Paramedic and EMT Training Programs

In medical emergency situations, paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are often the first responders who work to make sure people are safe and receiving proper care. Frequently working in life-or-death situations, their jobs are high-stakes and can be stressful, but they pay off with rewarding work and can lead to a variety of other career opportunities.

Those looking to begin their careers as EMTs or paramedics should start by exploring different degree and training options, and learning about the steps involved to become an emergency medical response professional.

As a paramedic student, you will develop an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, as well as being exposed to a variety of real-life training lessons. Each school offers something different, which is why we’ve gone through and sorted out which programs are the most effective, cost-friendly and meet other important criteria. Look below to find the best paramedic and EMT programs.

Paramedics and EMTs share many primary job duties, so the training for each career is similar. The main factor differentiating EMTs and paramedics is the amount of preparation, with paramedics receiving additional education. Programs vary in length depending on the credentials sought, but most programs are founded on basic EMT training courses. Lessons in anatomy and physiology, emergency first-response procedures, and ambulatory care are at the core of many public health and safety careers. From there, prospective paramedics and advanced EMTs take additional classes to build on their basic EMT training and prepare for more advanced first-responder duties.

Certificate and degree programs for EMTs and paramedics are available at career and technical schools as well as community colleges. Prospective students can learn more about each pathway to determine which type of EMT and paramedic training best suits them.

Looking at individual courses and requirements for EMT and paramedic programs can help students figure out which route is more tailored to their interests and professional goals, but in general, they can expect to take classes that cover the following areas:

Students who choose to build on their EMT educations and pursue advanced emergency responder training may find themselves taking courses like these:

While there is no single path toward becoming an EMT or paramedic, there are some steps that most professionals need to take in order to have a successful career with room for advancement.

EMTs and paramedics are on the front lines in extreme situations, meaning they must remain calm, and make considered—but quick—decisions under pressure to ensure patients get timely, proper treatment. EMTs and paramedics typically work together in teams, with a paramedic having the additional experience and training to act as the team leader, make higher-level decisions, and perform more advanced procedures. Although most EMTs and paramedics work on ambulance crews, it’s not the only path to employment. EMTs and paramedics may also work at hospitals, or at sites where established medical care is not easily available, such as cruise ships or remote job sites.

EMTs and paramedics are in high demand. Employment for these occupations is expected to grow by 24 percent between 2014 and 2024 – more than three times faster than the national average for all careers. One reason is that medical facilities that specialize in the treatment of specific conditions are becoming more popular, so more EMTs and paramedics are needed to transport patients to different locations. In addition, the country’s aging population needs additional health services, further increasing the need for well-trained emergency medical professionals. In 2014, nearly half of all EMTs and paramedics worked in ambulance services, but local governments and hospitals were also among the field’s top employers.

*Excludes health practitioner offices, home health care services, outpatient care centers and medical and diagnostic laboratories.

Source:BLS.gov

Beyond state licensure and certification from the NREMT, paramedics and EMTs can become certified in various specialties that can increase their salaries and lead to more job opportunities. Here are a few optional certifications that paramedics and EMTs can earn through the Board for Critical Care Transport Certification (BCCTPC).

This guide is a good starting point for those interested in becoming EMTs or paramedics, but prospective students can also check out these resources for more information on certification, education and careers in emergency medical services.