Online courses use audio and video streaming, interactive chat rooms and email to provide training covering anatomy and physiology, medical terms, rescue techniques, and crisis response. Some online providers offer the option of training on a topic-by-topic basis, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Hybrid courses combining online training and college classes are thought to be more effective for paramedic training.
Columbia Gorge Community College with campuses at The Dalles and Hood River, Oregon, offers hybrid courses. The EMT Basic course runs over two terms with classes on Monday and Thursday evenings plus Saturday mornings as of 2010. This leads to the first National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
Chemeteka Community College in Salem, Oregon, offers an Introduction to Emergency Services course. No previous experience is required. The course is available throughout the year at a cost of $374 as of 2010. Topics covered include the history of emergency services, main responsibilities of the job, skills required, and career path guidance.