Fire Protection Technology

Overview

Fire protection technology programs include topics such as:

• Fire risk
• Fire investigation
• Fire chemistry and behavior
• Fire inspection/prevention
• Fire suppression systems
• Public education

Concentrations

In fire protection technology programs, students may be able to specialize in:

• Fire/arson investigation
• Wildland firefighting investigation
• Fire systems technology

Schools

Several community colleges offer associate degree programs in fire protection technology. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study.

A few colleges and universities offer a bachelor's degree in fire protection technology. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study to complete.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

• Fire Science and Firefighting
• Fire Services Administration

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

• Fire Inspectors
• Fire Investigators
• Firefighters

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

• Compliance Officers and Inspectors
• Construction and Building Inspectors
• Insurance Adjusters and Examiners
• Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Program Admission

Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school diploma or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Depending on the nature of the program, you may have to pass a physical fitness test. Your hearing, vision, cardiovascular, and strength levels will be examined. Requirements vary by state and municipality.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Advanced Chemistry courses

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

• Building Materials and Construction
• Crisis Intervention
• Fire Chemistry
• Fire Insurance, Law, and Regulations
• Fire Investigation
• Fire Service Rescue Practices
• Fire Suppression
• Firefighting Tactics
• Fundamentals of Fire Prevention
• Hazardous Materials Operations
• Methods and Tools of Fire Protection
• Public Speaking
• Uniform Fire Code

Things to Know

Many fire protection technology programs also train you to become firefighters.

Many fire protection technology programs are offered part time, with day and evening classes.

Schools

King-Snohomish Area

Everett Community College

• Fire Science

Tacoma Area

Bates Technical College (South Campus)

• Fire Recruit Academy
• Fire Service Supervision

West Side Area

Skagit Valley College

• Fire Protection Technology