West Palm Beach Campus nursing program is a candidate for initial accreditation by the ACEN. This candidacy status expires on May 5, 2025

Understanding a Fire Science Degree

Understanding a Fire Science Degree

There are different ways to become a firefighter, and whether you decide to volunteer or make a career out of it will determine which path you take in most states.

If you’re seeking a career as a firefighter, or have spent time volunteering, you are probably considering earning a degree in fire science. This is a good move to ensure you are qualified for future full-time job openings.

Prerequisites for a Fire Science Degree

To enroll in a fire science associate’s degree program, candidates must be at least 18 years old and have their high school diploma or earned their GED. Candidates are also required to have a valid driver’s license and safe driving record, maintain a healthy physical condition, and pass physical and eye exams as well as a criminal background check. Fire school candidates also need to obtain their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification and CPR clearance. Once they’ve completed 398 training hours and the Firefighter II certificate, candidates may enroll in the degree program.

Inside Fire Science

A fire science degree prepares you for a career as a firefighter in a paid engine company, fire chief, fire inspector, and fire marshal. These roles may require additional training and education steps, but a fire science degree is the first rung of the ladder.

At HCI, the program consists of 60 credits and includes the following course topics:

  • Fire prevention best practices
  • Fire codes and standards
  • Firefighting tactics and strategies
  • Fire investigation

Students of this program must also select from a list of elective courses that includes:

  • Basic–Intermediate ICS
  • Ethical & Legal Issues For The Fire Service
  • Fire Department Administration
  • Fire Hydraulics
  • Fire Apparatus & Equipment
  • Fire Chemistry
  • Fire Investigation & Arson
  • Hazardous Materials I–III
  • Latent Investigation
  • Private Fire Protection Systems II
  • Public Information Officer

Other courses including mathematics and English basics are also required to obtain the degree.

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