It is our goal to ensure that every student who attends a course at the Alabama Fire College has a high-quality educational experience. At the same time, we recognize the importance of maintaining affordability for the student. There must be a careful balance between delivering outstanding training and managing costs responsibly. To continue providing excellent instruction while supporting efficient and effective organizational operations, periodic tuition increases are necessary.
Due to rising costs associated with obtaining common passenger vehicles for extrication training, tuition rates for these courses must increase. In the past, these vehicles were often available at no cost, which allowed tuition charges to remain as low as possible. However, depending on availability, the cost of acquiring training vehicles can now be as much as $450 each.
The cost of heavy vehicle extrication training must also increase because of the scope, complexity, and highly specialized nature of the course. This training requires additional personnel, equipment, and safety measures to ensure the safety of both students and instructors throughout the program.
I appealed this matter to the Personnel Standards and Education Commission, and the Commission concurred with this assessment. Accordingly, the following tuition changes have been approved:
| Course | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Rescue Personnel: Common Passenger Vehicle Rescue Awareness, Operations, and Technician | $485 | $875 |
| Technical Rescue Personnel: Heavy Vehicle Rescue Awareness, Operations, and Technician (This course is still in the pilot phase.) | $485 | $875 |
Thank you,
David M. Russell
Executive Director
Alabama Fire College