Choosing a Paramedic Program

An education isn’t how much you have committed to memory, or even how much you know. It’s being able to differentiate between what you know and what you don’t. — Anatole France (French novelist)

Becoming a paramedic is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, decisions a person can make. Unfortunately, many students don’t take time to explore different options in EMS education. Paramedic programs differ as much as people’s preferences for pizza toppings. Choosing a program is the first and, at times, most important step in becoming a paramedic. Many people choose programs based on word of mouth, relationships with previous graduates, reputation and location. Although these are important, other aspects should be investigated. This article reviews questions you should ask before making one of the most important decisions of your EMS career.

What are the program’s entry requirements?

Some programs require a certain number of years of prehospital experience as an EMT-Basic or EMT-Intermediate, while others require letters of recommendation from physicians, employers or friends. Many programs require some form of exam that may involve a practical and/or written test. In addition to exams, programs may also require an interview with their staff. The interview allows the staff to obtain a better understanding of its prospective students, which theoretically allows them to select stronger candidates for a limited number of openings. Anatomy and physiology education are required by most programs. If you have already taken those courses, speak with the program director about transferability, as some programs may require that it be taken concurrently with their program. Others may incorporate this course into their program. Most prospective paramedic students should begin to research various institutions 6–12 months prior to beginning the program to ensure they find a program that fits them and to allow for any prerequisites to be met.

How can I find more information about paramedic programs, and what types of programs are available?

Contact the regional or state agency that oversees EMS education in your area. Find out how many programs exist and where they are located. The program in your backyard, although convenient, may not necessarily be the best one for you. In many states, paramedic programs are not restricted to community colleges. Hospitals, private companies or regional EMS agencies may offer paramedic programs as well. Find out which programs offer their courses for credit, in case you want to further your education in the future. Do they have a degree program? Is it a certificate, associate’s or baccalaureate degree program? With the continued growth and expansion of our profession, many employers may require a minimum of an associate’s degree. Many supervisory and educational positions also require an associate or baccalaureate degree. If it is a certificate program, is there an agreement in place to transfer to a two- or four-year school? Will local colleges give you credit for a program you took at a private institution

Most college-based paramedic programs require being a full-time student and involve more than just signing up for a course. Prior to registering, you may have to apply to the college, take entrance exams, meet with advisors and meet health requirements for internships. All of this takes time. Some students begin this process up to six months prior to the course starting. If you choose a college-based program, you need to consider whether or not you will pursue a certificate, an associate’s degree or a baccalaureate degree.

Many people traditionally choose the certificate option, where a certificate is granted for successful completion of the paramedic program. They also include the prerequisites or corequisites of anatomy and physiology, but there are no additional courses. This is the path taken by some younger paramedic students, or those who already have advanced degrees. A certificate program may grant you college credit, but no degree.