Fire Science Careers

Fire science majors study the physical properties, characteristics, and behaviors of fire, as well as the techniques professionals use to put fires out. Programs also emphasize fire investigation techniques and rescue skills, including reviews of pertinent environmental legislation and safe approaches for fire remediation.

Most careers for a fire science major relate to firefighting and rescue services. This guide examines a variety of fire science careers, along with options for continued career growth and professional development.

Careers in fire science typically attract people with a strong desire to help their communities. Other important characteristics include dedication, a commitment to teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to perform under pressure. An aptitude for hands-on work with machines and technical equipment will also serve you well.

Many fire science majors go on to become firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), or paramedics. If these career paths interest you, keep in mind that you will also need to meet physical fitness requirements to pass entry examinations.

The median annual wages for firefighters in the U.S. are around $50,000. However, those who ascend to specialized or senior positions — like fire inspectors and top department administrations — can expect to earn higher wages.

Trained fire science professionals enjoy consistent demand, as fire departments provide essential emergency services and must remain fully staffed. In terms of job growth, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of firefighter positions in the United States will grow by 5% between 2018 and 2028. This matches the average projected growth rate for all occupations in the U.S..

The following table summarizes the salaries typically earned by fire science professionals at various stages of their careers:

Source: PayScale

The skills needed to work in fire science depend on the career you choose. For example, firefighters must possess exceptional physical stamina and strength to handle heavy equipment and rescue victims. Alternatively, fire inspectors should have extensive knowledge of fire codes, strong investigative skills to uncover the causes of fires, and the ability to communicate effectively with witnesses and the general public. Fire science professionals develop these skills through training, work experience, and formal education.

You can pursue many rewarding careers with a fire science degree. Most jobs in the field involve direct, hands-on duties focused on firefighting, emergency response, and rescue operations.

Some programs offer niche concentration options. If a specialized branch of fire science interests you, seek a program that offers the opportunity to study that topic in detail. Examples of generalist and specialized fire science career paths include:

Employers of fire science majors increasingly prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree, which provides the necessary knowledge base for the ongoing, long-term, on-the-job training firefighting professionals undergo. However, aspiring EMTs and paramedics may pursue required certifications and licensure after completing a two-year associate degree.

Individuals who want to become specialists, like arson investigators, and professionals who aspire to leadership positions in fire departments often choose to earn advanced degrees to further their careers in fire science. Master’s programs examine specific, focused topics in comprehensive detail. Successful graduates of these programs are highly capable and deeply knowledgeable professionals with elite training and leadership skills.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

For practically all fire science careers, learning does not stop when you earn a degree. Continuing education and constant on-the-job training impact virtually every area of professional practice.

Many careers for a fire science major, including EMTs/paramedics, firefighters, and fire investigation specialists, require some type of formal credential. For example, if your planned career path involves the use of fire trucks, ambulances, or other specialized vehicles or equipment, you may need to undergo additional training to obtain the necessary state-issued operator licenses.

Read on to learn more about certifications, licenses, continuing education, and other ongoing training requirements for careers with a fire science degree.

Firefighters in most jurisdictions are required to be licensed as EMTs, although specific requirements vary by state. In most cases, fire science and postsecondary EMT training programs build these skills into the curricula, preparing students to earn licensure before they graduate. Additionally, departments often require job candidates to demonstrate their proficiency with critical core skills to confirm their job eligibility.

Aspiring firefighters must also pass physical examinations that test their fitness. Because they carry out search and rescue operations, firefighters must meet certain fitness requirements; for example, they must show the ability to lift and carry incapacitated individuals who are in need of assistance.

Specialists like arson investigators may also need job-specific credentials. For example, the International Association of Arson Investigators offers a certified fire investigator credentialing program with widespread industry recognition. Professionals who require these types of endorsements typically need to recertify every 2-5 years, depending on local department policies.

Additionally, remember to consider vehicle licensure requirements if your planned career path involves driving fire trucks, ambulances, or other specialized vehicles.

For firefighters, continuing education typically takes the form of ongoing on-the-job training. Fire departments constantly hold field-based fire and search-and-rescue simulations designed to keep their team members sharp and in full command of their emergency response skills. These become part of your standard job duties should you choose to become a firefighter.

Most employers require that EMTs and paramedics regularly complete recertification and relicensing programs. In some jurisdictions, state-level agencies oversee certification and licensing programs, while others recognize credentials issued by national organizations like the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Candidates may have to complete continuing education units as part of their recertification or relicensing requirements.

If you wish to advance into a specialized career or leadership position, you can also go back to school to upgrade your degree. Aspiring administrators can also supplement fire science schooling and professional experience with degrees or certificates in subject areas that support their long-term career growth, such as organizational management or business administration.

Firefighters require high levels of strength and endurance to perform optimally during crisis situations, so adhering to a regular physical fitness regimen will serve you well throughout your career. If you wish to learn new skills, most fire departments support ongoing learning and professional development programs. Training opportunities may exist on-site or through partner departments or educational institutions.

You can also use these learning opportunities to explore focused areas of professional practice or refresh old skills. Practicing fire science professionals can take courses and seminars in a variety of subjects that cover topics like equipment use, response logistics, firefighting techniques, emergency response techniques, and more.

A large majority of fire science professionals work for municipal or regional fire departments and emergency response services. Some also work for government agencies, helping create and implement policies and administer resources for fire departments and first responders. A limited number also establish themselves as independent, self-employed consultants. For example, some arson investigators work this way.

Less common work environments include facilities like airports and large factories, especially those that manufacture particularly sensitive, hazardous, or flammable materials. Some companies that handle shipping and transportation logistics for flammable or hazardous materials also maintain in-house fire science specialists to ensure the safety and legality of their operations.

Emerging and established fire science professionals can take advantage of many different professional development and knowledge-building resources. These include open courseware, professional organizations, and specialized periodicals and publications.