Paramedic

Paramedic Certificate

Paramedic Guidesheet

What is a paramedic?

Paramedics are the most highly-trained of the class of EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) working in the United States. A paramedic takes charge at the
scene of an emergency and, if necessary, will perform life-saving procedures while transporting patients to the hospital. Paramedics may administer medications and perform invasive procedures on patients before they arrive at the emergency department. Some of the procedures paramedics may be required to perform include: provide cardiac support to heart attack victims; administer IV (intravenous) fluids; perform emergency respiratory procedures; stabilize broken bones; assess health situations. Paramedics have a great opportunity to
make a difference in the lives of members of our communities, often in their most vulnerable circumstances.

Program Options

IVCC’s Paramedic Program is designed to be completed in three semesters (fall,
spring and summer).  After completion of the required courses, you will receive a
Paramedic Certificate and be quailified to take the National Registry of EMT's Paramedic Exam.

The Illinois Valley Community College's EMS program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs                          9355 - 113th St. N, #7709
Seminole, FL 33775
Phone: 727-210-2350

To contact CoAEMSP:
8301 Lakeview Parkway
Suite 111-312
Rowlett, TX 75088
Phone: 214-703-8445
FAX: 214-703-8992

Program Outcomes

CAAHEP-accredited Paramedic educational programs and CoAEMSP Letter of Review (LoR) educational programs track and report outcome measures annually to the Committee on Accreditation for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

The most current CoAEMSP Annual Report was for the calendar year 2024.

There were no graduates during the 2024 reporting year.

Hands on Training

The IVCC Paramedic Program uses the latest in training technology, including a state of the art ambulance simulator that provides realistic hands-on
training.  Paramedic students must also complete a specified amount of
hospital and field clinical time and a field internship in order to successfully
complete the clinical portion of the program.  All clinical/field experiences
are conducted in local hospital facilities and local Fire/EMS agencies.

Affordability

IVCC tuition is just one-third to one-fourth the cost of state universities and far below most private institutions. An approximation of tuition and fees and cost comparison can be found on the Payment page and at Start Smart and Save.
Many scholarship opportunities are available through the IVCC Foundation and Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.

Careers in EMS

Find out more out careers in Emergency Medical Services at My Next Move.

Program Coordinator

Nicholas Fish - Program Coordinator
Room: B301
Phone: (815) 224-0267
Email: nick_fish@ivcc.edu