Fire Science Degrees
Fire fighters perform their best when their understanding of fire fighting goes beyond the hands-on training provided at fire academies. Gaining an understanding of the causes of fires, hazardous materials, prevention and incident communication will prepare fire fighters for any situation and for career advancement. Fire science programs include core academic courses as well as specialized technical fire fighting courses. These programs also go by names such as fire science engineering or fire science technology.
Most graduates of a fire science program work as fire fighters in local or regional fire departments. A small number work in the insurance industry, federal or state government installations or in a private company related to fire equipment or services.
Degree Options
- Associate's Degree – Associate's degree programs are appropriate for those pursuing the profession as well as for working Fire Fighters. Coursework can usually by transferred into a bachelor's degree program.
- Bachelor's Degree – Graduates of a bachelor's degree program are prepared for any fire fighting job and are positioned for advancement or specialization.
- Master's Degree – Master's degree programs are designed for those who have a bachelor's degree and want to specialize in a particular area such as investigations or administration.
Schools
Fire science degree programs are offered by technical colleges, community colleges, small universities, four-year colleges and online schools. A limited number of programs are sponsored by the National Fire Academy's Degrees at a Distance program. A significant number are offered either partially or fully online which makes it feasible for working fire fighters to attend these programs.
Coursework
A fire science program curriculum typically includes courses similar to those described below:
- Fire Prevention – Students learn about local and state ordinances and codes, principles of fire prevention and the role of inspectors and public relations.
- Hazardous Materials – Covers recognition of hazardous materials, safety procedures, protective clothing and equipment and scene management.
- Wildland Fires - Students learn about the behavior of wildfires, methods for responding and safety protocols.
- Incident Management – Features of an Incident Command System are studied. Topics include facilities, resources, responsibilities and communications.
- Fire Investigation – Examines accidental causes of fires, arson, and properties of materials that cause fires.
Aptitudes and Interests
Those pursuing a career as a Fire Fighter should have an interest in public service and have an understanding of the risks involved with this type of work. Physical fitness and physical stamina are required as is an ability to react calmly and make good decisions in stressful situations.
Career Options
Fire Fighters are able to work in local and regional fire departments, state and federal installations, forest service fire departments and private companies.
Related Majors
- Fire Service Administration - Professional firefighters learn administrative skills and advanced fire fighting techniques in preparation for leadership roles.
- Emergency Management - Students learn how to prepare for and respond to all types of emergency situations including natural disasters and terrorism.
- Public Safety - Program provides a multi-disciplinary education to prepare students for a variety of roles in public safety.
How To Evaluate Fire Science Degree Programs
When choosing a fire science degree program, consideration of the following factors can be helpful:
- Flexibility - Many programs offer courses online or in formats that fit a working firefighter's schedule.
- Prior Credit - Some programs will give credit for prior training including military, EMT and other learning experiences which can result in students taking fewer courses to earn their degree.
- Electives – The number and focus of electives available in each program vary and may fit some student's career goals and interests better than others.
- Tuition Reimbursement - Working fire fighters should make sure their employer will provide tuition reimbursement for the program under consideration.
- Accreditation - Schools need to be accredited by one of the six regional accreditation agencies. Credits earned at other institutions may not be transferrable to another program and employers may not recognize the degree.
Resources
International Association of Fire Fighters
National Fire Service – Higher Education
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