Fire science programs in Cathedral City, CA

3 schools within 30 miles of Cathedral City, CA offer fire science & firefighting programs, and the closest is College of the Desert in Palm Desert, 8 miles away. Firefighters in California earn a median $85,120 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
3
Closest
8 mi
Public colleges
3
Median pay in CA
$85,120

3 fire science & firefighting schools within 30 mi of Cathedral City, CA

School results

  1. College of the Desert

    Palm Desert, CA · 8.3 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • HVAC technician
    • Welding
    • +9
  2. Copper Mountain Community College

    Joshua Tree, CA · 25 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Automotive technician
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +4
  3. Mt San Jacinto Community College District

    San Jacinto, CA · 29 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Automotive technician
    • Medical assistant
    • +5

What firefighters earn in California

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Median pay
$85,120
$40.92 an hour
Typical range
$52,390–$136,150
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in CA
31,470
Job growth, 2025–35
+3.7%
26,800 openings a year (U.S.)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the closest fire science & firefighting schools to Cathedral City?

The closest are College of the Desert (Palm Desert, 8 mi), Copper Mountain Community College (Joshua Tree, 25 mi), and Mt San Jacinto Community College District (San Jacinto, 29 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach fire science & firefighting.

How much do fire science & firefighting programs near Cathedral City cost?

For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $6,806 to $15,728. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do firefighters make near Cathedral City?

Across California, the median pay is $85,120 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.

How do I choose a fire science & firefighting school in Cathedral City?

Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.