Prior to taking the core courses in fire science, students must take general education courses such as an English course in composition or an introduction to literature. Other courses include one mathematics courses, a social science course --- such as psychology or sociology --- and a public speaking option. At some schools a computer course is required. For core courses, most schools teach the same courses. The basic course, Introduction to Fire Science, highlights the history of firefighting, the organization of a fire department and career opportunities. Other courses include Emergency Services Fundamentals, Fire Administration Supervision and Leadership, Hazardous Materials, Fire Inspection and Prevention, Fire Investigation and Fire Law.
Part of the core curriculum for a Fire Science Degree involves practical training. Part of the Basic Firefighter course includes what are described as "live fire" scenarios. These involve practical training with a real fire such as what the course description calls an "Exterior Class A Fire." This exercise involves the application of techniques covered in classrooms being applied to the real world. Two other scenarios involve other typical fire events such as a vehicle fire and a dumpster fire.
Schools in Georgia that offer the Associate Degree for Fire Science include West Georgia Technical College along with Lanier Technical College in Oakwood. Lanier operates on the quarter system and accepts students every quarter based upon space availability. Prospective students must be at least 18 years of age and possess either a high school diploma or a GED. Classes are taught during the day, at night and can be accessed through its online education option. Savannah Technical College in Savannah and Dekalb Technical College represent two other options.
A typical program requires two years of study. At Lanier 103 credit hours are required for graduation. Dekalb requires the same number, divided between 33 general education and 70 core courses. Lanier follows the same 103 hours of study. Savannah's course load lists 35 general education hours and 78 hours of core courses for a total of 113 hours.