Fire Science Colleges and Universities in the U.S.

Many colleges and universities offer fire science degree programs for aspiring professional firefighters, fire department administrators and inspectors. In school, students learn to deal with accidental fires, arson and hazardous materials as part of their fire education.

View 20 Popular Schools »

Selecting Fire Science Colleges and Universities

Before choosing a school, prospective students should understand the difference between degree levels. Undergraduate fire science degree programs are intended for aspiring or professional firefighters; lessons explore the behavior of fires and hazardous flammable materials. Graduate-level programs address the engineering challenges in fire protection and prevention. Those seeking fire science training commonly only study at the undergraduate level; however, interested individuals should seek accredited programs for all program types.

Individuals may also wish to review program descriptions and course listings at potential schools to ensure classes match their career aspirations. Those working in the field that wish to pursue a management position might want to look for training in leadership, communications and arson investigation. Those who desire a role in public administration may want to study policymaking, fire prevention education and the legal aspects of fire science. Programs that focus on the development of improved fire protection and suppression systems may be ideal for aspiring engineering professionals.

Most people looking at fire science college programs have some experience working with a fire department. Experienced firefighters may recommend schools to volunteers who want to improve their prospects. Potential students might also want to consider colleges and universities with online or distance-learning programs designed to accommodate those employed in emergency services with non-traditional work schedules.

Fire Science Degree Programs Available

Associate's Degree in Fire Science

A 2-year fire science program prepares students to take on the administrative functions of a firefighting team. Those who embark on this career path are usually already working firefighters or emergency response team members who are seeking career advancement. They study fire behavior and combustion, fire chemistry, fire department administration, project management and legal issues in fire services. Graduates may come away with an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science or Fire Technology.

Bachelor of Science in Fire Science

A bachelor's degree can help firefighting personnel move up further in the ranks of emergency services. They can pursue management, training and teaching positions. Students take courses in command and control, catastrophic incidents, fire and emergency management, fire and emergency services, mass casualty incident management, fire services management and labor issues.

Show me popular schools

Related to Fire Science Colleges

  • Related
  • Recently Updated
  • Popular
List of the Best Fire Science Colleges in the U.S.

Fire science programs provide a foundation in basic fire chemistry, building construction and management for careers...

What Jobs Are Available with a Fire Science Major?

While a degree in fire science typically prepares graduates to work only in firefighting, there are a number of actual...

Fire Science Associate Degree Program Overviews

Associate degree programs in fire science are available online as well as on a number of college campuses. Associate...

Online Associate Degree in Fire Science with Program Info

Online fire science associate's degree programs train students in firefighting and fire investigation skills. Students...

Online Fire Science Bachelors Degree Program Overviews

20 Popular Schools

Popular Schools

Avg. Wages For Related Jobs

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics