If you have ever been interested in getting into a career in firefighting, fire investigation or fire safety then one of the many specialized or general Bachelor in Fire Science degrees may be just the course of study you have been looking for. These courses may also be very applicable for those working towards becoming a first responder such as an emergency medical technician. There are vast possibilities for careers in areas such as fire insurance underwriting, fire preventing, safety planning, software design with regards to fire prevention and safety and even for those that want to work to become hazardous material specialists or managers. Graduates can also continue on to Master level programs within the field or within a related field of study.
Although these degrees will cover many of the scientific and theoretical approaches to firefighting, fire investigation and fire safety management and planning, they will also go well beyond these basics. Students will learn about management of crisis situations, coordination of first responders in the event of fires and disasters as well as management of the scene. Human management, including how to coordinate emergency services within a community with a given set of resources, is an important component of all of the programs in this field. Leadership skills, effective communication and how to manage both people and equipment are all major components in these classes. Understanding models of safety as well as fire prevention are key points in training. In general, programs also provide students with an in depth understanding of the theory behind management and prevention, which will be invaluable information.
Of course one of the biggest issues in any of these programs is the prevention of fires as well as the safety aspects. These topics tend to form the core of the program with students learning how and why they spread in various building and places as well as how to control and manage them in a safe and effective manner. They will also focus on helping firefighters and other first responders through effective human resource development and training, ideally preparing graduates to move into entry and senior level management positions within related careers. Some might find that they would like to take classes just for their overall knowledge not necessarily to advance themselves in their careers. Think about it, if you worked in an industry where you could possibly be harmed while at work wouldn’t you want to keep up to date with industry news and information?
Many of the students completing these degrees are not kid’s right out of high school. In fact, many of the people completing these courses are current professionals in some aspect of fire fighting, insurance, prevention and safety or even prevention program development that wish to enhance their theoretical knowledge to advance in their career. Some may even wish to open their own consulting or marketing companies that specialize in safety or prevention within a specific sector. Many professionals working for state agencies work hours that may allow for side jobs. Entrepreneurs might want to take advantage of a second job to help supplement income, and therefore online programs are right for them.
Many of the degree programs are designed to be completed online, allowing working professionals to continue to work full time while still earning their degree. Online Bachelor of Fire Science degrees are generally flexible in their time frame for completion with some programs accelerated to allow early completion. Other programs are extended to allow students to complete it part-time. Either option will still allow students to enhance their ability to manage crisis situations, understand prevention and safety as well as learn the legal and practical aspects of handling emergency and crisis situations. In this field your true option for advancement is more education.
