Fire Science

Degrees & Certificates

Overview

Seeking a profession that combines community service with a high level of action? Firefighters—entry level through chief—work together to respond to a variety of emergency situations. A career in fire safety starts with understanding fire—how to prevent it, how to extinguish it, and how to learn from it.

Start with Waubonsee’s Fire Science program, with curriculum focused on the behavior and characteristics of fire, environmental policy, and equipment and technology. You’ll become more competitive and climb the career ladder with a degree, noncredit courses or certification.

Studying Fire Science at Waubonsee

Waubonsee’s Fire Science program is as exciting as the industry itself. Experienced firefighters in partnership with the Oswego Fire Protection Department lead students in classroom studies and live fire exercises. Curriculum covers basic and advanced concepts, from hands-on techniques to strategic tactics. Science is emphasized too, as well as machinery operations and hazardous materials. Whether you receive an Associate Degree or one of our certifications, you’ll be prepared for the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall certification exam—and an exhilarating future in fire science.

Working in Fire Science

Fire science is about more than firefighting. Safety and prevention join forces with investigation and analysis to form a comprehensive approach to this important public service.

With its positive job outlook and promising earning potential, fire science can lead to an exciting and challenging career as a first responder or inspector in a community, national or international setting.

State Certifications

Fire science students should gain employment at a fire department or volunteer with a department as soon as possible. This will allow them to obtain corresponding state certifications.

Credit for Experience

Credit toward an associate degree may be awarded for various experience and certifications, meaning you'll earn the credential that much faster. Firefighters having earned the appropriate certifications issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) may request proficiency credit for Waubonsee fire science courses. However, Waubonsee does not award proficiency credit for coursework taken at training facilities such as the Southern Kane County Training Association or the Illinois Fire Service Institute, although the associated OSFM certifications are accepted.