Paramedic programs train students to save patients' lives. Paramedics need more knowledge and skills than emergency management technicians (EMTs). Necessary skills include intubation and resuscitation techniques.
Some schools ask for EMT certification and prerequisite coursework. Certificate programs take one year to complete. Associate programs for paramedics include general education courses. These degrees take up to two years to complete. Program length depends on enrollment status.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for EMTs and paramedics to grow by 6% from 2019-2029. This is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. The BLS reports that these professionals earn a median annual salary of $35,400. Paramedics need more education and expertise than EMTs, so they earn higher salaries. One way to do that is through vocational and trade school programs.
What Can I Do as a Paramedic?
Paramedics and EMTs work together to provide life-saving emergency services. Job duties include assessing patients' conditions and providing treatment. These professionals also write reports for physicians and nurses. Aspiring paramedics take upper-division courses in human anatomy. They also study typical traumatic injuries and medical conditions and patient assessment.
Completing a paramedic program qualifies graduates to apply for a state-issued paramedic certification. Some states allow qualified medical workers to become paramedics with only some education. Certification candidates may need to pass an exam. The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) administers this exam. A background check is often required as well.
Experienced paramedics can advance their careers and salary potential. The next step is usually becoming a physician assistant or medical assistant. These and other related careers need a bachelor's degree or higher. Many top programs offer flexible schedules. This allows learners to continue working while earning a degree.
Accreditation for a Paramedic Program
Students considering programs for paramedics should ensure that each prospective school holds accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education approves six regional accrediting agencies. These agencies assess postsecondary schools in different geographic areas. Colleges and universities must meet high standards to earn regional accreditation.
Some paramedic programs feature a hybrid format, which combines online and on-campus coursework. Schools with online or hybrid programs should hold national accreditation. This accreditation comes from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). This designation demonstrates quality education for both online and on-campus learners.
Top paramedic programs hold programmatic accreditation as well. This comes from private agencies specializing in EMT and paramedic education. NREMT accreditation is one example of programmatic accreditation. Only graduates of NREMT-accredited programs can qualify for certification. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs may also verify programs.
FAQ on Paramedic Programs
How many years of college does it take to be a paramedic?
Paramedic programs last 1-2 years. Program length depends on whether the program confers an associate degree or certificate. Factors such as enrollment status also impact graduation time.
What is the difference between a paramedic and an EMT?
EMTs and paramedics work together to save lives. Paramedics need more education than EMTs. Paramedics also qualify to perform advanced life-saving measures.
What does a paramedic do in a day?
Paramedics respond to medical emergencies in ambulances or fire trucks. They also deliver patients to hospitals. These professionals update doctors and RNs about patients' medical conditions. They also provide updates on the treatment patients received before reaching the hospital.
How long is a typical EMT shift?
Shifts last 12-24 hours and can take place overnight and on weekends. EMTs and paramedics restock supplies, perform administrative tasks, and rest between medical emergencies.
What Are the Requirements for a Paramedic Program?
Admission requirements vary between certificate and associate degree programs for paramedics. Certificate programs often need an EMT certification and professional experience. Most programs do not accept learners under the age of 18. Other admissions materials may include FAFSA results and a background check.
Paramedic program curricula usually involve both in-class instruction and hands-on experience. Experiential components let students practice career skills. These may include advanced CPR, cardiac life support, and differential diagnosis. Some programs mandate an internship. Interns work with certified paramedics and other medical professionals.
Courses in a Paramedic Program
Students in associate-level paramedic programs take major and general education courses. The latter emphasize transferable skills, such as communication, writing, and research. Major courses provide the knowledge and training necessary for paramedics' jobs.
Students in paramedic certificate programs often complete the courses below. Certificate coursework builds on knowledge from an initial EMT program. The following sample curriculum does not reflect the requirements of all paramedic programs. Students should contact their prospective school for information on courses and requirements.
Paramedic Theory This course reviews essential skills that EMTs and paramedics use in the field. Course topics include emergency management services (EMS) systems, IV therapy, and emergency pharmacology. Students also learn how to manage on-the-job stress and to seek services if necessary.
Learners gain an understanding of paramedics' responsibilities, as well as human development. Degree-seekers prepare to assess patients' needs and administer appropriate treatment. Besides EMT certification, prerequisites may include biology, English, and mathematics classes.
Students often complete this lab and a paramedics theory course in the same semester. During the lab, students practice intubating patients, inserting IVs, and calculating medicine dosages. Learners show their competency by working with manikins, lifelike dummies with anatomical features. Degree-seekers also interpret electrocardiogram results to identify cardiac distress, such as heart attacks.Paramedic Practical Skills
Students in their first semester hone both new and existing skills. They assess patients' vitals, administer medications, intubate, and identify life-threatening symptoms. Students work under medical professionals' supervision. They gain advanced technical proficiencies necessary for paramedic jobs. The course usually requires extra fees, such as student liability insurance.Paramedic Hospital Practice
Students apply knowledge from their first semester to a field internship later. Learners work in various hospital and clinical settings. They care for patients and practice skills. Interns develop transferable communication and critical thinking skills. Internships entail several prerequisites. Plus, learners may need to pay fees. These fees compensate field supervisors for their time and feedback.Paramedic Field Internship
During their final semester, students spend almost 150 hours working in local hospitals. Learners can prove mastery of knowledge and skills by assisting patients. Students work under supervision at job sites. These may include operating rooms, mental health units, and labor and delivery rooms. Learners pass or fail based on supervisors' feedback. Candidates must have completed most of their paramedic program's coursework. They should have earned at least a "C" grade.Paramedic Hospital Internship
Professional Organizations for Paramedic Majors
Professional organizations for paramedics and students offer job boards, scholarships, and networking events. These organizations may also deliver professional development courses and certifications. These can help paramedics increase their career and salary potential. The following list highlights a few professional organizations for students in paramedics programs.
Scholarships for Paramedic Students
A paramedic program takes less time to complete than a bachelor's degree. Still, these programs mandate a significant financial investment. Private scholarships can help learners reduce or cut their student debt. Many scholarships, including those below, accept applications from aspiring paramedics. Some awards renew yearly as long as recipients remain in good academic standing.
America's 911 Foundation, Inc., Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Practicing first responders and their children qualify for the scholarship. Candidates must submit an essay of 250-500 words. The essay should discuss an inspiring first responder the applicant knows. Learners must apply by March 8, and the foundation notifies recipients in June. Scholarship recipients cannot apply again the following year.
Amount: $2,000
Bound Tree Legacy Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Bound Tree's scholarship serves aspiring firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. Applicants must have a parent or caregiver working in emergency management services. Candidates submit two recommendation letters and a one-page essay. The application window closes on March 27, and Bound Tree announces recipients on July 6.
Amount: $500-$2,500
California Paramedic Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The California Paramedic Foundation awards three scholarships at a time. These awards go out 1-2 times each year. In-state EMT and paramedic students can qualify for the awards. The scholarship committee reviews applications on a rolling basis. Prospective applicants can sign up for the foundation's newsletter. This newsletter gives information about application requirements and details.
Amount: Varies
Top Paramedic Programs 2021
#1 Best Paramedic Programs 2022
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College
Chicago, IL - 2 years
- Campus
Based in Illinois, City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College is a public school offering associate and certificate paramedic programs. One option includes an associate in applied science paramedic program. Featuring crucial technical training, these programs help students gain paramedic-specific skills necessary for entry-level positions. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.
The school's online options provide opportunities for enrollees not based near Chicago. Online learning also benefits working professionals, who need to schedule their studies around full-time employment. The institution's admissions counselors can provide program details and help prospective applicants understand their options.
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available
Number of Certificate Programs: 23
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available
#2 Best Paramedic Programs 2022
Sinclair Community College
Dayton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Aspiring paramedics can earn their paramedic technical certificate from Sinclair Community College, a public institution in Dayton, Ohio. Learners can study on campus or online. Studying remotely allows enrollees to attend class without commuting or adjusting their schedule to attend day classes.
Participants develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level paramedic roles. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Sinclair Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 118
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 14
Number of Certificate Programs: 162
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 25
#3 Best Paramedic Programs 2022
Central New Mexico Community College
Albuquerque, NM - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Central New Mexico Community College is a public institution offering an associate in emergency medical services. Although the school is located in Albuquerque, students in any state can enroll in its online programs. Learners with full-time jobs often study online because of the increased flexibility remote learning offers.
Associate degree-seekers develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to paramedic positions. An additional option for graduates of certificate or associate programs is to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Central New Mexico Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 74
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 17
Number of Certificate Programs: 127
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
#4 Best Paramedic Programs 2022
Ivy Tech Community College
Indianapolis, IN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Ivy Tech Community College, a public institution in Indianapolis, Indiana, offers a paramedic science program. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in various locations. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
Enrollees in the paramedic science program gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. After completing their program, individuals can qualify for entry-level paramedic jobs. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Ivy Tech Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 98
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 22
Number of Certificate Programs: 182
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 36
#5 Best Paramedic Programs 2022
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public school in Jacksonville, Florida State College at Jacksonville delivers an associate of science in emergency medical services. With technical, subject-specific classes, the program prepares students to succeed in entry-level roles. Graduates can also apply their new knowledge to bachelor's studies.
Enrollees can study online without relocating to Jacksonville. In addition, online learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. For specific information about the institution's programs, prospective applicants can consult an admissions counselor.
Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 53
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10
Number of Certificate Programs: 98
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 17