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Emergency Medical Technician

Emergency medical technician students in ambulance

Department: Emergency Services

Program Type: Fire Science and Public Safety


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Overview

In the Emergency Medical Technician program at ECC, you can develop the skills and knowledge required to pursue various Emergency Medical Services (EMS) roles. This program prepares you to become a highly skilled healthcare professional who delivers critical pre-hospital care in emergencies, essential to patient survival and recovery. This entry-level program allows you to achieve different certifications and career levels based on your training and expertise. This certification represents the various roles you can pursue within emergency medical services after completing the Emergency Medical Technology program

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The job outlook for EMTs and Paramedics is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2023 to 2033. On average, about 19,20 new emergency services positions will open annually over the next decade. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, accessed March 6, 2025).

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the plan of study and course descriptions.

Basic Vocational Certificate

What will I learn in the Emergency Medical Technician program?

ECC's Emergency Medical Technician certificate program teaches patient assessment and emergency treatment procedures. The 8-credit course covers medical emergencies like cardiac arrest, resuscitation, and treating conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and emergency childbirth. EMTs are trained to provide basic emergency medical care, such as CPR, controlling bleeding, and providing oxygen. You will also gain skills in treating and transporting traumatically injured patients, with hands-on training in all treatment modalities. 

For more details on the curriculum, Please refer to the ECC Catalog.

Emergency Medical Technician Skills

In the Emergency Medical Technician program, you'll develop a comprehensive skill set to provide adequate emergency medical care and support during critical situations. You'll acquire knowledge and proficiency in:

  • Understanding Medical Emergencies: Learn how to assess and respond to various medical emergencies, such as cardiac events, respiratory issues, trauma, and environmental emergencies.
  • Mastering Basic Life Support (BLS) Techniques: Gain proficiency in life-saving techniques such as CPR and airway management to stabilize patients in critical conditions.
  • Performing Patient Assessments: Develop skills in evaluating a patient's condition, obtaining medical histories, and conducting physical exams.
  • Utilizing Emergency Medical Equipment: Gain hands-on experience with essential EMT tools and equipment, including oxygen administration and basic medical supplies used in pre-hospital care.
  • Managing Trauma and Medical Conditions: Learn how to care for various medical conditions while prioritizing safety and patient well-being.

What Career Paths are Available with an Emergency Medical Technician Certification?

Career paths in this program offer a range of exciting opportunities, including roles as Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedics, and Public Safety Dispatcher.

Discover your potential in emergency services with ECC’s certificates in Fire Science and Safety, Basic Operations Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, and more. These certificate programs are tailored to support your career and advancement goals.

Learn more about Paramedic or EMT Training at ECC!

With an Emergency Services certification from Elgin Community College, you can change—and save—lives.

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Are you unemployed or looking for a better career?

ECC is partnering with Kane County WIOA to offer free career training for in-demand jobs. Learn more and see if you qualify.

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

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Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

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