Youngstown State University has launched a brand-new degree through its Bitonte College of Health & Human Services.

The new Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science degree will be offered beginning in the Fall 2025 semester. The degree is designed to meet the increasing demand for professionally-educated public safety personnel.

The curriculum is built around the evolving nature of fire service incorporating both traditional emergency response and modern public safety concepts.

Students will study fire behavior, building construction, occupational safety, data-informed decision making and leadership in complex environments. Additionally, the program emphasizes key areas like firefighter mental health, cancer prevention protocols, emergency management and resilience planning. 

The program will be accessible to working professionals already serving in fire departments, EMS and emergency management rules.

The program's coordinator is Carl DeCarlo, who is a retired fire chief, has worked alongside national fire service leaders who have been advocates for integrating education more deeply into fire service leadership.

DeCarlo is quoted in the release saying this program is not only about fire suppression, but also building safer communities through leadership, science and systems thinking.

"I've been fortunate to learn from people who believed in education as a way to elevate their profession. That's what we're doing here at YSU. We're helping people lead," DeCarlo said.

Applications are currently open for the Fall 2025 semester. You can apply for the program by clicking here.