Education:
* High school diploma or GED: This is almost universally required.
* Associate's Degree (or some college coursework): Many programs require an Associate's Degree, often in a related field like Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Biology, or a general science. Some programs may accept applicants with significant college coursework even without a full Associate's Degree. Check with the specific school.
* CPR and First Aid Certification: Almost all programs require current certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and often Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Experience:
* Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification and experience: This is almost always a mandatory prerequisite. You'll typically need to be a certified EMT-Basic (EMT-B) or EMT-Intermediate (EMT-I) for a period of time before applying (the duration varies by program). Some programs may also require a certain number of hours of field experience as an EMT.
* Other relevant experience: Some programs may prefer or require experience in healthcare settings, such as volunteering in a hospital or working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Other Requirements:
* Minimum age: Usually 18 years old, but this can vary.
* Background check and drug screening: Paramedics hold positions of responsibility and trust, so a clean background is crucial.
* Physical examination and health requirements: You must meet certain physical and health standards to handle the demands of the job. This often includes vision, hearing, and physical fitness assessments.
* Valid driver's license: You'll likely need a driver's license with a clean driving record.
* High GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, typically a "C" average or better.
* Letters of recommendation: These are often required from supervisors, instructors, or other professionals who can attest to your abilities and character.
Specific program requirements: It's absolutely crucial to check the specific prerequisites for each paramedic program you're interested in. Requirements vary widely, and what's acceptable at one school might be unacceptable at another. Visit the program's website or contact the admissions office directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.