Emergency Medical Services

The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, in conjunction with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center's Paramedic Program, offers an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services with a Paramedic Certificate. Our program is designed to advance those individuals currently in the EMS field or introduce the EMS profession to individuals interested in a new career.

This 75-credit program is designed so that individuals will receive a paramedic certificate in addition to the Associate Degree of Emergency Medical Services. The program allows individuals to learn the skills needed to recognize, assess and manage a variety of medical emergencies. The degree not only provides field experience leading to a paramedic license, but will provide courses to prepare the student for supervisory and administrative positions. Individuals who currently possess one or both of the Emergency Medical Certificates are required to complete courses needed to meet the Associate Degree requirements.

Individuals considering a career in Emergency Medical Services should possess good verbal and written communication skills, emotional stability, good team leadership skills, physical agility and coordination, acceptable dexterity, good eyesight, and the ability to lift/carry heavy loads.

Paramedics are responsible for the recognition, assessment and management of medical emergencies of acutely ill or injured individuals before they reach the hospital. Graduates work directly under physician supervision, usually via radio communication. Often, the paramedic becomes the eyes, ears and hands of the hospital command physician. Under the physician's orders, the EMT-P may administer an advanced level of care. With additional experience and education, individuals may also choose to become supervisors, or directors of emergency services.

All students must maintain a 2.0 or higher Quality Point Average to continue and graduate from this program.

If you are currently a high school student considering a career in EMS, we recommend your high school curriculum include science and math courses such as Chemistry, Biology and Algebra. Successful completion of the EMT Certification course is required prior to Fall admission. If you do not currently hold an EMT certificate, a Pitt-Johnstown Allied Health Programs advisor may be able to assist you relative to where and when this certification may be obtained.

PLEASE NOTE:  All students seeking a Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology or Emergency Medical Services degree MUST SUCCESSFULLY clear a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and drug screen before entering the clinical phase of the program.  Failure to do so will prohibit clinical participation and the ability to graduate with a degree in any of these majors.  It is important to note that, to become licensed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.

Professional courses are listed in bold print.  They are team taught by Pitt-Johnstown faculty and hospital instructors within their area of expertise.

                                    TOTAL OF 75 CREDITS

                     (includes 6 credits for EMS Certification)

Employment in Emergency Medical Services is expected to grow faster than average through the decade, due to an ever-expanding population.  Jobs can be found in fire, police and rescue squad departments, private ambulance services, hospitals, and helicopter emergency transport services.

Salaries for EMS range from $25,933 to $33,070, with a median of $29,271.