Over the next eight years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that positions for fire fighters will increase by 19 percent, creating 57,500 jobs. However, these professionals may want to consider obtaining a master's degree if they wish be promoted.
In fact, some schools are adding online degree programs in an effort to make it easier for these professionals to enroll in a post-secondary educational institution. For example, Kaplan University recently added a master of science in fire and emergency services to its offerings.
Geri H. Malandra, the school's provost, said that this program will "prepare [students] for new careers or advancement."
This master's degree is designed to allow enrollees to acquire the skills they will need to attain a leadership role in this field. These positions include fire or battalion chiefs and emergency program managers. Students will also learn about current issues that may affect their job as well as strategic operations.
Fire fighters who wish to advance their careers may find that schools provide similar campus or Web-based programs. Online degrees could also be convenient for these professionals as they can allow them to maintain their current positions while enrolled into higher education courses.
According to the BLS, individuals in this industry who have pursued a degree will have an advantage to be promoted over those who have have not completed this level of education.
