Firefighter Certification Academies provide a pathway to firefighter certification and are available to organizations interested in developing fire certification programs for their department or region. 

Instructional Design

The FSTS Firefighter I Certification is accredited by the International Fire Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board). The instructional design for the academy is In-Context and focused on essential structural firefighting skills. During the 10-day academy, students learn, practice, and test critical skills listed in NFPA 1001, Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications and NFPA 470, Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Standard for Responders.  Following skills training, students are allowed up to 18 months to complete the remaining components of the test documentation booklet. Methods of instruction include coaching, demonstration, self-study, online materials, simulations, and practical exercises.  Quality control and safety techniques are emphasized throughout the course.

Students must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performing firefighter skills specified in NFPA 1001, Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications, and NFPA 470, Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Standard for Responders with no instructor assists.  Skills training includes:

 

  • Fire Department Communications
  • Salvage and Overhaul
  • Fireground Operations
  • Water Supply
  • Offensive exterior and interior fire attack
  • Ropes and Knots
  • Flat and Pitched Roof Ventilation
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Hazardous Materials Response (Awareness and Operations level)
  • Scene Lighting
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Passenger Vehicle Fire Response

 

Professional certification is issued after successful completion of the Academy and submission of the completed Test Documentation Booklet.

ENROLLMENT:

Academy enrollment is open first to the host agency, second to surrounding regional departments and finally, to the rest of the state.  Any remaining positions may be filled by out-of-state applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. 

COST:

  • Montana Fire Service Members: $1,950.00 (Includes $200.00 application fee)
  • Private and Out of State: $2,950.00  (Includes $200.00 application fee)
  • Payment must be made in full prior to class start date.

ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES MUST:

  1. Meet Montana state qualifications for firefighters as specified in MCA 7-33-4107
  2. Meet physical requirements outlined in NFPA 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments (Ch5, 7 and 9)
  3. Maintain affiliation with a state-recognized fire department or firefighting organization
  4. Demonstrate exceptional teamwork, leadership skills and inherent core values of the fire service
  5. Display professional behavior at all times.
  6. Possess the physical strength, conditioning, and endurance necessary for prolonged physical work

TO ATTEND:

  1. Submit a completed application along with a $200 application fee to:

              MSU Fire Services Training School

              409 14th Street Southwest—Suite 1

              Great Falls, MT 59404-3297

Application fees are non-refundable

Make checks payable to Montana State University Fire Services Training School

 

  1. Once your application is received and your position is approved, expect a letter welcoming you to the academy, a listing of course prerequisites, and a medical release form.

 

  1. Read the welcome letter carefully and meet all course training, equipment, and tuition prerequisites.

 

  1. Complete and submit the medical release form to FSTS within 60 days of the start date.

 

NOTE: Failure to meet payment, training, equipment or medical prerequisites prior to class start will result in immediate disenrollment from the program.

STAND-BY LIST:

  • If no academy positions are available, you may submit your application to be added to the waiting list of eligible candidates.
  • In the event an enrolled student gives up their academy position, candidates on the waiting list will be notified to fill the vacancy in order of application.
  • If an alternate candidate is unable to fill the vacancy at the time of notification, the alternate forfeits the position and may choose either to withdraw their application or be placed at the bottom of the waiting list.