Is a Fire Science Degree Right for Me?

A degree in fire science may be a good choice for you if you're interested in pursuing a career that explores the prevention, repression, and safe uses of fire.

A fire science degree looks scientifically at fire and the various ways to start, fight, and prevent it. This degree can lead to careers in fire service and fire administration, emergency management, and other public safety fields.

Keep reading to learn more about fire science degrees and how they can apply to different career paths.

What Is a Fire Science Degree?

A degree in fire science teaches knowledge and skills related to managing and preventing fires. These degree programs cover topics such as fire behavior, fire safety, fire hazards, and more.

Fire science degree programs are typically offered as associate and bachelor's degrees. Master's degrees are also occasionally available. Associate degree programs are commonly taught at community colleges, while bachelor's and master's degrees are available at colleges and universities.

Both on-campus and online fire science programs are available. These degrees can lead to careers in areas such as:

• fire administration
• emergency management
• emergency medical services
• fire service
• criminal justice
• law enforcement
• homeland security
• public administration
• public service

Students hoping to enter a fire science program typically need a high school diploma or GED to get started.

What Does a Fire Science Major Study?

Fire science degree programs typically include general education, core courses, and electives. Core coursework covers a variety of topics relative to managing and understanding fires. Concentrations may be available to allow students to tailor their education to their career pursuits.

Topics you can expect to learn about in a fire science program include:

• fire prevention
• fire protection
• emergency response
• hazardous materials
• types of fires (e.g. wildfires)
• fire codes and laws
• safe fire starting techniques
• fire suppression
• fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems
• firefighter safety
• building construction

Associate degree programs in fire science typically consist of at least 60 credit hours, while bachelor's programs comprise about 120. Full-time students can complete these degrees in about two and four years, respectively.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Fire Science

There are many good reasons why you may be considering a degree and career in fire science. Some of the more common reasons are listed below.

Better Career Opportunities

While you may think a fire science degree would naturally lead to a firefighting career, there are many other career paths you could pursue as well. Getting a degree in fire science leads to a wide range of career opportunities, such as an EMT or fire investigator, allowing you to find the specific position that works best for you.

Higher Pay

Job candidates holding a degree generally earn a higher salary than those who don't, and this rule applies to the fire service as much as any other industry. A fire science degree not only provides you with more potential job opportunities, but it can also make you a more desirable candidate for better and higher-paying positions.

Improved Skills

While you can learn many job-specific skills in a firefighter certification program, a college degree in fire science provides an even better skill set. You will learn all the same skills you would typically learn at the fire academy; plus, you will also develop skills in leadership, communication, critical thinking, and scientific principles and methods of fire.

Explore an Interest

Perhaps you have a deep academic interest in fire. A fire science degree allows you to study the subject in depth, learning advanced principles and tactics of firefighting and fire safety.

Pursue Advanced Education

Interested in pursuing high-level positions in fire administration, leadership, and emergency management? A bachelor's degree in fire science can provide a great stepping stone to advanced educational opportunities like master's and doctoral degrees.

Job Opportunities for Fire Science Degree Majors

There are many great career opportunities for fire science majors throughout various types of organizations, including the local fire department. Both entry-level and advanced positions are available, including firefighters, arson investigators, and forestry technicians. Some other options include:

• EMT or paramedic
• fire inspector
• fire chief
• wildland firefighter
• fire marshal
• fire protection engineer
• burn coordinator
• fire investigator
• emergency management specialist
• fire equipment sales representative

Fire Science Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Still wondering if fire science is the degree for you? Let's look at some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide.

Do I Enjoy Working as Part of a Team?

Most careers in fire science are service-oriented. This means you must be good at working with people and willing to be part of a team.

If you prefer to work alone or struggle with teamwork, consider how much you want to work in the fire service. Are you willing to work on your teamwork skills and grow your willingness to serve? If so, a fire science degree can help you do that.

What Are My Career Goals?

Firefighting is a physically and mentally demanding career that isn't for everyone. Spend some time thinking about your career goals, including specific jobs you'd like to pursue besides firefighting.

If you're interested in careers in fire service, law enforcement, or emergency management, a degree in fire science can give you the credentials to explore different career paths and find the one that works best for you.

What Other Majors Am I Considering?

Are you considering any other degrees besides fire science? Depending on your interests, have you thought about pairing them with your fire science degree to pursue a double major?

Double majoring with fire science can give you a wider range of skills and career options, allowing you to study fire science but apply your knowledge and skills to another field if desired. It can also help you tailor your education to specific career goals; for example, double majoring in fire science and emergency management can give you better opportunities to find work in both fields.