Choosing a career as a paramedic is a noble and thrilling decision, one that puts you on the front lines of emergency medical services. If you’re someone eagerly looking to make a positive impact in the lives of others, or considering a career change into a field that offers both challenge and reward, a paramedic education is your first crucial step. This article will guide you through what you need to know to prepare for this vital role in healthcare.
Explore Dorsey College’s paramedic program!
Education Requirements for a Paramedic
To become a paramedic, you must go through a detailed and specific educational path. The education needed to be a paramedic includes completing a postsecondary educational program, typically offered at colleges, technical schools, and universities.
First, you’ll need to:
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Gain certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) which is usually a prerequisite.
Comprehensive coursework in paramedic programs typically includes:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Cardiology
- Medications
- Complex medical procedures
- And more!
This is complemented by extensive hands-on trainings, such as:
- Clinical experience
- Practicing skills during in-class instruction
Upon completing the assessment of the paramedic program, you are also required to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam to be licensed to practice. Different states may have additional education requirements for paramedics, so it’s vital to check local guidelines as well. 1
The time commitments to training Paramedic vs EMT
While both EMTs and paramedics perform essential services in emergency medical care, their education differs significantly in depth and scope. EMT programs are typically shorter, taking a few months to complete, focusing on basic emergency skills like CPR, oxygen administration, and managing trauma, burns, and cardiac emergencies.
In contrast, a paramedic program is more extensive, often taking around 1-2 years to complete. The curriculum covers advanced life support techniques. Consequently, paramedics are permitted to perform more complex procedures than EMTs.
Taking the First Step to Getting Started on the Paramedic career path
When considering becoming a paramedic, it’s crucial to know what the various career path options are within the field. As a paramedic, you can work in diverse environments such as:
- Ambulance services.
- Fire departments.
- Hospitals.
- Aeromedical services.
Once you decide what you want to do, you complete a training program, and become certified / licensed, the first step is research and select a paramedic educational program that’s right for you.
Look for programs/schools that:
- Are accredited and state approved.
- Prepare you for your desired specialty.
- Have experienced instructors.
Additionally, you will want to consider factors such as cost, tuition assistance, and other funding opportunities that can factor into your decision-making process. Planning ahead can help ensure a smoother transition into your paramedic education and career.
Start your career journey with Dorsey College’s Paramedic Program!
At Dorsey College, we offer a comprehensive Paramedic program designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in emergency medical services. Our program is accredited and is designed to prepare students for the NREMT exam.
Our Paramedic program has:
- Licensed and Experienced Instructors
- Comprehensive Curriculum
- Flexible class schedules
- Career Services Assistance
Enrolling in Dorsey College’s Paramedic program is more than just an education, it’s a steppingstone towards a rewarding career dedicated to saving lives and making a difference in your community!
Dorsey College is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE). This applies to the Madison Heights campus (which serves as the main campus) and the Dearborn, Grand Rapids, Roseville, Saginaw, Woodhaven, and Wayne campuses (which are branch campus locations of Madison Heights).
The Dorsey College Paramedic program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP). Contact information for the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org), 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, telephone: (727) 210-2350. Send your communication to CAAHEP directly by clicking here. To contact CoAEMSP: 8301 Lakeview Parkway Suite 111-312 Rowlett, TX 75088 214-703-8445, FAX 214-703-8992, www.coaemsp.org.
Dorsey College has determined that its Paramedic program curriculum is sufficient to fulfill educational requirements for licensure in the State of Michigan only. No educational determinations have been made for any other state, district or US territory in regards to licensure requirements.
