Fire science programs in San Mateo, CA

6 schools within 30 miles of San Mateo, CA offer fire science & firefighting programs, and one is in San Mateo itself. Firefighters in California earn a median $85,120 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
6
Closest
2 mi
Public colleges
6
Median pay in CA
$85,120

6 fire science & firefighting schools within 30 mi of San Mateo, CA

School results

  1. College of San Mateo

    San Mateo, CA · 2.2 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Dental assistant
    • Cosmetology
    • +4

  2. Chabot College

    Hayward, CA · 13 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Electrician
    • Welding
    • +7

  3. City College of San Francisco

    San Francisco, CA · 14 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +23

  4. Hear from the best fits near San Mateo, CA

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  5. Merritt College

    Oakland, CA · 18 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Medical assistant
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +4

  6. Mission College

    Santa Clara, CA · 22 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Automotive technician
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +4

  7. Las Positas College

    Livermore, CA · 30 mi · Public

    • Fire science & firefighting
    • Welding
    • Automotive technician
    • +4

What firefighters earn in California

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

Firefighter salary in CaliforniaHow to become a firefighter

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 San Mateo?

The closest are College of San Mateo (San Mateo, 2 mi), Chabot College (Hayward, 13 mi), and City College of San Francisco (San Francisco, 14 mi). In total, 6 schools within 30 miles teach fire science & firefighting.

How much do fire science & firefighting programs near San Mateo cost?

For the 6 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $536 to $14,021. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do firefighters make near San Mateo?

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 San Mateo?

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.

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