May 1 marked the opening of the first semester fiscal year 2008 application period for the U. S. Fire Administration's National Fire Academy. The application period runs through June 30. The first semester includes those courses scheduled for delivery Oct. 1, 2007, through March 31, 2008.

"The variety of courses being offered during the first semester covers all 11 NFA curriculum areas and includes a mix of 10-day and six-day delivery options," said NFA Superintendent Dr. Denis Onieal.

In addition to eight two-week sessions and eight six-day sessions, the schedule includes one session of the Volunteer Incentive Program. The VIP session is scheduled for Feb. 17–22, 2008, with six different courses being offered. The VIP is an intensive six-day educational opportunity designed specifically for volunteer and combination department emergency services personnel.

Applications should be postmarked by June 30 to be considered for the first round of placement into the classes. For more information or to download an application, click here.

Interested applicants are reminded that in addition to the course specific selection criteria and course specific prerequisite requirements, they must also have ICS 100 and ICS 200 level training to be considered for any NFA course.