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Fire science degree and certificate programs offer a range of training to aspiring fire fighters as well as seasoned professionals. Whether you hope to train for an entry level career as a fire fighter or upgrade your education in firefighter administration and move up the ranks, education can be a key component to your success.

Preparing for a Career in Fire Science

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that an increasing proportion of fire fighters have training after high school and an associate degree in fire science can help your chances of starting your career. What's more, an associate?s degree in fire science, fire safety administration, fire protection, or similar is required for executive fire officer certification from the National Fire Academy. For fire fighters thinking about continuing education, a number of options are available. Bachelor's degree programs are popular options for students who hope to advance their careers. Degree concentrations include:

• Fire Science Administration
• Firefighter Administration
• Fire Safety Engineering Technology
• Fire Protection Engineering

Graduates often go on to careers as fire fighters, fire inspectors, arson investigators, or hazardous materials specialists. Employment is expected to grow faster than average for fire fighters, with a 19 percent growth projected between 2008 and 2018, the BLS notes. Fire fighters earned median annual wages of $45,700 in 2008, while first-line supervisors and managers earned $70,860. Fire inspectors and investigators earned median annual wages of $53,030, and job seekers should expect keen competition. Some level of career training is typically recommended for skilled fire science related careers.