Certificate Code: 5640
Contact hsc@bhc.edu for information; Advising Center, 309-796-5100, Rm 1-213; East Campus Advising Center, 309-854-1709.
Emergency Medical Services education is offered through the Health Sciences department in cooperation with the Emergency Medical System of Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus.
This education prepares individuals for entry-level positions as emergency medical technicians (EMS 100 & EMS 102 ) and paramedics. The program prepares individuals to provide basic and advanced life support in out-of-the-hospital settings to critically ill and injured persons.
To prepare individuals to function in the pre-hospital role, a combination of educational methods will be used including theory instruction, demonstration and practice of life-saving skills for simulated and real emergency situations. Instruction is provided by physicians specializing in emergency medicine, registered nurses, and paramedics with advanced education in medical and trauma management.
Students must successfully document and meet all health and background checks required by academic programs and/or clinical sites prior to admission to program and/or courses. A physical examination and immunizations, and BLS CPR from American Heart Association are required prior to beginning clinical practice/field time. Completion of pre-admission testing is required (contact the department at hsc@bhc.edu for information).
To seek EMT licensure prior to employment the student must successfully complete the EMT courses (EMS 100 & EMS 102 ) and sit for either the EMT Illinois Department of Public Health State examination or the National Registry Examination.
To seek Paramedic licensure prior to employment the student must successfully complete the Paramedic Certificate Program and sit for either the Paramedic Illinois Department of Public Health State examination or the National Registry Examination.
Job opportunities include hospitals, private ambulance services, municipal fire, police or rescue squad departments. Volunteer services generally require EMT licensure.
The curriculum in Emergency Medical Service is career-oriented and the applicant must meet the following requirements for admission.
- High school graduation or equivalent
- 18 years of age
- Physical examination, immunizations, and CPR (BLS Provider from American Heart Association) are required prior to beginning clinical practice
- Student must achieve a grade of 80% or above in all courses to continue in the program
- Completion of pre-admission testing with appropriate placement score OR successful completion of MATH 078 and COMM 100 , ENG 101 or ENG 101C , OR approval of EMS Program Director.
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