Fire science is the study of fire and burn patterns, combustion logistics, and fire prevention.
If you’re the kind of person that understands the high risks and rewards of firefighting, you may want to consider pursuing a degree in this field.
The majority of people who obtain this degree go into fire prevention within the National Parks Service, fire service management, public administration, fire inspector services, and more.
Though it is a niche degree that might not seem as lucrative in terms of post-graduate career prospects, fire science is a necessary field in which to have readily-available expertise in the case of a state emergency.
Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the most affordable online fire science degree programs available so you’ll be able to pursue your childhood dream of becoming a firefighter without the worry of financial stress.
Fire Science Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online fire science degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in July of 2023.
2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Fire Science Degrees
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| # 1 | St. Petersburg College | $2,212 |
| # 2 | University of Florida | $3,679 |
| # 3 | Fayetteville State University | $6,623 |
| # 4 | Pierce College at Puyallup | $6,861 |
| # 5 | College of Southern Nevada | $6,904 |
| # 6 | American Public University System | $11,144 |
| # 7 | Western Illinois University | $11,663 |
| # 8 | Columbia Southern University | $12,474 |
| # 9 | Eastern Kentucky University | $13,824 |
| # 10 | California State University-San Marcos | $14,048 |
| # 11 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $14,753 |
| # 12 | Eastern Oregon University | $14,753 |
| # 13 | Idaho State University | $17,410 |
| # 14 | Salem State University | $17,497 |
| # 15 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | $19,016 |
| # 16 | University of Cincinnati | $22,114 |
| # 17 | Upper Iowa University | $24064 |
| # 18 | Anna Maria College | $24,185 |
| # 19 | Point Park University | $24,209 |
| # 20 | Liberty University | $28,561 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Fire Science Degrees
1. St. Petersburg College
Average Net Price: $2,212
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Empowering students for careers in fire protection, St. Petersburg College provides an engaging Associate of Science degree in Fire Science Technology fully online. The comprehensive program readies students for firefighting, fire prevention, and fire investigation roles by immersing them in courses covering fire behavior, suppression, prevention, emergency medical services, and hazardous materials. An internship in the fire science field also enhances the curriculum.
To gain admission, prospective students must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and meet academic requirements. They must also successfully pass a physical fitness test and background check.
This workforce-ready degree prepares graduates for entry-level fire protection positions, making them eligible for Florida’s mandatory Firefighter II certification exam.
Advancing firefighters’ careers further, St. Petersburg College offers an online Fire Officer Supervisor Certificate covering fire behavior, suppression, prevention, emergency medical services, and leadership development.
The dynamic Associate of Science degree and Fire Officer Supervisor Certificate are accessible statewide, empowering Florida students to complete their fire science education fully online.
2. University of Florida
Average Net Price: $3,679
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 31%
The University of Florida presents an enticing online opportunity: the Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services degree. This program immerses students in a dynamic learning experience, honing their skills to assume greater managerial responsibilities and leadership roles. What sets this program apart is its fusion of Fire Science, EMS, and Emergency Management courses, carefully crafted to align with your professional aspirations.
To qualify for this program, you need an Associate of Arts degree from a Florida state college or another accredited institution. Freshman and sophomore coursework must be completed at a Florida state or public college, or another accredited academic institution.
This comprehensive program encompasses 120 credits, featuring 36 credits of general education courses, 36 credits of fire science courses, 24 credits of EMS courses, and 24 credits of emergency management courses.
The fire science curriculum delves into critical subjects such as fire dynamics, fire suppression, fire investigation, and hazardous materials. The EMS courses encompass vital areas like anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and emergency medical care. Meanwhile, the emergency management courses address crucial topics including disaster planning, crisis communication, and terrorism response.
Within this program, students can select one of three specialized tracks:
- Fire Specialization: This track primes students for leadership positions within the fire service.
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Management Specialization: This specialization equips students for management roles within EMS.
- Emergency Management Specialization: This track prepares students for leadership positions in the field of emergency management.
3. Fayetteville State University
Average Net Price: $6,623
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Fayetteville State University (FSU) extends an enticing opportunity through its online Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration (BSFESA) degree completion program. Tailored for driven professionals seeking to elevate their roles within the fire service, this program immerses students in a transformative learning journey.
The BSFESA program demands a commitment of 120 credit hours, a challenge that can be surmounted in as little as three years. The curriculum, a dynamic blend of fire prevention, fire suppression, emergency medical services, leadership, and management courses, acts as the crucible honing skills vital to a thriving career. Furthermore, students undertake a hands-on internship with a fire department or an allied emergency services agency, offering an authentic glimpse into the demands of the field.
Admittance into the BSFESA program is contingent upon holding either an associate degree or possessing 60 college credit hours.
Fulfilling FSU’s admissions requisites is imperative, including the possession of a high school diploma or GED, submission of SAT or ACT scores, and providing letters of recommendation.
One standout feature of the BSFESA program is its online format, ensuring accessibility for students, irrespective of their geographical location. The asynchronous nature of the courses enables students to dictate their pace of study. To foster interaction and collaboration, virtual discussion boards and chat rooms serve as platforms for engaging with peers and professors alike.
Upon successful completion of the BSFESA program, graduates not only earn a degree but also become eligible to sit for the challenging National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Officer I and II exams.
Armed with this formidable credential, they emerge poised for rewarding careers in fire service management, fire prevention, and the dynamic realm of emergency medical services.
4. Pierce College District
Average Net Price: $6,904
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: NWCCU
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Pierce College District has a pair of enticing online fire science degrees on offer:
- Associate in Applied Science in Fire Services Leadership and Management (AAS-T): This intensive two-year program readies students for those crucial entry-level fire service roles. It immerses them in a wide array of subjects, spanning fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical services, and the art of leadership and management.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire Services Leadership and Management (BAS-FSLM): Taking things up a notch, this comprehensive four-year program builds upon the foundation of the AAS-T degree, gearing students up for advanced positions in the fire service, like the esteemed roles of fire captain and fire chief. It goes the extra mile by delving into areas such as public administration, human resources, and the fine art of grant writing.
Both of these degree programs are available entirely online, offering students the flexibility to attend classes from virtually anywhere on the planet. What’s more, they’ve been designed with flexibility in mind, so whether you’re working full-time or part-time, these programs can be tailored to fit your schedule.
Admission to either of these degree programs necessitates a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, along with meeting specific academic prerequisites. Additionally, prospective students must demonstrate their physical prowess through a fitness test and pass a comprehensive background check.
5. College of Southern Nevada
Average Net Price: $6,904
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: NWCCU
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
At the College of Southern Nevada (CSN), we offer an engaging online Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration (BAS-FESA). This program immerses students in the dynamic world of fire administration, fire prevention, and fire protection engineering.
Our BAS-FESA program, consisting of 121 credits, empowers you to achieve your degree in as little as 4 years. Within its curriculum, you’ll delve into a rich array of subjects, including fire science, fire prevention, emergency management, and leadership. Plus, there’s an exciting capstone project awaiting you.
To join the ranks of BAS-FESA students, you’ll need at least an associate degree in fire science or a closely related field. If your associate degree is from a different domain, fret not; our admissions team will diligently review your coursework.
What’s truly remarkable is that the BAS-FESA program is entirely online, offering flexibility to learners worldwide. You’ll be guided by seasoned fire service professionals who are passionate about imparting knowledge and nurturing your success.
Upon graduation, our BAS-FESA program equips you for an array of rewarding roles in the fire service sector. Picture yourself as a fire chief, fire inspector, fire prevention officer, or even a fire protection engineer. And that’s not all; you’ll also be primed for careers in emergency management and homeland security.
6. American Public University System
Average Net Price: $11,144
School Type: For-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
The American Public University System (APUS) fully empowers students to prepare for fire protection careers through two distinguished online fire science degrees—an Associate of Science in Fire Science and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Science Management.
The Associate program equips students with essential fire service knowledge and skills by exploring subjects including fire behavior, suppression, prevention, and emergency medical services.
The Bachelor’s program further readies students for leadership roles in the fire service by examining fire investigation, risk management, and emergency management.
Both degrees hold accreditation from the prestigious International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and satisfy academic prerequisites for the U.S. Fire Administration’s Executive Fire Officer Program.
Remarkably, APUS makes these high-caliber degrees globally accessible through fully online delivery, while providing flexible start dates and accelerated options to expedite degree completion.
Prospective students must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and meet specific academic criteria for admission. Passing a physical fitness test and drug screening are also required.
7. Western Illinois University
Average Net Price: $11,663
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: NWCCU
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Western Illinois University offers two online fire science degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration
- This program is designed for working firefighters who want to advance their careers in fire service leadership. It can be completed in as few as 3 years.
- Some of the courses in this program include: Fire Service Administration, Fire Behavior, Fire Investigation, and Emergency Management.
- Fire Science Option
- This program is designed for students who want to prepare for a career in the fire service. It can be completed in as few as 4 years.
- Some of the courses in this program include: Fire Protection Systems, Firefighting Tactics, and Hazardous Materials Response.
Both of these programs are accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). This means that they meet the highest standards of quality and rigor.
To be admitted to either of these programs, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must meet certain academic requirements. They may also be required to take the Firefighter Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).
8. Columbia Southern University
Average Net Price: $12,474
School Type: For-Profit
School Accreditation: DEAC
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Columbia Southern University (CSU) provides flexible online fire science degrees to prepare students for careers in fire protection, investigation, and occupational safety.
Offerings range from an Associate of Science in Fire Science to a Master of Science in Fire Executive Leadership. Programs immerse students in relevant topics like fire prevention, suppression, investigation, hazardous materials, emergency management, and leadership.
Regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) recognizes CSU’s fire science degrees. Additionally, the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) initiative accredits the programs, ensuring alignment with the U.S. Fire Administration’s latest educational standards.
Students worldwide can complete CSU’s online fire science degrees at their own pace. The 100% online delivery provides accessibility and flexibility.
To gain admission, prospective students must fulfill requirements such as holding a high school diploma or equivalent and completing prerequisite courses.
CSU assists students in affordability through financial aid and scholarships dedicated specifically to those pursuing fire science careers.
9. Eastern Kentucky University
Average Net Price: $13,824
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACSCOC
Acceptance Rate: 98%
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) offers three dynamic online fire science degree programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Administration: This program equips students to step into leadership roles within fire departments, emergency management agencies, and similar organizations. Here, you’ll delve into vital subjects like fire prevention, fire suppression, emergency medical services, and the administration of public safety.
- Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology: This program empowers students to master the design, installation, and maintenance of fire protection systems. You’ll explore critical areas including fire dynamics, fire protection engineering, and the handling of hazardous materials.
- Bachelor of Science in Fire, Arson & Explosion Investigation: Here, students are prepared to tackle the challenging realm of fire and explosion investigations. You’ll immerse yourself in fascinating topics such as fire chemistry, fire patterns, and the intricate art of arson investigation.
All these programs boast accreditation from the esteemed Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).
To join one of EKU’s online fire science degree programs, aspiring students need nothing more than a high school diploma or its equivalent. They should also ensure they meet the specific requirements of their chosen program.
10. California State University-San Marcos
Average Net Price: $14,048
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: WSCUC
Acceptance Rate: 79%
California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) beckons students into a dynamic realm with its Bachelor of Science in Wildfire Science and the Urban Interface—an online haven tailored for seasoned professionals, ambitious career climbers, and fire industry aspirants.
Unveiled as California’s sole offering of its kind, this program unfurls its wings in close collaboration with local, state, and national fire associations, enriching it with the vibrancy of real-world insights. Its mission? Equipping students with the fiery prowess they crave for thriving in the realm of fire, placing a magnifying lens on the intricacies of wildland fires and their urban junctures.
This journey brims with a syllabus woven from threads of fire ecology, fire behavior, fire suppression, fire prevention, fire investigation, and fire management. Beyond the flames, students delve into courses that unearth the ripple effects of wildfires on society and the environment, while also casting a compassionate gaze on the mental and emotional well-being of the valiant firefighters.
Embarking on this academic adventure, one can traverse its terrain in a mere five semesters, guided by the steady rhythm of rolling admissions. The prerequisites for admission? An associate degree or its equivalent, a GPA that shines at 2.5 or above, and a track record of conquering prerequisite courses.