

The Fire Protection and Safety Management Master of Science program at the University of North Carolina provides students with a comprehensive foundation in fire safety, risk management and emergency preparedness. The curriculum emphasizes safety protocols, hazard assessment and leadership strategies to ensure effective protection of people, property and the environment. Students develop risk management, emergency planning, fire safety engineering and analytical skills, preparing them to address complex challenges in fire protection and public safety across diverse industries.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, case studies and practical exercises that integrate theoretical knowledge with real world applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in evaluating fire risks, designing safety programs and implementing preventive measures in organizational and community settings. By combining safety management principles with applied research and data driven decision making, students enhance strategic planning, regulatory compliance, problem solving abilities and leadership skills, ensuring they are well prepared to manage fire protection and safety operations in professional contexts.
Semester 1 Foundations in Fire Protection and Safety
• Principles of Fire Science
• Fire Risk Assessment and Prevention
• Safety Management Systems
• Emergency Preparedness and Response
Semester 2 Applied Safety Management and Research
• Fire Protection Engineering and Design
• Industrial Safety and Hazard Control
• Regulatory Compliance and Policy
• Research Project in Fire Protection and Safety Management
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in fire protection, safety management and emergency planning. Many pursue careers in fire safety consulting, industrial safety management, emergency response coordination and risk assessment, applying evidence based strategies to prevent hazards and protect communities. Others work in government agencies, construction and manufacturing industries, insurance and public safety organizations, designing safety protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance and implementing emergency response programs. The programs focus on applied safety management, risk assessment and leadership development equips graduates to oversee complex safety operations and make informed decisions in high stakes environments.
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of fire science with practical safety management skills and leadership capabilities. Its curriculum emphasizes the integration of risk assessment, emergency preparedness and regulatory compliance with applied problem solving and project based learning. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing analytical reasoning, strategic planning and decision making skills that are critical for effective safety management. Through applied projects, case studies and research initiatives, learners develop fire safety expertise, risk management skills, applied leadership abilities and strategic decision making, enabling them to manage fire protection and safety operations efficiently. With a focus on both theory and applied practice, the program equips graduates with the tools to excel in diverse professional environments, including public safety, industrial safety and emergency management.
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA