but you can reserve your place now—email fire@mclennan.edu or call 254-299-6511 or 254-717-8931 to get on the list.

You can start the application process now. First, apply to become an MCC student. Then apply for financial aid, as the Fire Academy qualifies for all financial aid programs.

Train for the Fire Service at MCC

Ready to answer the call? MCC's Fire Protection Technology program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare you for a career as a certified structural firefighter. You'll build real-world skills through live-fire training, our flashover simulation chamber, and instruction from experienced fire service professionals.

Students who complete the one-semester academy earn a Level 1 Certificate and are eligible to take the state certification exam. The program also offers continuing education courses for current firefighters, and it's approved as a Basic Structural Firefighter program for Texas certification.

Answer the Call. Serve with Honor.

Is a Firefighting Career Right for You?

Firefighting isn't just about fighting fires—most calls are medical emergencies, and the field offers steady demand and strong long-term career growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook covers job duties, required training, and pay for firefighters nationwide—a good starting point if you're weighing this as a career path.

Pair Your Certificate with an EMT Credential

To become a certified firefighter in Texas, you should also complete the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course, also offered at MCC. Pairing your Fire Protection Technology certificate with an EMT credential strengthens your application to fire departments across the state.

For more information, contact Program Coordinator Stephen Cook at 254-299-6511 or fire@mclennan.edu.

See the Training in Action

Watch our students train in MCC's flashover chamber, including a thermal imaging camera view of the same exercise.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees include use of bunker gear, leather firefighting boots, leather firefighting gloves, uniform shirts, uniform jacket, workout shirts, workout shorts, and state testing fees. Books cost about $200.

You must provide your own pants, station boots, and workout shoes. All prices are estimates.

Admission Requirements

To enter the McLennan Fire Academy, you must:

• Be eligible to become a firefighter in Texas. You cannot have any felony convictions.
• Be eligible for admission to McLennan Community College.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Talk with the Chief Training Officer before enrolling if you have any Class A misdemeanor convictions.
• If you have prior military service and your DD214 does not show an Honorable or General Under Honorable discharge, talk with the Chief Training Officer before enrolling.
• Take part in physical training during the program. You must provide a medical release from your doctor before participating.

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