FIRE SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAMS IN ARKANSAS

While there are not too many fire science schools located in Arkansas, many qualified firefighters graduated from the Arkansas Fire Training Academy at Southern Arkansas University Tech — one of the three accredited fire science schools in the state. Firefighting opportunities at the entry and advanced levels are available in Arkansas. Some fields include fire safety, fire investigation, and fire service administration. An estimate of 2,510 firefighters, 160 forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists, and 510 fire supervisors are employed in the state.

Salaries vary in Arkansas based on region, education, and experience, to name a few, but we’ve put together a chart to provide you with an overview of the different incomes for firefighters at the entry, medium, and advanced levels in the state.

Arkansas Fire Service Careers 10th Percentile 50th Percentile 90th Percentile
Firefighters $18,060 $31,110 $56,510
Fire Inspectors and Investigators $0000 $46,820 $59,510
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists $0000 $30,840 $38,250

FIRE SCIENCE TRAINING & EDUCATION IN ARKANSAS

Arkansas is a great place to start if you’re looking to start a fire science career. The education in this state is unfortunately limited to certificates and associate degrees, so those looking to further education to the bachelor or master’s level may perhaps have to consider pursuing those degrees at a nearby state. Starting programs in Arkansas focus on fire chemistry, basics of fire and fire prevention, basic investigation, emergency response, and fire services management, to name a few.

The three accredited colleges in Arkansas provide coursework in fire science and emergency medical services. This prepares prospective firefighters by giving them a well-rounded knowledge in the field at a basic level. Fire science students in Arkansas are able to get great hands-on experience in a real-life fire setting, in addition to gaining knowledge at the academic level.

ARKANSAS: FIRE SCIENCE COLLEGES & TRAINING PROGRAMS

There are three accredited fire science schools in Arkansas.

FIRE SCIENCE: DISTANCE LEARNING

While the three accredited fire science schools in Arkansas do not have distance learning programs, there are many other online fire science programs available out-of-state that accept Arkansas applicants. Online colleges in neighboring states offer rigorous coursework in subjects like emergency services, fire administration, and fire investigation, to name a few.

Distance learning involves students learning a majority of material in an “online classroom,” where they communicate with peers and instructors via email, chat programs, and Skype. Additionally, class discussions are held online, and students are expected to submit their assignments via an online portal or email on the due date. Students may be required to meet on-site at an assigned facility to complete hands-on tasks and projects to complete certain courses.