Barry reduces tuition for firefighters

By Florida Catholic staff - Florida Catholic

MIAMI SHORES - Barry University's School of Adult and Continuing Education (ACE), in partnership with the Florida State Fire College, announced that it has cut tuition by 20 percent for all firefighters who enroll at the university. The 20 percent discount applies to all of its bachelor's and master's degree programs and will be instituted in all 19 counties where ACE has a campus.

Individuals eligible for the discount are those working in the following fire services areas: Bureau of Fire Prevention; Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigation; Bureau of Fire Standards and Training; and Bureau of Forensic Fire and Explosive Analysis. ACE offers several accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs with evening and Saturday classes to accommodate the schedules of working adults. Students can transfer up to 64 credits from a regionally accredited community college and up to 90 credits from a regionally accredited university. Up to 30 college credits may be earned for learning acquired through professional work experience. Students must complete 30 credits in residency with Barry University.

"As with any business, advancement of our discipline is heavily dependent on the willingness of our people to embrace higher education," said Barry Baker, bureau chief and superintendent of Firefighter Standards and Training at the Florida State Fire College. "I strongly encourage fire service members to balance their experiences with academic achievement. Education, plus experience, equals our most valued professionals."

ACE classes are offered in the following counties: Alachua, Brevard, Broward, Collier, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lee, Leon, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Orange, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Seminole, and St. Lucie. Financial aid is available.