If you get excited at the idea of helping a car crash or heartattack victim while racing against the clock, then being a first responder is for you. EMT training is the best way to become a first responder, as EMTs help people with all kinds of medical emergencies.

EMT training is usually a highly demanding semester-long program offered at junior colleges some hospitals and paramedic services. Studies include airway management, oxygen setup, patient assessment, and cardiac problems. Class often moves into an ambulance or a hospital for a hands-on approach. There are three levels of EMTs.

EMT-Basic: After your initial EMT training, you are ready to move into the job market.
EMT-Intermediate: Usually not necessary but helpful as a first responder.
Paramedic: After time as an EMT- requirements are different by state- you can attend paramedic school.

If you don''t want to have a career as an EMT, you can move on to other jobs. Firefighters and some law enforcement jobs require at least an EMT-Basic certification.

The EMT on the Job

Working in pairs, EMTs are dispatched to a medical emergency by a 911 dispatcher. As first responders, it would be your duty to assess your patient''s medical complaints, provide care to the best of your ability, and transport that person to a hospital. EMTs experience a great deal of anxiety, as they may see hurt children, severe wounds and even fatalities.

EMTs and paramedics earn anywhere from a mean average of $11.13 to $18.28, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The industry expects to see average growth of nine percent by 2018.

Matt Riddle is a freelance writer based out of Reno, Nev. A journalism graduate from the University of Nevada, Reno, Riddle was a newspaper reporter and then an account coordinator for a political consultant in Reno where he worked for several successful campaigns. His interests are many, but CrossFit, rock climbing, reading and writing, skiing, snowboarding, fatherhood and acting round up the list.

Bureau of Labor Statistics • Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition: Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics • Dec 17, 2009 • http://www.bls.gov/oco • http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos101.htm

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by state then city.

Sanford-Brown College - Fenton

[Fenton, MO]

At Sanford-Brown, we have focused our study programs, which enable you the opportunity to develop your skills effectively to meet your specific career goals. We enable adults to complete their programs of study in as little as nine months. Plus, our programs focus on the essential concepts and skills most employers look for in entry-level employees. Our goal is to provide you with the practical information and experience you need to get your foot in the door. We are in the business of career education and we care about you and your future, as well as your future employer's needs. That is the Sanford-Brown difference.
Programs:
  Associate of Applied Science - Emergency Medical Services
  Associate of Applied Science - Health Information Technology
  Associate of Applied Science - Massage Therapy
  Associate of Applied Science - Pharmacy Technician
  Associate of Applied Science - Radiography
  Associate of Applied Science - Respiratory Therapy
  Bachelor of Science- Healthcare Administration
  Diploma - Massage Therapy
  Diploma - Medical Assistant
  Diploma - Medical Coding Billing Specialist
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Fortis Institute

[Cincinnati, OH]

At Fortis Institute, we provide students with the skills and training they need to prepare for a variety of in-demand career fields, including Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Dental Assistant, and Medical Business & Clinical Specialist. We offer qualified instructors, personalized attention, career services for our graduates, and much more.
Programs:
Emergency Medical Technician
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Programs vary by location. Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information.

All-State Career - Healthcare Division - Essington

[Essington, PA]

Don't let your future pass you by. Achieve career success and a positive future at All-State Career - Healthcare Division. We specialize in providing quality career training for students just like you. A variety of programs are offered in the Medical field. Job placement assistance is offered, and financial aid is available for eligible students.
Programs:
  Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic
  Medical Assisting
  Medical Billing and Coding
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National College - Roanoke	[Salem, VA]
National College can prepare you for better career and a brighter future. Study with professional instructors and get the real-world skills it takes to succeed. Programs: AS - Emergency Medical Technology/Paramedic Diploma - Emergency Medical Technology Request More Information >