The two-semester EMT-Basic course at Citrus College prepares students for licensure by the National Registry and the Los Angeles Department of Health Services. Students become familiar with EMT procedures by practicing on simulation mannequins with real paramedic equipment. Early in the course, students must purchase medical equipment for use throughout the program, including a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff and EMS scissors. Topics in the program include anatomy and physiology, trauma care, emergency vehicle operation and basic life support skills. Students also receive hands-on clinical experience in medical facilities, such as the Saint Francis Hospital in Lynwood. Course applicants must be at least 18 years of age on the course start date.
The J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic. Applicants to the program must possess the EMT Basic Technician Career Studies Certificate, which is also offered at the college during the spring, summer and fall semesters. Prospective students must have received cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification and proof of registration with the National Registry EMT-B. The program requires the completion of at least 66 credits, which are obtained through courses such as, advanced pathophysiology, advanced patient assessment, pharmacology, trauma care and basic ECG recognition. Students participate in several clinical and field placements throughout the program under the supervision of hospital, clinic and paramedic staff.
Tennessee Tech University offers a variety of EMT certificate programs. The introductory program, EMT-Basic/IV, prepares students to take the National Registry EMT-Basic examination, after which graduates may apply for licensure as EMT-IV's by the State of Tennessee Division of EMS. Applicants to the introductory program must have obtained Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider Card, offered through the school. The school also offers a First Responder program that is three months in length and is taken on a part-time basis. While this program does not prepare students for a paramedic career, it provides practical information on how to react in emergencies. For individuals licensed at the EMT-B or (IV) level, the school offers a paramedic program that is 11 months long. The full-time program offers a combination of classroom and laboratory learning and practical clinical experience. Applicants to this program must undergo a psychological examination and attend an interview with university faculty members.