Program Code: FS300
The Fire Science Technology program combines fire science theory with a liberal arts education. The program ranges from the introductory level to the administrative officer level. Graduates of the program have gone on to professional careers in fire service, as well as within the areas of emergency medical services. Firefighters work hard to prevent fires, save lives and teach the public about emergency services. The average starting salary for a career firefighter/paramedic is approximately $57,000, and the average starting salary for a fire officer is about $73,000. Our profession will be driven by the needs of our customers, the citizens of the communities that we serve and protect. Today's firefighter fights less fires than ever before, but the need has increased for educated fire and EMS personnel. Those in emergency services must be educated in the areas of fire science technology, emergency medical services, HazMat, and public education. We are seeing the need for educated fire personnel in the areas of fire codes and fire suppression systems. Today's fire service brings about the opportunity to work not only as a professional or paid on-call/volunteer, but also the chance to work in the insurance field, the medical profession or as an investigator.