A career as an EMT or a paramedic can go one of two ways. It can give you a fulfilling career providing essential medical care when people need it the most, or it can be a great stepping stone to other medical professions. If either appeals to you, you're on the right track to finding the perfect job for you.
Becoming a paramedic or EMT requires training and passing a national exam. Read on to find some of the best paramedic and EMT programs.
25 Best EMT and Paramedic Programs
The best paramedic and EMT programs are state-approved, affordable, and have good graduation rates. Here are some of the best paramedic and EMT programs in the country in alphabetical order:
How to Become an EMT/Paramedic
The training for EMTs and paramedics is quite different.
The best EMT schools can often be found at vocational schools and community colleges, and they only take a few months to complete. However, training to become a paramedic is a bit more in-depth and requires a lot more coursework. This is because paramedics are trained to do more lifesaving techniques — such as applying pacemakers, administering medicine, and inserting IV lines.
Once you complete the required training, both EMTs and paramedics must take an exam with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. The exam is in two parts — the cognitive exam and the psychomotor exam. The cost for EMTs is $70, and the cost for paramedics is $152.
FAQs on Paramedic and EMT Programs
How to Choose the Right EMT or Paramedic School
Both the best paramedic programs and the best EMT programs have a few things in common. They both:
Offer career placement services to eligible alumni
Provide intensive hands-on learning opportunities
Clear, easy to understand classroom instruction
Have instructors with a long history of providing EMT/ Paramedic care
Other Ways to Become a Paramedic/EMT
It's necessary that you undergo the proper training at EMT school or paramedic school before working in the field. Because the services are so vital to each community, you cannot simply walk in and take a test somewhere. You can only take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians or Paramedics Exam after completing the proper coursework and training.
You can also continue your education, earning a bachelor's or master's degree to increase your salary and job opportunities.
How to Pay for Paramedic School
Paramedic and EMT Scholarships
Bound Tree Medical Legacy Scholarship Program
Applicants must be the son or daughter of an EMT or firefighter
Covers up to 50% of tuition: up to $500 for EMT training and up to $2,500 for intermediate and paramedic training
May 28 application deadline
Michael J. Latta EMS Scholarship Foundation
Must be an aspiring EMT or Paramedic
Amount of tuition reimbursement varies on program and need
December 15 deadline
Available for both fall and spring semesters
NAEMT Scholarship Program
Available to those wishing to become an EMT
Covers up to $1,000 of the EMT program
Application must be submitted between March 1 and April 30
Winners receive a one-year NAEMT student membership
Virginia EMS Scholarship Program
Must be a Virginia resident becoming an EMT or Paramedic
Covers $862 to $4,743
Application must be submitted 30 days into the program
Scholarship amount is determined by the program the student is in
Paramedic and EMT Grants
Rural Emergency Medical Services Training Grant
Must plan to work in a rural setting deemed to be in need of funding
Amount of grant varies
March 18 deadline
Application can be submitted by local agencies
CREATE Education Grants— Colorado Resource for Emergency and Trauma Education
Primarily intended for first-responder stations
Amount of grant varies
No deadline provided
Money can be used for rescue equipment, data collection, and first response vehicles
