The most popular degrees in fire science occur at the associate level. Two-year programs in fire science introduce students to the basics of emergency services, including fire personnel, first-response medical (EMTs and paramedics), police officers and federal agencies involved in emergencies and disasters. Coursework then progresses into fire behavior, building construction, protection systems, prevention techniques and strategy and tactics. Most fire science associate degrees run between 60 and 90 credits, with one-half to two-thirds of credits in the fire science major.