The Chicago Fire Department recently signed a partnership with one of the nation’s first completely online universities, Columbia Southern University. Chicago firefighters, their spouses and children will receive a 10% tuition discount and application fee waiver as a result of this partnership.

“We have over 5,500 members in the Chicago Fire Department who will be reaping the rewards of this partnership,” said CFD Capt. Bob Martin. “We hope that through this partnership our members will take the opportunity to pursue a quality education.” CFD was established in 1832 and is one of the oldest organized fire departments in the nation. It serves the almost 3 million residents with fire suppression and prevention, alleviation of hazardous materials, rescue agencies and EMS. The department currently employs more than 5,500 firefighters and paramedics and has 98 engine companies, 59 truck companies and 59 ambulance companies.

CSU also holds learning partnerships with more than 200 organizations including Delta Air Lines, National Sheriffs’ Association, Commtest, and Quantum Drilling. Over half of CSU partners are fire departments and include the New York City Fire Department, Tulsa (Okla.) Fire Department and Tampa (Fla.) Fire and Rescue.