Emergency Medical Services Provideremployment is available with ambulance providers, fire – rescue services, hospitals, the military, industry and humanitarian relief organizations. The colleges are also committed to training volunteers for the region’s rescue squads.
[EMT Intermediate] [EMT Paramedic]
Introduction
Available at Southwest Virginia’s three community colleges!
Mountain Empire, Southwest Virginia, and Virginia Highlands Community Colleges have joined to offer Emergency Medical Service Training to the entire region.
These EMS training programs combine classroom instruction with practical application and are taught in modern, well-equipped facilities. Hospital and ambulance experience is also an integral part of the learning experience.
Classes are scheduled to accommodate the needs of full-time and part-time students.
By offering EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and Paramedic training, the community college system has a program to fit your needs.
For more information, call:
MECC 276-523-2400
SVCC 276-964-2555
VHCC 276-739-2400
Replaces the old Cardiac Tech certification. This program provides the student with specific skills to provide a limited amount of advanced life support (A.L.S.) treatment to patients with traumatic injuries and medical conditions. Heart defibrillation, IV and drug administration are taught. Coursework includes classroom, hospital, and ambulance experience. Upon completion the student is eligible to take the National Registry or state certification exam for EMT-Intermediate.
Length:
Two (2) semesters.
300 hours (21 college credits)*
Prerequisites:
- Be at least 18 years of age at the start of the training program.
- Be certified as an EMT-Basic.
- Hold certification in an approved course in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Pass an EMT-level entrance exam.
Meet other requirements as listed by the college or Virginia Office of EMS.
Career Studies Certificate:
*Each college offers a C.S. certificate in EMT-Intermediate training. Additional college course work may be required.
If you are a current EMT-Intermediate:
Those with current EMT-Intermediate certification may complete the Paramedic program in just 3 consecutive semesters
EMT Paramedic
EMT Paramedic is the highest level of pre-hospital care available. Students learn
the full spectrum of Advanced Life Support and care of the critically
ill and injured. All skills and subjects contained in the
EMT-Intermediate training are expanded upon in this program.
In addition, students become well versed in the prehospital environment,
preparatory skills, trauma care, medical illness management, obstetrical
/gynecological conditions, pediatrics, neonatal care, psychiatric
and behavioral emergencies. Upon completion the student is eligible
to take the National Registry exam for EMT-Paramedic.
Length:
Five (5) semesters**
46 college credits – EMS courses
**20 college credits of general education courses are also required. Many of these can be met by transfer of previous college credit, or can be taken over the internet and by video.
Prerequisites:
- Be at least 18 years of age at the start of the training program.
- Be certified as an EMT-Basic.
- Hold certification in an approved course in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Pass an entrance exam and the selection process.
- Meet other requirements as listed by the college or Virginia Office of EMS.
Associate in Applied Science Degree:
Upon completion of the Paramedic program the student will be awarded an AAS degree in Emergency Medical Service Technology.
Contact MECC 
