Fire Science Colleges

Fire science is the study of handling, suppressing, and extinguishing fires. Knowing the techniques and strategies for firefighting are essential in this field. Fire fighters play an important role in our society. Hence education and intense training is required.
 

Fire science colleges prepare candidates for employment as firefighters and in other related fields. Fire science majors learn practical techniques for fighting fires and also learn the theories behind these techniques. These programs usually provide knowledge about areas such as:

• Hazardous materials;
• Building construction;
• Firefighter safety;
• Emergency medicine; and
• Communication

Online program in fire science

Apart from traditional campus-based programs, these days an increasing number of online programs offer degrees in fire science as well. Online programs offer certain benefits to students which include:
 

• Flexible scheduling;
• No need of commute to campuses; and
• Low cost of online education

Programs offered by fire science schools

Fire science is an ever growing field and many renowned schools are increasingly adding new programs in this field. Multiple degree levels are offered in this field and there are several related majors which prepare candidates for fire science careers.
 

Fire science certificate degree program

Many colleges offer certificate programs in fire science. This program provides basic knowledge in fire behavior, arson investigation, and wildfire management.

Associate's degree program An associate's degree is an intermediate level program and includes studies in fire behavior,fire prevention, rescue practices, and hazardous materials. Apart from that, these programs also offer administrative and basic management courses.
 

Bachelor's degree program

This degree is the next qualification level after an associate's degree program. Some of the bachelor's degrees in fire science and related fields are:
 

• Emergency management bachelor's degree
• Fire and emergency management bachelor's degree
• Fire protection administration bachelor's degree
• Fire protection and safety engineering bachelor's degree
• Fire science bachelor's degree
Some of the courses offered in this program may include:


• Fire science
• Fire behavior
• Fire chemistry and physics
• Risk management
• Emergency scene operation
• Advanced arson investigation

Master's degree program

This program provides an in-depth base of knowledge to fire-fighting professionals. It also helps fire-fighters wishing to pursue a career in public safety administration. Some of the master's degree programs include the following:
 

• Emergency management master's degree
• Executive fire leadership master's degree
• Fire science and administration master's degree
• Fire and emergency services master's degree
The courses offered by the program usually include:


• Public fire protection
• Risk management
• Arson analysis
• Building codes
• Terrorism
• Fire scene reconstruction

  PhD degree program

  This is an advanced level degree program in fire science. It includes research and quantitative methods in fire, emergency management and risk assessment.
  
  

  Career Outlook

  After pursuing a fire science degree, the traditional career paths include the following:
   
• Fire fighter
• Fire inspectors
• Fire investigators
However, this degree can also lead to jobs in areas such as emergency management, forensics, and homeland security.

Fire fighters

Median annual salary as of 2012: $45,250 (BLS)

These professionals may work at government funded departments, volunteer companies, and independent fire companies. They are responsible for controlling fire and helping with other emergencies, including medical emergencies.
 

Fire Inspectors and Investigators

Median annual salary as of 2012: $53,990 (BLS)

These individuals detect fire hazards by examining buildings and make sure that various fire codes are followed. They also determine the causes and origins of fire and explosion.
Other types of fire-related careers include:
 

Emergency medical technician

Median annual salary as of 2012: $31,020 (BLS)

Fire departments usually require fire-fighters to get education in emergency medical assistance. Hence a fire-fighter can extend his career to become an emergency medical technician.

Emergency medical technicians look after the sick or injured in medical settings. These individuals respond to emergency calls, respond to medical services, and transport patients to medical centers

.

Police and detectives

Median annual salary as of 2012: $56,980 (BLS)

Graduates with majors in fire science can also get trained to become police officers and detectives. These professionals are responsible for protecting lives and property.
 

Forensic sciences

Median annual salary as of 2012: $52,840 (BLS)

A fire-fighter has knowledge of forensic science field. Further education and training can lead to a career as a forensic science technician. The main responsibilities of forensic science technicians include collecting and analyzing physical evidence related to crime investigation.

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

Source: bls.gov