Save lives as an EMT-Paramedic. Paramedics respond to emergencies and provide aid to victims of accidents or those experiencing a medical emergency such as cardiac arrest. Under direct medical control, these professionals render advanced aid by administering medication, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as EKGs, and intubating patients, in addition to performing the basic lifesaving measures of an EMT. The program offers a combination of classroom learning and field experiences.
Increased job opportunities will be available to you as a paramedic. In addition to ambulance services and fire departments, paramedics can find themselves working in industrial settings, in correctional facilities, and in hospital emergency rooms.
After successfully completing the program, you're ready to take the National Registry Paramedic written and practical examination in order to be eligible for a license in Wisconsin. You may also choose to continue at Western to earn a Paramedic Technician associate degree for increased earning potential.
The Paramedic program's minimum expectation is to prepare Paramedics who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.
You will prepare for real-world emergencies with immersive training in our Simulation and Extended Reality (XR) Labs, utilizing high-fidelity manikins and virtual environments. Explore the Simulation and XR Labs.
To view the Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
The Paramedic Program core courses are held at the Sparta Public Safety Training Facility in Sparta, Wisconsin.
Career Opportunities
EMT - Paramedic
Firefighter/Paramedic
Critical Care Technician/Paramedic
Program Outcomes
Prepare for incident response and EMS operations
Integrate pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to provide appropriate patient care
Demonstrate paramedic skills associated with established standards and procedures for a variety of patient encounters
Communicate effectively with others
Demonstrate professional behavior
Meet state and national competencies listed for paramedic certification(s)
Admissions Requirements
Additional Requirements
To enroll in the EMT – Paramedic program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards, complete a background check, provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test), complete American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR certification, and read and return a signed copy of the supplemental information document. You can find links to these document below. In addition, you must hold a Wisconsin EMT-Basic or Advanced License. Please see the details below.
The Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic program follows Western's policies regarding the Transfer of Credits and Credit for Prior Learning.
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
