
EMT & Paramedicine
Train for The moments that matter most
Program Options
Whether you are just starting out or ready to advance in emergency medical services, CCC has a pathway for you.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate
Get certified and get to work in a single semester. The EMT certificate prepares you for the National Registry of EMTs exam and Arizona EMT certification, so you can start your career in emergency services fast.
Paramedic Studies (AAS Degree)
Ready to go further? The Paramedic Studies program is an intensive 11-month program that prepares you for paramedic-level certification in Arizona. You will train at CCC’s Fourth Street Campus in partnership with Northern Arizona Healthcare, gaining clinical and field experience alongside your coursework.
A Note on the AAS Degree
Most students entering EMS do not need to pursue the full AAS degree. The EMT certificate gets you working fast, and the Paramedic program prepares you for advanced practice. The AAS degree is primarily designed for students on a Fire Science pathway. Talk with an advisor if you are unsure which option fits your goals.
What Can I Do within EMT or Paramedicine?
Graduates of CCC’s EMT and Paramedicine programs to on to careers in emergency medical services across northern Arizona and beyond. From ambulance crews and hospital emergency departments to flight paramedic roles and beyond, this field offers a career with real purpose and real demand.
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Emergency Room Technician
- Ambulance/Transport Technician
- Paramedic
- Flight Paramedic
- Wildland Fire EMT or Paramedic
- Critical Care Transport Paramedic
What Will I Learn?
Across both programs, you will build the skills emergency medical professionals use every day:
- Patient assessment and emergency care for medical and traumatic situations
- Airway management, CPR, and basic life support to Healthcare Provider level
- Triage and transport protocols
- Drug administration and monitoring at the paramedic level
- How to work as part of an emergency response team under pressure
Program at a glance
- Length of Program
- Associate of Science (AS) Transfer Degree
- AGEC-S Certificate
- Individual AGEC courses
- Course Delivery:
- In-person and Online Classes
- Course Schedule:
- Day and Evening Classes Available
- Transferrability:
- All Courses transfer to NAU, ASU, and U of A as AGEC credit.
- Financial Aid Eligible
- Military/Veteran Benefits Available
- Location:
- Lone Tree Cmapus
- Page Campus
- Online
How To Apply
EMT Certificate
Connect with CCC Admissions to get started. The EMT course is offered on a cohort basis, so check the current class schedule for upcoming sections.
Paramedic Studies AAS
The Paramedic program has a competitive application process. Contact the EMS Education Coordinator to schedule an initial advising appointment before you apply.
Career Outlook
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?
Both are emergency medical professionals, but the level of training and scope of practice are very different. EMT training is approximately 150 hours and covers patient assessment, basic emergency care, airway management, and transport. Paramedic training is approximately 1,500 hours and includes classroom instruction, emergency department rotations, pediatric rotations, ICU rotations, and field internships. Paramedics can administer medications and perform a significantly higher level of pre-hospital care.
- How long does each program take?
The EMT certificate is one semester and 8 credits. Classes are offered in the second half of fall and first half of spring at the Page Campus. The Paramedic Studies program is an intensive, full-time 11-month program. Students in the Paramedic program should not plan to take additional courses during enrollment.
- Do I need to be an EMT before I can enroll in the Paramedic program?
Yes. Current EMT certification is required before you can apply to the Paramedic program.
- Is CPR required, and can I complete it online?
A current BLS Provider CPR certification is required for EMS programs. Online-only CPR certifications are not accepted. A hybrid course that includes an in-person skills component is acceptable.
- Do paramedic students need a background check?
Yes. All Paramedic program students are required to complete a federal background check before beginning clinical rotations. Local background checks are not accepted.
- When can I apply to the Paramedic program?
Applications for the Paramedic program are accepted March 1 through July 1 each year. Contact the EMS Education Coordinator to schedule an initial advising appointment before you apply.
Meet your Faculty:
Next Steps:
- Apply for free
- Find ways to pay for college
- Meet with your Advisor
- Enroll in classes