Fire Science - Lake Superior State University

Fire Science from Lake Superior State University is a Campus Bachelor Fire Fighting degree that prepares you for a Fire Protection career. Program Description: This degree is designed to provide both the necessary certifications to enter the fire service and also the general education and background necessary for advancement to higher rank and supervisory level.There are three tracks a student may pursue to obtain the degree. Fire Science Generalist Emphasis? This program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the area of fire protection, education, fire equipment service/supply and emergency planning. Students may select a minor of their choice. For those who are going to pursue working a career fire department, a minor in paramedic technology is strongly recommended. Others may select a minor which is more applicable to their own career aspirations such as management, computer technology, public administration, environmental science or other area. Fire Science Hazardous Materials Emphasis ? This program combines a major in fire science with a minor in chemistry. A graduate with a degree in this emphasis may work in the area of environmental protection and quality, water quality, hazardous waste disposal, or hazardous chemical mitigation/clean-up. Positions are available in the private and public sectors. In the case of fire service, graduates may work as a member or supervisor of a hazardous materials response team dealing with an accident or release of dangerous products. Positions in emergency planning are also available. With the continued emphasis on homeland security and the threats of a biological or chemical attack upon a civilian population, readiness and response are vital to saving lives. Fire Science Engineering Emphasis ? The combination of fire science and engineering courses provides a graduate with the knowledge necessary to evaluate building plans and designs from the standpoint of fire behavior and safety. The design of fire protective systems and alarms is important to the protection of life and property. There are also positions available in firms and governmental organizations which conduct materials testing and fire behavior research. Graduates may also wish to continue their education to obtain a graduate degree. Professional qualifications, such as that of Fire Protection Engineer, or other state/province designations, may also be obtained. Career Descriptions: Firefighter ? Works for fire departments at the local, state and federal levels; works for the armed forces and the U.S. Department of the Interior; suppresses structural and other types of fires using a variety of methods; acts as emergency medical technician or paramedic. Fire Safety Officer ? Works in industry and for the government as fire inspector and safety officer; conducts safety and fire surveys; plans for fire and other disasters. Fire Protection Systems Designer ? Designs fire protection systems for industry; provides consulting services for industry and other organizations. Hazardous Materials Specialist ? Works in industry as a manager of hazardous materials; safety officer; consultant for industry in the area of hazardous materials. Fire Officer/Chief Officer ? Leads and manages the fire department. Provides command at the scene of emergencies. Prepares budgets; sets and administers department policies; supervises training; ensures compliance with local, state and federal law; conducts fire prevention/code enforcement efforts; and manages day-to-day operations. The chief also serves as an advisor to local government and keeps the community prepared for emergency response. Emergency Planner ? Works in office of emergency service and planning at the local, state and federal levels. Responsibilities include preparation of plans for disaster response; coordination of emergency response with other agencies; and preparation of emergency plans. View more details on Lake Superior State University . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Fire Fighting courses.