F.I.R.E. Education Professional Formation Programme in Fire Engineering
Introduction
The F.I.R.E. Education Professional Formation Programme in Fire Engineering is a structured, part-time learning pathway for early-career and progressing professionals working in fire engineering, fire safety consultancy and the wider built environment.
The programme is being developed by experienced academics working with practising fire engineers. This combines academic structure with current professional insight and focuses on three core capabilities: analytical reasoning, engineering judgement and professional communication.
A professional practice thread runs through every stage of the programme. Learners complete structured fire engineering calculations, interpret modelling outputs, evaluate building layouts and prepare technical explanations similar to those used in fire engineering and building safety reporting. They are expected to identify assumptions and justify decisions using scientific reasoning and relevant regulatory frameworks.
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Summary
The programme starts at Level 4, with a planned progression pathway to Level 5 and Level 6, moving from the foundations of fire engineering to applied analysis, advanced design and independent research.
- Programme levels: 4 to 6
- Duration: Six years part-time
- Delivery: Classroom-based and online learning
- Typical classroom attendance: One day per week
- Yearly Intakes: October and January
Assessment is designed to evaluate technical understanding, analytical reasoning and professional judgement. Methods may include structured calculations, analytical exercises, case study analysis, applied evaluation tasks and written technical explanations.
Course Objectives
The programme is designed to:
- Strengthen understanding of the scientific and technical principles that underpin fire engineering.
- Develop structured analytical reasoning and calculation skills.
- Build engineering judgement within the context of fire behaviour, building design and regulatory requirements.
- Improve the interpretation of fire safety legislation, guidance and professional standards.
- Develop clear technical writing, reporting and professional communication.
- Support learners in identifying assumptions, evaluating evidence and justifying engineering decisions.
Who Is the Programme For?
The programme is intended for people seeking a structured route into, or through, fire engineering practice. It is suitable for early-career and progressing professionals from fire safety, engineering, construction, building control and related technical backgrounds.
Applications are considered individually, taking account of previous qualifications, fire-related study, relevant professional experience and other evidence of the applicant’s knowledge, skills and potential to engage successfully with the programme.
What You Will Learn
Stage 1: Level 4
Foundations of Fire Science and Engineering
Stage 1 establishes the scientific, mathematical and regulatory foundations required for fire engineering practice.
- Mathematical and Analytical Methods for Fire Engineering
- Fire Dynamics and Combustion in Buildings
- Heat Transfer and Compartment Fire Behaviour
- Structural Fire Performance and Materials
- Active and Passive Fire Protection Systems
- Fire Risk, Regulatory Engineering and Professional Judgement
Stage 2: Level 5
Applied Fire Engineering
Stage 2 applies fire engineering principles to buildings, safety systems and professional practice. Learners develop their capability in fire dynamics, risk assessment, project delivery and computational fire engineering.
- Fire Dynamics and Fluid Flow
- Fire and the Built Environment
- Fire Risk Assessment and Hazard Analysis
- Health, Safety and Accident Management
- Project Management in Engineering
- Computational Fire Engineering
Stage 3: Level 6
Advanced Fire Engineering and Research
Stage 3 develops advanced capability in fire engineering design, structural response, performance-based assessment, investigation, risk modelling and independent research.
- Enclosure Fire Behaviour and Structural Response
- Fire Protection Systems and Performance-Based Design
- Fire Investigation and Forensic Analysis
- Risk, Reliability and Probabilistic Modelling
- Integrated Fire Engineering Design Project
- Independent Research Dissertation
Fees
The programme fee is £4,895 per year, payable annually across the six-year duration of the programme.
Individual modules may also be studied separately, subject to availability, at a fee of £1,750 per module.
Alternative payment arrangements or fee reductions may be considered on an individual basis and may require supporting evidence.
How to Enrol
To request further information, a copy of our prospectus or begin the enrolment process, contact F.I.R.E. Education using the form below. The team can provide details about entry requirements, programme delivery, module availability, fees and the application process.