Wildland Firefighting and Investigation: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Prepared for professionals and emerging experts, this program delivers comprehensive training in the scientific, operational, and investigative dimensions of wildland fire management. It equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively respond to, mitigate, and analyze wildfires in diverse natural environments.

• Fire Science and Behavior: Explores the fundamental principles governing how wildfires ignite, spread, and interact with terrain and vegetation.
• Wildland Environments: Examines the ecological and geographical factors that influence fire risk, including forest types, topography, and seasonal patterns.
• Meteorology: Focuses on atmospheric conditions—such as wind, humidity, and temperature—that directly affect fire development and behavior.
• Wildland Fire Hydraulics and Dynamics: Investigates the movement and application of water and fire suppressants in challenging terrain and extreme conditions.
• Water and Chemical Supply Systems: Covers the design, deployment, and logistics of fire retardant and suppressant delivery systems in remote locations.
• Wildland Firefighting Operations: Trains in tactical deployment, safety protocols, and coordinated response strategies during active fire events.
• Airborne Firefighting: Addresses the use of aircraft for fire detection, suppression, and logistical support in inaccessible areas.
• Firebreak Engineering: Teaches the planning and construction of firebreaks to halt or slow the advance of wildfires.
• Communications Systems: Focuses on command structures, interoperable communication tools, and real-time coordination across multi-agency teams.
• Wildland Arson: Addresses the criminal aspects of intentional fire-setting in wildland areas, including legal and investigative frameworks.
• Forensic Procedures: Applies scientific methods to collect, preserve, and analyze physical evidence from fire scenes.
• Wildland Fire Prevention: Develops strategies for public education, risk assessment, and fuel reduction to minimize ignition potential.
• Investigation Techniques: Covers systematic approaches to determining fire origin, cause, and contributing factors.
• Case Management and Preparation: Builds competencies in documenting findings, preparing reports, and supporting legal proceedings.