The Associate of Applied Science in Wildland Fire Management equips students with the technical training and credentials needed to meet National Wildfire Coordination Group standards. The program prepares graduates for competitive employment in various wildland fire and land management roles, including positions with agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. With a focus on specialized knowledge, communication fluency, quantitative fluency, and applied learning, the program aims to develop proficient wildland firefighters who are equipped to navigate the ethical and leadership challenges of the field.

Degree Overview:

This Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Wildland Fire Management is designed for students seeking technical training that meets National Wildfire Coordination Group (NWCG) standards.

Objectives:

• To provide students with the credentials of an associate degree alongside the technical training necessary to meet NWCG standards.
• To align course offerings with the NWCG Curriculum.
• To prepare graduates for competitive employment in the Wildland fire and land management career markets.

Program Description:

The program equips graduates to pursue positions with agencies like the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife, as well as state, county, and contracted wildland firefighting entities.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate proficient formal and informal communication and writing skills that are professional in nature (Communication Fluency).
• Apply mathematical concepts required of entry-level wildland firefighters (Quantitative Fluency).
• Demonstrate specialized and holistic knowledge of interagency Wildland Fire Management (Specialized Knowledge).
• Demonstrate proficiency in basic skills required for entry-level Wildland Fire Management professionals (Applied Learning).
• Evaluate leadership and ethical issues specific to Wildland Fire Management (Specialized Knowledge).

Careers:

Graduates are qualified to apply for jobs with the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife, as well as state, county, and contracted wildland firefighting entities.

Other:

• The program requires a minimum of 60 semester hours.
• Students must complete at least 15 of the final 30 semester hours at CMU/WCCC.
• A 2.00 cumulative GPA or higher is required in all CMU/WCCC coursework.
• A course can only be used to fulfill one requirement for each degree/certificate.
• No more than six semester hours of independent study courses can be used toward the degree.
• Non-traditional credit cannot exceed 20 semester credit hours for an AAS degree.
• Pre-collegiate courses cannot be used for graduation.
• The Catalog Year determines which program sheet and degree requirements a student must fulfill to graduate.
• Students should consult with an advisor or academic department to determine the applicable catalog year and program requirements.
• This program requires a total of 62 semester hours.

Colorado Mesa University

Overview:

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is a public university located in Grand Junction, Colorado. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as online courses and programs. CMU is known for its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on hands-on learning.

Services Offered:

CMU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Costs:

Admissions counseling, application process, financial aid, scholarships, tuition and fee information, and resources for admitted students.

Academics:

Program search, course catalog, degree requirements, graduate studies, online courses, non-credit courses, semester calendars, and academic advising.

Study and Performance Resources:

Library access, study room reservations, textbook purchasing, tutoring services, and transcript requests.

Getting Help:

IRIS (student assistance), accessibility services, career services, IT help desk, university center information, student services, student wellness center, tutoring, faculty contact information, campus office contacts, directory search, and campus maps.

Campus Life:

Dining services, housing and residence life, student life activities, campus safety, parking services, MAVcard campus ID, and resources for current students.

Events:

Calendar of events, performing arts, commencement ceremony, welcome week, homecoming, parents' weekend, student showcase, and event space reservations.

Campus Activities:

Outdoor program, recreation center, NCAA athletics, clubs and organizations, club sports, and intramural sports.

Working Here:

Faculty and staff employment opportunities, student employment, human resources, and payroll.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

CMU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Outdoor Adventures:

The Outdoor Program provides opportunities for outdoor trips and equipment rentals.

Social Engagement:

Student life offers numerous on-campus activities, clubs, and yearly concerts.

Downtown Exploration:

Grand Junction's historic downtown provides dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

CMU offers a quality education at a competitive price, with one of the lowest tuition rates in Colorado.

Small Class Sizes:

Students benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with professors.

Hands-on Learning:

CMU emphasizes practical experience and prepares students for successful careers.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse range of activities, clubs, and events.

Beautiful Location:

Grand Junction offers a sunny climate and access to outdoor recreation.

Academic Programs:

CMU offers over 120 academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Theatre, and more.

Business and Technology:

Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Hospitality Management, and more.

Education:

Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.

Health Sciences:

Nursing, Health Sciences, and more.

Social Sciences:

Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, and more.

Other:

CMU has additional locations, including:

CMU Tech:

A technical college offering associate degrees and certificates.

Montrose Campus:

A branch campus offering select undergraduate programs.

CMU also offers online programs through its Distance Education program.