Student Success & The Northern Experience
Northern College’s Integrated Emergency Services Complex is state of the art, and one of a kind 40,000 square foot facility that houses Emergency Services Programming alongside active, working emergency service providers.
This unique learning environment promotes the interdisciplinary cooperation that emergency services utilize in the professional realm, ensuring that our graduates have a well-rounded, experiential understanding of the field as they actively complete their studies.
Students put their training to the test in a robust simulation program that allows professors to craft unique scenarios that mirror complex, real life natural disasters, and emergency situations.
Does this program sound like a good fit for you? Connect with us to learn more.
Course Information
2024-2025 Academic Year
Semester 1
In this course, students will learn essential skills for success in college and the workplace. This course focuses on developing and strengthening oral and written communication skills, and critical thinking ability. During this course, students will engage in a variety of forms of communication with a focus on upholding the principles of academic integrity. Students will develop the skills necessary to create discipline-specific documents, practice business etiquette and professionalism, and apply critical thinking strategies to practical scenarios. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to plan and draft concise, coherent and well-organized writing assignments that are tailored to specific audiences and purposes.
42 Hours
Improving your knowledge and understanding of the history of the Indigenous peoples of what we now call Canada is an important step to enable Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, organizations, and communities to work together more respectfully. Throughout this course you will have the opportunity to learn, discuss and reflect about many topics that are relevant in the learning journey towards reconciliation.
42 Hours
This course will provide students with general and job-specific knowledge of fitness, enabling them to improve and maintain life-long personal and occupational fitness levels. Emphasis will be placed on areas that relate to the physical demands of a firefighter (appropriate cardiorespiratory fitness, lifting safety and core endurance/health). Additionally, attention to health and fitness as it relates to the whole individual including muscular strength/endurance/power, cardiorespiratory conditioning, psychological well-being and nutrition. Special consideration will be place on nutrition and healthy eating habits and its importance for occupational performance and healthy living.
42 Hours
The emphasis of this course is placed upon developing assessment skills for use in planning the stabilization and management of patients in a variety of medical/trauma situations. Students will be introduced to patient assessment, pathological processes and the management of various medical and traumatic problems that may afflict pre-hospital patients. Assessment is taught using a “hands on” approach that involves demonstration, performance and practice to hone skills. Practical sessions will follow the same outline as theoretical components of the course to assist in reinforcing knowledge and skills.
28 Hours
The emphasis of this course is placed upon developing assessment skills for use in planning the stabilization and management of patients in a variety of medical/trauma situations. Students will be introduced to patient assessment, pathological processes and the management of various medical and traumatic problems that may afflict pre-hospital patients. Assessment is taught using a “hands on” approach that involves demonstration, performance and practice to hone skills. Practical sessions will follow the same outline as theoretical components of the course to assist in reinforcing knowledge and skills.
28 Hours
In this course you will learn and demonstrate culminating role performances of an NFPA 1001 (2019) level I and II entry level recruit in the areas of building construction, building materials, structural collapse and the effects of fire suppression activities on buildings. The course will also provide an understanding of fire dynamics by explaining fire science, the combustion process, fire behavior, classification of fire and their associated extinguishing agents, fire behavior indicators, fire development patterns, potential for rapid fire development, and the use of ventilation and suppression tactics for controlling fires.
14 Hours
In this course you will learn and demonstrate the culminating role performances of an NFPA 1001 (2019) level I, entry level recruit in areas of: Introduction to the fire service, firefighter safety and communications. Students will also learn and be expected to demonstrate the testing and maintenance responsibilities for power plants, scene lighting and fire hose.
28 Hours
This course will cover the basic theoretical information for an entry level firefighter necessary to meet the job performance requirements of NFPA 1001 (2019) level I. The topics covered in this segment will include: firefighter personal protective equipment, portable extinguishers, ropes and knots, ground ladders, forcible entry, tactical ventilation, fire hose, hose operations and hose streams, fire suppression, overhaul, property conservation and scene preservation.
182 Hours
In this course you will demonstrate and be evaluated in the performance of essential practical skills in accordance with the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management approved skill sheet for practical testing for a Firefighter I (NFPA 1001-2019).
14 Hours
Students will review mathematical concepts and operations of basic arithmetic skills and their applications. Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percent, ratio and proportions are topics covered.
42 Hours
Semester 2
In this course, students focus on community risk reduction with a focus on fire and life safety education. Students will explore the valuable resources needed and currently used in the field of life safety educators. Through successful completion of course content, students meet all requirements of Fire and Life Safety Educator I defined in Chapter 5 of the NFPA 1035 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire and Life Safety Educator.
42 Hours
This course will present the theory and practical basics of fire service technical search and rescue as it pertains to NFPA 1006 (2013), chapter 5. In addition, this course will provide basic knowledge for a student to perform technical rescue support and vehicle extrication operations based on the requirements of NFPA 1001 (2019) Firefighter level II. Students will also learn and be expected to demonstrate the testing and maintenance responsibilities for the various equipment used within these disciplines.
70 Hours
This course is a continuation of the previous semester’s fitness course. It will provide students with general and job-specific knowledge of fitness, enabling them to improve and maintain life-long personal and occupational fitness levels. Emphasis will be placed on areas that relate to the physical demands of a firefighter (appropriate cardio-respiratory fitness, lifting safety and core endurance/health). Additionally, attention to health and fitness as it relates to the whole individual including muscular strength/endurance/power, cardio-respiratory conditioning, psychological well-being and nutrition. Special consideration will be place on nutrition and healthy eating habits and its importance for occupational performance and healthy living.
42 Hours
The emphasis of this course is placed upon developing advanced assessment skills for use in planning the stabilization and management of patients in a variety of medical/trauma situations. Students will be introduced to patient assessment, pathological processes and the management of various medical and traumatic problems that may afflict pre-hospital patients. Assessment is taught using a “hands on” approach that involves demonstration, performance and practice to hone skills. Practical sessions will follow the same outline as theoretical components of the course to assist in reinforcing knowledge and skills.
28 Hours
The emphasis of this course is placed upon developing advanced assessment skills for use in planning the stabilization and management of patients in a variety of medical/trauma situations. Students will be introduced to patient assessment, pathological processes and the management of various medical and traumatic problems that may afflict pre-hospital patients. Assessment is taught using a “hands on” approach that involves demonstration, performance and practice to hone skills. Practical sessions will follow the same outline as theoretical components of the course to assist in reinforcing knowledge and skills.
42 Hours
Content will focus on the role, responsibilities and actions taken by firefighters as firefighter emergency responder at an awareness level during a hazardous materials incident. There will be a focus on recognition, firefighter protection, interagency coordination securing the area and accessing of information from additional resources.
56 Hours
This course will provide students the understanding and ability to apply an Incident Management System (IMS) which is a framework used to organize emergency incidents. This system provides the command structure and management terminology used at emergency incidents. In conjunction, students will learn the importance, benefits and challenges of proper note taking.
42 Hours
This course will cover the basic theoretical information for an entry level firefighter necessary to meet the job performance requirements of NFPA 1001 (2019) level II. The topics covered in this segment include: foam firefighting, liquid and gas fires, fire origin and cause determination, and community risk reduction.
56 Hours
During this course you will demonstrate and be evaluated in the performance of the essential practical skills expected of a Firefighter II, NFPA 1001 (2019) in accordance with the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management approved skills sheets for practical testing.
14 Hours
Semester 3
This course will focus on the culminating performances of all the skill learned in fire ground operations, patient care, hazardous materials awareness/operations and technical rescue.
350 Hours
This section will focus on the culminating performances of all the skill learned in FF2005 Technical rescue and maintenance. Students will demonstrate and be evaluated on the performance of essential skills expected of NFPA 1006 (2013) General rescuer, chapter 5, in accordance with the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management approved practical skills testing sheets.
70 Hours
Career Ready Graduates
Articulation Agreements
A number of articulation agreements have been negotiated with universities and other institutions across Canada, North America and internationally. These agreements are assessed, revised and updated on a regular basis. Please contact the program coordinator for specific details if you are interested in pursuing such an option.
Canadian Field of Study/CIP Code List
CIP Code: 43.0203
International students: check the Canadian Field of Study/CIP Code List to see if your program is eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
- Demonstrate the culminating role performances in the following areas: fire suppression, community education and fire prevention, firefighter emergency patient care, environmental protection, and special rescue operations.
- Identify and use the personal and professional development resources/activities that promote growth and contribute to lifelong learning.
- Meet the ethical, legal, and safety requirements of professionals in the fire service.
- Use safe practices and techniques with fire department apparatus, tools and equipment.
- Communicate effectively using verbal, non-verbal, written, or electronic methods including recognized and appropriate fire service terminology.
- Interact with others in a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations in a manner that demonstrates confidence, professionalism, and sensitivity to others and the situation.
- Demonstrate respect when communicating effectively with diverse communities and their members.
- Use effective and appropriate problem-solving and decision-making skills in emergency and non-emergency situations.
- Work effectively with other members of the fire service team, pre-hospital emergency care providers, and other emergency service-related groups to provide comprehensive service in emergency and non-emergency situations.
Career Opportunities
As a graduate of this program, you may get hired to work in municipality/city firehalls, military, industry, nuclear plants, or natural resources-ministry forest fire fighting services, at airports, or any type of emergency based firefighting services.
Explore labour market information for related careers and employment trend data from the Government of Canada Job Bank.
Admissions Information & Requirements
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Grade 12 English (C, U)
Or equivalent
While the Pre-Service Firefighter program does not require a math course as an entrance requirement, employers may require additional tests that include mathematical skills and reasoning. It is strongly recommended that applicants take a senior high school math credit prior to enrolling in the Pre-Service Firefighter program.
Academic prerequisites for this program may be obtained free of charge through Academic Upgrading.
Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent and will have reached the age of 19 years on or before the start of the program must undergo academic testing and may be required to complete Prior Learning Acssessment & Recognition (PLAR) process to demonstrate equivalency of admission requirements prior to admission into a program.
For more details, please contact the Admissions Office at 705-235-7222 or admissions@northern.on.ca.
Additional Requirements for International Students
In addition to the admission requirements, international students must have proof of English Proficiency and meet the requirements below.
1. Proof of Senior High School Diploma/Certificate.
2. English Proficiency (we will require one of the following):
- IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System: a minimum overall score of 6.0 must be achieved with no individual band score under 6.0; however, we will accept one band at 5.5.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – Internet Based Test (iBT) overall minimum score of 79.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic: Graduate Diploma: 58+.
If your country of citizenship has English as its official language, we may accept alternate proof of English Proficiency.
All educational documents must be submitted in English and will be dependent on the country of citizenship.
For more information, please contact admissions@northern.on.ca.
Program Specific Requirements & Additional Information
- Current Basic Cardiac Life Support Certificate (C.P.R. – HP content) must be obtained prior to the start of the program.
- Standard First Aid Certificate, or equivalent must be obtained prior to the start of program.
Criminal Reference Check
Candidates for the program must be free of criminal offenses in order to be allowed in the field setting. An unpardoned criminal record will result in inability to participate in clinical practice courses and will prevent the student from graduating. A recent criminal reference check – (within 3 months) is required prior to the end of the first week of classes in September. Any costs for these checks will be the responsibility of the applicant.
Fees and Equipment
All Pre-Service Firefighter students must take part in a mandatory orientation session the first week of September. Students must purchase personal items of NFPA approved bunker gear apparel (gloves and balaclava, bunker boots, work boots, and uniforms – which is included in the $1250 overall estimate for additional course supplies, excluding textbooks.
National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Standard
Many fire service employers are implementing the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Standard as their applicant medical requirements. This standard covers the fire department physical and medical evaluation process and provides in-depth information that will be of assistance in determining if those interested in a career in firefighting meet the medical criteria for employment.
Mask Fit Testing
This program requires that students wear a full-face self-contained breathing air (SCBA) mask and an approved N95 particulate respirator during certain learning situations reflective of safe workplace practice and standards. To successfully complete Mask Fit Testing to wear an SCBA mask and N95 mask, students shall present themselves for fit testing free from interference of hair where the respirator seals to the skin or neck. Students are required to be clean-shaven or have no hair where the mask seals to the skin.
Applicant Selection Criteria
Where the number of eligible applicants exceeds the available spaces in the program, the Applicant Selection Criteria will be:
a) Permanent Residents of Ontario.
b) Receipt of Application by February 1st.
c) Achievement in the Required Academic Preparation.*
Note: Grade and course requirements are used in the selection process. If applicants are enrolled in Grade 12 required subjects (as indicated above), in the second semester (February to June), grade 11 marks will be used to assess admission eligibility.
Tuition, Fees & Payments
The tuition and fees information is typically updated yearly for the upcoming Academic Year in May. The amounts are for the full academic year.
Amounts may be based on last years tuition and fees and are subject to change.
If you are a current student, please refer to your Student Account or see a Student Services Clerk for the most up-to-date information.
Tuition
Domestic: $11,391.28 (For all 3 semesters)
International: $19,389.74 (For all 3 semesters)
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees are paid in full for the entire academic year in the first semester.
The Convocation and Official Documentation Fee (GRA) of $100.00 only applies for the first year of each program.
Please see Detailed Ancillary Fees for more information.
| Ancillary Fees by Campus | Domestic | International |
| Timmins (PC) | $945.50 | $1,558.00 |
Find Your True North.
At Northern College, you’re a part of a community.
From your teachers to support staff and administrators, we are all here to help you get an education and make some lasting connections along the way.
Your success is incredibly important to you, so we provide student supports to help you achieve your goals. From study assistance and accessibility services to mental health supports and financial aid, we’ve got you covered.
Each of Northern’s campuses boasts exercise facilities, a gym, cafeteria, study areas and a library – places that you can go to help keep you focused as you work your way through your studies. The communities we call home are incredible places, filled with amazing people and things to do.
Does Northern College sound like a good fit for you?
Here’s how to take your first steps on your new exciting and rewarding career path.