Tuition & Learning
Planning your investment is easy. Our program provides comprehensive training that prepares you for immediate entry into your chosen field. Below you'll find detailed information about program costs and required materials.
Tuition Estimates by Award
Costs below apply to each specific award option:
Certificates
Initial Firefighter
$3,356
Occupational Certificate
Hazardous Materials Management
$3,585
Advanced Technical Certificate
Diplomas
Professional Firefighter
$9,857
Diploma
The tuition rate for 2025-2026 academic year is
$209.73 (in person)/$224.05 (online) per credit
Scholarships & Savings
Ready to turn your dreams into reality? At Hennepin Tech, we believe that nothing should stand in the way of your education. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of paying for college, so you can focus on what really matters – your future.
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FAFSA
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Your key to financial aid. The first step to unlocking financial assistance for college is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, you’ll qualify for a variety of federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.
Not sure if you’re eligible? Don’t worry, our financial aid advisors are here to help, even if you have unique circumstances or are an undocumented individual.
Check out your first step to funding college
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North Star Promise
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If you’re a Minnesota resident who meets certain income criteria, you may also qualify for the North Star Promise, which provides additional financial support to cover the cost of tuition and fees. It’s another way we’re making college more accessible and affordable for students like you.
See if you qualify for free tuition
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Foundation Scholarships
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The Hennepin Tech Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reduce your college expenses!
Explore scholarships just for our students
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PSEO & Concurrent Enrollment
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High school students can jumpstart their college education by participating in our Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or Concurrent Enrollment programs. Earn college credits while still in high school and save on future tuition costs!
Discover how you can earn college credit in high school
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VA Benefits
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Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help cover tuition, housing, and other costs associated with attending college. Contact our veterans services office for assistance in accessing and maximizing your VA benefits.
Maximize your military education benefits
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Third-Party Payments
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Did you know that some employers, organizations, or government agencies offer tuition assistance programs? If you’re eligible, you can use these funds to help cover your college expenses. Be sure to check with your employer or inquire about any available benefits.
Let a sponsor help fund your education
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Transfer Credits
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Transfer the credits you’ve already earned from previous colleges or programs to reduce the classes you need, helping you finish your degree faster and at a lower cost.
Make your hard work count twice
To maximize your savings, apply for FAFSA early, explore scholarships, and review your potential for credit through prior learning and transfer evaluations.
Accreditation & Recognition
USDE Professional Licensure Disclosure
Successful completion of the Fire Protection program at Hennepin Technical College will meet the requirements for certification by the Minnesota Fire Service Certification Board (MFSCB), which is accredited by IFSAC (International Fire Service Accreditation Congress). With appropriate IFSAC certification applicant can apply for licensure according to MN statute 299N. Certification by IFSAC is required by Minnesota as well as by most states to acquire a state license to practice the profession of firefighting or for employment as a certified/licensed firefighter. Hennepin Technical College highly recommends that you contact the appropriate state licensing board in the state or locality in which you wish to practice or be employed. If you have further questions about licensure for Fire Protection please feel free to reach out to Cara Garrett and we will be happy to help you.
State Board Licensing Contacts
For information on state board licensing contacts, please download the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress, Certificate Assembly Member Entities and Representatives, February 2024 pdf.
Last reviewed 03/28/2025
How to Apply
Skills Required
Students registering for Firefighter 1, Firefighter II and Hazardous Materials Operations must have the Hennepin Tech Medical Release Form completed prior to the start of class. Students who do not have the release form completed by a medical professional will not be allowed to take these classes. This release is valid for one calendar year.
Students will be given a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) FIT test in these classes. This test is valid for one calendar year in the Hennepin Tech Fire Program.
Labs & Classroom
When you walk into our learning labs at Hennepin Tech it is like walking into a fire station. We boast four pumper trucks with pumping capacity of over 1200 gallons of water per minute.Two car fire props, one propane live fire simulator, A class A live fire building, and numerous ventilation and fire simulators.
Work Environment
The work environment of a firefighter is physically demanding, from carrying equipment to pulling hose lines full of water to pulling walls and ceilings apart. It could be hot or cold, stressful, and mentally challenging. Students will work inside structures that are on fire and high above the ground, cutting apart roofs in order to ventilate a fire. The work environment is ever-changing and challenging.
Application Process
Applying to Hennepin Tech is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to get started on your educational journey:
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Submit Your Application
Visit our Get Started page to complete your application online. As part of the application process, you will need to pay the application fee. This helps us process your materials quickly.
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Submit Transfer Requests (If Applicable)
If you have previously completed college courses or earned a degree, you can save time and money by transferring your credits. Be sure to submit official transcripts or transfer requests from any previous colleges or high schools you attended. This allows us to evaluate your credits and apply them toward your new program.
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Receive Your Admission Decision
Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an official admission decision.
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Placement Testing for New Students
If you are new to college, you will need to take a placement test after you have been accepted. The placement test helps identify your current skills in reading, writing, and math. It is used to determine if developmental courses are necessary before you start certain college-level classes. Please note that the placement test does not affect your admission status.
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Plan Your Courses
Based on your placement test results and transfer credit evaluation, you will work with an advisor to select the right courses to ensure your success.
Special Admissions Processes
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If you are an international student, please visit our international admissions page for specific instructions.
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If you are a PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) student, please visit our PSEO admissions webpage for details on the application process.
If you have questions or need help during the application process, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.
