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Degrees and Schools
There are three levels of postsecondary training and certification for paramedics: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and EMT-Paramedic. These levels are established by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), which awards national certification to graduates of approved programs who pass the required exams. Not all states recognize these credentials and have instead established their own certification exam and designation, or accept the NREMT certification as an option.
EMT and paramedic training programs last from six months to several years depending on the level, and are typically available through vocational schools and community colleges. Diplomas are awarded for shorter programs, and associate's degrees for two-year programs. Programs should be approved by the state.
Classes
Students training to become EMTs and paramedics spend time both in class and in emergency rooms and ambulances. Educational programs are designed to prepare them for national certification through the NREMT and/or designations established by individual states. They start by studying for EMT-Basic certification, which covers:
- Managing traumatic, respiratory and cardiac emergencies
- Assessing patients' status and necessary care
- Dealing with fractures, bleeding, airway obstruction, emergency childbirth and cardiac arrest
- Using emergency equipment (backboards, splints, suction, oxygen, stretchers, etc.)
Students training for the two EMT-Intermediate levels learn different skills according to requirements of each state. Training usually includes:
- Use of advanced airway devices
- Administration of intravenous fluid and some medications
- 30-350 hours of required training
When training for EMT-Paramedic certification, which is the highest occupational level, students learn additional advanced skills and anatomy/physiology through extensive coursework and practical experience.
Online Classes and Programs
There are a few emergency medicine training programs offered online. These programs offer flexibility and convenience, but may not be approved by the state in which a student may wish to be licensed. Such programs might be considered best suited for preparatory or supplemental training in combination with an on-campus program that provides required practical experience.
Online courses should be part of an institution with accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or United States Department of Education (USDE).
EMT and Paramedic Requirements
For admission into an emergency medicine training program, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. To practice as an EMT or paramedic, students must pass up to five national certification exams or state certification exams if required. These exams are included as part of formal training programs.
How to Evaluate Emergency Medicine Schools
Asking the following questions can help when comparing EMT and paramedic training programs:
- Emphasis and focus - Does the school offer programs for all levels of EMT certification? Does it focus more on entry-level, or provide a balance of comprehensive training for all levels?
- State approval - Has the program been approved by the state? Does it prepare students for national certification, or state-specific certification which may not be recognized in other states?
- Class structure and practical experience - Does the program require substantial experience in both emergency rooms and ambulances? Are classes small enough for optimal learning, and easy to get into?
- Tuition and financial aid - What financial aid options such as scholarships, grants and student loans are available through the school?
- Graduate success - What percentage of students at each level obtained certification over the past several years? Does the school provide assistance with job placement?
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic Job Description
In medical emergencies, people of all ages, races, genders, regions and faiths may rely on paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to respond quickly and competently. From car accidents to gun shots, childbirth to accidental poisonings, heart attacks to broken limbs, EMTs and paramedics must be prepared for and skilled in providing immediate care until patients can be transported to a hospital if necessary.
Example Paramedics Program
Career tips, salaries, and lists of schools.
A future paramedic gives us a look at the three components of her degree program: class work, lab work, and field work. Produced by Penn College, a part of the Penn State University system.
Paramedics and EMTs can have different degrees of responsibility based on their level of certification. For all levels, responsibilities usually include:
- Working as part of an emergency team under the direction of physicians
- Responding to a scene after being dispatched by a 911 operator
- Being present at an event in case of emergency
- Assessing patients' status and medical history
- Following pre-determined protocols to provide immediate care
- Treating minor injuries or conditions at the scene
- Administering drugs by IV or orally
- Interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs) and performing endotracheal intubations
- Stabilizing and transporting patients to hospitals if necessary
- Transferring patients and related information to hospital emergency staff
- Restocking supplies and maintaining equipment used during transportation
- Relocating patients from one care facility to another
EMTs and paramedics can be employed by fire departments, hospitals and private ambulance services.
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