Specialization course in performance-based design (PBD) and fundamentals of computational simulation of evacuation and fire

Matricúlate

  • AREA OF KNOWLEDGE: Fire Protection FORMAT: Online - Live Classes DURATION: 100 hours (4 ECTS) DATES: Start: April 20, 2026 - End: June 26, 2026. After the enrollment period ends, it is possible to complete the training program in a flexible format. SESSIONS: Mondays and Wednesdays. Time: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (Spanish time). Attendance is not mandatory; sessions will be recorded and available on the virtual platform. TARGET AUDIENCE: In general, professionals interested in an introduction to and specialization in performance-based design and fire and evacuation simulations:
  • Fire Protection professionals (installers, engineering firms, inspection bodies, etc.)
  • Technical profiles in the engineering and architecture sectors.
  • Technical profiles in the insurance and claims assessment sectors.
  • Recent graduates or students in their final years who want to start their professional career in the Fire Protection sector.

    • GOALS

  • This Specialization Course aims to provide students with the knowledge and tools to analyze and apply performance-based design methodology, drawing on the necessary multidisciplinary knowledge, as well as the knowledge and application of the main tools and software for fire and evacuation simulation. The specific objectives of this Specialization Course are as follows:
  • To develop the fundamentals of performance-based design, at both the methodological and regulatory levels.
  • To introduce students to the fundamentals of fire dynamics, as a preliminary step to developing performance strategies.
  • To analyze the main elements that comprise fire modeling and computer simulation of fires.
  • To delve into the main elements of using and managing the reference software for conducting fire simulations: FDS and Pyrosim.
  • To introduce students to the fundamentals of human safety and human behavior in the event of a fire and emergency.
  • To analyze the main elements that comprise evacuation modeling and computer simulation of evacuation.
  • To delve into the main elements of using and operating the reference software for conducting evacuation simulations: Pathfinder and Exodus.
  • To equip students with tools for the correct selection of scenarios, in accordance with the main criteria of international standards.
  • To develop how to present the performance design through reports and documentation that justify the proposed approaches.

    • METHODOLOGY AND EVALUATION

  • The methodology for work and study is entirely online, allowing students to take advantage of virtual classes and progress at their own pace through the virtual platform.
  • Training is delivered via the ESSIIF virtual platform.
  • The Specialization Course consists of materials edited and created exclusively by professionals in each subject area. These professionals will develop each topic by introducing fundamental theoretical concepts while incorporating the necessary practical design aspects.
  • One of the main components of this training program is the live masterclasses delivered via the video conferencing platform. These classes facilitate learning through the contributions of expert instructors in each subject.
  • You will be able to delve deeper into the concepts developed during the training program through individualized tutoring sessions with the program's instructors.
  • Students will tackle real-world case studies that will allow them to develop specific skills and competencies. This is a useful tool to ensure the progress and development of students, enabling them to acquire the knowledge and experience necessary to undertake real-world projects in the field of fire protection. Students will have access to a trial software license during the course. Evaluation will be based on the submission of a practical case study (60%), a multiple-choice test (30%), and participation in the forum (10%).

    • PROGRAM

    This Specialization Course consists of fifteen modules, which comprehensively develop the most important aspects of performance-based design (PBD) and fire and evacuation simulations using various tools. Module 1. Fundamentals and Regulatory Aspects. Module 2. Performance-Based Design Methodologies. Module 3. Fundamentals of Fire Dynamics. Module 4. Fire Modeling. Module 5. Computerized Fire Simulation. Module 6. Specific Fire Simulation Software. 6.1 Configuration and Operation of FDS. 6.2 Configuration and Operation of Pyrosim. Module 7. Fundamentals of Life Safety and Human Behavior. Module 8. Evacuation Modeling. Module 9. Human Behavior - Procedures. Module 10. Human Behavior - The Environment. Module 11. Performance-Based Evacuation. Module 12. Computerized Evacuation Simulation. Module 13. Specific Evacuation Simulation Software. 13.1 Pathfinder Configuration and Management. 13.2 Exodus Configuration and Management. Module 14. Scenario Selection. Module 15. Reports and Final Documentation.

    DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES

  • At the end of the program, you will receive two certifications issued by two different entities:
  • ESSIIF's own degree.
  • Isabel I University Certificate.

    • ACCESS THE DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES SECTION

    PRICES AND SCHOLARSHIPS

  • PRICE: 795 euros (636 euros until 10/04/2026) Payment option in 1 or 2 installments. Applicable discounts:
  • 20% direct scholarship for new enrollments until April 10, 2026.
  • 5% discount for payment in one installment.
  • In the case of group enrollments, additional discounts will be applied depending on each case. The above discounts are cumulative.

    • ACCESS THE SCHOLARSHIPS SECTION

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