What should I study to become a firefighter?

To become a firefighter, you should study fire science or a similar field. Firefighters usually only need a high school diploma or GED; however, some possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

The most useful degree for a firefighter is fire science. There are both associate's and bachelor's degree programs available. In general, the associate's degree program is tailored to those who have a limited amount of time to commit to studying and finishing a degree on a full-time basis.

The associate's degree programs are typically 60 credits and cover subjects like:

• Protection and suppression systems

• Fire behavior and combustion

• Firefighting strategies and tactical procedures

• Hydraulic and water principles

• Fire safety basics

As with most fields, the bachelor's program may provide you with more opportunities for advancement. These programs also typically allow you to pick a certain area of focus, such as fire prevention, fire services leadership, and fire suppression. Some additional topics that are covered can include:

• Fire codes and laws

• Chemistry of fire science

• Physics of fires

• Disaster planning

• Fire control and investigation

In addition to the fire science path, there are associate's and bachelor's programs in Emergency Medical Services. In most districts, firefighters must also be certified as an Emergency Medical Technician. EMS program-related areas of study can include:

• Emergency medical care concepts

• Emergency medical care labs

• EMT field internships

• Paramedic theory

• Paramedic labs and clinicals

With a bachelor's program, students will learn these applied skills as well as things like direct patient care, current advancements in emergency medicine, and critical thinking skills. You will also learn the tools and techniques of emergency medical services and how to apply them in critical settings.

While these are the most common areas of study, additional degree programs may also be useful, including fire technology, fire administration, and paramedic programs.

Becoming a firefighter also involves passing a physical abilities test. This involves:

• Stair climbing

• Hose dragging

• Equipment carries

• Ladder raise and extension

• Forcible entry

• Search

• Rescue

• Ceiling breach and pull

And a written test. The written test varys in content based on jurisdiction, but typically measures:

• Aptitude

• Basic math skills (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication)

• Reading comprehension

• Reasoning

• Judgment

• Verbal expression (e.g., spelling, punctuation, grammar)

• Memory and observation

• Spatial orientation

• Mechanical aptitude

In most cases, aspiring firefighters will be required to attend a firefighting academy. This course typically takes several weeks to complete and includes learning about:

For those younger than 18, you may be able to gain experience through a junior firefighter program.