Frequently Asked Questions

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How does the Paramedic program choose students for admission?

Acceptance into the Paramedic program is very competitive.  The program accepts students on a rolling admission basis.  Requirements include:

  • Placement test scores- English (test into college level English) and math score (67 or higher) OR official transcript with  a college level Math (within 5 years) and an English course.
  • Certified Basic or Advanced EMT  and a minimum of 75 patient contacts
  • Meeting with the program Director
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How long is the Paramedic program?

The program is approximately 17- 24 months: two evenings per week plus two Saturdays per month from September until August, followed by an additional six- nine months of intensive clinical field and field internship experiences. Most students complete within 19 months.

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If  I take the Basic EMT course for non-credit will it count towards getting my Paramedic certificate?

Yes. In order to be eligible for the GCC Paramedic program you must be currently certified as an Basic EMT or Advanced EMT with at least 75 verified ambulance patient care experiences. It does not matter where, when or how you took a Basic EMT class, just that you are current in your certification.

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What are other requirements for the program?

Applicants must:

  • be currently certified as an EMT
  • have at least 75 patient contacts
  • meet the english and math placement scores or have transcripts from previous college classes
  • meet with the Director of the program
  • meet the requirements of a CORI check
  • be CPR certified (AHA BLS Provider level)
  • be 18 years old to begin classes in the Paramedic program

 

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What are the academic requirements for admission to the program?

Academic requirements include:

  • Placement test scores- English (test into college level English) and math score (67 or higher)

 

 

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What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?

Paramedics are the highest level pre-hospital emergency medical services (EMS) providers.  Paramedics are able to provide all the care offered by EMTs plus enhanced trauma and medical-emergency care.  They perform many of the lifesaving stabilization procedures that an Emergency Department provides, including advanced airway management, IV insertion, EKG interpretation, and medication administration.

Before becoming a Paramedic you must first be trained and experienced as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).  EMTs provide oxygen, bleeding and wound care, auto extrication, and CPR, as well as spinal and fracture immobilization.  They also use semi-automatic defibrillators on cardiac patients and assist in emergency childbirth.