Program Overview

Master of Science In Fire and Explosion Investigation

Fire and explosion investigation is an interdisciplinary program that provides an advanced technical background for professionals involved with fire protection and investigation, in areas such as fire service, fire safety, occupational safety, and security.

Program Overview

One of only a small number of such programs in the United States, our master’s program in fire and explosion investigation offers 39 credits* of interdisciplinary coursework in emergency management, public safety, and more. Students in the program study alongside leading professionals in the fire service including current and former fire and police chiefs, homeland security executives, private investigators, and insurance agents. Successful alumni have moved on to leadership positions in local fire departments, state and federal emergency agencies, and private firms.

Curriculum

Students take required courses in topics such as the chemistry of fires, dynamics of structural fires, and arson analysis. Candidates will also choose from a series of electives that explores issues, including fire and building codes, fire scene reconstruction, terrorism, and industrial fire protection.

Career Opportunities

The information below is designed to show the many possible careers you could pursue with your major. The research is provided by Encoura, the leading research and advisory firm focused exclusively on higher education. It includes median national salaries and industry growth projections over the next decade.

• First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting Workers: $79K, 6% Growth
• Fire Inspectors and Investigators: $63K, 5% Growth
• Firefighters: $53K, 6% Growth

Selected Courses and Programs

• Chemistry of Fires and Explosions
  • An examination of the basic organic chemistry and combustion and explosive properties of flammable materials. The chemical principles underlying fires and explosions. Chemical properties of various synthetic materials and the products of their combustion. Fire retardent materials and chemicals used in fire extinguishment.
• Fire Scene Investigation and Arson Analysis
  • The techniques of crime scene documentation and investigation as they relate to fire and explosion scenes. Evidence recognition and collection. Laboratory analysis of fire scene, arson accelerant, and explosion scene residues. Scientific proof of arson.
• Arson for Profit
  • This course provides an overview of the financial techniques needed to investigate arson-for-profit fires, with an emphasis on sources of information, identification, and analysis of financial documents.
• Terrorism
  • A detailed discussion and review of the consequences of terrorism and the offensive measures taken by emergency response organizations to prevent, deter, and respond to terrorism incidents.

Faculty

Our faculty are leaders and innovators in their fields, bringing both deep professional experience and academic rigor to the classroom.

News

• Fire Science Students Earn Top Honors for Arson Detection Research
  • University of New Haven students Lauren Mulinski ’25 and Alison Perry ’24, MS ’26 were awarded “Best Overall Research Poster” at the International Association of Arson Investigators’ International Training Conference for their project examining homemade napalm detection by accelerant canines.

Admission Requirements

An advanced degree from the University of New Haven will help you take your career to the next level. Each program offers convenient scheduling, personalized attention, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Financial Aid Opportunities

The University of New Haven Graduate School is an excellent value with reasonable tuition. Of course, you will still have bills to pay and the Financial Aid office can help.