Fire Science Degrees in North Carolina
Fire is one of nature’s most potent forces, and it can quickly become destructive and even deadly if you do not have the proper training to handle fire.
In 2021, the fire department responded to a fire in the US every 23 seconds. There were 1.35 million cases of fire in the United States in 2021, causing 3,800 civilian fire deaths and property damage worth $15.9 billion. This is clear from the statics that more fire science professionals are needed to help prevent fires and reduce fire threats besides saving lives.
It may appear as an over-specialized niche, but a degree in fire science prepares you for a role beyond firefighter. It helps you to take up various managerial and supervisory positions in multiple fields like Fire inspector, Fire Marshal, and Safety Consultant, among others.
What is Fire Science?
Fire science, as the name suggests, studies fires. It involves the study of all fire, from fire behaviour and audit to fire investigations. Focusing on fire science can lead to learning about fire behaviour, firefighting, fire investigation, prevention, and emergency management.
This specialized stream focuses on limiting the potential destruction of fire by using your abilities and expertise to assess each situation and react accordingly.
Why Should you pursue a degree in Fire Sciences?
People who have a great desire to give back to their communities frequently choose careers in fire science. Other crucial traits are devotion to teamwork, flexibility, and the ability to function well under pressure. You’ll also benefit from a willingness to work with tools and machinery on your hands.
How can I get a Fire Science Degree?
There are various options for getting a Fire Science Degree, from Online Programs to In personal degrees. There are Fire Academy under the aegis of colleges providing certification and intensive training to kick start your career.
Since we are focusing on Fire Science Degree in North Carolina, we will include online and in-person degrees.
Is it essential to have an accredited degree?
Knowing whether the college or university you choose has received accreditation is essential before deciding on it. Institutions are assessed in several categories as part of the accreditation process, which comprises a review. An institution’s accreditation ensures the student the caliber of education they will receive at the specified college
Programs in Fire Sciences offered at North Carolina
| Type of Degree | Credit hours required(may vary) | Typical Program Length | Admission Requirement |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120-180 | 4 Years | High School or GED transcript; Transfer GPA 2.5 |
| Master’s Degree | 30-36 credits | 1-2 years | Bachelor’s degree; Official transcripts from all applicable schools; letters of recommendation |
To become a firefighter, the candidate must meet requirements set by local municipalities and state agencies. Also, the applicant has to be at least 18, with a high school or GED diploma and a valid driver’s license.
Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Sciences in North Carolina
1. Fayetteville State University(Online)
Program: BS in Fire and Emergency Services Administration
Tuition: $165 per credit hour (in-state);$332 per credit hour(out of state)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Financial Aid: Available with 77% of students receiving the aid.
The graduates of the program develop strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Students will learn about fire investigation, prevention, and management, as well as the legal, political, and administrative aspects of emergency services in the course.
2. University of North Carolina(Online)
Program: BS in Engineering Technology: Fire Safety
Tuition: $189 per credit hour (in-state); $778 per credit hour(out of state)
Accreditation & Ranking: accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Ranked #6 in top Public Universities in North Carolina.
Financial Aid: Available with 75% of the students receiving the aid.
This 61-credit program is designed to groom students for influential roles in leadership and management positions. The program takes care of both technical and non-technical aspects of fire and safety. This 100% online program is suited for professionals seeking jobs within the fire service and those who want to work in fire protection-related occupations.
Affordable on-campus Courses in Fire Sciences in North Carolina
1.Catawba Valley Community College
Program: Fire and Rescue Program
Tuition:$195 per credit hour( in state); $387 per credit hour(out of state)
Accreditation: Accreditedby the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Financial Aid: Available with 91% of the students receiving the aid.
Admission to the course is highly competitive, with only 20 seats available in the program. The system includes a highly intensive training program designed to meet the challenges of modern fire service and instils motivation, discipline, and integrity in the candidates.
2.Coastal Carolina Community College
Program: Coastal Carolina Fire Academy
Tuition: $81 per credit hour(in state); $273 per credit hour (out of state)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Financial Aid: Available, with 89% of the students receiving the aid.
The Coastal Carolina Fire Academy offers the entire certification process for firefighters. The night and weekend program integrates three comprehensive written exams with online quizzes and requisitions. Students receive North Carolina Firefighter certification from the NC Office of State Fire Marshal upon completion of the course.
Affordable online Masters in Fire Sciences in North Carolina
University of North Carolina Charlotte
Program: MS in Fire Protection & Safety Management
Tuition: $241per credit hour(in state);$1046 per credit hour(out of state)
Accreditation & Ranking: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Ranked #6 in Top Public Universities in North Carolina.
Financial Aid: Available with 75% of the students receiving the aid.
The 30-credit hour program provides advanced technical knowledge for safety professionals engaged with fire protection and occupational safety. As a result of Fire Protection coursework, fire protection professionals are equipped to design, investigate, secure critical infrastructure, conduct safety assessments, and use modern fire protection methodologies, techniques, and tools.
Career opportunities with a degree in Fire Sciences
Due to the fire department being an essential emergency service, professionals with training in fire science are in high demand. As per BLS, the need for firefighters is projected to grow by 4% from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
The following table summarizes the salaries typically earned by Fire professionals in various job roles.
| Job Description | Median Salary |
| EMTs and Paramedics | $36,930 |
| Fire Fighter | $50,700 |
| Fire Inspector | $63,080 |
| Emergency Services Manager | $74,070 |
| Fire Marshal | $79,033 |
Source: BLS & Indeed
The average total compensation increases significantly with experience. Fire Fighters with less than one year of experience can expect to earn an average of $43,000 in total compensation (tips, bonuses, and overtime pay). During the early stages of their careers, fire fighters earn an average of $44,000 in total compensation. Fire Fighters with 5-9 years of experience earn an average total compensation of $50,000 per year. An experienced Fire Fighter with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $63,000.
Source: Payscale
Is it worthwhile to pursue a degree in Fire Science?
A degree in fire science is a beautiful tool for opening exclusive career opportunities and self-improvement, which goes a long way in personality development. The field of fire science can lead to many rewarding jobs, and a degree will be beneficial while seeking employment and promotions. An individual passionate about public safety and helping others may find fire science rewarding.
