Program: AS-25450

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program is designed to prepare students for a career in out-of-hospital emergency medicine. Various healthcare providers work in the fast-paced EMS environment. The Emergency Medical Responder is the first-tier EMS provider of care that supplies initial, hands-on emergency care until the next level of EMS provider arrives on the scene.

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is the second-tier provider of care in the EMS career ladder. EMTs supply basic life support measures that include patient assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), oxygen therapy, prevention of shock, bandaging, splinting, spinal immobilization, and vehicle extrication.

Paramedics are the third-tier providers of care in the EMS career ladder. The Paramedic arrives at the emergency scene in an Advanced Life Support ambulance and assumes patient care duties from the EMT. The Paramedic functions as the out-of-hospital team leader by coordinating care provided by the Emergency Medical Responders and EMTs. Paramedics are trained in advanced life support measures such as venipuncture, intravenous therapy, endotracheal intubation, medication administration, arrhythmia interpretation, cardioversion, and defibrillation.

The EMS Program is designed as a career option for professionals employed in EMS or public safety careers. Promotion in these fields frequently requires individuals to obtain an AS degree. The AS degree in EMS requires completion of the Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency Medical Technology, and Paramedic certificates. Work sites for EMS personnel are in Fire Departments, EMS services (public and private), hospital emergency departments, industrial health and safety organizations, or other public safety agencies. Typically EMS professionals with an AS degree work in educational, administrative, or advanced clinical settings.

Prerequisites

Each program (certificate) has individual entrance requirements. Students should refer to the EMT and/or Paramedic Certificate information later in this catalog for specific prerequisites. Students scoring below the required levels on state-mandated placement tests in writing, reading, and mathematics are required to enroll in and complete the appropriate developmental course(s) before enrolling in some program-requirement courses.

Potential Earnings

The salaries of professionals with an AS degree vary based on the agency of employment and the experience of the individual. Salaries range between $23,000-$50,000 annually.

Program Cost

The approximate cost to complete the degree program is $8,700. This includes course fees, lab fees, books, uniforms, and other estimated costs.