Online Degrees in Fire Sciences

Many people want to work as firefighters. Competition to get hired is very fierce. Due to this fact, most entry level jobs in the firefighting field go to applicants with degrees and certifications in the fire sciences. Applicants who already have their emergency medical training certification (EMT) or even better a paramedic's license are also more likely to get hired. Most firefighters are employed by state and local governments. In many areas, firefighters work 24 hour shifts and sleep and live at the firehouse while they are on duty.

Amazing Job Outlook for Fire Fighters

The firefighting industry is expecting to see excellent job growth according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The field is expected to see up to a 19 percent increase in job growth through 2018. This excellent growth will stem from many volunteer firefighting groups turning to paid positions due to the fact that volunteer firefighters are becoming harder to find because of time and training requirements.

Great Wages Available to Fire Fighters

Firefighters can make great wages with great benefits. The Occupational Outlook Handbook found that the average wages for firefighters in the United States were around $44,000 annually in 2008. Supervisors and managers in firefighting had average wages of around $67,000 annually. Many firefighters employed by state and local municipalities are also offered pension plans after 25 years of service or if they are disabled. Beyond great pension plans, many firefighters are also offered paid holidays and vacation time, retirement plans, and health insurance.

Great College Programs Available in Fire Sciences

Colleges and universities have created some excellent fire sciences programs to meet the needs for educated and prepared firefighters to enter the workforce ready to protect citizens from fires and assist them in emergency medical situations.