Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

The Emergency Medical Technician course provides essential skills in basic life support and emergency medical care, and prepares students for certification through the National Registry of EMTs.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be capable of performing the following functions at an entry level:

  • Recognize the nature and seriousness of a patient's condition or extent of injuries to assess the need for emergency medical care
  • Administer appropriate emergency medical care based on assessment findings
  • Lift, move, position, and otherwise handle patients to minimize discomfort and prevent further injury
  • Perform safely and effectively according to the expectations outlined in the job description

The course consists of 110 hours, evenly divided between lectures and practical skills labs. All courses are approved by the Vermont Department of Health Office of EMS and Injury Prevention.

Prerequisites
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To be eligible for the course, candidates must meet the following entry requirements:

Community Member Access


Non-UVM students are welcome to enroll in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course as a non-credit offering. This option provides access to the same high-quality training without academic credit. For more information or to register, please contact Chris Lamonda at Christopher.Lamonda@uvm.edu.

Certification
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Upon completing this course, students are eligible to sit for the National Registry of EMT certification exam. After obtaining national certification, students may pursue state licensure based on individual state requirements. Contact your state EMS office for additional eligibility information.

Hybrid EMT Program
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The Hybrid EMT course offered through the Initiative for Rural Emergency Medical Services (IREMS) at the University of Vermont is designed to provide flexible, high-quality training for individuals pursuing EMT certification. This program blends online learning with in-person skill development, making it ideal for students balancing other commitments or living in rural areas.

Program Format

  • Live Online Sessions:
    Students meet once per week for a three-hour live online class, covering core lecture material and engaging in discussions.
  • Weekly Assessments:
    Includes weekly quizzes or exams and one additional assignment to reinforce learning.
  • In-Person Training:
    Students attend seven Friday evening/weekend sessions throughout the semester. These sessions focus on:
    • Hands-on skill practice
    • Performance improvement
    • Mock scenarios and case studies
    • Critical thinking exercises
  • HLTH 2531 Block:
    Dedicated time for advanced skills practice and competency evaluation.

Course Objectives

Upon completion, students will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of EMS systems, safety, legal/ethical issues, and public health principles
  • Use medical terminology effectively in professional communication
  • Assess and manage patients across the lifespan, including those with special needs
  • Perform physical exams and formulate field diagnoses
  • Provide emergency care for medical and trauma-related conditions
  • Administer medications and manage airway, ventilation, and circulation
  • Communicate effectively and respectfully, with cultural sensitivity
  • Demonstrate professional behaviors such as empathy, teamwork, and lifelong learning
  • Safely perform all psychomotor skills within national and state scopes of practice
  • Document clinical findings and decisions accurately
  • Function as a team member and develop leadership skills in emergency settings

Who Should Enroll?

This program is ideal for:

  • Individuals affiliated with Vermont-licensed EMS organizations
  • Pre-med students seeking clinical experience
  • Those pursuing careers in search-and-rescue, ski patrol, or outdoor education
  • Anyone looking to serve their community through emergency medical services

Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible to register for the Emergency Medical Technician course?

Individuals with a high school diploma, GED, or academically talented high school seniors are eligible to register. All applicants must be certified in Basic Cardiac Life Support (CPR) before the course begins.
Priority registration is given to individuals affiliated with Vermont-licensed emergency medical service (EMS) organizations.

Why is priority given to individuals affiliated with EMS organizations?

Training resources are limited. Priority is given to those who will serve as emergency medical technicians in Vermont to ensure the state’s EMS needs are met.

How do I get affiliated?

Contact your local EMS service. If you’re unsure who that is, reach out to the Vermont EMS Office at 802-863-7310 or visit healthvermont.gov.

Do I need to be trained and certified to join an EMS service?

Most EMS services accept individuals with no prior training or experience. They will assist you in registering for appropriate training programs. Many services cover training costs or offer reimbursement upon completion.

I’m in a pre-med program. Will EMT certification help my medical school application?

Yes. Medical school admissions committees often value EMT experience for its clinical exposure and community service aspects. In addition to certification, they look for applicants who have actively used their training in real-world settings.

I live in Vermont, outside of Chittenden County. Can I affiliate with an EMS service elsewhere in the state?

Yes. You can affiliate with any EMS service licensed in Vermont, regardless of your county of residence.

I live in another state. Can I become certified in Vermont and be recognized elsewhere?

Yes. Vermont uses the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians for certification exams. Upon completing the certification process in Vermont, you will receive National Registry certification, which is recognized by most states. Contact your home state’s EMS office for specific details.