Program Overview

Fire Science Major Overview

The major in Fire Science prepares students for careers in fire protection and for graduate-level protection studies. Using math and physics as a foundation, students will explore problems in fire protection and study laws that ensure fire safety. The Fire Science major focuses closely on building construction and the work environment, allowing students to explore hazard control, the laws of error, monitoring systems, accident analysis, and safety promotion.

Fire Science Requirements

Major Requirements

You are responsible for the major requirements that were in effect when you declared the major. To confirm the requirements you should be following, go to the Undergraduate Bulletin for that academic year.

FIS Courses That Meet General Education Requirements

PHY 101 or PHY 203 may meet either the Life and Physical Science General Education requirement or the Scientific World General Education requirement, but it cannot meet both science requirements.

Major Advising

Major Advising in Fall/Spring

Fire Science students who have questions during the Fall semester should email the major coordinator.

Major Advising in Summer/Winter

Fire Science students who have questions during Summer session should email the major coordinator.

Registration and Major Holds

Sophomores with 45-59 credits may have a hold on their registration. The hold will be removed when they have a major advising appointment.

Plan Ahead: Graduate on Time

Avoid Course Planning Mistakes!

The FIS major has several courses that build on each other in a sequence, so it is essential to be aware of this and plan accordingly.

Monitor Your Progress in the Major

• DegreeWorks degree audit: Use this online planning tool to track your overall progress toward graduation.
• Fire Science Degree Completion Checklist: Fill out this printable worksheet to keep track of which major requirements you have completed and which ones you still need.
• Sample Four Year Plan: See an example of how you could complete all your degree requirements and graduate in four years.

Meet with a General Academic Advisor

A General Academic Advisor will confirm what general academic requirements you still need, make suggestions about smart course planning, and discuss your interest in adding a minor or second major.

FIS and Careers

Graduate School Preparation

If you are interested in Fire Science graduate studies, please consult with your FIS major advisor and other FIS faculty for perspective and guidance.

Career Guidance

This major is a great foundation for jobs in:

• Firefighting
• Consulting
• Fire Protection Systems Designer
• Fire inspector
• Insurance
• Engineering Technology

The Fire Science major can help prepare you for a surprising range of jobs that need well-trained professionals. The Career Learning Lab is another great resource for questions related to job searches, internships, and career preparation.