High School

• Most individuals need to obtain a high school diploma or GED equivalent in order to be considered for a firefighter position. Academic performance at this stage is not particularly important for this career, but solid grades show a desirable level of responsibility and intelligence that certainly can't hurt your chances. Volunteering at a local hospital or community center during high school may also improve your chances of being hired, as this shows maturity and a commitment to the local community.
  
  

College

• A college degree is not required for most firefighter positions, though some fire departments, particularly big departments in major cities, may require some post-secondary education. Many four-year universities and vocational schools offer bachelor's degrees, associate's degrees and certificates in fire science. Students learn how to prevent, predict, and respond to fires. Many courses also teach aspiring firefighters how to teach fire safety to the public.
  
  

Fire Academy

• A firefighter's main education happens in the fire academy through hands-on, apprentice-like training. Students learn how to operate all the necessary equipment in a fire department, including hoses, axes, ladders, chain saws, fire extinguishers and fire trucks. Students may also undergo rigorous physical training to ensure they are in adequate shape to respond to emergencies that demand high levels of stamina, agility and strength. At the end of fire academy, all students must pass a medical examination, drug screening and written exam.
  
  

EMT Training

• Almost all firefighters are required to attend an Emergency Medical Technician training program. This program is usually sponsored by the fire department in conjunction with a local hospital, but some departments prefer recruits to obtain their EMT certification independently. Students learn how to administer CPR, first aid and other emergency procedures, skills that are extremely important in the kinds of life-or-death situations that fire fighters often face. Many fire departments require trainees to pass the EMT exam before they can take the firefighter's exam.