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Associate of Applied Science: Emergency Medical Services

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) exist all over the world as health care providers trained to provide pre-hospital treatment in emergencies. The procedures that EMTs may perform differ by country and state and their regulations are set by the local government in their area. EMTs respond to medical emergencies, hazardous materials exposure, childbirth, child abuse, fires, rescues, trauma and psychiatric crises.

EMTs in the U.S. are certified according to their level of training. Individual states set their own standards of certification (or issue licenses), but all EMT training must meet the minimum requirements set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administraion.

The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is a private organization which provides certification exams written based on NHTSA education guidelines. Currently, NREMT exams are used by 46 states as the sole basis for certification at one or more EMT certification levels.

The NHTSA recognizes four levels of EMTs:

• EMT-B (Basic)
• EMT-I/85 (Intermediate)
• EMT-I/99 (Intermediate)
• EMT-P (Paramedic)

Some states also recognize the Advanced Practice or Critical Care Paramedic level as a state-specific licensure above that of the paramedic. In addition, paramedics can seek out specialty certifications such as Wilderness Paramedic, or Flight Paramedic.

All EMT positions normally require a high school diploma or GED, but to really prepare for a career in emergency medical services, you should consider an AAS in Emergency Medical Services.

Career Options:
• EMT/Paramedic
• Firefighter

For more information, please refer to the following article:

• 5 Things You Need to Know When Becoming an EMT

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