Associate program

The American University Associate program Associate of Science in Fire Science

Fire behavior

About the program

Associate of Science in Fire Science

Shaping the Future of Public Safety and Healthcare Administration

In an era where professional excellence demands both specialized knowledge and flexible delivery, two vital sectors—fire science and medical administration—stand at the forefront of career advancement. Whether you are looking to step into the boots of a first responder or master the complex intricacies of the modern healthcare revenue cycle, the right education is the catalyst for your success.

Elevating First Response with THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

When seconds count, expertise is the difference between catastrophe and control. THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY (AU) is widely recognized as the preeminent leader in online fire education. Our Associate of Science (A.S.) in Fire Science is more than just a degree; it is one of the most reputable professional development programs in the nation, designed to forge the next generation of fire service leaders.

The AU curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover the critical pillars of modern fire safety: comprehensive fire prevention and sophisticated fire protection strategies. Whether you are an aspiring recruit seeking the foundational knowledge to enter the field or a veteran firefighter looking to broaden your career trajectory into administration, investigation, or prevention, our program provides the academic edge you need.

Furthermore, our commitment to excellence is reinforced by our partnership with Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE)—a network of the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy. This ensures that your training meets the gold standard of the industry, keeping you aligned with national protocols and best practices.

Mastering the Pulse of Healthcare: Medical Billing and Coding

Efficiency in the healthcare industry is powered by precision. Our Medical Billing and Coding program is designed to transform motivated students into proficient professionals capable of navigating the complex terrain of medical documentation.

This program offers the latest, industry-vetted insights into medical coding, chart auditing, and insurance reimbursement. By the time you complete your studies, you will possess a versatile toolkit designed to meet the growing demands of clinical administration.

Upon program completion, you will be prepared to:

Integrate Clinical Knowledge: Seamlessly correlate medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to perform accurate coding and reimbursement tasks.

Achieve Coding Mastery: Apply ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT standards with confidence and accuracy.

Navigate Digital Health: Demonstrate high-level computer literacy in the management of both paper-based and electronic medical records and claims.

Uphold Integrity: Apply rigorous medicolegal principles, ensuring the protection of sensitive health information in every transaction.

Your Future Starts Here. Whether you are dedicated to protecting lives on the front lines or ensuring the operational integrity of the healthcare system, these programs provide the rigorous academic foundation necessary to excel. Join us, and turn your ambition into a career of impact.

Curriculum

How the curriculum is built

The Associate of Science in Fire Science degree program provides a robust foundation of the essential skills required for a successful career in the fire industry. By integrating a comprehensive curriculum that spans both fire prevention and fire protection, the program adopts a multi-professional approach to policy development and the practical application of specialized fire service equipment and apparatus. Designed to serve both aspiring firefighters and current professionals seeking to advance their expertise, the degree bridges the gap between academic theory and operational proficiency. Furthermore, the program is officially recognized by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) network through the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy, ensuring that graduates receive a high-standard education that aligns with national excellence in fire safety and management.

GENERAL EDUCATION | Total Required Semester Hours: 21

Requirements

English Composition

Course codeCourse title
EH 1010English Composition I
Requirements

Humanities and Fine Arts

Course codeCourse title
ART 1301ART APPRECIATION I
PHL 1010CRITICAL THINKING
Requirements

Mathematics

Course codeCourse title
MAT 1302ALGEBRA I
Requirements

Natural Science

Course codeCourse title
BIO 1100Non-Majors Biology
BIO 1302ECOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Requirements

Social and Behavioral Science

Course codeCourse title
HY 1110AMERICAN HISTORY I
Requirements

Electives | Total Required Semester Hours: 21

Paying for school

Tuition and ways to save

Transfer credits are accepted. Textbooks are included. Payment options, the learning partners discount and scholarships are available. Admissions issues a written quotation before enrollment.

Credits

Transfer credits accepted

Previous study may count toward this program. Admissions reviews transfer credit.

Books

Textbooks included

Textbooks are included in the cost of the program.

Payment

Payment options

Choose a payment plan set out in your written quotation.

Savings

Scholarships and partner discounts

Ask Admissions about scholarships and the learning partners discount.

Flexible online learning

Study on your schedule

The program is designed for working professionals and anyone balancing study with other commitments.

LifePace

LifePace Learning®

Start any time. Progress through a course in as little as four weeks or as long as ten weeks. There are no required login times and no set start or completion dates.

Terms

Term enrollment

Work at your own pace within set course start and end dates. A term lasts about nine weeks, with weekly assignments to keep you on track. There are eleven term start dates each year.

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Next step

Start this program

Contact Admissions to confirm eligibility, transfer credit, and the next term start.