What is Fire Science?

Important Facts About Fire Science Programs

Firefighting

From firefighting tactics to the use of firefighting equipment, fire science addresses nearly all aspects of firefighting. How to use firefighting apparatus and the principles of hydraulics, pumps, and water supply are covered in addition to safety and victim recovery. Advanced degree programs in fire science typically offer courses in emergency management and fire administration.

Fire Protection and Prevention

Fire science is also the study of fire protection and prevention. Fire science involves studying principles of building construction for the development of fire protection systems. Introductory and advanced studies in fire prevention are included in a fire science degree program. Fire science also explores the principles of hazardous materials management.

Fire Investigation

Fire analysis and fire or arson investigations are other areas of study in fire science. The study of fire damage and the investigation of specific types of fires, such as a vehicle or electrical fires, are key parts of the fire science field. Fire investigation methods, how to handle evidence, and investigating fatal fires are among the other topics that fall within the realm of fire science.

Career Outlook and Salary Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), firefighters are expected to see as fast as the average employment growth of 4% between 2021 and 2031. The BLS predicts that fire inspectors and investigators will see an employment growth of 6% during that time.

In May 2021 the BLS released salary information for these professions. Firefighters earned a median income of $50,700 per year, while fire inspectors and investigators made an annual median wage of $63,080.