University to close January 3 at 2:30 p.m.

The University of Akron Main Campus and Wayne Campus will close today at 2:30 p.m. due to periodically worsening road conditions in Akron and northern Summit County.

See complete details.

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


    Spring, 2025


  • Fire Officer I Jan 27, Feb 3, 10 & 17, 2025
  • Fire & Emergency Services Instructor Feb. 17, 18, 19 & Mar. 4-7, 2025
  • Incident Safety Officer Feb. 24 & 25, 2025
  • Fire Safety Inspector Mar. 10-24, 2025
  • Fire Officer II Mar. 11, 18, 25, 2025
  • Fire Officer III & IV Apr 21 & 28, & May 5, 2025
  • 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.

    Printable PDF