Fire and Emergency Response Management (FERM)
If you already have an associate degree in fire protection, fire science, paramedic technician or emergency management from the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) or a similar institution, this program is for you!
Bachelor of Applied Studies Degree
The first of its kind in Wisconsin and developed by fire chiefs, UW Oshkosh’s FERM program prepares students to manage complex public health and safety organizations. It is tailored to working firefighters and emergency response personnel.
All FERM courses provide learning opportunities for individuals who wish to advance in their current career or a related field. Students will gain knowledge in:
- Personnel management
- Conflict resolution
- Writing and communication
- Data gathering and analysis
- Administrative law
- Management and budgeting
- Leadership
Applicants must have successfully completed an associate degree in an appropriate fire science area. Such areas may include fire protection, fire science, paramedic technician, wildland firefighting or emergency management. Fire and Emergency Response Management students earn a block of 45 credits for an approved technical degree, plus credits for applicable general education courses. Most students transfer approximately 60 credits.
Eligible Associate Degrees
- Emergency Management
- Fire Engineering
- Fire Medic
- Fire Protection Engineering Technology
- Fire Protection Technician
- Paramedic Technician
- Wildland Firefighter
Leadership Certificate
If you don't have an associate degree or aren't interested in the bachelor's degree program, UW Oshkosh offers a Leadership Certificate in Fire and Emergency Response Management. This 18-credit certificate is open to all fire and emergency management personnel, and all courses are offered online.
Locations
Courses are available in a hybrid format at UW Oshkosh and online.

