Program Overview

Fire Science Program Overview

The University of Cincinnati offers a B.S. in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology degree program, focusing on practical, applied learning techniques. This open-learning method allows students to schedule academic and professional development efforts around duty assignments, providing flexibility and convenience while maintaining quality and effectiveness.

Program Details

• Duration: 4 Years
• Total Credits: 120
• Award: BSFSET

Overview

The program is designed for fire service personnel who have earned an associate degree in fire science technology or a related discipline, allowing them to earn credit toward a bachelor’s degree while upgrading professional skills. Fire service credit courses are taken in a distance-learning format, with written assignments and projects providing a continual indication of progress.

Career Opportunities

Many fire service personnel prepare for promotion or advancement in existing careers by pursuing the open learning bachelor of science degree. Graduates may also begin new careers in the fields of:

• Fire insurance
• Fire protection engineering
• Industrial safety

Curriculum

The curriculum includes major map versions for Fire Science BS. Students may receive college credit by developing a portfolio assessment for prior learning experiences, state training, and military training.

UC Advantages And Special Opportunities

• Students may receive college credit for prior learning experiences.
• Residency workshop programs are offered, giving students an opportunity to complete an entire course in five days.

Admission Requirements

Students seeking admission to the FSET bachelor's degree program must:

• Have an associate's degree in fire science (or the equivalent), or be a graduate of an accredited high school with the following units:
  • English (4 units)
  • Mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and optional pre-calculus or calculus (4 units)
  • Science, including Chemistry and Physics (3 units)
  • Social sciences (3 units)
  • Electives (5 units)
• Students who have earned 30 semester credits or higher (Associate's Degree preferred) will be considered for the bachelor's degree program.

Transferring To UC

Transfer students in good standing from accredited colleges and universities will be considered for admission to the college at the first, second, and third-year levels. UC has developed clear pathways (articulation agreements) between select associate degrees at partner institutions and compatible bachelor’s degrees at UC.

Changing Majors Within UC

Students changing majors from outside programs or colleges within UC should visit the Transition Students page.

International Student Requirements

For additional information on international requirements, visit UC’s International Admissions page.

Application Deadlines

First-year students must begin the program during the fall semester. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. High school students who wish to be considered for scholarships must apply by December 1 of their senior year in high school.

Accreditation

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This program is accredited by the National Fire Academy (NFA/FEMA).