How does one get into Arson Investigation?

[rocket455]

I'm curious about this. I'm thinking about enrolling in the Fire Science degree program at school. I'm interested in arson investigation and wanted to know if a degree will help me get into that area of fire and rescue. For those that maybe investigators, can you tell me how to go about getting into this area?

Thanks,
Andy:D

[ff7134]

While I don't know about the degree helping you. Most states I
believe have seperate certifications concerning arson investigators.
In Ohio their is the basic investigator then it goes from their. If
you are a member of a department with a Arson bureau talk to them, if not you might want to contact your local state Public Safety/Fire division.

[gfowlston]

Originally posted by rocket455
I'm curious about this. I'm thinking about enrolling in the Fire Science degree program at school. I'm interested in arson investigation and wanted to know if a degree will help me get into that area of fire and rescue. For those that maybe investigators, can you tell me how to go about getting into this area?

Thanks,
Andy:D
Since I do not know what state you are in it is hard to say fo sure. Most State Fire Marshall offices have a class to take then a certification test. I am certified in two States. Then there is the question to you want to be private or Public service. You can take classes in Investigation and find a private company near you you will start out being a gopher and doing the digging out. The university of New Haven Conn. has a Bach. Degree in Arson also.
Hope this gives you some place to start.
:) :) :cool:

[raven911]

If you are a member of an FD already, apply for the National Fire Academy's course. It will give you creditability. Many courts use it as a base reference for qualified training. You will eventually have to go through it anyway. Arson investigation is a game of out-qualifying the competition, the more classes, training, and seminars you take the better you look in the eyes of the courts. That is what it is all about. It can get very expensive to maintain these qualifications, especially in the private world. Don't lose heart though, it can be done. It just takes a bit of work and effort.

[NHPFD749]

I am going to be graduating from the University of New Have in CT. i am goingto have a bachelors degree in fire science with a concentration in fire/arson investigation. also i am going to have a minor in criminal justice. to get to the point, i am curious to know if anyone out there knows of any companies that are hiring for fire investigators

[raven911]

Yes, there are companies out there who do hire Investigators, but your best bet would be to get a job in a prevention bureau or fire marshal's office and get a few years experience under your belt. You will have an easier go at it if you go this route. Like I was saying before, experience and creditability is the name of the game.