Fire and Safety Engineering Technology, Fire Safety
The Fire and Safety Engineering Technology, Fire Safety Bachelor of Science program at the University of North Carolina provides a comprehensive education in fire prevention, fire behavior, and risk mitigation through engineering principles. Over four years, students gain deep expertise in fire dynamics, hazard analysis, and safety system design while building a strong foundation in applied physics, materials science, and occupational health standards. The curriculum merges technical learning with practical application, preparing students to evaluate, design, and implement fire protection systems that comply with regulatory and safety standards. Specialized courses, simulations, and field-based training equip students with the skills needed to address real-world safety challenges across industrial, residential, and public sectors.
In addition to core fire science courses, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and system-based thinking to improve safety performance in complex environments. Topics such as smoke control systems, combustion science, structural fire protection, and emergency management protocols are central to the training. Students engage in laboratory work, digital modeling, and case studies to analyze fire scenarios and assess engineering solutions. Supported by faculty with both academic and professional experience, learners also explore legal, environmental, and ethical dimensions of safety engineering. This program prepares graduates to lead efforts in minimizing fire risk and enhancing resilience in a range of built environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Fire and Safety Engineering Technology, Fire Safety
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Materials Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Scientific Foundations and Technical Skills
• General Chemistry for Engineers
• Introduction to Fire Safety and Protection
• Technical Drawing and CAD
• College Algebra and Trigonometry
• Principles of Occupational Safety
Year 2 – Fire Science and Engineering Principles
• Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
• Fire Behavior and Combustion
• Electrical Systems in Safety Design
• Safety Standards and Building Codes
• Laboratory Techniques in Fire Testing
Year 3 – System Design and Risk Management
• Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
• Structural Fire Protection Engineering
• Risk Assessment and Hazard Mitigation
• Smoke and Egress Modeling
• Industrial Fire Safety Practices
Year 4 – Application and Leadership in Safety Engineering
• Fire Protection Systems Design
• Capstone Project in Fire Engineering
• Safety Program Management
• Environmental Impact of Fire Events
• Internship or Field Study in Fire Safety
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are highly sought after in sectors where fire safety knowledge, engineering analysis, regulatory compliance, and emergency response planning are essential. Alumni commonly pursue roles as fire protection engineers, safety consultants, loss control specialists, industrial safety officers, or code compliance analysts. Career paths are available in fire departments, government regulatory bodies, manufacturing industries, insurance companies, and engineering consulting firms. With growing awareness of fire hazards in urban development and industrial growth, professionals trained in fire safety engineering play a critical role in safeguarding lives, property, and critical infrastructure. The program's focus on both technical rigor and real-world application enables graduates to adapt to evolving technologies and industry standards in fire risk management.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out for its direct alignment with industry needs, offering a practical and technically robust education in fire and safety engineering. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates science-based learning, design thinking, system integration, and risk prevention strategies. The University of North Carolina’s facilities support immersive lab experiences and access to simulation tools that replicate real fire dynamics and safety system operations. Mentorship from professionals and opportunities for field experience further enhance job readiness. Graduates emerge with the confidence and competence to lead in high-stakes environments, equipped to reduce risk and improve safety outcomes in communities and industries alike. Choosing this program means investing in a career dedicated to protecting lives through engineering excellence and safety innovation.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
