Fire Protection at Massasoit Community College

Peer fire protection programs in Massachusetts suggest earnings potential far higher than the national baseline—North Shore Community College reports graduates earning $90,948 in their first year, indicating strong regional demand for firefighters and emergency responders. That makes the estimated $56,000 figure here somewhat puzzling, as it mirrors the national median rather than reflecting Massachusetts' notably higher earnings pattern for this field. If this program's actual outcomes align more closely with other Bay State fire protection programs, the financial picture would be considerably stronger than these estimates suggest.

The debt side looks more consistent with state norms—an estimated $10,370 sits just above the Massachusetts median for fire protection programs. At a 0.19 debt-to-earnings ratio, even using the conservative national earnings estimate, graduates would owe less than three months of first-year income. If actual earnings trend toward the state pattern, that ratio would drop below 0.12, making debt service quite manageable.

The wide gap between state and national earnings for fire protection programs—over $34,000—means the financial viability of this program hinges almost entirely on whether graduates secure positions in Massachusetts or surrounding high-wage markets. Given the localized nature of firefighting careers and municipal hiring, reach out directly to Massasoit's program coordinator to discuss placement rates with Massachusetts fire departments. Their actual job placement data will tell you far more than these national estimates can.