Top Schools for EMTs

by Alex A. Kecskes

EMT and paramedic professionals typically treat patients who are in life-or-death situations—people seriously injured in an automobile accident or those suffering from a heart attack, for example.

The job is both challenging and rewarding, since it involves saving lives with sometimes only minutes to spare. The job outlook is good, since people will always need emergency help. For those who enjoy working in a fast-paced intense environment, EMT work certainly fits the bill.

If you're interested in pursing a career as an emergency medical technologist (EMT) or paramedic, you'll need specialized training in the field. Certification is required, and those who complete the highest level of EMT training are called paramedics. There are a number of schools, colleges and universities that offer both training and certification as an EMT or paramedic. The top schools for Emergency Medical Technology/Technician include:

Drexel University. Students are given the option of obtaining an Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in emergency medical services. The faculty to student ratio is approximately 1:10. Tuition runs about $23,250.

Drury University. Here the faculty to student ratio is approximately 1:12; Tuition runs about $14,669.

University of Maryland, Baltimore County. A top research university, the faculty to student ratio is 1:19; Tuition runs $8,520 for in State students and $16,596; for out of State students.

In most states, EMTs must be re-licensed every 2 to 3 years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This calls for additional education courses or an exam.

For an added perspective, check out this video:

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