Paramedic Fire Science, AAS

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Total Credits: 68

Major Number: 5918
CIP Code: 43.0203

Program Description

This degree program prepares students to enter the dual-role profession of paramedic/firefighter, which is a model utilized by many municipalities locally, out-state, and across the country. The program will prepare individuals to recognize, assess, manage, and treat medical and trauma emergencies, with a focus on emergency surgical procedures; equipment operation and maintenance; patient stabilization, monitoring, and care; drug administration; identification and preliminary diagnosis of diseases and injuries; communication and computer operations; basic anatomy, physiology, pathology, and toxicology; and professional standards and regulation.  A focus on the theory and practice of fires and fire-fighting will include instruction in fire chemistry and physics; combustible materials; computer science; building construction, fire codes and related laws, fire hydraulics; fire command; fire prevention/inspection; fire protection systems; fire suppression systems; fire/arson investigation; occupational safety; communications; and equipment operation.

Program Prerequisites

1. A completed Century College application
2. Paramedic Fire Science AAS Degree Program Application Form
3. An official high school transcript verifying graduation or an official GED certificate
4. Copy of current state EMT certification.
5. Current certification/license in Firefighter I, Firefighter II, and Hazardous Materials Operations OR current enrollment in/concurrently enrolled in/completion of FRTA 1091 , FRTA 1092 , and FRTA 1095  with a grade of C or higher.

Special Instructions

1. Complete the Century College Application if you are a new student and send to the Admissions Office at Century College, 3300 Century Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. The Paramedic Fire Science AAS Degree Program Application Form is a separate form and is not a substitute for the Century College application. Please note: Applicants must be admitted into Century College to be eligible for admission to the Paramedic Program. All applicants must be in good academic and financial standing with Century College to be eligible to apply to the program.
2. Complete the Century College Paramedic Application (included in this packet) and Program Readiness Determination Form checklist and send to kim.schmitzer@century.edu or by mailing to Century College, Paramedic Program, 3300 Century Avenue North, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Deadlines for Application and selection process - The Program has an application deadline determined on a semester-by-semester basis. Consult Admissions or the Program for this deadline. Once all required documentation is received, your application file will be considered complete. Selection is made on a first come/first served basis. Please be aware that this program has a limited enrollment. If the class size limit is met before your file is complete, you will be placed on a wait list and your application will be deferred until the next available start date.
3. Request official transcripts from high school and all college courses and vocational school work previously completed. Transcripts should be sent directly from the previous institution to the Century College Transfer Student Services/DARS office. Please call 651.779.3908 with questions.
4. A letter of acceptance and registration form will be sent to admitted applicants. Please follow the special directions in the acceptance letter for registering due to exceeding 18 credits per semester.
5. The purchase of an iPad or comparable tablet device (9.5 x 7.5), by the student is required for the Program to support the use of electronic textbooks, medical applications, and clinical materials. Questions may be directed to Kim Schmitzer at 651-779-5798.
6. Access to structural firefighting gear (including self-contained breathing apparatus) or rental is required. Call Chris Caulkins, Program Director, at 651-779-5743 if you have questions.
7. Students must successfully pass the MN Human Services Department and National background studies with no restrictions, to be eligible to participate in required clinical/field experiences. Background checks will be processed during the semester.