University of Akron Fire training center

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Training Center for Fire and Hazardous Materials


Degrees

Bachelor degree

Emergency Management & Homeland Security Bachelor of Science degree

  • Only university in the United States to offer this IFSAC accrediated degree

Associate degree

Fire Protection Technology Associate of Applied Science degree

  • Only university in Ohio to offer this accredited degree
Contact information

Training Center for Fire and Hazardous Materials
The Polsky Building 309
Akron, OH 44325-4304
330-972-6652
330-972-8856
See on map

Dennis Ragins
Director of Training
Polsky 316
330-972-2051
dragins@uakron.edu

Matt Claflin
Fire Training & Projects Coordinator
Polsky 309
mtc6@uakron.edu

Kathy Shaffer
Dept. Safety Program Specialist
330-972-8240
kfshaff@uakron.edu

Fire Academy Courses

Spring, 2025


  • Professional Firefighter Academy
  • Medical Form


    Jan. 14 to May 15, 2025
    Tues & Thurs 6-10 pm & Sat 8:30-5:30 pm
    Tuition: $3,900 + $600 gear rental if needed
    Professional Development Classes

    Fall, 2024


  • Fire Officer III & IV Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2024
  • Fire Safety Inspector Dec 2-13, 2024
  • Fire Academy FAQs
    1. What certification will I have when I’m done?
      • Students completing all of the class requirements and passing the State of Ohio Firefighter 1 and 2 exam will be certified at the highest level the state offers.
    2. Will I need to provide my own firefighter protective gear?
      • Students sponsored by area departments may be given their own gear to wear.
      • Students not affiliated with a department will be able to rent all of the protective gear from our 3rd party supplier.
    3. What are the physical requirements?
      • Firefighting is a physically demanding occupation. We require a physical screening from the students doctor prior to class.
      • It is also recommended that the student engage in cardiovascular and strength training before, during and after their academy.
      • Our academies have group PT. (COVID-19 Update: Due to local and state requirements group PT may be suspended or conducted in a manner compliant with those requirements)
    4. Where is the class held?
      • We offer the unique experience of holding class at actual fire departments throughout the area.
      • The lead instructor will put out a schedule detailing the location of every class.
      • (COVID-19 Update: Due to recommended best practices class will be held virtually when applicable.)
    5. Can I turn this into a degree?
    6. What is the cost of the training?
      • Current tuition rates are $3900 for the academy, plus a $600 gear rental fee if needed.
      • We offer a payment plan for those that need it.
      • Please email Matt Claflin at mtc6@uakron.edu for more details or questions.

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