Program Mission

The WIU Fire Protection Services Program is dedicated to preparing its students to meet the difficult challenges facing firefighters and fire service administrators in the delivery public safety services. In support of this mission the Fire Protection Services Program is founded on three strategic objectives:

• The delivery of an academically rigorous and relevant curriculum.
• Prepare future firefighters for successful careers in the fire service.
• Prepare current firefighters for senior leadership positions.

The Western Illinois University Fire Protection Services Program features a comprehensive major with two separate and unique study options. The Fire Administration program is delivered online and designed for working firefighters seeking promotion to senior leadership positions. The Fire Science Option, with classes delivered on-campus in a traditional setting, is ideally suited for students preparing for a career in the fire service. A fire minor program is associated with each of these two Options.

Fire Administration Option (Online Delivery)

The Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Services Administration option is designed for current firefighters and officers preparing for leadership positions in the fire service. In order to accommodate time and distance demands the program is delivered on line.

Attaining a chief officers position is difficult. Competition is fierce and the testing procedure is exhaustive. More demanding yet are the responsibilities and duties of a chief fire officer. The last 25 years have seen remarkable changes in the fire service. Advances in technology, increasing service demands, declining revenues, expanding government regulations, and an increasingly diverse workforce have conspired to transform the role of the 21st century chief officer. Training and experience are valuable tools in career development however; in order to compete and succeed as a leader in the modern fire service you need an education!

Fire Science Option (On Campus Delivery)

The Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Services Fire Science option is designed for students preparing for a career in the fire service. Courses are delivered on campus in a traditional classroom setting. Perhaps no career is more rewarding or respected than that of the firefighter. The job is demanding both physically and mentally, yet firefighters go home after each shift knowing they have made a difference in the lives of their neighbors. Careers in the Fire Service also provide: stable employment, relatively good pay, benefits and the opportunity for advancement. The firefighter meets new challenges almost every day. The last 20 years have seen significant changes in service demands, technology and non-emergent responsibilities. More than ever a quality education is necessary for a successful career in this dynamic and exciting field. The WIU Fire Protection Services Program will prepare students for:

• Advancement to senior leadership positions in the fire service
• Competition for entry level firefighter positions
• Careers in related fields such as: Arson Investigation, Fire Inspection and Industrial Safety