Paramedic, A.S. (533.2)

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Boyce
Associate of Science

Paramedics care for patients at the scene of an accident or sudden illness and while transporting patients by ambulance to the hospital. They are vital members of both the health care delivery system and public safety first responder network. They receive extensive education in the use of advanced procedures, medications and specialized equipment to manage medical emergencies and traumatic injuries. Through careful patient assessment and team-oriented medical care, paramedics help prevent and reduce death and disability from illness and injury.

Paramedics generally work for ambulance services or fire departments but some paramedics find employment in hospital emergency departments, aeromedical services, medical clinics, sports medicine, tactical medicine, industrial medicine and similar occupations.

This Associate of Science degree program prepares individuals for employment as an advanced life support provider and for advancement into supervisory roles or further education.

Graduates of this program are eligible to take the credential examinations of the National Registry of EMTs to become a Nationally Registered Paramedic. The credential is recognized by Pennsylvania Department of Health for Pennsylvania certification as a paramedic.

Students must also meet pre-program requirements, which include current certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in Pennsylvania, a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years of age. Admission is limited by the availability of clinical sites and other factors. Students must make separate application to this program. Admission to the college and completion of any developmental level courses are required.

Students must also meet pre-program requirements, which include the successful completion to BIO 151 - General Biology 1 or BIO 110 - Introduction to Biological Science .

A criminal history or felony conviction may affect a graduate’s eligibility to take the registry exams or obtain state certification. A majority of states require a license or certification to practice as a paramedic.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:

Demonstrate entry-level competencies in the cognitive, psychomotor and affective domains of the paramedic.
Display professional behaviors that are congruent with the core values, standards and ethics of the paramedic profession.
Communicate effectively with patients, family members and other health care providers.
Design, implement and evaluate treatment interventions according to paramedic treatment protocols.
Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to emergency situations.

This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158, Clearwater, FL 33763; 727.210.2350, www.caahep.org upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP), 8301 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 111-312, Rowlett, TX 75088; 214.703.8445, www.coaemsp.org.

This program is accredited as an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Education Institute by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS.