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Fire Science and Public Safety

ECC graduates of the fighter fighter program.

Gain the skills that prepare you to protect and serve your community.

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Information Session and Open House Event - September 14, 2024

Information Session

Considering a career in public service? Join us for an informational presentation on the first-responder programs at ECC! Meet our dedicated program faculty and discover the thrilling world of emergency services and public safety. After the session, tour our state-of-the-art facilities and discuss program and career options with advisors.

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Open House & Touch-a-Truck

Join ECC's Center for Emergency Services in Burlington for an open house and touch-a-truck event! This family-friendly event is perfect for anyone interested in ECC’s public safety programs or for those with curious kids. Explore a range of unique emergency-response equipment, including:

  • Sitting in a fire engine or patrol car for a photo op
  • Watching demonstrations of fire, police, and paramedic gear
  • Observing firefighters in training at the burn tower

Working in emergency services is the epitome of a rewarding career. When you think of “emergency services professionals,” you probably think of first responders on the front lines and behind the scenes. Your training can lead to a career:

  • Answering 911 calls and calming a panicked individual while waiting for first responders to arrive;
  • Braving flames to save lives as a firefighter;
  • Providing medical care at the scene and during transport to the hospital as an EMT and paramedic;
  • Investigating and determining the cause of explosions, arson, and fires as a fire investigator;
  • Identifying fire hazards and conducting investigations ensures compliance with fire codes, helping prevent fires in federal, state, and local buildings.

No matter your role, all emergency services professionals are indispensable heroes.

Conveniently located halfway between Chicago and Rockford, Elgin is the perfect place to start training for your career in Emergency Services. Our degrees and certifications provide you with the fundamentals of several disciplines. Elgin’s Emergency Services training programs are also of enormous value.

Associate of Applied Science Degree

The Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science and Safety degree prepares you for specialized careers in the fire service field. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to become a competent fire science and safety technician.

Careers in Fire Science and Safety

As an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science and Safety degree holder, some jobs available to you include:

  • Municipal Firefighter
  • Fire Inspector
  • Fire Investigator
  • Forest Fire Inspector and Prevention Specialist

Learn about these occupations in the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook

Emergency Services Certificates

In addition to the Associate of Applied Science, the Emergency Services Training department offers several basic and vocational certificates. You’ll gain essential knowledge, skills, and abilities for success in your field. This is achieved by learning from instructors who are active emergency services practitioners.

Careers in Emergency Services

A variety of career paths will be open to you upon completing an Emergency Services certification. Some positions include:

  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • Paramedic
  • 911 Operator/Dispatcher
  • Emergency Management Director
  • Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teacher, Postsecondary
  • First-Line Supervisor of Police and Detectives
  • Sheriff and Deputy Sheriff
  • Private Detective and Investigator

ECC in the News

Aerial view of campus
Academics | Announcement
Published 05/14/2025

ECC and NIU Launch New Public Service Leadership Transfer Pathway

ECC students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice have a seamless path to a bachelor’s degree. The new agreement allows students to transfer directly into NIU’s fully online Public Service Leadership program.

Read Article


Learn more about Emergency Services Municipal Training at ECC!

Our training sessions are carefully crafted to meet OSFM standards and can be tailored to your municipality’s specific needs. Led by experienced ECC instructors, these sessions are designed to provide practical, real-world knowledge. We can deliver the training on-site, ensuring your team receives the most relevant and impactful instruction. This approach enhances your employees' skills and equips your municipality to serve your community effectively.

Learn More

Student Stories

Are you unemployed or looking for a better career?

ECC is partnering with Kane County WIOA to offer free career training for in-demand jobs. Learn more and see if you qualify.

Learn More

Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 7:30 am to 7 pm
Fridays: Closed

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

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