Fire Protection at University of Florida-Online

University of Florida-Online's fire protection program demonstrates impressive outcomes, though the state-level data requires some interpretation. Graduates earn $86,740 in their first year—nearly $20,000 above the national median and solidly in the 84th percentile nationally. The $12,296 median debt is less than half the national average for this degree, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.14. That means graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in less than two months of gross income, an exceptionally strong position.

The Florida rankings deserve context: this program appears at the 60th percentile statewide because there are only five fire protection programs in Florida total, and UF-Online happens to match the state median exactly. This isn't a weakness—it simply reflects limited in-state competition. The real comparison is to the $67,102 national median, where this program excels by nearly 30%.

For families considering fire science degrees, this represents a clear financial win. The combination of well-above-average earnings and minimal debt burden means graduates enter careers with genuine financial flexibility. The online format from a respected state flagship adds practical appeal for working students or those already in emergency services seeking advancement.