An Advanced Start Program is an online study option offered by Kaplan University to individuals seeking the advantage of a career-oriented focus of a two-year degree and the academic curriculum of a four-year program. The Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Fire Science provides foundational learning of skills in firefighting strategy and tactics, code inspection, fire prevention, building codes, and firefighter safety. The program is modeled after the National Curriculum of the Fire and Emergency Service Higher Education. The university is duly accredited and recognized by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The program curriculum covers topics in analytical approaches to fire protection and investigation; the psychological effect of fire dynamics; application of technology to firefighting; arson’s technical, legal, and social aspects; role of fire service within the community; fire protection structure and system design, management of hazardous materials as well as disaster and fire defense planning. Tuition cost is $ 425.00 per credit for an estimated total program cost of $ 38,250.00. Total program length is ninety (90) credits hours.

Required Major Courses include Eight Skills of the Effective Fire Science Student, Fire Behavior and Combustion, Building Construction for Fire Protection, Fire Protection Hydraulics and Water Supply, Fire Protection Systems, Fire Prevention Practices, Strategy and Tactics, Principles of Emergency Services, Fire Investigator and Analysis, Advanced Principles of Firefighter Safety and Survival, Fire Protection Structures and Systems, Community Risk Reduction for Fire and EMS, Fire-Related Human Behavior, Safety Risk Management for Fire and EMS, Research Analysis for Fire Emergency Services, and the Bachelor’s Capstone in Fire Science. Prospective students include associate degree holders seeking to complete a bachelor’s degree and bachelor degree holders from other fields seeking career change opportunities. Qualified students can avail of financial aid, scholarship or tuition discount.