Focus on Majors: Fire Sciences

Fires are a powerful force of nature, and their impact is felt in communities across the country. In 2022 alone, U.S. fire departments responded to approximately 1.5 million fires, tragically resulting in nearly 3,790 civilian deaths, over 13,250 injuries, and an estimated $18 billion in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). On a larger scale, wildfires have become a growing concern, with an average of 70,000 wildfires occurring each year since the 1980s. These fires, exacerbated by climate change, now burn longer, spread faster, and cause greater devastation than ever before.

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For high school students interested in tackling these challenges, fire science offers a variety of paths to make a difference. From studying fire behavior and investigating causes to designing fire-resistant materials or working on environmental restoration after wildfires, the field provides many opportunities to protect lives, property, and ecosystems. With majors like fire protection engineering, wildfire management, fire investigation, and fire ecology, students can turn their passion for safety and the environment into a meaningful and impactful career.
Fire science degree programs go beyond traditional firefighting or forestry to include post-fire environmental restoration, fire-resistant construction materials, fire mitigation measures, and the development of fire and building codes. These interdisciplinary programs often combine fire science, engineering, environmental science, and public policy.
When looking for programs that cater to your interests, consider majors that have an interdisciplinary focus. Programs that combine fire science with engineering, ecology, and environmental sciences often have broader applications. Also, look for programs with research facilities for fire testing and environmental restoration. 
BS in Fire and Arson Investigation- Eastern Kentucky University offers a major in Fire, Arson, and Explosion. Classes can include fire, arson, and explosion investigation, chemistry, and crime scene investigation. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers classes in Building Construction and Life Safety Systems, Fire Protection Systems, and fire investigations.
BS in Fire Protection Engineering- Many schools tailor their fire engineering curriculum to arm students with current knowledge in fire prevention and structural science. The University of Maryland and Worcester Polytechnic Institute offer classes such as Life Safety Analysis, Rsk-Informed Performance-Based Design, and Computational Methods in Fire Protection. Students will learn to identify fire-resistant materials, develop fire alarm technology, and consult on applications of fire safety codes.
BS in Fire Administration and Technology- California State Los Angeles offers classes in fire defense planning, hazardous material, and fire cause investigation. This program integrates theory, research, and practical application that develops and advances leadership, management, and administrative skills.
BS in Fire Management-  At the University of Florida, Fire Management is housed in the School of Construction Management. Courses can include Principles of Fire and Emergency Services Management, Applications of Fire Research, and disaster planning and control. Cal Poly Humboldt offers a similar major. Classes offered at this institution range from Fundamentals of Fuel and Fire, and Fire Behavior to Applied Fire Use and Policy.
BS in Forestry- Is offered at Oregon State and Cal Poly Humboldt where you can focus on forest restoration and fire. Classes can include forest biology, soil science, and wildland fire and science management.

Careers for Fire Science Majors

· Fire Inspector
· Wildland Fire Specialist

· Safety Engineer

· Compliance Manager

· Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialist

· Fire Ecologist

· Prescribed Fire Burn Boss

· Habitat Restoration Specialist

· Battalion Chief

· Water Resource Analyst

· Arson Investigator

· Fire Suppression System Designer

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