This articulated classroom, clinical and field experience education program prepares the individual for a career in out-of-hospital emergency medical care. EMS personnel, through performance of patient assessments and initial treatment of medical emergencies of the acutely ill or injured, work to prevent and reduce mortality and morbidity.
EMS personnel are primarily employed by licensed private and municipal providers (ambulance services), fire departments, industrial safety departments, recreational facilities (theme parks), and hospitals. Employment is also found in EMS management, education, EMS marketing/sales, the military and governing/accrediting agencies.
This Emergency Medical Services Program provides training at three progressive levels: EMS-Basic, EMS-Intermediate, and EMS-Paramedic. The curriculum is adopted from the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) through the Department of Transportation (DOT) and is in compliance with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board mandates and the Texas Department of Health-Bureau of Emergency Medicine requirements. Medical Advisor: Juan Fitz, M.D.
Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services Program, individuals are eligible to take both the State and National Registry examinations for Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic. Graduates may then transfer to a university to complete a Bachelor of Science in EMS or in Allied Health.
Verification of workplace competencies will be provided by successful completion of EMSP 2388, Internship-Emergency Medical Technology/Technician.
Admission to the College does not guarantee admission to the program. Enrollment is limited. Students must take the CPT prior to enrollment.
Special Notes:
Before enrolling in the first clinical course, students must provide proof of CPR certification at the professional level (American Heart Association Professional Level or American Red Cross Basic Life Support Level.) Current CPR certification must be maintained throughout enrollment in clinical courses within the program. Students enrolled in clinical education courses must provide evidence of a current physical examination, tuberculin test, and specified immunizations. Additional information on this requirement is provided at the program orientation. Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus clinical learning sites. Special uniforms are required for clinical courses. Uniforms must be in accordance with provided guidelines for the program. Students must purchase them at their own expense. Specialized equipment and/or laboratory supplies must be obtained for selected courses within this program. Students must purchase them at their own expense. Advanced placement through transfer or challenge is available for individuals with previous related coursework. Articulated credit from many area high schools is available for graduates with high school health occupations courses. In order to complete the requirements for progression and graduation, students enrolled in this program must have a grade of “C” or better in all specialized courses. The term “specialized courses” refers to all courses carrying the prefix of the program in which the student is majoring or the prefix of another health-related discipline. Following completion of the Tech Prep Associate of Applied Science degree, a multi-disciplinary enhanced skills certificate in Border Health issues is available. This program prepares graduates to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team to meet the unique health care needs of the U.S./ Mexico border community.
Individuals with EMS registry and/or previously related work experience may register for specialized, specific courses either individually or in an accelerated fashion. See the Health Occupations Counselor or EMSP Program Coordinator for more information.