Paramedic training is delivered through a combination of classroom instruction (didactic and psychomotor skills) and a blend of clinical/field experience. Upon successful completion of the Paramedic Certificate courses, students are eligible to sit for the National Registry’s written and practical examinations. Upon successful completion of those examinations and other licensure requirements, the student will be eligible for the State of Tennessee Paramedic license. The Paramedic renders basic and advanced life support to patients at the scene of their injuries or illnesses and continues this treatment while transporting these patients to the hospital.

To be eligible for admission, an applicant shall be currently licensed as an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician in the State of Tennessee. The applicant having successfully completed an AEMT license exam more than one year prior to the start of Paramedic classes must successfully complete an AEMT assessment written examination approved by the Board. An applicant shall be interviewed and evaluated. Progression requires an average of 77 to pass each semester and to sit for the board approved license written and practical examination.

Students must complete an application process for the Paramedic program. This includes filling out an application for the Paramedic program, completing an AEMT knowledge-based test and an  interview. Students are required to purchase malpractice insurance through the college at the time of registration for the Paramedic courses. Students will be required to meet all health and safety guidelines of affiliating agencies, including a urine or blood drug screen. Students will be required to undergo a criminal background check prior to clinical internship. If as a result of a required criminal background check, a student is prohibited from a clinical affiliate agency, the student may be dismissed from the program. Students must maintain a current card denoting successful completion of a Professional Healthcare CPR course while in Paramedic courses.

Upon successful completion of the Paramedic program, which is a three-semester program that starts in the fall semester and is completed the end of the summer semester, students will be eligible to take the National Registry exam which leads to National Registry certification as a Paramedic and licensure in Tennessee as a Paramedic.

Summary of Required Hours