Admission Requirements and Curriculum (catalog)
AWARD OFFERED Associate in Applied Science Degree, Certificate-Basic EMT, Certificate-Paramedic
People’s lives often depend on the quick reaction and competent care of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics—EMTs with additional advanced training to perform more difficult pre-hospital medical procedures. EMTs and paramedics provide vital medical attention as they care for and transport the sick or injured to a medical facility.
In an emergency, EMTs and paramedics typically are dispatched to the scene by a 911 operator, and often work with police and fire department personnel. Once they arrive, they determine the nature and extent of the patient’s condition while trying to ascertain whether the patient has pre-existing medical problems. Some paramedics are trained to treat patients with minor injuries on the scene of an accident or at their home without transporting them to a medical facility. Emergency treatment for more complicated problems is carried out under the direction of medical doctors by radio preceding or during transport.
The purpose of the Emergency Medical Services Program is to prepare students as competent entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). As of 2002, EMTs are licensed at two levels in Alabama: EMT-Basic and EMT-Paramedic. Students completing both EMT certificate levels and all academic core curriculum courses may receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services. Graduates qualify for employment with air and ground ambulance services, fire and rescue departments, industrial safety departments, and emergency departments within medical facilities.
Employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012. Earnings of EMTs and paramedics depend on the employment setting and geographic location as well as the individual’s training and experience. Median annual earnings of EMTs and paramedics were $25,310 in May 2004. The highest 10 percent earned more than $43,240. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Jennifer Ivey, Program Director
256/352-8336
jennifer.ivey@wallacestate.edu
Copyright 2001-08 Wallace State Community College
