What Is Fire Science and What Does It Involve?

Fire science is the study of fire behavior, prevention and suppression. It involves learning about fire dynamics, safety, investigation and emergency response, preparing students for careers in firefighting, safety management and fire investigation.

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Read time 4 minutes

Brenda Decker

Published on Sep 25, 2025

At its core, this field explores how fires ignite, spread and can be controlled — using concepts from chemistry, physics, engineering and hydraulics. It’s a field rooted in both theory and hands-on training, helping you understand fire behavior and the safest methods of emergency response and rescue.

“Understanding the science behind fire behavior is essential to making real-world decisions that can save lives and reduce risk — both on the fireground and in long-term planning,” says Mike Farber, PhD, former fire chief, adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University.

If you’ve ever watched a firefighter in action and thought, “I want to do that,” fire science might spark the career you’re looking for. But the field goes far beyond dramatic rescues. It also shapes fire codes, emergency planning and building designs that help prevent fires or slow their spread.

“Imagine you’re at the scene of a house fire and a fire investigator draws on their fire science training to analyze burn patterns and materials. What first looked like a candle accident is revealed to be faulty wiring. That insight can not only prevent a wrongful accusation — it also informs safety recommendations that could prevent future fires. At GCU, we engage with case studies and real-life scenarios to help develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.”

— Mike Farber, PhD, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Understanding “what is fire science” can help clarify the skills and training behind modern firefighting and prevention. Let’s start by first answering the question, “what is a fire science degree?”

What Is a Fire Science Degree?

GCU’s fire science degree emphasizes leadership, ethics and public education — reflecting the evolving role of fire professionals in community safety. This path may appeal to current firefighters exploring a different path in the firefighting profession or individuals with an interest in fire safety programs.

Students in GCU’s fire science program will study:

Fire behavior
Fire dynamics and combustion principles
Emergency response strategies
Hazardous materials handling
Fire codes and building safety regulations
Incident command systems
Arson investigation and forensic techniques
Leadership and management

Is a Fire Science Degree Worth It and Who Should Pursue One?

A fire science degree may be best suited for critical thinkers, quick decision-makers and those driven to protect and serve with purpose. If you thrive under pressure and crave a meaningful career, fire science may be a good option for you.

Pursuing a degree in fire science can be a valuable step for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge in fire prevention, emergency response and public safety.

This program is especially beneficial for:

Current firefighters exploring new professional opportunities
Individuals interested in roles such as first-line supervisors of firefighting and fire prevention programs
Professionals in related fields like forestry, insurance and construction

For those already working in the field, a fire science degree can help you develop knowledge and skills to pursue roles that may involve greater responsibility or leadership, depending on agency requirements and individual career goals.

31%

Firefighters who earn a bachelor's degree¹

If you’re considering a career in fire science and leadership, Professor Farber explains important traits, interests and behaviors shaping the next generation of fire leaders:

Commitment to serve and protect	Team leadership and culture building
Confident decision-making under pressure	Ethics and curiosity for ongoing learning and public service
Physical fitness for tough conditions	Focus on risk reduction and education
Curiosity about science and safety	Analytical thinking for planning, budgeting and resource management
Detail-oriented problem-solving	Clear communication for leadership and policy influence
Knowledge of laws and policies	Strong ethics in high-stakes decisions

"A practical example our students may face in leadership roles is using data to improve response times and firefighter safety. This could mean analyzing call volume, injuries and staffing costs to justify adding a new unit. It’s not just about the numbers — it’s about communicating them clearly to decision-makers. Our bachelor’s program can help students build these essential skills.”

— Mike Farber, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Turning Compassion Into Action: Why Fire Science Matters

With climate change intensifying wildfires, more dense urban expansion increasing fire risks and the increased use of technology like drones and thermal imaging, fire science has become more critical than ever. The field is evolving to include community risk reduction, data-driven prevention, disaster preparedness and interdisciplinary research.

As noted by the International Journal of Wildland Fire, fire science now spans everything from ecological modeling to social impact assessments.² Whether you're drawn to hands-on emergency work or strategic planning, fire science offers a path to serve, lead and innovate in a field that touches every community.

Modern fire science is a highly specialized field where science, strategy and leadership mesh. “Many fire service roles require additional certifications, such as EMT or paramedic credentials, or ongoing training to stay current with evolving safety standards and industry practices. This can vary by state or department,” said Farber. A fire science bachelor’s degree supports these credentials with broader training and ongoing professional development.

What Can You Do With a Fire Science Degree?

Whether you’re working on the front lines or behind the scenes, today’s fire professionals are trained to respond to crises, navigate public policy and build safer communities and environments.

Fire science degree jobs may include the following:

First-line supervisor of firefighting and prevention worker
Firefighter
Fire inspector and investigator
Forest or wildland fire inspector
Fire prevention specialist

Along with postsecondary education, some may go on to pursue opportunities that may require additional licensure, certifications or written exams, including the following fields:^3,4

Emergency medical response
Tactical rescue operations
Hazardous materials management⁵
Law enforcement and investigative services
Engineering for fire protection
Fire safety research development
Fire protection systems and technology
Insurance and risk assessment

Explore Fire Science at GCU

GCU’s flexible Bachelor of Science in Fire Science program is designed to help you prepare for diverse careers in fire protection, emergency services and fire leadership roles. The curriculum is geared toward those already in the fire service as well as newcomers, ensuring a broad, practical education that covers the evolving responsibilities of fire professionals. If you’re driven to protect lives, guide firefighting crews and make a positive impact on your community, a career in this field may be right for you.

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Written By

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Brenda Decker

Senior Digital Content Specialist,

Grand Canyon Education