If you are looking to ignite your career with one of the country’s best affordable Bachelor’s in Fire Science degrees, you have come to the right place. The field of fire science focuses on the study of fire and how professionals can use various tools to contain it. These programs also cover building codes, laws, and measures that mitigate fire-related damages and threats. Students learn how to use appropriate technology, develop their leadership and teamwork skills, assess community risks, and develop advocacy skills to help in the community. While most aspiring fire science professionals concentration on structural and urban fires, others may opt for a specialization in forest fire prevention and suppression. If this sounds like the career for you, keep reading to learn more about the top 25 best affordable Bachelor’s in Fire Science degrees.
Methodology
We know how time-consuming and confusing it can be to narrow down the right college. So, we decided to help by compiling the following list of the best affordable Bachelor’s in Fire Science degree programs. To get our initial list of schools, we used the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We searched for fire science bachelor’s degrees and narrowed down the initial pool of 30 colleges and universities into the top 25 schools based on the methodology.
Average Cost of Attendance
The first thing that most future undergraduates look at in a program is cost. After all, it makes no sense to spend time researching a program if you ultimately cannot afford it. While cost is undoubtedly important and is the main reason behind this article, it is also just as critical to look at the big picture when selecting a school. In other words, does this college offer the concentration or specialization you are interested in pursuing? Are there opportunities for internships or hands-on learning experiences? Does the school provide extracurriculars, clubs, and/or student organizations to help you supplement the curriculum? Consider everything the college or university has to offer as well as tuition to choose the best school possible. For this article, we ranked tuition based on how much an in-state student would be expected to pay for one year of study using tuition information provided by the NCES. Rates for out-of-state students are listed below as well.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
We used each school’s student-to-faculty ratio to get a better understanding of its learning environment. Although there is no hard rule, most colleges and universities with high student-to-faculty ratios offer larger class sizes. This can be great for students who prefer to blend into the background and complete their work without any additional accountability needed. On the other hand, those with low ratios are known for smaller environments in which students benefit from mentoring, close relationships with faculty, and opportunities for individualized studies. There is no one-size-fits-all setting, so consider your own learning style and academic needs when thinking about class size. For this article, however, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios, according to NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we used each school’s graduation rate as a measure of student satisfaction and success. Again, there are always exceptions, but in most cases, schools with high graduation rates are doing something right to keep their students enrolled right through graduation. On the other hand, schools with low graduation rates are lacking in some way. So, their unhappy students leave and pursue their degrees somewhere else, thus the low numbers. Many factors could cause students to be unhappy like unaffordable programs, little to no academic support, a lack of internships or extracurriculars, or inexperienced or unhelpful faculty members. So, we decided to award the most points to colleges and universities with the highest graduation rates from NCES as indicated below.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Best Affordable Bachelor’s in Fire Science Degrees
25. Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 2018, Purdue University Global is the adult-serving campus of the Purdue University System that offers most of its programs online. It is also recognized as an official Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) institution by the U.S. Fire Administration. Purdue Global offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Fire Science degree that is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). The economical 180-credit curriculum builds foundational skills in firefighting tactics and strategies, code inspection, fire prevention, building codes, and firefighter safety. Students may also choose to complete an internship and gain valuable hands-on, real-world experience.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Science
In-State Tuition: $14,343
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,343
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
24. Colorado State University-Global Campus
Fort Collins, Colorado
Points: 4
Program Website
Colorado State University-Global Campus is the public online campus of the Colorado State University System. Established in 2007, it is also one of the most affordable universities for a fire science degree. CSU-Global offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration that focuses on program evaluation, emergency management, financial management, and personnel administration. Students may also choose to supplement their degree with one of nine available minors. Prior experience in emergency and fire services is strongly recommended. This cheap fire science degree program is available entirely online and allows students to complete classes in any order. Graduates may earn their degree in as few as two years.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Fire and Emergency Services Administration
In-State Tuition: $8,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,400
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
23. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Undergraduates looking for an affordable fire science degree should consider Bellevue University. Established in 1966, Bellevue is a private institution of higher education that provides educational outreach and adult education. The school’s inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management is available online and on-campus and focuses on the emergency disaster management cycle: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Other areas of study include risk assessment, terrorism, technology and communication, and command structure. Students must complete 127 credits for the program. Graduates of this high-value degree program are prepared for careers in emergency services management, safety and security, law enforcement, and first response.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $7,827
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,827
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
22. St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, Florida
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1961, St. Thomas University is a private Catholic University and a top choice for a low-cost fire science degree. STU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Management degree program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. The high-value curriculum is designed based on the Fire and Emergency Higher Education (FESHE) program and covers areas like fire and emergency services administration, conflict resolution, EMS management, technology, and personnel management. Outside of the classroom, students can take advantage of opportunities such as career services and both on- and off-campus employment, including work-study programs and hands-on internships.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Management
In-State Tuition: $31,830
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,830
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
21. Point Park University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Recognized among the top universities for a cost-effective fire science degree, Point Park University is a private, liberal arts institution of higher education. Established in 1960 as Point Park Junior College, PPU provides a fully online Bachelor of Science in Public Administration with a concentration in Fire Service Administration. The economical 120-credit-hour program consists of eight-week classes and can be completed in two to four years. Courses focus on relevant topics like prevention management, risk reduction, and fire research. PPU’s partnership with the National Fire Academy provides undergraduates with unique opportunities to pursue certification.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration, Fire Service Administration Concentration
In-State Tuition: $31,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
20. Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1937, Madonna University is a private, Catholic liberal arts institution of higher education. Madonna’s economical fire science degree is provided in the form of a Bachelor of Science. The cost-effective curriculum includes required courses in building construction as well as fire protection and prevention. Other areas of study include fire protection systems, hazardous materials, tactics and strategy, and hydraulics and water supply. In this program, small classes pave the way for one-on-one instruction from experienced faculty members. Internships and senior projects provide hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared for careers as firefighters and fire investigators, risk assessment personnel, and fire protection specialists.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire Science
In-State Tuition: $21,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
19. Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, Oregon
Points: 6
Program Website
Eastern Oregon University, established in 1929 as Eastern Oregon Normal School, is one of seven state-funded, four-year institutions of higher education in the state. EOU’s cheap online Bachelor of Science in Fire Services Administration degree aligns with the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) curriculum requirements. Students have the opportunity to customize their degree through emergency medical systems administration and fire services administration coursework, or they may choose to double-major in both disciplines. Areas of study include fire investigation and analysis, fire and emergency services administration, fire prevention organization and management, and fire protection systems. The low-cost program is available entirely online.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Services Administration
In-State Tuition: $8,679
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,739
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
18. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Points: 6
Program Website
The Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a public university that began as the Louisiana State Normal School in 1884. The first school in the state to provide business education and nursing programs, it is now recognized among the most affordable universities for a fire science degree. NSU students pursuing the school’s cheap Bachelor of Science in Unified Public Safety Administration can pursue a concentration in Fire and Emergency Medical Service Administration or Emergency Management Administration. Students complete 49 semester hours of coursework in the major as well as 21 hours of study in either concentration. Topics of focus from this high-value bachelor’s include fire service administration and management, emergency medical response planning, managerial issues in hazardous materials, and concepts of emergency medical service.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Unified Public Safety Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,922
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,710
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
17. Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded as Western Illinois State Normal School in 1899, Western Illinois University is a public institution of higher education and a top choice for a high-value fire science degree. WIU’s inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Services includes two options: Fire Science or Fire Administration. The program aligns with the curriculum standards set by the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) network. Faculty members are all former chief officers who continue to blend their real-world experiences with a rigorous academic program. Outside of the classroom, students benefit from field-based learning opportunities and a robust internship program. A B.S. in Emergency Management is also available.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Services
In-State Tuition: $12,951
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,951
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
16. New Jersey City University
Jersey City, New Jersey
Points: 7
Program Website
New Jersey City University is a public liberal arts university. Established in 1927, it is also recognized as an affordable university for a fire science degree. NJCU offers a cost-effective Bachelor of Science in Fire Science that prepares graduates to become firefighters and, ultimately, fire officers. Areas of study include fire protection systems, fire investigation, and code enforcement. Students of this economical degree program also develop their knowledge of firefighting strategies, fire department organization and administration, and building construction. Students must complete a work-study cooperative education component and undergo a portfolio/certification review before graduating from the program.
Degree Options:
Fire Science, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $12,052
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,574
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
15. Lake Superior State University
Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1946, Lake Superior State University is the smallest public university in the state. Students looking for a best-value fire science degree can pursue a Bachelor of Science degree from LSSU’s College of Criminal Justice and Emergency Responders. The inexpensive Fire Science Generalist program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in emergency planning as well as fire education, investigation, prevention, and protection. Those looking to work in a fire department are encouraged to pursue a minor in Paramedic Technology. The Fire Science Generalist curriculum prepares graduates to receive national/state certification in a handful of areas. Approximately 90 percent of graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science Degree, Fire Science Generalist
In-State Tuition: $11,895
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,895
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
14. Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1910, Bowling Green State University is a public research institution of higher education and an affordable, accredited university for a fire science degree. BGSU’s high-value online Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration is a degree-completion program that is available entirely online with no residency requirement. Students are organized into a cohort, and they must complete 122 credit hours of study. Core courses cover topics in emergency management, fire and emergency services administration, fire research, and the psychology of disaster. A capstone course in advanced fire and emergency services administration is also required.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration
In-State Tuition: $11,105
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,093
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 56 percent
13. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1819 as Cincinnati College, the University of Cincinnati is the oldest institution of higher learning in the region. Students seeking a unique, top-value fire science degree can pursue Cincinnati’s Bachelor of Science in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology. Students may transfer up to 60 credit hours earned in an associate degree program. The low-cost curriculum includes eight core courses in fire science that cover areas like fire tactics, fire and emergency services administration, applications of fire research, and firefighter safety, risk management, and mental health. Students also develop their leadership, communication, budgeting, and management skills.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology
In-State Tuition: $11,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,334
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
12. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for a fire science degree, Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution of higher education that was established in 1906 as a normal school. Today, EKU offers an inexpensive bachelor’s degree in fire protection administration — one of only a few programs of its kind in the country. The cost-effective program is available entirely online and accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). Students can apply up to 90 hours of transfer credits toward the 120-hour requirement. Areas of study include fire prevention organization and management, fire protection systems, emergency service resource management, and advanced emergency services. Classes are offered in accelerated, eight-week terms and taught by nationally renowned instructors.
Degree Options:
Fire Protection Administration
In-State Tuition: $9,666
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
11. University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1908 as a nonsectarian college, the University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public research university and a solid choice for undergraduates seeking an affordable degree in fire service. UNO offers a cheap Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management with a concentration in Fire Service Management. This top-value program emphasizes fire technology and safety as well as the role of rescue and fire services in disasters and emergencies. Required courses cover fire prevention organization and management, fire strategy and tactics, codes and inspections, fire and emergency services administration, and analytical approaches to public fire protection.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $7,790
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,764
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
10. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1871, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is the third-largest university by enrollment in the state and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. UW-Oshkosh offers an affordable online bachelor’s degree in fire and emergency response management. The FERM major allows undergraduates to choose one of two emphasis areas: Emergency Management or Fire Services Management. The best-value program has earned the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (RESHE) recognition certificate, and it was also the first online degree program in the U.S. to be accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). Students from this top fire and emergency response management degree program who transfer up to 90 credits into the program can earn their degree in just two years.
Degree Options:
Fire & Emergency Response Management (FERM)
In-State Tuition: $7,621
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,194
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
9. College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, Nevada
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable colleges for a fire science degree, the College of Southern Nevada is a member of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Established in 1971, CSN offers a 121-credit Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services. This cheapest program includes coursework that has been approved by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model curriculum. Areas of study include fire and emergency services administration, fire investigation and analysis, fire prevention organization and management, and personnel management for fire and emergency services. Students must hold an associate degree in fire science or a related field to be admitted into the program.
Degree Options:
Fire and Emergency Services, BAS
In-State Tuition: $3,492
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,371
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 9 percent
8. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, New York
Points: 8
Program Website
The John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a public institution of higher education focused on criminal justice and forensic degree programs. A member of the City University of New York (CUNY) System, John Jay offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Fire Science that covers fire safety administration, hazard identification and mitigation, fire service hydraulics, building construction, and fire dynamics. Electives are offered in areas such as fire protection systems, safety engineering, fire investigations, and water-based fire suppression systems. Students of this top-value fire safety bachelor’s must complete 120 total credits to earn their degree.
Degree Options:
Fire Science, Bachelor of Science
In-State Tuition: $7,270
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,940
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
7. Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New Mexico
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1927, Eastern New Mexico University is a public university and a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. ENMU’s affordable online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Fire and Emergency Services features a 10-course curriculum, including six classes developed by the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) program. Areas of study include emergency services administration and management, fire prevention organization and management, and community risk reduction for fire and emergency services. Students of this cheap bachelor’s in fire and emergency services must complete a capstone in emergency management before graduating from the 120-hour program. A concentration in Emergency Management is also available.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, Fire and Emergency Services Concentration
In-State Tuition: $6,326
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,247
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
6. Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah
Points: 8
Program Website
Formerly known as Utah Valley State College, Utah Valley University is a public institution of higher learning and one of the most affordable universities for a fire science degree. UVU offers two economical programs through its Institute of Emergency Services and Homeland Security: a Bachelor of Science in Public Emergency Services Management and a Bachelor of Science in Technology Management with a concentration in Fire Science. The former focuses on management principles for public administration, emphasizing emergency service delivery. The latter focuses on technology management principles as they relate to the discipline of fire science.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Emergency Services Management
Bachelor of Science in Technology Management, Fire Science Specialty
In-State Tuition: $5,726
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,296
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
5. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1867, Fayetteville State University is a historically black public university and a member of the University of North Carolina System. Students can pursue FSU’s top Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration. This cheap program covers critical areas like investigation and analysis, fire prevention organization and management, administration, and community risk reduction. Students also learn about political and legal foundations, organizational dynamics, managerial issues, and fire-related human behavior. The curriculum aligns with the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model of excellence.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration
In-State Tuition: $5,249
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,857
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
4. Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Points: 9
Program Website
Established as Idaho State College in 1947, Idaho State University is a public research university and the state’s designated lead school in medical education and the health professions. ISU offers an affordable fire science degree in the form of a Bachelor of Science in Fire Services Administration. This inexpensive 120-credit program includes core coursework in fire and emergency services administration, community risk reduction, fire prevention organization and management, and personnel management. A practicum experience in the form of a hands-on internship is also required for students with less than five years of experience in fire services.
Degree Options:
B.S. Fire Services Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,420
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,940
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
3. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
Points: 9
Program Website
Rounding out our top three most affordable universities for a fire science degree is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Established in 1946, UNCC is a public research university and the fastest-growing campus of the University of North Carolina System. UNCC offers a cheap Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a concentration in Fire Safety that prepares graduates for careers in fire service and administration. Coursework covers leadership, management, fire behavior, passive and active protection systems, and the principles of research investigation. This high-value program is available entirely online for students who hold an associate degree in fire protection, fire science, or a related field.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Engineering Technology: Fire Safety
In-State Tuition: $6,853
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,287
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
2. Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, Idaho
Points: 9
Program Website
Established in 1893, Lewis-Clark State College is a public institution of higher education and our second-best pick among the best affordable colleges for a fire science degree. LCSC offers a cost-effective Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire Service Technology for students who have already earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in the same major. Also, undergraduates of this top bachelor’s in fire service must be members of a volunteer or paid fire department to enroll in the program. Students complete a minimum of 120 credits to earn their degree. Except for the required core courses, students schedule classes through the State Division of Vocational Education in Boise, Idaho.
Degree Options:
Fire Service Technology BAS
In-State Tuition: $6,618
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,236
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
1. University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Taking the number one spot on our list of the most affordable universities for a fire science degree is the University of Florida. Established in 1853, UF is a public space-, sea-, and land-grant research university and a member of the State University System of Florida. UF’s Rinker School of Construction Management offers the best online Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services for 2020. Three specializations are offered: Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services Management, and Fire Management. All students from this top bachelor’s are required to take a class in the principles of fire and emergency services management as their opening course. Students must hold an associate degree to enroll in the 120-credit program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services
In-State Tuition: $6,381
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,659
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 90 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Fire Science Degree?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in fire science can open up the door to many rewarding and crucial positions. While a bachelor’s degree is not always necessary to work in the field, those who earn a Bachelor’s in Fire Science are qualified to take on most entry-level positions. Depending on the organization, an undergraduate with a bachelor’s may also be equipped for some supervisory roles. Common career pathways include:
- Emergency Management Director
- Fire Inspector
- Firefighter
- Hazardous Materials Removal Worker
- Fire Protection Engineer
- Private Investigator and Detective
- EMT and Paramedic
However, because a bachelor’s degree is the start of many paths, undergraduates who earn this degree may find themselves seeking employment in a related field other than fire science. For example, many graduates go on to find positions in the forensic sciences, police or detection work, or emergency medical services. While these positions come with their own set of certifications and skills, fire science programs provide a solid foundation in administration, community work, and investigation.
When considering potential careers with a degree in fire science, it is also important to know that fire investigation, suppression, and prevention are all considered “recession-proof” careers because we will always need qualified fire professionals to protect land, property, and people. However, despite the danger of the industry, firefighting is considered one of the safest jobs in the country.
What is the Salary Potential for a Bachelor’s in Fire Science Degree?
When looking at the above career options, you can see why it is difficult to narrow down the salary earnings to just one number. Many factors contribute to salary like the position itself, the agency or organization one works for, location, level of education and experience, and whether one has earned a certification in a specific area. To learn more about how much an undergraduate can make with a Bachelor’s in Fire Science degree, we turned to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for help.
According to the BLS, firefighters earned $49,620 per year as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $88,920, while the lowest 10 percent brought home less than $25,170. The top-paying industries for firefighters included the local, state, and federal governments, excluding hospitals and education, as well as administrative and support services.
Next, we looked at fire inspectors, who earned $60,200 per year, or $28,94 per hour, as of May 2018. According to the BLS, the highest 10 percent of fire inspectors and investigators earned more than $95,330, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,400. The BLS also grouped forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists into this category, reporting wages ranging from less than $26,660 for the lowest 10 percent of workers to more than $83,810 for the highest 10 percent. Similar to firefighters, the top-paying industries for these professionals included the local and state governments, excluding hospitals and education, as well as manufacturing and state, local, and private colleges and universities.
One of the highest-paying positions an undergraduate can attain with a Bachelor’s in Fire Science is that of the emergency management director. These professionals reported average yearly earnings of $74,420 per year as of May 2018, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent earned more than $141,130, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,460. Below we listed some of the top industries in which these professionals worked as well as their salaries for each:
- Technical, scientific, and professional services: $101,570
- Private, local, and state universities, colleges, and professional schools: $90,640
- Private, local, and state hospitals: $84,040
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $67,940
- State government, excluding hospitals and education: $61,680
What Will You Learn in a Bachelor’s in Fire Science Degree Program?
As is the case with any college degree program, the educational requirements for a bachelor’s degree in fire science vary depending on the school. In fact, many careers do not require a bachelor’s degree at all to get started. However, those looking to increase their marketability and enhance their career prospects would fare best by investing in a Bachelor’s in Fire Science degree.
Coursework covers topics like natural resource studies, environmental science, and chemistry as well as arson and other fire-related crimes. Students majoring in fire science can also expect classes in federal, state, and local regulations for firefighting, disposing and handling hazardous materials, and resource protection. Other fundamental concepts covered include emergency management and fire prevention. Classes address post-suppression analysis, containment techniques, and both fire identification and scouting tactics. Some programs also allow students to learn about the fields of forest and urban fire behavior. Other courses include:
- Fundamentals of Emergency Management
- Fire Research
- Political and Legal Foundations
- Emergency Services and Fire Administration
- Psychology of Disaster
Depending on the school, an undergraduate might be able to choose a concentration and focus their program on a specific area. Doing so provides a deeper understanding and training in the chosen discipline. While universities tend to provide specializations that align with student demand and faculty expertise, most programs include concentration options in fire service management, fire science administration, and fire investigation.
Also, many organizations and agencies that hire fire science professionals require prospective candidates to either hold or earn an additional credential like EMT certification. Some Bachelor’s in Fire Science programs include this and other certifications as part of their coursework. Also, undergraduate fire science degrees usually include some type of hands-on learning like a practicum course or internship. This requirement allows students to gain hands-on, real-world training under the supervision of an experienced professional.
Choosing a Bachelor’s in Fire Science degree is a personal decision that only you can make for yourself. Whether you are starting in the field for the first time or you are looking to change careers and a fire science position is calling to you, a bachelor’s degree can open doors to several crucial roles. We hope that the above ranked list of the top 25 best affordable fire science degrees helps you find the right school that matches your career goals and educational needs.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 best affordable bachelor’s in fire science degrees.
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