EMMITSBURG, Maryland — The U.S. Fire Administration’s (USFA) announced today a new National Fire Academy (NFA) program opportunity for educational institutions offering undergraduate fire science degree programs. This effort is designed to offer national recognition to students participating in the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model core associate’s and bachelor’s courses. The new FESHE recognition acknowledges the regionally accredited institutions that promote the standardization of fire science course titles, descriptions, and outcomes across the nation.

"The NFA has consistently demonstrated a commitment to standardize fire science degree programs. Working with FEMA and USFA partners in colleges and state fire training systems, the USFA has an opportunity to support a universal system of professional development for fire service personnel," said Ernest Mitchell, U.S. Fire Administrator.

To achieve this national recognition from the USFA, regionally accredited institutions will provide a six-course model fire science curriculum in their associate's or baccalaureate programs. In addition, regionally accredited institutions with the FESHE designation will also be able to provide the participating students with a NFA course Certificate of Completion for each course they complete. The documentation of a student’s participation in the FESHE model core curriculum will further recognize the graduate’s degree as one tied to a nationally recognized standard of education and achievement. This national approach to standardizing fire science education will produce graduates well prepared to improve the quality of fire and emergency services delivery throughout the nation.

"With our current NFA curriculum development and delivery and our continued resolve to prepare the fire service for the future through training and education, this FESHE effort moves the fire service another step closer to providing the leadership and safety all citizens have come to expect of their fire departments now and into the future," said NFA Superintendent Dr. Denis Onieal.

Recognized institutions will be highlighted on the FESHE college list.

For more information about the FESHE program and the USFA’s continued efforts to standardize professional development for the nation’s fire service, visit the USFA website at www.usfa.fema.gov. For information about how to become a FESHE-recognized institution, contact Ms. Diane Close at (301) 447-1376 or via e-mail at Diane.Close@fema.dhs.gov.

For more information, contact:
 USFA Press Office: (301) 447-1853