Overview
This certificate program covers the study of information, skills and techniques necessary to implement safe, effective and appropriate care as an entry-level paramedic. A paramedic leads an EMS team by directing and managing patient-care aspects of EMS response such as medical calls, traffic crashes, fires and other life-threatening situations. The program is a three-semester sequence consisting of four components each semester: lecture, lab, hospital clinical and EMS clinical. This is an intensive 1,234-contact-hour program that requires careful planning of school, work and home schedules; the program is offered in the daytime on an alternating (week-to-week) schedule to accommodate the student who works a 24-on, 48-off work schedule, with possible future options consisting of 24-on, 72-off shift schedules and various other non-traditional industry specific schedules based on shifting industry demands..
Program curriculum and outcomes
All classes available next semester
Highlights
Taught by Professionals
Instructors boast decades of experience in related fields and/or are working professionals who bring their real-world knowledge to the program.
Hands-on Learning
Students benefit from fully simulated scenarios at the Polk State Center for Public Safety where they utilize state-of-the-art equipment and technologies used in the field.
Industry Partners
The program remains at the forefront of industry needs through close partnerships with local public safety agencies, including Polk County Fire Rescue.Admission Requirements
- Applicants must be currently enrolled credit Polk State students who have completed each prerequisite course with a “C” or better with at least a 2.0 grade-point average
- Applicants must hold State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification
- Additional requirements include but are not limited to a 10-panel drug screening, criminal background check and a full physical examination including essential functions
Related Programs
Accreditation
The Polk State College EMS 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).
