Fire service credit courses are taken in a distance-learning format using Blackboard interactive software. Written assignments and projects provide a continual indication of progress and form the basis of an ongoing relationship between professor and student. Telephone consultations and optional spring and summer one-week residency classes are used to supplement the learning process. 

Courses outside the fire service requirements and fire service electives required for the bachelor’s degree may be taken either by attending a local institution or by continuing the open learning method through various distance-learning programs. All courses must be pre-approved by appropriate department heads. 

The Open Learning Fire Service program is available through seven participating regional institutions in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration, National Fire Academy, Degrees at a Distance Program (DDP). The region served by UC includes Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Many fire service personnel prepare for promotion or advancement in existing careers by pursuing the open learning bachelor of science degree. Graduates may also begin new careers in the fields of fire insurance, fire protection engineering or industrial safety.