Paramedics

The Paramedic Associate in Science Degree at Bakersfield College is a comprehensive two-year program that prepares students for advanced roles in emergency medical services. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and supervised clinical and field experience, students learn patient assessment, advanced life support, airway management, cardiology, trauma care, and EMS operations. Graduates are eligible to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam and pursue licensure as a paramedic. With extensive real-world training and expert instruction, this program provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in high-stakes emergency medical environments.

What is a Paramedic?

A paramedic is a highly trained healthcare professional who provides advanced life support to critically ill or injured patients in emergency situations. Often the first clinician on scene, paramedics assess patients, administer medications, perform complex procedures, and stabilize individuals for transport to hospitals or other medical facilities. Working as part of an EMS team, paramedics play a vital role in saving lives, improving patient outcomes, and delivering urgent medical care when every moment counts.

Is Studying Paramedics Right for Me?

The Paramedic Program is ideal for individuals who are motivated to help others, thrive in fast-paced settings, and are passionate about emergency healthcare. Students should be prepared for rigorous training that requires strong communication, critical thinking, and the ability to perform under pressure. The program serves both students beginning their EMS careers and current EMTs seeking advanced certification.

Key traits and skills that support success in paramedicine include:

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to stay calm under pressure
• Physical stamina and strength
• Empathy and compassion
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Adaptability and resilience
• Attention to detail

Students who bring compassion, focus, and a commitment to patient care will find this a meaningful and rewarding career path.

Paramedic Degree Certificate

Paramedic Program Associate of Science

The Paramedic AS degree prepares students to perform as competent, entry-level paramedics with the knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality prehospital emergency medical care. The program’s mission is to support the health and welfare of Kern County by training highly skilled emergency medical professionals.

Paramedic Certificate of Achievement

The Certificate of Achievement provides the same high-quality paramedic education and hands-on experience as the AS pathway, preparing students to enter the workforce as licensed paramedics and provide exceptional prehospital care.

Outcomes Summary

Outcomes thresholds set by CoAEMSP are 70% in each category. Outcomes reported are summary information about student/graduate achievements from our program.

Approved satellite location at the Harvey L. Hall EMS Training Academy, located at 1400 Easton Drive, Suite 142, Bakersfield, CA. Outcomes summary information from the satellite location are included in the above data.

Paramedic Careers

A Paramedic Associate in Science Degree opens the door to a variety of careers in emergency medical services and related fields, including:

• Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Flight Paramedic
• Critical Care Paramedic
• EMS Educator
• Emergency Manager
• Public Safety Officer

Paramedics play a vital role in community health, emergency response, and disaster preparedness. With advanced training, graduates can pursue specialized or leadership roles within EMS, fire departments, hospitals, and public safety agencies.

You may also be interested in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program.

Academic Department: Public Safety Training

Career & Learning Pathway: Public Safety Training (PST) Pathway

Courses: Emergency Medical Technology (EMTC)