Emergency Medical Technician
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Diploma | 305313 | EMMT | 7.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall, Spring, Summer | Hybrid | Not Available | 1238 | La Crosse, Black River Falls, Independence, Mauston, Tomah, Viroqua, Sparta | Public Safety |
As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), you're on the front lines providing lifesaving care to people in need. You'll learn how to assess a patient's illness or injury, render aid, and use proper procedures and precautions when treating a patient. This 252-hour program prepares you for all aspects of emergency medical care, including medical and trauma situations sanctioned by the Wisconsin Division of Health. Although most EMTs have historically worked for ambulance services, many also find employment in fire departments, clinics, and hospitals.
This program contains the EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) EMT Part 1 course (3 credits) and the EMT Part 2 course (4 credits), meeting requirements for licensure in Wisconsin and certification with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Take the full program in one term and earn a technical diploma upon successful completion. You will be required to take a practical and written exam to become nationally registered and then apply for a license to work as EMTs in Wisconsin. Continue your education to earn the EMT-Paramedic Technical Diploma and/or the Paramedic Technician associate degree for further job opportunities and earning potential.
The Emergency Medical Technician program is offered in a variety of ways.
- EMT – Technical diploma: Take the full program in one term – 252 hours – and earn a technical diploma upon completion.
- Emergency Medical Responder to Emergency Medical Technician Part 1 (EMR-EMT Part 1): This course is the first part of the two-course full EMT Program. The course provides foundational knowledge for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) candidates and all requirements for Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) candidates. Topics include basic anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, traumatic injury management, airway management, cardiac management, and basic medical care. Upon successful completion, candidates will be eligible to participate in the National Registry of EMT's Emergency Medical Responder exams required for the Wisconsin EMR certification. There are no pre-requisites to this course. You have the option to step out as an EMR or continue in EMT Part 2 in order to complete the full EMT Program.
- Emergency Medical Technician Part 2 (EMT Part 2): This course is the second part of the two-course full EMT Program. It will further build upon the base knowledge of the EMR and EMT Part 1 course. Topics include expanded anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology, disease processes, more complex patient assessment, and critical thinking skills. Additional skills will be covered as allowed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services EMS Section Scope of Practice for EMTs. Upon successful completion, candidates will be eligible to participate in the National Registry of EMTs exam required for Wisconsin EMT licensure. Pre-requisites for this course are concurrent enrollment in the EMR-EMT Part 1 course, OR completion of an EMR stand-alone course, or EMR to EMT Part 1, at a Wisconsin Technical College System school within the past 24 months, or a current Wisconsin license as an Emergency Medical Responder.
To view the Emergency Medical Technician program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Additional Requirements
Emergency Medical Technician Full Program
The Emergency Medical Technician program consists of both the EMR to EMT Part 1 and EMT Part 2 courses.
- Viewpoint Screening Background Check (PDF)
- Technical Standards Form
- Supplemental Information Form (PDF)
- Students will need to submit immunization requirements through the Health Portal (PDF) prior to the EMT Part 2 course. Immunizations will not be used for admission purposes.
EMR to EMT Part 1
The EMR to EMT Part 1 program has no additional requirements. Students who wish to continue to EMT Part 2 must submit an additional application selecting EMT Part 2 and must complete the additional requirements listed in the EMT Part 2 section below.
EMT Part 2
- Completion of an EMR-EMT Part 1 course at a WI Technical College within the last 24 months or current WI EMR license
- Viewpoint Screening Health Portal
- Viewpoint Screening Background Check (PDF)
- Technical Standards Form
- Supplemental Information Form (PDF)
- Current AHA BLS Provider CPR Certification
Career Opportunities
Emergency Medical Technician
Program Outcomes
- Prepare for incident response and EMS operations
- Integrate pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to provide appropriate patient care
- Demonstrate EMT skills associated with established standards and procedures for a variety of patient encounters
- Communicate effectively with others
- Demonstrate professional behavior
- Meet state competencies for EMT certification
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
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
Career Pathways
This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.
Prior Learning
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.
Certificates
There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.
Technical Diplomas
Associate Degrees
University Transfer
Courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 30531100 - EMR/EMT 1 | 3.00 |
| 30531101 - EMT 2 | 4.00 |