The Paramedic Certificate of Achievement program provides technical and practical knowledge and skills to meet the requirements of the California Administrative Code to gain licensure as a paramedic by the California State Emergency Medical Services Authority. Students must be 18 years of age to enter the program and be a California Certified EMT (Title 22, Section 100157).
The paramedic functions as an extension of the emergency department physician. The paramedic is responsible for the assessment, treatment and stabilization of the sick or injured patient utilizing advanced life support equipment and techniques at the scene of the incident and en-route to the medical facility. Specific responsibilities include: patient interviewing, physical examination, critical decision making, cardiac monitoring and interpretation, defibrillation, intravenous therapy, drug therapy, intervention in emotional crises and advanced airway management. Functional job analysis mandates a paramedic must be in good physical condition and able to lift, carry and balance objects in excess of 125 lbs. They must be able to receive and interpret oral and written communication in a timely manner.
Employment of Paramedics by the year 2010 is expected to be above the average growth for all occupations primarily because of the rapidly expanding aging population. Recent surveys show that there is more demand for EMT-Paramedics, who are usually placed as soon as they complete required licensure because of their advanced training and experience.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this certificate, the student will be able to:
- Competent in the cognitive domain to successfully complete the National Registry written exam;
- competent in the psychomotor domain to successfully complete the National Registry exam; and
- demonstrate professional behavior consistent for employement as a licensed paramedic.
Recommended Sequence of Courses
Students interested in a suggested order for taking classes in this program, please view the recommended course sequence.
For students interested in an Associate degree, Paramedic major is available. More information about the program can be found on the Public Safety Department website.
Certification Note:
All public safety positions have legal requirements and background qualifications. Certain criminal violations may disqualify a candidate for licensure (refer to CA Health and Safety, Title 22, Section 100178.1).