The road to becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic is probably shorter than you think!
If you don’t have a medical background already, the terms may be confusing. EMT is the most common certification in emergency medical services, and two levels of certification are common to almost every state: EMT-basic and EMT-paramedic.
EMT training comes first, and can apply to many different jobs (see our careers page for more information). Once you complete EMT training, you can choose to move ahead to paramedic training, work as an EMT full-time or continue into another field such as nursing or firefighting.
DCCCD offers several flexible credit and noncredit programs in EMT and paramedic training:
| Program Name/Location |
Credit Options |
Noncredit Options |
| Emergency Medical Services program at Brookhaven College |
Paramedicine associate degree, EMT Basic certificate, Paramedicine certificate |
emergency skills certification courses, NREMT exam preparation |
| Paramedic program at El Centro College |
Paramedic certificate |
EMT program |
Courses Offered (Curriculum)
Our catalog provides detailed information about the credit courses we offer in both of these programs and the courses required for the following associate degree and certificates:
Related Programs at DCCCD
We offer several related programs that might interest you, including Nursing, Medical Assisting and Radiologic Sciences.
Accreditation
Brookhaven and El Centro colleges are accredited by the Commission of Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and are members of the American Association of Community Colleges, the Association of Texas Colleges and Universities (formerly the college section of the Texas State Teachers Association) and the League for Innovation in the Community College.
Developing Skills for Success
EMS and paramedic training are conducted in a hands-on atmosphere that will prepare you for the reality of your future career in emergency medicine. Labs and equipment include cutting-edge technology similar to what you will find in the workplace. Clinical rotations are conducted at area hospitals for completion of the program.
Faculty Profiles
Our faculty members have relevant academic degrees and advanced certifications, paired with real-world experience that enables them to relate to the challenges you’ll face on the job.
They work closely with you one-on-one, encouraging you and helping you to succeed in your training and on the job. See profiles of our EMS faculty and Paramedic faculty members.
Transferring From DCCCD
EMS and Paramedic courses are designed for direct entry into the workforce. However, if you are interested in earning a degree at a four-year institution, please visit the Transfer Services Web site for guidance on the transfer process.
Links for More Information
Note: Links to the following Web sites are provided for your convenience and information and do not constitute official endorsement by DCCCD.
- Board for Critical Care Transport Paramedic Certification (BCCTPC), a nonprofit organization responsible for the administration and development of the Certified Flight Paramedic Exam (FP-C)
- Education Portal, with resources, articles, links and information for students interested in paramedic certification
- National Association of EMTs (NAEMT), dedicated to expanding EMS knowledge and education, enhancing professional development and advancing the cause of EMS thorugh advocacy and research
- National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), national certifying agency for EMTs, with information on EMT-basic registration entry requirements, the examination process and registration procedures
- Paramedic.com, an online gateway to news, information and resources
- Texas Online gives information about how to get licenses, permits and registrations required of Texas health care professionals.
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Contact Us
If you have questions that aren’t answered on this Web site, please feel free to contact us.