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The best online Fire Science associate’s degree programs train students in a wide range of topics related to fire science. Considered a subdiscipline of physical science, fire science covers fire behavior, combustion, and dynamics with diverse applications in fire protection and prevention, fire investigation, and fire safety.
Students also study hazardous materials, building construction codes, and wildfire management. By using the principles of engineering in particular and science in general, fire science professionals study the causes and effects of fire in diverse settings, too.
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The Lowdown
The best online fire science associate’s degree programs train the next generation of fire services and emergency services professionals, such as firefighters, fire safety inspectors, and fire investigators.
These fire science professionals work in diverse settings, too, from the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors to wildfire management in state parks. Indeed, the rich employment opportunities attract the best and brightest to pursue an associate in fire science degree as their entry-level credential!
But it’s also important to know that the associate degree in fire science is one of many stepping stones in career advancement! Be sure to look into the certification and other credentialing requirements.
Be aware, too, of the risks that come with being a fire science professional, from physical injuries to mental health issues (e.g., PTSD).
Methodology
When choosing from these fire science degree programs, you must determine whether their program of study, student outcomes, and costs are in your favor. The best online associate in fire science degree meets your current needs and contributes to the achievement of your career goals!
Every online Fire Science associate degree program featured here was selected based on the following criteria:
- Offered by a regionally accredited institution, whether a two-year community college or a four-year university,
- Recognized by the FESHE-Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education through the U. S. Fire Administration National Fire Academy (NFA),
- Delivered in an online or blended learning format that allows students to learn anytime, anywhere with a personal computer and an Internet connection,
- Features fire science-related courses that prepare students for the risks and rewards of careers in the fire services and/or emergency services sectors,
- Has faculty members with appropriate educational credentials and professional experiences,
- Offers financial aid options, favorable transfer credit policies, and satisfactory student support services
Please visit our Methodology page and take a look at our detailed ranking process.
9 Best Online Associates in Fire Science Schools
Purdue University Global
Online Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science Program
The AAS in Fire Science degree at Purdue Global is recognized as a FESHE-Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education institution by the US Fire Administration. Plus, it has programmatic accreditation from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), thus making it among the best in the nation.
- Students build their skill sets in fire science, including fire safety, prevention, and protection, as well as in firefighting and code inspection through a combination of didactic coursework and an internship option.
- Students are a mix of current fire services professionals and freshmen students without fire science experience. Multiple start dates allow maximum flexibility.
- The fire science degree program features a 60-semester credit curriculum that can be completed in two years of full-time study. Credits earned can be transferred into a bachelor’s degree program at Purdue Global and other institutions.
- Applicants must have a GED or high school diploma to be considered for admission into the AAS in Fire Science program.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The online fire science degree program emphasizes the use of fire science technology in firefighting, arson investigations, and fire dynamics. Courses last for ten weeks and include topics in fire protection systems, emergency services strategies, and fire prevention tactics.
Student performance is evaluated based on Purdue Global’s Course Level Assessment Assessment method – students demonstrate their knowledge and skills based on predetermined course outcomes.
Did You Know?
This is among the most affordable associate’s degree programs in fire science! Students can earn credits for their prior work experience and military training and experience, as well as apply for federal financial aid, corporate partner benefits, and employee tuition reimbursements.
Credit may also be granted through courses completed in the National Fire Academy, fire service associations, and fire academies.
Louisiana State University
Online Associate of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services
Louisiana State University (LSU), a four-year public land-grant research university with accreditation from the SACSCOC-Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges, offers an AAS in Fire and Emergency Services program.
The curriculum is in compliance with the Fire Emergency Services and Higher Education model approved by the National Fire Academy.
- The AAS in Fire Science program welcomes both freshmen students and current fire service and emergency services professionals. Students gain professional knowledge and skills necessary for career advancement in diverse occupations in the public and private sectors.
- Students complete 60 credits to earn the associate degree with a two-year time-to-degree for full-time enrollment.
- Courses are characterized by academic rigor and broad coverage of topics in emergency services, fire protection systems and equipment, and fire science technology, among others.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students can customize their fire science degree by choosing from two concentration areas – Fire Services Technology and Emergency Services Technology. The general education and major courses are the same, with the exception of the elective courses that customize the associate degree.
The fire science program allows up to 24 transfer credits from prior learning and professional certifications, such as firefighter and paramedic training. Students in the fire science online program receive continuous support from application to graduation via the Student Success Coach program.
Did You Know?
Admission into the associate degree program requires ACT scores aside from a high school diploma or its GED equivalent. Applicants must be ready for a selective admission process, too.
Columbia Southern University
Online Associate of Science in Fire Science
Columbia Southern University, a private online university accredited by the SACSCOC, offers several associate’s degree programs.
Among the best programs is its Associate of Science in Fire Science program, recognized by the US Fire Administration and its National Fire Academy as part of its Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education initiative.
- The 60-credit curriculum features courses in fire science technology, principles of fire and emergency services, and building construction for fire protection.
- Students can transfer up to 45 credits, thus shortening their time-to-degree and saving on tuition. Transfer credits can be from an associate degree and from relevant professional credentials.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The fire science online program adopts a multidisciplinary approach in its comprehensive curriculum that, in turn, enables students to gain a broad understanding of fire science.
Students learn the technical skills necessary for the safe and proper use of fire service equipment, in the effective evaluation of fire scenarios, and in keeping up with the trends in fire services and related sectors.
This is among the most affordable fire science degree programs, too. Financial aid is available, including scholarships, military and veteran benefits, and learning partner discounts.
Students in the fire science degree program can choose between the following:
- LifePace Learning, with its self-paced learning system and year-round enrolment
- Term enrolment with its set course dates, weekly assignments, and 11 start dates
- Veterans Flexible enrolment for students on VA benefits
Did You Know?
Students are advised early on about the competitive nature of employment in the fire services and emergency services sectors. Physical and mental health, criminal background screening, and education and work experience are among the factors considered.
Volunteer State Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science
Volunteer State Community College, a public comprehensive community college accredited by the SACSCOC, offers numerous associate’s degree programs in diverse areas.
Among its best programs is the Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science program, designed along with Vol State’s commitment to promoting community awareness, diversity, and economic development.
- Students in the AAS in Fire Science program are a mix of freshmen students and current fire services professionals who want the flexibility of a 100% online program.
- Students earn an associate degree in fire science by completing 60-61 credits in two years of full-time enrolment.
- Courses include fire protection systems, fire science technology, and principles of fire and emergency services.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The fire science degree online program is part of a ladderized program for students who have earned a Technical Certificate in Fire Science Technology. Students then earn both an associate degree and a technical certificate, a combination that will boost their career advancement opportunities in the fire service profession.
Did You Know?
Graduates of the online fire science program possess the knowledge and skills vital to promoting the fire services and emergency services profession in whatever career path they choose.
Their skill sets include building construction, hazardous materials, and fire protection systems and components in relation to fire prevention and safety.
Keiser University
Online Associate of Science in Fire Science Program
Keiser University, a well-respected private nonprofit university accredited by the SACSCOC, has numerous undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Known for its commitment to social mobility among students, graduates of its associate degree programs report excellent job opportunities.
This is true for its associate in fire science degree online program that prepares freshman students for entry-level positions and qualifying firefighters for supervisory positions in fire service organizations.
- Students complete 60 credit hours of general education, major, and elective courses to earn the associate degree. Full-time and part-time matriculation are allowed, thus allowing students to balance their personal and professional obligations.
- The comprehensive curriculum features courses in private fire protection systems, fire prevention practices, and firefighting tactics and strategy.
- The program of study emphasizes practical skills development based on a sound foundation of theory in fire science.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Graduates awarded the associate degree in fire science are eligible for excellent positions in fire and emergency services, thanks to their solid knowledge and skills in fire suppression and extinguishment, fire safety and prevention, and crisis management.
These professionals are also committed to community service that is in line with the protection of life and property.
Did You Know?
The online fire science program adopts Keiser’s career-focused curriculum approach that employers across the state have evaluated.
This means students gain the knowledge and skills that prospective employers seek in their candidates, and it’s the hands-on career education for which Keiser has established an enviable reputation.
Casper College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science
Casper College, a comprehensive community college in Wyoming, is known for its exceptional quality of academic instruction, student support services, and graduate outcomes. No wonder then that its Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science program is among the best online fire science programs since it has these features, too.
- Students in the AAS in Fire Science program can transfer their earned credits to a bachelor’s degree program in fire science management or other related fields. Graduates may also use their associate degrees for employment after graduation.
- Students have the opportunity to learn from their peers from local fire departments and from experienced instructors during the didactic coursework.
- The online fire science program uses MyCCMoodle as its learning management system (LMS), where students access their learning materials and pass their assignments, among others.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students in the online degree in fire science program not only gain the fundamental knowledge and skills of fire science through didactic coursework. Their education also includes hands-on training via an experiential learning experience – or a day in the life of a fireman experience.
Students work a 24-hour shift alongside experienced firefighters at the Casper Fire Department.
Most of the classes have a forum-based format where the instructors pose questions about fire service issues, and students write their responses. The responses are based on the reference textbooks and the student’s experiences.
Students tackle eight core classes in hazardous materials, fire investigation, and rescue practices, among others.
Did You Know?
Students who want to earn the fire science associate’s degree on time should spend at least 2-4 hours per week on every class. Online students have the option of substituting community service with past training in emergency services, hazardous materials, wildland firefighting, or Firefighter I certification.
SUNY Nassau Community College
Hybrid Associate of Science in Fire Science
Part of the prestigious State University of New York, the Nassau Community College offers an online fire science degree program that enables students to gain a deep appreciation for fire service and its importance in society.
Students benefit from the balanced approach between a strong liberal arts education and fire science-specific skill sets.
- Graduates awarded the associate degree have completed 63-64 credits of coursework.
- Time-to-degree is two years with full-time enrolment, and the earned credits can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program in fire science or fire science management.
- The rigorous academic coursework covers fire safety and tactics, hazardous materials, and fire protection and detection systems.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Note that this is a partly online fire science – 50% of the coursework and other academic activities are delivered online. The program uses a semester-based curriculum with asynchronous classes that allow for flexible scheduling and self-paced study. The same on-campus faculty members teach the online courses.
Earning the undergraduate degree in fire science, however, demands at least 9-12 hours of study time every week to keep up with the course load. Access to the learning materials is available 24/7 except when stated otherwise.
Did You Know?
Online students in the fire science associate’s degree program can apply for financial aid, including scholarships and federal financial assistance.
Waldorf University
Online Associate of Arts in Fire Science
Waldorf University, a private university, offers an online fire science associate degree program that attracts aspiring and current professionals in fire services for its academic rigor and practical training.
Students are allowed to choose from electives that contribute to their career advancement goals and personal interests.
- The online program features asynchronous courses that enable students to study based on their personal and professional commitments while still benefiting from the academic rigorousness of the coursework.
- Students must earn 60 credits to be awarded the associate degree and can finish the program in two years with full-time enrollment.
- Courses cover topics in fire and emergency services, fire dynamics, and fire investigation and analysis.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Graduates who earn an associate degree in fire science can apply for the academic credential in immediate employment after graduation or pursue a bachelor’s degree in fire science administration.
Waldorf University has a bachelor’s degree program that, like its associate degree counterpart, is a FESHE-recognized program that is compliant with US Fire Administration policies.
Did You Know?
Waldorf University’s associate’s degree programs are characterized by their innovative curriculum, affordable tuition fees, and exceptional quality of instruction.
American Public University
Online Associate of Science in Fire Science
The American Public University, a private online university, offers among the best online fire science programs that train students in the fundamental knowledge and skills of fire science.
Leadership skills, including crisis and emergency services management, are emphasized, too, in the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress-accredited program.
The curriculum is also based on the model established by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education, as approved by the National Fire Academy.
- The fire science degree program has a 60-credit curriculum with courses that start on a monthly basis.
- The courses are conducted online and have varying lengths, from 8 to 16 weeks.
- The coursework includes fire safety, fire prevention, and fire protection fundamentals, including hydraulics and water supply.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students in the online fire science program prepare for successful careers in fire services. Their training includes the identification and implementation of fire protection, prevention, and mitigation measures.
Students in the online program also learn the legal and ethical aspects of working in local fire departments.
Did You Know?
Prospective students who want admission into the fire science associate’s degree program must possess a high school diploma or its GED equivalent. Military tuition discounts are available, and active duty military personnel, such as reservists and National Guard members, don’t have to pay the $65 technology fee per course.
A Closer Look at the Associate of Fire Science Program
Just like other associate degree programs, associate in fire science degree programs typically have a two-year time-to-completion and a four-semester structure. The curriculum consists of 60 credit hours or 90 quarter units, depending on the program of study used.
While the coursework and its sequence differs between associate degree programs, the common distribution is one-third general education courses, one-third major courses, and one-third elective courses. At the associate degree level, concentration options are rare, if not absent.
The common major courses in associate in fire science degree programs include but aren’t limited to:
- Fire prevention course, which deals with methods in fire prevention, including public awareness campaigns and fire safety techniques
- Fire suppression course that covers physical and chemical actions of fire (e.g., fire triangle and water effect)
- Fire education courses through effective education and outreach programs in schools, communities, and businesses
- Emergency services and emergency management classes where students learn about first-aid techniques and search-and-rescue procedures
- Fire behavior course that enables students to learn about the fundamentals of fuel, combustion, heat, flammability, and ignition, among others
- Fire safety codes that cover building construction rules and regulations in relation to fire prevention and protection
- Hazardous materials management course where students learn about hazardous materials, from their identifying features to their proper disposal
- Fire science technology course, which trains students in the proper identification and use of fire protection systems (i.e., technical skills)
- Fire investigation and analysis course that covers the rules and regulations for post-fire site inspections and investigations as well as laboratory and courtroom procedures in arson investigations
Junior colleges, community colleges, and online institutions, as well as accredited fire academies, offer undergraduate fire science degree programs. However, there are several four-year colleges and institutions that also offer fire science associate’s degree programs in an online or blended format.
In both cases, graduates of associate in fire science degree programs can transfer their earned credits to bachelor’s degrees in fire science, fire and emergency services, or emergency services management programs.
Types of Associate in Fire Science Degrees
There are three types of associate in fire science degree programs, namely:
- Associate of Arts in Fire Science degree programs emphasize liberal arts education that enables students to develop their transferable skills alongside their technical skills in fire science.
- Associate of Science in Fire Science degree programs emphasize science courses that enable students to approach fire science and its technology with a scientific mindset. Transferable skills are developed, too, via general education courses, particularly in liberal arts.
- Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science degree programs train students for immediate employment after graduation. While it’s considered a terminal degree, meaning earned credits may not be eligible for transfer to bachelor’s degree programs, the times are changing. Ask the program coordinator of whatever associate degree program you’re interested in about the transferability of credits before making your decision.
Online students in fire science degree programs may also be required to complete or offered the option to undergo in-person experiences, such as an internship.
Students in internship programs may work alongside experienced fire science professionals, such as firefighters, in local fire departments, emergency services departments, and state parks with wildfire management units.
Students in associate in fire science degree programs develop technical and transferable skills that employers look for in their employees. The technical skills include fire safety and prevention, the use of fire science technology, and emergency response skills, among others.
The transferable skills that fire science programs also emphasize include crisis management, communication and compassion, and decision-making skills, which are crucial in both fire services and emergency services professions.
Of course, a fire science associate’s degree may not be necessary for entry-level positions in the fire services and emergency services sectors. A high school diploma and training at an accredited fire academy followed by a probationary period are sufficient to become a firefighter; many others also attend training sessions conducted by the National Fire Academy.
But an associate in fire science degree is a competitive advantage and, thus, it’s a worthwhile credential to earn! Many employers prefer candidates for entry-level positions with a two-year associate degree.
Even experienced firefighters agree that an associate degree in fire science or fire science technology boosts their career advancement opportunities, such as in a supervisory position.
Career Prospects for Associate in Fire Science Online Degree Holders
Earning an associate’s degree in fire science is a worthwhile endeavor, and the numbers speak for themselves!
Salary
The median annual wage for workers in fire protection services and emergency services varies. Actual annual compensation also varies in each occupation depending on the worker’s educational credentials, work experience, and professional credentials.
Other factors that affect annual compensation include geographic location, type of industry, and employer policies.
The median annual wages for fire protection and emergency services personnel as of May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, are as follows:
- Firefighters: $57,120
- Fire inspectors and investigators: $71,420
- Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists: $52,130
- Emergency medical technicians: $44,780
Job Opportunities
Graduates of online fire science associate’s degree programs have plenty of career advancement opportunities in diverse workplaces, from local government units, particularly in fire departments, state and federal government agencies, and private organizations.
Indeed, it’s considered a golden ticket for many entry-level positions for inexperienced graduates and for supervisory positions for current professionals in fire services.
Many graduates can also work as emergency medical technicians and paramedics, usually with professional certification. In this case, the job opportunities extend beyond the fire services!
Most EMTs and paramedics work in ambulatory healthcare services organizations, local government units, and general medical and surgical hospitals. Many also work in administrative support positions in waste management and remediation companies.
Individuals interested in getting into the fire services and emergency services industry must also be well aware of the risks! Firefighters have among the highest incidence of injuries and illnesses due to the dangerous nature of their job, as well as dealing with unpredictable work schedules.
Firefighters usually work 24-hour shifts that may be extended during fire situations, while wildfire specialists may have seasonal work only.
Job Stability and Outlook
Fire Science associate’s degree holders can also look forward to favorable job growth over the next decade. According to the Labor Statistics Bureau, the employment of firefighters, forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists, and EMTs and paramedics ranges from 4% to 6% (2023-2033).
The favorable job growth can be attributed to several factors, including the need for firefighters to respond to fire outbreaks, including residential, commercial, and industrial fires, as well as wildfires.
Fire inspectors are also necessary for the evaluation of potential fire hazards in old and new buildings and other structures.
In contrast, fire investigators are essential in arson cases and the like. Forest fire prevention specialists, including wildfire firefighters, are also in demand because of the increasingly destructive wildfires across the country.
EMTs and paramedics are also in-demand professionals because medical emergencies, drug abuse incidents, natural disasters, and crime resulting in medical situations are ever-present issues in society.
Performance
Of course, the risks associated with fire services and emergency services occupations are crucial factors in your decision to pursue a fire science associate’s degree. Not everybody is cut out for the extreme challenges involved. But think about the benefits of earning an associate’s degree, too!
With your Fire Science associate’s online degree, your job opportunities are diverse, from fire science jobs to forensic science, law enforcement, emergency management, and homeland security. Such an opportunity to serve your community and nation – and to save lives – cannot be ignored either.
If you’re a current firefighter or a fire services professional, a fire science associate’s degree is a leg up on your competition for supervisory positions. For the most part, jobs in fire services are secure and in demand, not to mention pay better than you think. With a bachelor’s degree, you can even become a fire chief.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the typical tuition rate for an Associate in Fire Science degree program?
The tuition fee per credit and total cost of attendance for online students in fire science associate’s degree programs differ, but it can be as low as $3,800 for a two-year program. However, you can expect to pay less in community colleges and public institutions.
What’s next after earning an Associate in Fire Science?
This program is the first step in your career advancement, whether you’re a freshman student or a current professional. You should consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fire science followed by a master’s degree in a related field like fire services administration.
Summary Points
- Online Associate in Fire Science degree programs provide students with the opportunity to gain fundamental knowledge and skills in a wide range of topics in fire science. In doing so, students become competent professionals in fire services and emergency services management, either at the entry-level or supervisory levels.
- Keep your mind open to the risks and rewards that come with fire services and emergency services occupations.
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