EMS Paramedic

You want to be the person others count on in a crisis, and the Emergency Medical Services–Paramedic program prepares you to do just that. This Associate of Applied Science degree is designed to train you as a competent, entry-level paramedic ready to deliver advanced, lifesaving care in real-world emergency settings.

You’ll build the knowledge, skills, and professional judgment needed to work confidently in fast-paced, high-pressure situations—while learning from experienced faculty who understand the demands of emergency medical services.

This program prepares you to provide the highest level of out-of-hospital care. Through classroom instruction, labs, and supervised clinical and field experiences, you’ll learn how to assess patients, manage trauma and medical emergencies, administer medications, and make critical decisions under pressure.

Graduates are trained across cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral skill areas to meet national and state standards for paramedic practice.

 

Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible to sit for National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) testing. This credential leads to paramedic licensure or certification in Virginia and is recognized for reciprocity in most other states.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), based on the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

Paramedics are in demand across many settings. Graduates may find employment with ambulance services, fire and rescue departments, hospitals, and local, state, or federal government agencies.

In addition to meeting general college admission requirements, applicants must meet eligibility requirements set by the Virginia Office of EMS and complete a separate program application. The selection process includes a separate Paramedic Application that includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and achieving a qualifying score on the FISDAP entrance exam. Applications are reviewed beginning May 15 each year.

Because paramedicine is both physically and emotionally demanding, students must also meet health, background check, and clinical participation requirements before entering the program.

This program is a strong fit if you are motivated, compassionate, and ready for a challenging career where your skills can save lives. It’s ideal for recent high school graduates pursuing healthcare, adult learners changing careers, and current EMS providers ready to advance their credentials.

Becoming a paramedic is a serious commitment—but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Connect with an Advisor to talk through admission requirements, application steps, and whether this program aligns with your goals.