Pierce College EMS program

Emergency medical technicians (EMT) and paramedics are health care providers for emergency medical services. They are clinicians, trained to respond quickly to emergency situations regarding medical issues, traumatic injuries, accident scenes or when disaster strikes.

The EMT certification provides the necessary education and training to work on a private ambulance, as a firefighter, a police officer or a number of other careers in the medical field. People with an EMT certification are highly desired in private industry and the public sector for their training in assessing, managing and mitigating crisis situations involving trauma and medical emergencies. Paramedic certification allows those with EMT certification to grow their careers with further education in managing advanced medical emergencies.

Our Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a two year degree that prepares students to continue their education in emergency management or to become certified as a paramedic.

We have three programs available:

The Short Certificate in Emergency Medical Services focuses on medical training only and can be completed in one term. This certificate will qualify students to take the National Registry of EMT (NREMT) Exam, required to volunteer or work as an EMT in Washington State. Enrollment is open throughout the year.

The Certificate in Emergency Medical Services (48 credits) combines medical training with general education coursework and can be completed in one year or less.

The Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services takes approximately two years to complete and prepares students for transfer to a four year college or university and work in paramedicine and emergency management.