Merced College fire service programs get full state accreditation. What that means
Those in the Central Valley wanting to become firefighters now have another fully accredited program available to them.
Merced College’s Fire Technology and Fire Academy programs have received full accreditation from California, expanding career opportunities for students preparing to enter the fire service.
The accreditation designates Merced College as an Accredited Regional Training Program, the college said in a news release.
That means that graduates of the Merced College program can now earn a sought-after Firefighter 1 credential.
“Previously, graduating from our program didn’t result in a Firefighter 1 credential, and it limited what students could do after completing the academy,” said Donald Roe, professor of fire technology. “Those days are over. Our graduates now earn a certification that’s recognized statewide and nationally — which makes them more marketable, more hirable, and better prepared to succeed anywhere in the country.”
Merced College initially received a one-year provisional accreditation in October 2024. Full accreditation was awarded in October 2025, the news release said.
“This accreditation is a significant achievement for Merced College and for the future firefighters we train here,” said Joe Serena, Dean of Allied Health and Public Safety.
Merced Fire Chief Casey Wilson is a graduate of the Merced College Fire Academy.
“The accreditation of the Merced College Fire Academy is a significant milestone for the public safety workforce in our community,” Wilson said. “The high-quality firefighters graduating from this academy directly translate to a higher level of public safety and service for the Merced community.”
The Fire Academy is at full capacity for Spring 2026, Merced College said. The program will next recruit for the Spring 2027 cohort.
Students interested in applying are encouraged to begin preparing now by completing required Fire Technology coursework and earning an EMT credential, the news release said. Those are now minimum requirements for admission into the Fire Academy.
Merced College is also preparing to offer a Firefighter 2 Academy, an advanced certification program, anticipated to begin in fall 2026.
