Educational qualification 

Most of the occupations in fire engineering requires a bachelor's degree. A degree in Fire Engineering can be a Bachelors of Engineering and post-graduate qualification of either Master's or PH.D. level. The entry requirement for the post graduate qualification is generally a Bachelor of Engineering, B.E. degree in Chemical, Civil, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.

The selection for BE in Fire Engineering is through Entrance test and it is normally held in May/June. The eligibility for BE in Fire Engineering is BSc with Chemistry and either Physics or Maths or both as optional subjects. The age limit for joining   BE is between 19 to 24 and the duration of the course is 3¹/₂years

There are also certificate and diploma courses in fire engineering offered by private institutes and for most of the courses the eligibility is SSLC or +2. After 10 + 2 with Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry or its equivalent examination, one can opt for a diploma in Fire engineering. For diploma courses the duration varies from 3 months to 2 years.

Apart from the educational qualification, candidate should posses some specified physical qualification. He should be  physically fit and free from organic disease to undergo practical training. Minimum acceptable physical standards for the Fire Engineering course are  Height : Minimum 165 cms, Weight :  50 kgs. Chest measurement: 81 centimeters, with five centimeter expansion, Vision :  6/6, Preferably without any aid.

Personal skills

The personal skills needed for a fire engineer is good communication skills, organisational ability, skills in evaluating situations, making quick decisions and solving problems. The other qualities include physical agility, presence of mind, calmness of mind, self-discipline, a sense of responsibility and leadership qualities. Fire engineering is a technical profession that calls for a person with a scientific bent of mind