The FPE Science certificate highlights the science and engineering principles of fire protection engineering, including thermal sciences and flammability characteristics of different materials. Alternatively, the FPE Applications certificate emphasizes the fire service aspect of the industry, including courses that identify fire safety codes and regulations, understanding evacuation models, and information about fire detection and alarm systems.

As only the third set of graduate programs in FPE in the United States and the first one to be located on the West Coast, one goal of this program is to help fill the increasing demand for fire protection engineers, particularly in California and other western states, where the lack of educational programs in FPE has resulted in a shortag.

For admission as a classified graduate student, an applicant should hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, fire science, fire protection and safety, or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution, college, or university. An undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 is required. On occasion, where other credentials are exceptionally strong, a GPA in the 2.5-3.0 range may be accepted.