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Emergency medical technicians, paramedics and anyone interested in a career in the emergency medical sciences field have an exciting new option at Isothermal Community College, officials said Thursday.

The EMS Bridge program will allow certified paramedics to earn an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Science. While a degree is not a requirement for paramedic certification in North Carolina at this time, it is anticipated that it will be by 2023.

“Other states are already requiring this for paramedics,” said Ava Yamouti, dean of Health and Public Services at Isothermal. “We believe that North Carolina will follow suit.”

The EMS Bridge program allows already-certified paramedics the option to take a number of courses in addition to the yearlong training they’ve completed. The program also eases the path for those who have completed Emergency Medical Technician training, a precursor to becoming a certified paramedic. It includes general education courses and those courses specific to EMS.

“These are great jobs for someone interested in Emergency Medical Sciences,” said Yamouti. “This program provides an opportunity for those in the profession who are looking to advance to the next level. Plus, the courses allow students to learn in flexible settings that include some online classes, which is a real advantage to someone already working a busy schedule in the world of EMS.”

Isothermal’s program recently received approval by the college’s accrediting agency, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Committee on Colleges.

Financial aid is available for this program including the Powers Promise, which can pay for the tuition of Rutherford and Polk county residents. Registration opens Monday, June 29.

For more information, contact Ava Yamouti at ayamouti@isothermal.edu or 828-395-1435.

Submitted by Mike Gavin