In the past, firefighting was viewed as a civil service job, with few opportunities for professional growth or the need for a college degree. The challenges facing today’s firefighters both on the job and in the marketplace make it imperative that individuals seeking a profession in this industry continue their education.

Putting out fires is no longer an adequate job description for the modern firefighter. Instead, today’s firefighter spends as much time studying and handling hazardous materials and reviewing counter-terrorism strategies as he or she does racing to a fire scene. The public now expects firefighters to be first responders to any number of emergency or disaster situations, with each scenario requiring a different knowledge base and set of skills. From widespread emergency medical care to environmental protection, firefighters are handling a wider variety of duties and tasks on a daily basis with little time for on-the-job training and no margin for error.

Consequently, many fire departments around the country now expect new recruits to enter the field with a deeper and broader understanding of fire science and the ability to quickly integrate and learn new skills. At the same time, high unemployment and a stalling economic recovery in the private sector are prompting more young men and women than ever (many with college degrees in hand) to seek employment in government services. Modern departments may require a college degree for new hires simply because, with a surplus of available applicants, they can.

Fortunately, Anna Maria College gives current and future firefighters anywhere in the country the opportunity to study fire science online and earn a bachelor’s degree in Fire Science. Earning a fire science degree online from Anna Maria College is a convenient and cost-effective way to make sure you have the very latest knowledge and training that will help you stand out and advance in a rapidly changing career as a firefighter.

Find your leading edge today. Learn more about Anna Maria College's online Fire Science degree programs, click here.