School of Prehospital and Emergency Medicine

The Ventura College School of Prehospital and Emergency Medicine trains emergency medical technology and paramedic students to provide urgent care in any location or while transporting patients in ambulances or helicopters. Graduates embark on exciting careers as first responders in the delivery of emergency services. The School administers the following programs: 

• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Paramedic (professional certification only)
• Paramedic with Associate of Science Degree

Completion of the EMT Program is a prerequisite for most Paramedic Programs throughout the United States. The Ventura College Paramedic Studies Program is the only program fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs in Ventura County. In California, Paramedic is the highest level of EMT certification. 

What is an EMS First Responder?

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) first responder personnel treat nearly 20 million patients a year in the United States. EMS delivers care as part of a system intended to attenuate the morbidity and mortality associated with sudden illness and injury. EMS personnel are prepared to respond at the scene to a wide range of emergencies, spanning auto accidents, violent crimes, fire, seizures, childbirths, strokes, heart attacks, drug overdoses, poisonings, and other emergencies. Many of these patients have complicated medical or traumatic conditions that require considerable knowledge, skill, and judgment to be treated effectively in the out-of-hospital setting. Proper care can literally make the difference between life and death. For most patients, their crisis may not be matter of life or death, but it is no less significant to them and their families. High-quality out-of-hospital emergency care is an important part of the United States health care system.