The Phoenix College EMT paramedic training program offers students the necessary courses for certification at the highest level of paramedic. These programs include an Associate of Applied Science for EMT: Advanced (Paramedic) and Emergency Response and Operations. Phoenix College also offers certificate programs for: EMT- Basic, EMT-Intermediate, EMT-Advanced (Paramedic) and Emergency Communications & Deployment.
Phoenix College is located on a picturesque, tree-lined campus at 1202 W. Thomas Road (on the corner of 15th Ave. and Thomas Rd.) in Phoenix, Arizona. Phoenix College is considered the flagship college of the Maricopa Community Colleges, which currently ranks as the nation’s largest community college system and the single largest provider of higher education and career training in Arizona.
Upon completion, the Program Degrees and Certificates earned are:
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Advanced Emergency Medical Technology (Paramedic)
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Emergency Medical Technology
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Intermediate Emergency Medical Technology
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Paramedicine
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Emergency Communications and Deployment
The paramedic education program includes both didactic and clinical skill experiences. The program provides high excellence for education in the ability and science of pre-hospital advanced life support EMS care. Once the education and courses are completed, you will be qualified to take the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician Examination (NREMT).
Program Prerequisites
• must have a valid driver’s license
• must be 18 years of age
• must pass a background check
• must have current immunization records
• must pass drug screening - and stay drug free
• must provide proof of reading competency
• must be EMT certified prior to entering paramedic program
• may not have received a dishonorable military discharge
• must have successfully passed a physical
• must hold a current CPR card
The College is also proud of its program offering training for veterans.
Program Information
The EMT-Basic program (EMT 104) requires prerequisites. An EMT 104 basic requirements packet is offered to assist potential training students. This packet is available at the EMT/Fire Science office, or through an advisor. According to Phoenix College, the certificate program includes - “techniques of emergency care, stabilization, and immobilization of victims of illness and injury. Recognition and documentation of signs and symptoms of illness and injury, intervention, and evaluation of the intervention, techniques for assessment, administration of oxygen, use of specific immobilization devices, and preparation for transportation are other areas of the program.”
The EMT104 (Basic) course at Phoenix College is 9 credits and begins in the fall. The class requires 8 hours of a clinical rotation, which must include 5 patient assessments. This course is a prerequisite to the Intermediate and Advanced paramedic programs.
The Intermediate Emergency Medical Technology certificate program is 22 credits and also begins in the fall. Phoenix College states the courses will include - “provide advanced techniques of emergency care, stabilization, and immobilization of victims of illness and injury. The techniques of emergency care include but are not limited to assessment, detailed physical examination, recognition and documentation of signs and symptoms of illness and injury, and the evaluation of the interventions. The techniques of assessment include but are not limited to electrocardiograph rhythm identification, administration of oxygen, defibrillation, synchronized cardioversion, transcutaneous pacing, and advanced airway techniques. The techniques for immobilization of the victim include but are not limited to the use of specific immobilization devices, peripheral intraosseous and intravenous techniques, and preparation and care during transportation.”
Paramedic Training Courses
The Phoenix College paramedic training program is 37.5 credits, beginning in the fall and will include previous training refresher courses (see above) as well as: anatomy and physiology, principles of microbiology, theory of patient assessment, management and operations assessment, theory of paramedic essentials to include airway management and ventilation, medical, OB/GYN, neonatal, behavior and trauma emergencies; and emergency medical services operations.
Phoenix College also offers an Emergency Communications and Deployment certification program. The course is 2 credits and students will, according to the course description, learn the following – “Tactical methods of communication, interview, interrogation, assessment, and deployment. Communication devices include radio, telephone, computer-aided dispatch, mobile digital transmitter. Highlights of human anatomy, physiology disease profiles, and approach to interventions in life-threatening situations. Persuasive delivery of pre-arrival instructions, most dispatch communications, basic life support techniques for all age groups. Communication with law enforcement on all levels within the community and the state. Contribution to research, quality assurance, and prevention. Education and training to help student function as an emergency dispatch professional.”
Phoenix College offers Continuing Education and refresher training courses every month for those wishing to maintain their level of certification and to prepare for more advanced courses.
Application Process
Applications may be completed and turned in by person or a student may apply on line. New students must first set up a “student information account”, which may also be completed online. After completing the application forms you will need to (in this order) take course placements tests, select your EMS courses or program, register for classes, and pay tuition and fees. These steps must be completed at least two weeks prior to the beginning of classes.
Phoenix College has an open admission policy; anyone may attend the school who is a high school graduate; has earned a GED; is at least 18 years old and not attending high school, OR is a HS student with parental/guardian permission and permission from the Phoenix College Admission office.
Tuition can be paid online, by mail, over the phone (602.285.7522), or in person.
Contact Information
For more information on the EMT paramedic training program you may contact the Phoenix College Public Service Building at (602) 285-7207. You may also contact the Program Director at (602) 285-7383.