Kinesiology
Faculty/Staff
Vesa Naukkarinen, Chair; Chad Hutchinson, Paulino Santos
Adjunct: Wayne Baker, Brent Batla, Emerson DePaiva, Michael England, Mick Moffitt, Francis Nicholas, Embedzayi Tsanzi, Kim Vanhoose
Aims of the Department
The Department of Kinesiology provides classes and support for Exercise Science, Health and Fitness, Sports and Fitness Management, Physical Education and Fire Science majors as well as minors in Physical Education, Health and Fitness, and Coaching. Classes to support the general studies students in fitness, wellness and physical education are also provided. In the basic fitness and wellness classes, students are guided through a personal fitness program and encouraged to adopt a proactive wellness lifestyle, consistent with SDA teachings. Infrastructure to the University is provided by the operation of a fitness/recreation center that is available to all students and faculty.
Students may elect courses that prepare them for careers as elementary or secondary physical education teachers. A major in Physical Education will also prepare the student for a career in the public or private sector of recreation. Exercise Science is an excellent pre-professional course of study for exercise physiology, physical therapy or other areas of medicine. A major in Health and Fitness prepares the student to become a certified personal trainer and find a career in the hospital, corporate or private fitness industry. Sports and Fitness Management major is for students interested in running a health club or managing a sports team. All of the majors prepare students to enter graduate school. A major in Fire Science will prepare the student to become a professional firefighter.
Programs
- B.S. Exercise Science
- B.S. Health and Fitness
- B.S. Sports and Fitness Management
- B.S. Physical Education
- A.A.S. in Fire Science
- A.S. Health and Fitness
- Minors in Coaching, Physical Education, and Health and Fitness
Kinesiology Core Curriculum
Required of all B.S. students
| KINT 110 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 201 | Introduction to Kinesiology Research | 1 |
| KINT 241 | Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINT 310 | Motor Learning | 3 |
| KINT 321 | Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| KINT 331 | Biomechanics | 3 |
| KINT 490 | Senior Seminar | 1 |
| Total: | 17 | |
Requirements by Concentration
Exercise Science, B.S.
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 216 | Nutrition | 3 |
| KINT 252 | ACSM Certified Personal Trainer | 3 |
| KINT 260 | First Aid, CPR, and First Responder Training | 2 |
| KINT 354 | NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 452 | ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 460 | Applied Social Research Methods | 3 |
| KINT 480 | Internship | 6 |
| Total: | 25 | |
Required Cognates:
| BIOL 101, 102 | Anatomy & Physiology | 8 |
| CHEM 111, 112 | General Chemistry | 8 |
| MATH 121 | Precalculus | 3 |
| MATH 241 | Intro to Probability and Statistics | 3 |
| PHYS 121 | General Physics | 4 |
| PSYC 212 | General Psychology | 3 |
| PSYC 220 | Human Growth & Development | 3 |
Health and Fitness, B.S.
Minor required
| KINA 111 | Physical Fitness | 1 |
| KINA 112 | Aerobics or | |
| KINA 212 | Advanced Aerobics | 1 |
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINA 116 | Fitness Walking | 1 |
| KINA 233 | Water Aerobics or | |
| KINA 234 | Lifeguard Training | 1 |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 216 | Nutrition | 3 |
| KINT 252 | ACSM Certified Personal Trainer | 3 |
| KINT 260 | First Aid, CPR & First Responder Training | 2 |
| KINT 354 | NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 450 | Administration of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 452 | ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 480 | Internship | 6 |
| Total: | 29 |
Required Cognates:
| ACCT 211 | Accounting Principles I | 3 |
| BIOL 101, 102 | Anatomy and Physiology | 8 |
| CSIS 303 | E-Commerce and Website Design | 3 |
| PSYC 220 | Human Growth and Development | 3 |
Sports and Fitness Management, B.S.
Kinesiology Courses:
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 252 | ACSM Certified Personal Trainer | 3 |
| KINT 354 | NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 450 | Administration of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 452 | ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist | 3 |
| KINT 485 | Internship | 6 |
| Total: | 19 |
Required Cognates:
| ACCT 211 | Accounting Principles | 3 |
| BIOL 101, 102 | Anatomy & Physiology | 8 |
| BUAD 301 | Principles of Management | 3 |
| BUAD 321 | Business Finance | 3 |
| BUAD 372 | Human Resource Management | 3 |
| BUAD 472 | Business Policies and Strategies | 3 |
| ECON 211 | Macroeconomics or | |
| ECON 212 | Microeconomics | 3 |
| MATH 241 | Intro to Probability and Statistics | 3 |
| MKTG 343 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
Physical Education, B.S.
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training or | |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 131 | Officiating I | 2 |
| KINT 132 | Officiating II | 2 |
| KINT 231 | Professional Activities I | 3 |
| KINT 232 | Professional Activities II | 3 |
| KINT 233 | Professional Activities III | 3 |
| KINT 351 | Coaching | 3 |
| KINT 420 | Adapted Physical Education | 3 |
| KINT 431 | Physical Education Methods (K-12) | 3 |
| KINT 450 | Administration of Kinesiology | 3 |
| Total: | 26 | |
Required Cognates:
| BIOL 101, 102 | Anatomy and Physiology | 8 |
| RELT 212 | Christian Ethics | 3 |
Teaching Certification Program
You must make formal application for admittance to the Teacher Education Program. Applications are available at the Education Department office.
Physical Education, BS - All Level K-12 Teaching Certification Option IV (See Education section of Bulletin.) The student must meet the requirements for a B.S. degree in Physical Education.
Health and Fitness, A.S.
| KINA 112 | Aerobics or | |
| KINA 212 | Advanced Aerobics | 1 |
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training or | |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINA 116 | Fitness Walking | 1 |
| KINA 233 | Water Aerobics or | |
| KINA 234 | Lifeguard Training | 1 |
| KINT 110 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 216 | Nutrition | 3 |
| KINT 241 | Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINT 252 | ACSM Certified Personal Trainer | 3 |
| KINT 260 | First Aid, CPR, and First Responder Training | 2 |
| KINT 280 | Internship | 3 |
| Total: | 21 |
Required Cognate:
| BIOL 101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
Fire Science, A.A.S.
| BIOL 101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
| ENGL 121 | Freshman Composition | 3 |
| HIST | Elective | |
| KINA 111 | Physical Fitness | 1 |
| RLGN | Elective | 3 |
| RLGN | Elective | 3 |
| UNIV 111 | Wellness For Life | 2 |
| Elective | ||
| FIRS 101 | Firefighter Certification I | 3 |
| FIRS 102 | Firefighter Certification II | 3 |
| FIRS 103 | Firefighter Certification III | 3 |
| FIRS 104 | Firefighter Certification IV | 3 |
| FIRS 201 | Firefighter Certification V | 3 |
| FIRS 202 | Firefighter Certification VI | 3 |
| FIRS 203 | Firefighter Certification VII | 3 |
| FIRS 204 | Firefighter Practicum (Boot Camp)* | 1 |
| FIRT 211 | Internship | 3 |
| FIRT 212 | Firefighter Health & Safety | 3 |
| FIRT 213 | Fire Prevention, Codes, and Inspection | 3 |
| FIRT 214 | Fire Investigator or | |
| FIRS 215 | Fire Apparatus Pumper – Driver/Operator | 3 |
| EMSP 201 | EMT Basic | 4 |
| EMSP 202 | EMT Clinical | 1 |
| Total: | 60 |
*Includes all laboratory elements for: FIRS 101, 102, 103, 104, 201, 202 and 203
Minor in Coaching
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training or | |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 110 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 131 | Officiating I or | |
| KINT 132 | Officiating II | 2 |
| KINT 231 | Professional Activities I or | |
| KINT 232 | Professional Activities II or | |
| KINT 233 | Professional Activities III | 3 |
| KINT 241 | Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINT 351 | Coaching | 3 |
| KINT 354 | NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist | 3 |
| Total: | 18 |
Required Cognate:
| BIOL 101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
Minor in Physical Education
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training or | |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 110 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 131 | Officiating I or | |
| KINT 132 | Officiating II | 2 |
| choose two | of the three Professional Activities | |
| KINT 231 | Professional Activities I or | |
| KINT 232 | Professional Activities II or | |
| KINT 233 | Professional Activities III | 6 |
| KINT 241 | Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINT 431 | Physical Education Methods (K-12) | 3 |
| Total: | 18 |
Required Cognate:
| BIOL 101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
Minor in Health and Fitness
| KINA 112 | Aerobics or | |
| KINA 212 | Advanced Aerobics | 1 |
| KINA 115 | Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINA 215 | Advanced Resistance Training | 1 |
| KINT 110 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINT 216 | Nutrition | 3 |
| KINT 241 | Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINT 252 | ACSM Certified Personal Trainer | 3 |
| KINT 452 | ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist | |
| Total: | 18 |
Required Cognate:
| BIOL 101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
Kinesiology Courses
KINT 110 - Fundamentals of Kinesiology (3 hours)
A general introduction to historical and scientific foundations of physical education, exercise science and sports. Students will explore career opportunities and current issues in these fields. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 111 - Health and Wellness (3 hours)
A study of wellness as it relates to personal fitness, nutrition, stress management, substance abuse, communicable diseases, cancer, heart disease, environmental health, and SDA health heritage. Each student participates in a 15-week personal fitness program in which they track their health-related fitness. Lecture and lab. Cannot be taken with KINA 111 Physical Fitness. (Fall, Spring, Summer)
KINT 131 - Officiating I (2 hours)
Theory and practice of officiating soccer, basketball and floor hockey, including rules, interpretation of rules, officiating techniques and examinations. Part of the class requirements is to officiate college intramurals and to assist in the administration of the recreational sports program. (Spring, even years)
KINT 132 - Officiating II (2 hours)
Theory and practice of officiating flag football, volleyball, and softball including rules, interpretation of rules, officiating techniques and examinations. Part of the class requirements is to officiate college intramurals and to assist in the administration of the recreational sports program. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 201 - Introduction to Kinesiology Research (1 hour)
Prerequisite: ENGL 121
This course is an introduction to methods of research and scholarly writing in kinesiology. Physical education, exercise science and wellness majors begin the process of senior portfolio development. (Spring)
KINT 216 - Nutrition (3 hours)
A study of the nutrients now known to be required in the human diet and how to best obtain these nutrients. The student will learn to correlate dietary practice with physiological consequences and understand basic physiological functions of the nutrients in food. (Fall, Spring)
KINT 231 - Professional Activities I (3 hours)
Development of skills and teaching techniques of soccer, basketball, badminton and floor hockey. (Spring, odd years)
KINT 232 - Professional Activities II (3 hours)
Development of skills and teaching techniques of flag football, volleyball, softball and tennis. (Fall, even years)
KINT 233 - Professional Activities III (3 hours)
Development of skills and teaching techniques of track and field, and gymnastics. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 241 - Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (3 hours)
Prerequisite: BIOL 101
An introduction to prevention and management of injuries resulting from athletic activities. Treatment options include: support methods, conditioning exercises, and therapeutic aids. Laboratory work includes bandaging and taping various athletic injuries. Course fee. (Fall, even years)
KINT 244 - Physical Education in the Elementary School (3 hours)
Methods and materials for directing physical education programs for the elementary school. The course is designed for students who are candidates for the elementary classroom teaching certification. Experiences in this course will enable students to become more proficient in the knowledge and skills needed to be critical thinkers, creative planners and effective practitioners in the area of elementary physical education. Includes field experience. (Fall)
KINT 252 - ACSM Certified Personal Trainer (3 hours)
Prerequisite: BIOL 101
This course will cover health appraisal, risk assessment and safety of exercise, fitness testing, and an overview of exercise prescription. The course will prepare students to take the ACSM’s Certified Personal Trainer certification exam. Course fee. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 260 - First Aid, CPR, and First Responder Training (2 hours)
This course will give students the opportunity to be certified by the American Red Cross in First Aid, CPR and AED. Requires additional fee. (Spring, even years)
KINT 310 - Motor Learning (3 hours)
Prerequisite: BIOL 101
Students will develop the ability to analyze motor behavior in a physical education or clinical setting, create solutions to motor problems, and coach athletes and students to better performance. Class includes laboratory activities, critical readings and a research study. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 321 - Exercise Physiology (3 hours)
Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102
Emphasizes physiological response and adaptation to exercise with regard to human performance limitations, training effects, and health-related benefits. Class includes laboratory activities and fitness assessments. (Fall, even years)
KINT 331 - Biomechanics (3 hours)
Prerequisite: BIOL 101, 102
This course teaches students to analyze, describe, and understand motion principles of the body that relate to sport and teaching movement skills. Class includes laboratory activities and qualitative research. (Spring, even years)
KINT 351 - Coaching (3 hours)
Prerequisite: KINT 131 or 132, 231 or 232
This course is designed to introduce the student to coaching sports. It will consist of several types of learning activities: reading, lecture, discussion, videotape, and writing. This course will also prepare students to take the American Sport Education Program coaching certification exam. Requires additional fee. (Spring, odd years)
KINT 354 - NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (3 hours)
Prerequisite: KINT 321, 331
This course is designed to apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. The topics covered include conducting sport-specific testing sessions, designing, and implementing safe and effective resistance training and conditioning programs and providing guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention. Certification requires additional fee. (Spring, even years)
KINT 420 - Adapted Physical Education (3 hours)
A course designed to aid the educator in identifying physical, structural, functional or neurological impairments found in school-age children. Emphasis includes a survey of source material needed to plan and conduct individual, developmental and special courses in physical education. Lecture and lab. (Fall, even years)
KINT 431 - Physical Education Methods (K-12) (3 hours)
Prerequisite: KINT 231, 232
The study of methods and techniques of teaching physical education in the elementary and secondary school, including individual as well as group activities; students are required to observe and demonstrate in class. (Fall, even years)
KINT 450 - Administration of Kinesiology (3 hours)
Students develop basic skills and knowledge necessary to administer daily activities of a physical education department or athletic program. Topics include facility management, intramural activities, adapted physical education, fiscal management, leadership, and legal issues. (Fall, odd years)
KINT 452 - ACSM Certified Health & Fitness Specialist (3 hours)
Prerequisite: KINT 252
This course will prepare students to take the ACSM Health Fitness Specialist Exam. The course will cover basic anatomy and physiology, nutrition, fitness assessment, program design, injury prevention and first aid, behavioral change and legal guidelines. Certification requires additional fee. (Spring, odd years)
KINT 460 - Applied Social Research Methods (3 hours)
Prerequisite: MATH 241
An introduction to applied research methods and their applications to the disciplines of Kinesiology and Psychology. Emphasis is on understanding basic terminology, the use of fundamental research tools, and the integration of research and practice. Students will gain experience with single subject designs, program evaluation methods, SPSS-driven data analysis, and case studies in data collection. (Also taught as PSYC 460.) (Fall)
KINT 280/480 - Internship (3-6 hours)
Prerequisite: Approval by department chair
The Department of Kinesiology coordinates placement of students. The nature of the work depends on the student’s interest. Possibilities include medical clinic, sports team, athletic training, or physical therapy. Credit earned depends on hours of work. May be repeated for a total of 6 credits. (Fall, Spring, Summer)
KINT 485 - Sports and Fitness Management Internship (6 hours)
Prerequisite: Approval by department chair
The department of Kinesiology coordinates placement of students. The nature of the work depends on the student’s interest. Possibilities include high school or college athletic programs, professional sports teams, or fitness centers. (Fall, Spring, Summer)
KINT 490 - Senior Seminar (Capstone/Portfolio) (1 hour)
This is a capstone course where students will study and discuss current issues and concepts within the Physical Education, Exercise Science and Health Fitness professions. In addition, the students will prepare for employment in the profession. The class also prepares students for the major exit exam. (Spring)
KINT 491 - Selected Topics (1-3 hours)
Prerequisite: Approval by department chair
Open to Kinesiology majors for research or special project. Content and method of study must be arranged prior to registration. May be repeated for a total of 3 credits.
Kinesiology Activity Courses
KINA 111 - Physical Fitness (1 hour)
An introduction to personal fitness and application of training principles. Includes flexibility, muscular fitness, body composition, and cardiovascular pre- and post-semester assessment. This course also incorporates SDA heritage on healthful living. Cannot be taken with KINT 111 Health & Wellness. (Fall, Spring)
KINA 112 - Aerobics (1 hour)
An introduction to basic floor movements, calisthenics, and step aerobics. Students are also introduced to choreography. (Fall, Spring)
KINA 115 - Resistance Training (1 hour)
An introduction to the development of muscular fitness through the use of weighted resistance. Safety procedures are stressed. (Fall)
KINA 116 - Fitness Walking (1 hour)
An introduction to cardiovascular fitness through walking. (Fall)
KINA 122 - Futsal (Indoor Soccer) (1 hour)
Students are taught the basic skills in shooting, passing, and goal keeping. Offensive and defensive strategies are introduced. Includes topics such as rules and terminology. (Offered periodically)
KINA 124 - Basketball (1 hour)
Development of skills in shooting, passing, executing plays and understanding offensive and defensive strategies. (Offered periodically)
KINA 125 - Volleyball (1 hour)
Students are taught basic skills in passing, setting, serving, and spiking. Offensive and defensive strategies are introduced. (Spring)
KINA 131 - Swimming (1 hour)
Students are introduced to basic aquatic safety, floating, freestyle, and elementary backstroke. (Fall)
KINA 141 - Badminton (1 hour)
Students will develop skills in the basic badminton strokes, including the long and short serve, overhead clear, drop shot, smash, round-thehead shot and net shots. They will also learn doubles and singles strategy. (Spring)
KINA 142 - Tennis (1 hour)
Students develop skills in the basic strokes (forehand, backhand, serve, volley, and lob). They are also introduced to strategy of play. (Fall)
KINA 145 - Racquetball (1 hour)
An introduction to five basic serves, forehand and backhand, strokes, rules, sportsmanship and strategy of the game. (Fall, Spring)
KINA 212 - Advanced Aerobics (1 hour)
Prerequisite: KINA 112
High intensity aerobic class. May include step aerobics, kick boxing, or other popular routines. (Spring)
KINA 215 - Advanced Resistance Training (1 hour)
Prerequisite: KINA 115 or approval by instructor
Students enhance their strength training routines with advanced methods of resistance training. Students are introduced to new training techniques and sport-specific routines. (Spring, even years)
KINA 222 - Soccer Team (1 hour)
This course is designed for the advanced soccer player to participate in higher-level athletic competition as a member of a sports team. Advanced fundamentals and skills through practice, participation in intercollegiate contests and peripheral activities that include community awareness and involvement make up the components of this course. Must obtain permission from instructor to participate. May be repeated for credit for a total of 4 credits. May be applied toward general education KINA requirement. Course fee applies. (Fall)
KINA 224 - Basketball Team (1 hour)
This course is designed for the advanced basketball player to participate in higher-level athletic competition as a member of a sports team. Advanced fundamentals and skills through practice, participation in intercollegiate contests and peripheral activities that include community awareness and involvement make up the components of this course. Must obtain permission from instructor to participate. May be repeated for credit for a total of 4 credits. May be applied toward general education KINA requirement. Course fee applies. (Fall, Spring)
KINA 225 - Volleyball Team (1 hour)
This course is designed for the advanced volleyball player to participate in higher-level athletic competition as a member of a sports team. Advanced fundamentals and skills through practice, participation in intercollegiate contests and peripheral activities that include community awareness and involvement make up the components of this course. Must obtain permission from instructor to participate. May be repeated for credit for a total of 4 credits. May be applied toward general education KINA requirement. Course fee applies. (Fall)
KINA 229 - Gymnastics Team (1 hour)
This class is a touring, witnessing acrosport team. The skills required are basic and power tumbling, pyramid building and basket tossing. Team members are required to tour and attend clinics. May be repeated for credit. (Fall, Spring)
KINA 231 - Advanced Swimming (1 hour)
Prerequisite: KINA 131 or approval by instructor
Opportunity is given for students to progress to advanced levels of swimming in backstroke, freestyle, breaststroke, and butterfly stroke. (Offered periodically)
KINA 233 - Water Aerobics (1 hour)
An introduction to basic water movements for strength and flexibility. (Fall)
KINA 234 - Lifeguard Training (1 hour)
Certified training in lifeguard techniques. Requires a recording fee. (Offered periodically)
KINA 242 - Advanced Tennis (1 hour)
Prerequisite: KINA 142 or approval by instructor
For the student who wants to develop advanced skills in overhead smash, full serve, drop shot, and advanced strategy for both singles and doubles plays. (Offered periodically)
KINA 246 - Inline Hockey (1 hour)
Students will learn fundamental skills of skating, stick handling, passing and shooting. They will also be introduced to offensive and defensive strategies. Students must have their own hockey skates. It is preferred that students bring their own protective equipment, including helmet/ mask, gloves, shin guards and elbow pads. The department does have a limited supply. (Spring)
KINA 247 - Golf (1 hour)
An introduction to the basic strokes in golf (driving, chipping, and putting). Scoring terminology and golf etiquette are also taught. Students play on community golf courses. Requires additional fee. (Offered periodically)
KINA 248 - Advanced Racquetball (1 hour)
Prerequisite: KINA 145 or approval by instructor
Students have the opportunity to develop advanced skills in overhead, kill, drive serve and advanced strategies for offensive and defensive play for both singles and doubles. (Spring, odd years)
KINA 255 - Floorball (1 hour)
Students will develop skills in stick handling, passing and shooting. They will also be introduced to offensive and defensive strategies. (Fall)
KINA 291 - Selected Topics (1 hour)
Prerequisite: Approval by department chair
A course designed for students who must complete a physical activity class independently.
KINA 491 - Selected Topics (1 hour)
Prerequisite: Approval by department chair. A course designed for students with intermediate skill level.
Fire Science
Fire Science encompasses leadership and service to assist in the growing fire science segment of the economy. In the world of fire and emergency operations, knowledge of how to best respond quickly requires training that incorporates the changing conditions. The Fire Science program prepares students by teaching them the latest industry principles, theories, and best practices. Students learn fire safety, tactical operations, leadership and community fire outreach and response skills.
Southwestern offers the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Fire Science in cooperation with the Training Division in Crowley, Texas. It prepares students for Fire Science careers.
Student Learning Outcomes
The goals of the Fire Science program are to provide each student with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to function as a Firefighter/EMT. Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to demonstrate:
- Subject matter proficiency
- A variety of Firefighter skills to meet State certification requirements
- A variety of EMT skills to meet State certification requirements
- Fire Inspector competencies needed for State certification
- Critical thinking in addressing discipline-based questions
- Familiarity with standards, expectations and ethics in the discipline
Admission Criteria
1. Meet all admission requirements for enrollment at Southwestern Adventist University.
2. Complete all steps in the Fire Science Application Process.
3. Complete all Fire Science pre-requisites:
a. Minimum SAT score of 450 (old) or 25 (new) in Critical Reading or ACT score of 17 in English
Students scoring minimums may enter the program on a probationary basis and must take ENGL 021 and RDNG 021.
b. Minimum of 500 (old) 530 (new) SAT Math or 21 ACT Math
Students scoring below minimums may enter the program on a probationary basis and must take MATH 013.
c. Minimum score of 70 on the Computer Proficiency Test
Students scoring below 70 may enter the program on a probationary basis and must take CSIS 102.
d. Minimum high school GPA of 2.75
Transfer students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Fire Science Application Process
- Obtain two letters of recommendation from individuals other than relatives.
- Submit a statement of purpose - a one page, typed essay describing reasons why you would like to become a firefighter.
- Complete and submit all health records.
- Physicians release for strenuous physical activity
- Provide documented proof of vaccinations: MMR, TB, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Meningitis and Tetanus
- Submit to, pay for, and pass a criminal background check.
Continuation and Progression Policies
- The Department of Kinesiology reserves the right to require withdrawal of a Fire Science student from the program or a Fire Science course who fails to demonstrate competency and/or displays inappropriate/unprofessional or unsafe behavior.
- Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to progress in Fire Science and to graduate. No grade lower than C- will be accepted in Fire Science courses. Students whose GPA falls below 2.5 at any time during the program must raise their GPA to 2.5 or better within the next semester to continue in the program. If the GPA remains below 2.5, the student will be permanently dropped from the program.
- Students are allowed only one repeat of one Fire Science course.
- Fire Science courses dropped within one (1) week after the midterm date on the academic calendar will not count as a completed course. A Fire Science course that is dropped after that time will be treated as a completed Fire Science course.
- Students who fail a course may progress only with permission of the Kinesiology Department.
- All Fire Science courses are to be completed within a three-year time frame.
- Students cannot take the Texas Fire Certification exam until all degree requirements have been met.
Termination Policy
The following situations or conditions will result in termination from the fire science program:
- Unsafe, unethical, or unprofessional fire science practice
- GPA less than 2.5 for two consecutive semesters
- Unresolved issues with the drug screen and background checks
Readmission Policy
Readmission is possible for Fire Science students who left the program in good standing, and according to the Fire Science progression criteria. Students who have been out of the program will return under the most current bulletin. A new background check and drug screen must be completed and approved before being readmitted.
Transportation Policies
Students are expected to provide their own transportation to and from off-campus. Faculty will not provide transportation.
On-campus Residency and Transfer Requirements
Complete a minimum of 15 semester credit hours in residence. The last 12 hours before graduation must be taken in residence at SWAU. Transfer credits will be awarded according to University policy.
Boot Camp
Boot camp is an intensive hands-on lab/skills session that is completed in a special summer term after successful completion of the freshman year. The candidate will sign up for a May, June, July, or August Boot Camp offering before the end of their first semester. Boot Camp is completed Training Division in Crowley, TX. Students will be participating in an intensive 2-week program designed to complete the practical (skills) portion of the Fire Academy. Every effort has been made to replicate a real working fire station to make the Boot Camp experience in every way a slice of the professional firefighter’s life. The entire academy class will be housed in a new, state of the art training facility. Students will be responsible for cleaning and basic housekeeping for the facility. Most hands-on training will take place in the fire yard, on the apparatus, fire tower, in a burning building, or at other appropriate facilities. Students will be required to pass the final evaluation with at least an 80% in order to be permitted to test for their certificate with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. The final evaluation is a 200 question, multiple-choice exam that will be given at the boot camp. Failure in any of these components will require remedial training and a re-test.
Courses
FIRS 101 - Firefighter Certification I (3 hours)
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: History of the fire service, orientation to the fire service, firefighter qualifications and safety, fire service communications, incident command system, and fire behavior. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 102 - Firefighter Certification II (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 101
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Building construction, portable fire extinguishers, firefighter tools and equipment, ropes and knots, response and size-up. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 103 - Firefighter Certification III (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 102
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Forcible entry, ladders, search & rescue, ventilation, and water supply. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 104 - Firefighter Certification IV (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 103
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Fire hose, nozzles, streams and foam, firefighter survival, salvage and overhaul, firefighter rehabilitation, and wild land and ground fires. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 201 - Firefighter Certification V (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 104
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Fire suppression, pre-incident planning, fire and emergency medical care, emergency medical care, vehicle rescue and extrication, and assisting special rescue teams. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 202 - Firefighter Certification VI (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 201
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Hazardous Materials Awareness, Hazardous Materials Operations, Fire Prevention and Public Education, Fire Detection, Protection, and suppression systems, and fire cause determination. Course should be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 203 - Firefighter Certification VII (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 202
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: Firefighter 1 and 2 skills, and Hazardous Materials awareness and operations skills. The course also includes all laboratory elements for FIRS 101, 102, 103, 201, 202, and 203. Course must be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
FIRS 204 - Fire Fighting Practicum - “Boot Camp” (1 hour)
Prerequisite: FIRS 203
One in a series of courses in basic preparation for a new firefighter. Covers the following subjects: live fire operations, hands on skills completion, skills testing and evaluation. Course must be taken in conjunction with Firefighter Certification II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, and VII to satisfy the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) curriculum for Basic Structural Fire Suppression.
EMSP 201 - EMT Basic (4 hours)
This course is designed to teach the student how to apply operational principles in out-of-hospital environments and demonstrate lifesaving care to patients at the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level and display professional and ethical behaviors expected of emergency personnel.
EMSP 202 - EMT Clinical (1 hour)
Prerequisite: EMSP 201
This course is designed to teach the student the hands-on skills necessary for the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level, as well as satisfy EMS clinical and ambulance rotation requirements in order to be certified as an EMT by the Texas Department of Health.
FIRT 211 - Internship (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 204
This course is designed give the student “real world” fire service experience through internship with a local fire department.
FIRT 212 - Firefighter Health & Safety (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 204
This course teaches the student fire ground survival techniques, firefighter safety and health, practices and procedures related to emergency and non-emergency operations and components of a firefighter wellness program.
FIRT 213 - Fire Prevention, Codes, and Inspection (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 204, TCFP Certification
This course will train the student to be a certified fire inspector. The student will learn to apply provisions of local building and fire prevention codes to fire prevention inspections; and describe fire inspection practices and procedures including hazard recognition and correction.
FIRT 214 - Fire Investigation (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 204, TCFP Certification
This course will train the student to be a certified fire investigator. The student will learn to identify the point of origin and the cause of the fire; list possible motives of fire setters; and describe the elements of investigation practices.
Fire Science, A.A.S. through Distance Education
FIRST 215 - Fire Apparatus Pumper-Driver/Operator (3 hours)
Prerequisite: FIRS 204, TCFP Certification
The course will train the student to become certified to drive a pumper (engine) fire apparatus. The course is designed to teach the student to demonstrate competencies set forth in the TCFP curriculum for Driver/Operator-Pumper.
Admission
This program is designed for individuals who have completed the fire science courses at Training Division and want to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Fire Science. Students seeking admission to the program must submit the following materials to the Office of Distance Education.
1. A formal application for admission
2. Official transcripts of all college or university course work
- Applicants with fewer than 24 transferable semester credit hours must also submit an official high school transcript or official GED test results and
- SAT or ACT score report
3. Official Training Division transcript of fire science course work
4. Formal letter of recommendation from the Training Division
5. Statement of purpose – one page, typed essay describing reasons for desiring to complete a college degree in fire science.
Students will be informed of admission with a formal Letter of Acceptance. Admission to the program is on a space available basis each semester.
Academic Program
The A.A.S. degree in Fire Science consists of 60 semester credit hours. Twenty seven of these hours will be fire science and emergency medical technician courses transferred from Training Division. Thirty three additional semester hours will be completed consisting of the courses specified in the A.A.S. degree requirements. Graduates will complete a minimum of 24 semester credit hours in residence. They will also meet the required levels of mathematics and computer application proficiency. Transfer credit will be awarded according to University policy. The degree can generally be completed over three semesters, or one calendar year.
Cost of the Distance Education Program
Distance education tuition is $402 (50% of regular) per credit hour. There are no additional fees. There are no scholarship or payment plans for this program. All charges must be covered at the time of registration. Students may apply for financial aid and are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Financial Services for assistance.