Emergency Medical Services

Employment opportunities
Ambulance services, hospitals, and fire departments rely heavily on EMTs. In addition, EMTs can readily apply their skills to careers as police officers and safety officers in industry.

Job outlook
In this area, most EMTs are volunteer. Nationwide, job opportunities are excellent for both full- and part-time emergency medical technicians. Job openings for EMTs are expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2014.

Earning potential
Earnings of EMTs and paramedics depend on the employment setting and location as well as the individual’s training and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, national annual median earnings of EMTs and paramedics were $28,440 in 2005. Parkland graduates have reported local starting salaries of about $9 per hour.

Career advancement
Three levels of training and certification are available:

1.) EMT-Basic qualifies you for entry-level positions.
2.) EMT-Intermediate allows you to administer IVs and provide respiratory care.
3.) EMT-Paramedic qualifies you to administer medications.

Career choices with your degree:
• Emergency room technician
• Health care technician
• Technical partner

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
• Health products sales
• Medical administrator
• Paramedic
• Technical educator