Wildland fuel and fire technology
Associate of Science
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Changing wildland fuels to change wildland fire
Fire has always been a natural part of our wildlands, and it will continue to be a vital element in shaping ecosystems. As we face increasing challenges and negative impacts from wildfires, it’s essential to prepare more skilled professionals capable of managing fuels and influencing fire behavior for better outcomes.
In this program, you will work as a wildland firefighter while earning credit for taking your experience to the next level. This program enables you to directly impact wildland fire events by advancing your experience and skills. More than just learning how to work with tools in the field, you will build a solid understanding of how fuels, fire and environmental factors interact. Through a combination of coursework and required field experience, you will gain practical knowledge in wildfire operations, fuels management, monitoring techniques and communication. Classes are structured to work within and around your seasonal fire and fuels work and can be completed anywhere you have internet access.
Graduates of this program are prepared to step into roles such as wildland firefighter, prescribed fire crew member, or fuels technician. It also provides a strong foundation if you wish to pursue a Bachelor of Fire Ecology and Management degree, further expanding your opportunities in wildfire science and land management.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy working hard outdoors
- Are a wildland firefighter or fuels technician, and ready to advance your career
- Want to earn a degree while you continue working
- Want to develop your leadership and decision-making skills
- Like to see the impact you can have over time
- Are good at making informed decisions in complex environments
Learn fuels management. Build your career.
Curriculum
The Associate of Science in wildland fuel and fire technology is an 81-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,013 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Forest and Conservation Technicians
$54,015 - Forest and Conservation Workers
$42,771
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Required field components in class
- Continuing to work as a seasonal job
Clubs
- Student Association for Fire Ecology (SAFE) club – on campus club with opportunities to join activities
Financial aid and scholarships
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Application instructions
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty