Paramedicine, A.A.S.
The Paramedicine A.A.S. degree offers extensive training for those seeking to become licensed paramedics. This program covers advanced patient assessment, airway management, medication administration, and critical care techniques, preparing graduates for the demanding and rewarding field of pre-hospital emergency medicine.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Paramedicine?
With this degree, you can work as a licensed paramedic, responding to emergencies,
providing advanced medical interventions, and transporting patients to healthcare
facilities. You will play a crucial role in stabilizing patients during critical moments,
administering medications, and supporting overall patient care in the pre-hospital
environment. This degree prepares you for a fast-paced, impactful career dedicated
to saving lives.
The demand for paramedics is on the rise as healthcare systems and emergency services
seek highly skilled providers capable of delivering advanced pre-hospital care. Graduates
of this program can pursue careers as licensed paramedics, emergency medical services
(EMS) supervisors, or specialized rescue team members. The increasing need for emergency
medical professionals ensures strong job stability and opportunities for career advancement
in various healthcare and emergency response settings.
Suggested Curriculum
The Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedicine degree is a collaborative agreement
between Prairie State College and the Region VII EMS system Resource Hospitals. The
degree program prepares individuals for employment as paramedics in fire departments,
fire protections districts, and private ambulance companies. The Paramedic degree
is a comprehensive training program focused on preparing graduates to be competent
and confident entry-level paramedics. Students will receive training in the assessment,
treatment, and transportation of victims. Instruction is focused on hands-on experiences
using human patient simulators, trainers, and other equipment used in the profession.
Area A: Communication (6 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (3 credits)
Select one course from Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts .
Area C: Mathematics
Successful completion of MATH 091 or MATH 093 with a grade of C or better, or placement into MATH 094 or higher.
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (4 credits)
- BIOL 111 Cellular and Molecular Biology (IAI: BIO 910; L1 910L)
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)
PSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (S6 900)
- HLTH 105 General Medical Terminology
- PHILO 202 Ethics (H4 904)
- EMS 101 Emergency Medical Technician
- EMS 241 EMS Foundations
- EMS 242 Respiratory
- EMS 243 Cardiovascular
- EMS 244 Medical
- EMS 245 Trauma
- EMS 246 OB/Pediatrics
- EMS 247 Field Experience
Students who received a Course Completion Certificate or Associates in Applied Science (AAS) in EMT-Paramedic are prepared to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician Examination. Examination fees are student responsibility. Instructions and important forms will be distributed at the end of program coursework.
The Illinois Administrative Code for EMR's EMT's and Paramedics was recently updated on 6/27/2025 and includes some important updates below. These can also be referenced under 77 IL Admin Code 515.530.
- All candidates shall hold a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate and be 18 years of age or older to be licensed.
- After completion of an approved education program and a recommendation to test by the EMS MD or designee, candidates shall take the NREMT cognitive and an EMS System approved psychomotor examinations. (Our Paramedic Program meets this requirement)
- Candidates qualifying for licensure examinations may register for examinations through the NREMT. Application information may be found on the NREMT website. All candidates for licensure examinations shall be approved by the EMS System. Candidates shall register to take a licensure examination within 90 days after course completion, including all clinical and field requirements.
- Candidates shall follow the NREMT policy for initial licensure examination within 12 months after initial authorizations to test.
Questions about the process should be directed to course instructors and Program Coordinator Chad Vlietstra at cvlietstra@prairiestate.edu .
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Chad Vlietstra
Associate Professor/Coordinator, HVAC and Coordinator, Fire Science
Email: cvlietstra@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-2941
Office: T-145
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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