Continuing Education Frequently Asked Questions

Important Information

EMT Basic Schedules
and Registration EMT-B Refresher Schedules and Registration EMS Instructor Methodology

17. Do I have to be an EMT before I can take paramedic training?

1. You must hold a current NC EMT credential before you can take courses to upgrade to EMT-Intermediate or EMT-Paramedic.

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17. Is there an age requirement?

1. You must be at least 18 years of age and out of high school to enter any Continuing Education EMS course.              
   

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17. How long will it take me to get my credentials through Continuing Education?

1. Obtaining your EMT-Paramedic credential through Continuing Education courses may take several years due to the need of work experience to qualify for the next class. Also, if there is not enough interest in a class, it may not be offered that semester.

   The Continuing Education EMT-Basic course is one semester in length. Students who successfully complete the class are eligible to take the North Carolina EMT-B credentialing examination.

   The Continuing Education EMT-Intermediate program is one to two semesters in length. Students must be currently credentialed as a North Carolina EMT-B and have 6 months (250 hours) of patient care experience as a practicing EMT-B with an EMS agency prior to enrollment in the program. Students who successfully complete the class are eligible to take the North Carolina EMT-I credentialing examination.

   The Continuing Education EMT-Paramedic program is a multi-course series spanning about 18 months. Students must be currently credentialed as a North Carolina EMT-I and have 6 months (250 hours) of patient care experience as either an EMT-B or an EMT-I with an EMS agency prior to enrollment in the program. Students who successfully complete the class are eligible to take the North Carolina EMT-P credentialing examination.

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17. What are the advantages of taking the Continuing Education classes?

1. The classes cost less.

   There are fewer classes to take (only EMS and Anatomy & Physiology courses).

   Classes are usually offered in the evenings and on Saturdays.

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17. What are the disadvantages of taking the Continuing Education classes?

1. You will not receive a degree which can give you an advantage in an EMS related hiring situation and frequently results in a higher starting salary.

   Degrees are often the key for EMS providers to move up or in to other aspects of the field, such as management and administration, or in to state or federal EMS related positions.

   Completing the credentials through the Continuing Education department takes longer than completing the degree.

   Some states now require an AAS in EMS to practice as a paramedic.

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17. Are there requirements to start the Continuing Education EMS classes?

1. Requirements (prerequisites) vary for EMS courses.  Check the individual course schedule and registration information link at the top of this page for details.

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17. Are the Continuing Education classes eligible for any form of Financial Aid?

1. The Continuing Education classes are not covered by Financial Aid.

   If you are an active volunteer or work with an EMS provider, fire department, or law enforcement agency, you may qualify for a registration fee waiver. Please contact the Wake Tech Continuing Education Department at 919-866-5800 to find out information concerning a waiver. Also, you should consult with your department representative, company officer or supervisor to determine if there are any other financial aid opportunities. Some companies will purchase students' textbooks or reimburse some expenses upon successful completion of the program.
   

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17. I'm interested in taking a class.  What is my next step?

1. At the top of this page in the “Important Information” box, click on the link for the “EMS Course Schedule and Registration” information for a specific course.
   

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