Online Fire Science Certifications Overview

Fire science certificate programs are designed to provide firefighters with professional development opportunities, but some programs are also available to members of the private sector. Distance education allows students to combine online coursework with field training, which is ideal for students unable to attend traditional on campus classes.

Career Information

Firefighters play an important role in protecting lives and property by fighting fires and responding to emergencies, including automobile accidents and hazardous materials spills. Competition for jobs in this physically demanding profession is sometimes intense and employers often prefer candidates to possess a fire science certificate or degree.

Technical Requirements

Distance education students complete coursework online utilizing routine hardware, software and Internet access to tap into course content. Online classes are often completed asynchronously, which allows students to listen to video lectures on their own schedule rather than at a specific moment in time. The online elements of this training may need to be supplemented with required on-campus courses or residency requirements that provide the hands-on experience necessary to develop core competencies.

Fire Science Certificate of Achievement

Though the majority of certificate programs are designed as professional development for existing firefighters, some are available for civilian enrollment. Certificate programs may stand alone or may be the first step in the degree process. Degree-seeking students should verify that program credits transfer to the desired degree program prior to enrollment. Mandatory coursework may include:

• Fire Investigation
• Fire Protection
• Chemical Concepts
• Fire Tactics and Strategy

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Fire Science

Like certificate programs, many AAS degree programs are career focused educational opportunities for existing firefighters. Some programs allow individuals not currently employed by a fire department to enroll upon successful completion of assessment tests. The following courses may be required:

• Fundamentals of Firefighting
• Hazardous Materials Operation
• Live Fire Control
• Fire Inspection and Codes

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Fire Science

This degree program is designed for firefighters who aspire to management positions. Students explore a variety of topics related to fire prevention as well as leadership theory in order to prepare for the demands of leadership. Students may take courses in the following subjects:

• Foundations for Leadership
• Fire Dynamics
• Disaster and Fire Defense
• Community Risk Reduction
• Fire Prevention, Organization and Management

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Fire Science and Administration

Firefighters who aspire to a career as a fire chief or other high-ranking departmental position would benefit from this degree program. The goal of this program is to cultivate the skills and knowledge necessary to serve as a leader and deal with situations, such as biological weapons, terrorist attacks or natural disasters that could become a reality. The following subjects may be explored in this program:

• Hazard Analysis, Mitigation and Sustainability
• Emergency Services Strategic Planning
• Essentials of Emergency Management
• Critical Incident Stress Management