DAVENPORT, Iowa — May 17, 2013 – Kaplan University, a leader in higher education innovation, announced it has launched a national articulation agreement for applicable IFSAC and Pro Board accredited firefighter certifications that meet or exceed the National Fire Protection Association’s Professional Qualification Standards. These articulations make it easier for firefighters across the nation to convert their certifications into college credits toward a degree in Fire Science. Kaplan, a regionally accredited University, offers Fire Science degrees that have been recognized by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) program as meeting the model curriculum for Fire Science degree programs.
After a rigorous process of aligning NFPA standards with its course offerings, Kaplan’s College of Public Service can now apply articulated credit to the FESHE-recognized associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs in Fire Science and Fire and Emergency Management through its School of Public Safety. This articulation process involved reviews specific to organizations in each state that have earned accreditation through the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or Pro Board, such as the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training, the U.S. Department of Defense Fire Fighter Certification System, and others.
The FESHE-recognized programs meet the model curriculum requirements established by FESHE professional development committees at the National Fire Academy (NFA). Kaplan’s articulated fire, IFSAC and Pro Board accredited certifications include Fire Fighter I-II, Fire Inspector I-III, Fire Officer I-IV, Fire Instructor I- III, Hazardous Materials Technician, Rescue Technician, Public Education Officer I, and more.
“Public sector careers have seen an influx of applicants, making fields like fire science much more competitive,” said Mike Brackin, dean of the School of Public Safety at Kaplan University. “Our goal is to help fire science professionals learn more about their profession and become more competitive in in their professional development and advancement opportunities. The articulations allow them to achieve nationally recognized degrees faster and more economically by using their existing credentials to earn credit. With FESHE recognition, they can be sure that their education aligns with the demands of their profession.”
One of the most far-reaching fire certification articulation initiatives in the nation, Kaplan’s articulation was implemented to help provide firefighting professionals with a faster, more cost-effective path to earning a degree and advancing their careers. With FESHE recognition, now eligible firefighters enrolled in Kaplan’s program can satisfy up to 50 percent of required coursework with previously completed training and, when combined with existing college studies, earn a bachelor’s degree in Fire Science through Kaplan within one to two years.
About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 44,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.
Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Group and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. serves approximately 65,000 students online and through approximately 70 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan’s higher education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc., is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company and its largest division. For more information, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu today.
