Beaufort, South Carolina, October 2, 2025
News Summary
The Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) has been recognized for its Fire Science Technology Program by FEMA’s National Fire & Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) initiative. TCL is now the only institution in South Carolina to achieve this certification, which aligns its program with the National Fire Academy’s curriculum. This recognition is expected to improve educational opportunities in fire services and contribute to enhanced safety standards in the community.
Beaufort, South Carolina – The Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) has received significant recognition from FEMA’s National Fire & Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) initiative for its Fire Science Technology Program. This distinction, announced on September 4 during a ceremony at TCL’s Beaufort Mather Campus, marks TCL as the only institution in South Carolina to achieve FESHE certification.
The Fire Science Technology Program is designed to align with the National Fire Academy’s model fire science curriculum, with the aim of standardizing education for fire and emergency services across the nation. This accreditation is expected to enhance educational prospects for professionals in this vital sector, ultimately contributing to reduced loss of life and property due to fire-related incidents.
At the ceremony, notable attendees included representatives from South Carolina’s fire academy and several local fire battalions, including the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department, Bluffton Township Fire District, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue, and Lady’s Island – St. Helena Fire District.
TCL President Richard Gough expressed enthusiasm regarding the college’s milestone as the first institution in South Carolina to hold such recognition. He emphasized that the program’s national acknowledgment showcases TCL’s commitment to advancing education in fire and emergency services through FESHE.
Launched earlier this year, TCL’s Fire Science Technology Program includes a 67-credit-hour associate degree and an 18-credit-hour certificate program. These programs are tailored to equip professionals with essential leadership, safety, and operational skills necessary for career progression in the fire and emergency services field. The program promotes a modern curriculum that incorporates fire science fundamentals while emphasizing the importance of leadership skills.
South Carolina’s Fire Academy Superintendent, Jason Pope, presented TCL with a Certificate of National Recognition from FEMA during the event. Pope remarked that this program provides valuable educational opportunities for the fire service community within South Carolina.
The flexibility and affordability of the program aim to make it accessible to current professionals and new students who are contemplating a career in emergency services. TCL is currently open for registrations for the fire science programs until September 18, with classes set to commence on September 29. More information regarding the fire science programs can be accessed on TCL’s website at www.tcl.edu/fire.
FAQ
What recognition did the Technical College of the Lowcountry receive?
The Technical College of the Lowcountry received recognition from FEMA’s National Fire & Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) initiative.
Where is TCL’s Fire Science Technology Program ranked in South Carolina?
TCL’s Fire Science Technology Program is the only program in South Carolina with FESHE certification.
What new programs did TCL launch in 2023?
TCL launched a 67-credit-hour associate degree program and an 18-credit-hour certificate program earlier in the year.
When can students register for the fire science programs?
TCL is currently registering students for the fire science programs until September 18, and classes are set to start on September 29.
Key Features of TCL’s FESHE Certified Fire Science Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Certification | Only FESHE certified program in South Carolina |
| Programs Offered | 67-credit-hour associate degree and 18-credit-hour certificate |
| Curriculum | Aligns with National Fire Academy’s model fire science curriculum |
| Goal | Reduce loss of life and property due to fire incidents |
| Registration Deadline | September 18 |
| Classes Start | September 29 |
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Additional Resources
- Your Island News: TCL’s Fire Science Program Receives National Recognition
- Wikipedia: Fire Service
- Your Island News: TCL President Richard Gough Remarks on FESHE Certification
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighting
- Google Search: Fire Science Education
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
