Fire Science

Keiser University’s fire science degree program provides comprehensive instruction across all aspects of fire protection, fire prevention, and fire service operations. Coursework covers fire behavior, fire hazards, fire suppression systems, fire detection technology, fire codes, hazardous materials handling, firefighting tactics, building construction principles, fire investigation procedures, and emergency services management. The program blends fire science technology training with general education to develop well-rounded fire science professionals who can think critically, communicate clearly, and lead effectively.
 
This applied science program gives fire fighters the knowledge to advance into fire officer positions and provides aspiring fire service professionals with the credentials sought by fire departments across Florida and beyond. Students explore how fire prevention practices reduce fire hazards, how fire suppression systems and fire detection equipment protect buildings, how building construction affects fire behavior, and how proper fire investigation techniques determine why fires start.

Program Goals

The program goals align with Keiser University’s mission to provide career-focused education:

1. To equip students with a comprehensive understanding of crisis management, including strategies for handling emergencies, and detailed methods for fire suppression and extinguishment.
2. To prepare students to conduct thorough fire scene investigations, including evidence collection, cause determination, and proper documentation of findings.
3. To prepare students for a wide range of careers within the Fire Service, from entry-level positions to advanced roles in leadership and management, with a focus on skills necessary for effective team coordination and decision making
4. To enhance students’ abilities in delivering community service, focusing on fire protection and life safety. This includes educating the public on fire prevention, conducting safety inspections, and promoting awareness of emergency preparedness and response strategies.

Program Highlights

• Small class sizes that promote active learning
• Flexible learning options with courses offered online
• Instruction from experienced faculty with fire service backgrounds
• Strong foundation for career advancement in fire departments and emergency services
• Practical applications of fire science theory through case studies and scenario-based learning

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Fire Science Career

• Fire prevention strategies and fire safety protocols
• Fire behavior analysis and fire hazards assessment
• Fire investigation techniques for determining cause and origin
• Building construction knowledge for fire service operations
• Fire protection systems design and fire detection technology
• Fire codes and building codes interpretation
• Hazardous materials identification and handling
• Firefighting tactics and fire suppression methods
• Organizational skills for fire service management
• Communication and leadership abilities for fire officer roles
• Blueprint reading and pre fire planning
• Emergency response coordination

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and assures availability of classroom space. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

For students enrolling at Keiser University, credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. (To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcripts--- those mailed directly to Keiser University by the previous institution---by the end of a student’s first semester.) Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete the final 25% of a program through the University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum 25% of a program at any time through the University and graduate. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from their former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Therefore, Keiser University makes no blanket statement or promise of acceptance of credits from any other institution.

Keiser University accepts transfer credits applicable to an applicant's program of study from other institutions recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE). Keiser University accepts transfer of associate degrees that, upon evaluation, include the appropriate major course distribution without time limitations.

Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which a grade of "C" or higher was earned (2.0 on a 4.0 scale).

Keiser University students take one class at a time. Keiser University term lengths are 4-week, 8-week and 16-week.

Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months and 60 credit hours.

Keiser University lists this program as available Online.

Tuition is charged per 16-week semester according to the credit hours scheduled.

Keiser University charges tuition per 16-week semester according to the number of credit hours scheduled, not per program. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Required fees

• Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
• Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
• Education fee — $550.00 per semester, for programmatic participation and facilities resources

Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, transcript $5.00, student ID replacement $15.00, returned check $35.00, late payment $10.00 and library late fee $10.00. Clinical, licensure, professional skill development and technical fees vary by program.

Financial aid

Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the school’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Graduates of Keiser University’s fire science degree programs can pursue career opportunities in fire departments, fire prevention bureaus, building inspection offices, fire investigation units, and emergency services organizations. This associate degree prepares fire fighters and fire service personnel for career advancement into supervisory and fire officer positions. The fire science program offers strong preparation for those seeking roles as fire inspectors, fire safety inspectors, fire investigators, building inspectors, fire instructors, and fire administration professionals.

Career Pathways in Fire Protection and Emergency Services

• Municipal fire departments
• Fire prevention offices
• Fire investigation units
• Building inspection departments
• Fire safety inspector positions

• Emergency response personnel
• Fire administration and fire service management
• Code inspection and building codes enforcement
• Government agencies focused on fire safety

Placement Rate

Keiser University publishes the following in its 2025 Undergraduate Placement Rates report for AS Fire Science.

Keiser University’s notes on this report: “Does not include international campuses.” “Report as of April 2026, 16.43% has been verified through 3rd party.”

Although Keiser University provides employment placement assistance, it cannot promise or guarantee employment.

The fire science program at Keiser University prepares you for a meaningful career protecting your community through fire prevention, emergency response, and fire service leadership. With flexible online and on-campus options, our fire science degree program aligns with your career goals whether you currently work as a firefighter seeking advancement or you want to start your career in fire protection. Keiser provides the education and practical training needed to make a lasting impact in fire departments and emergency services organizations.