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.

Prerequisites

Students entering the fire science degree program need a high school diploma or equivalent.

Program Requirements

To receive an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science, students must earn 60.0 credit hours. Students must satisfactorily complete all program requirements including fire science major courses and general education requirements.

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

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 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.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. This fire science program meets rigorous academic standards for quality education.

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.

Admission includes Keiser University's general requirements plus any program-specific requirements listed below, followed by the university’s application process.

Transfer credit. Credit for courses completed at another institution is subject to approval by Keiser University’s Dean of Academic Affairs, and those courses must be similar in content and duration to the courses in this program. Keiser University requires that a student complete at least the final 25% of a program through the University; active duty, reservist and National Guard service members may complete that 25% at any point in the program. Official transcripts must reach Keiser University by the end of the student’s first semester, and Keiser University makes no blanket promise to accept credits from any other institution.

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.

The curriculum pairs 12 fire science major courses (36 credit hours) with a 24-credit-hour general education core. Major topics span fire prevention, codes and standards, fire protection systems, firefighting tactics and strategy, building construction, blueprint reading and plans review, fire investigation, company officer duties, and fire department administration.

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.

How to Apply

1. Submit your online application
2. Speak with an admissions advisor
3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits
4. Enroll and choose your start date

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.