Academics

Explore the Programs at Miami Dade College

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a Paramedic?
A. A Paramedic (EMT– P) is an advanced care practitioner in Emergency Medical Services.  These individuals provide advanced medical and trauma care in the pre-hospital environment. A paramedic is responsible for emergency on-scene treatment, life-saving stabilization, and transport of ill or injured patients to an acute care facility. Additionally, Paramedics provide direct patient care in ER’s, clinics, and ambulance services.


Q. When does the program start and what is the target review date for the program?
A. The Paramedic program is offered every semester at the Medical Center Campus. These courses are offered at the Medical Campus on a “shift” schedule and as an evening class is offered in the Fall Semester only.  Applications for the paramedic program should be submitted in accordance with the established target review dates for each semester.


Q. What are the program requirements?
A.  To be eligible for the Paramedic program you must be a current student at Miami Dade College. You must also see our EMS advisor to determine if you are required to take the (P.E.R.T.) Postsecondary Education Readiness Test or if you have exemption status from test.


Q. What are the selection criteria?
A.  To be eligible for the Paramedic program students must:

  1. Be a current student at Miami Dade College
  2. Successfully completion of BSC 2085 and BSC 2085L
  3. Provide a copy of a current State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician certification
  4. Completion of the Paramedic Entrance Examination
  5. Hold a current BLS CPR Card (copy must be submitted with application)
  6. Have acceptable P.E.R.T. scores or appropriate exemption status.
  7. Submitted a completed Student Health Record (completed health record must be submitted with application)
  8. Provide proof of medical insurance (copy of card or signed waiver)
  9. Successfully complete the criminal background check through the identified College Vendor (documentation must be submitted with the application)  

Q. Can I request a milestone review if I have not completed all of the general education and science courses?
A. There are no general education requirements that must be completed in advance other than the BSC 2085 and BSC 2085L.


Q. What kind of degree will I be awarded when I graduate?
A. The Paramedic program is a college certificate program.  Upon successful complete of the Paramedic program, the student earns 42 college credits. Students that apply for graduation receive the Miami Dade College – College Credit Certificate diploma upon successful completion of the program.


Q. What are the hours of the program?
A. The program is offered at the Medical Campus on the “shift” schedule from 8:00am – 9:00pm, Monday through Friday.  The evening offering meets in the Fall semester only. Monday through Thursdays, 5:00pm – 9:00pm and on Saturdays from 8:00am – 4:00pm.


Q. Can I work while I am a student in the program?
A.  If students must work for financial support, the program strongly recommends a limit of 20 hours of employment per week while enrolled in the Paramedic program courses.


Q. Do you assist with job placement after graduation?
A. The Medical Campus does not provide job placement.  Through the Career Center located in the New Student Center on the Medical Campus, graduates may review employment opportunities that have been forwarded to the Career Center.


Q. Do I need to take a test to work in this profession after graduation?
A.  In order to work as a Paramedic, a certification is required in the State of Florida.  This certification requires that you pass the state credentialing examination offered by the Florida Department of Health.


Q. What is the approximate annual salary for graduates of this program in this area?
A. In the South Florida area, certified Paramedics may expect to earn an annual salary of $23,000 - $47,000, if employed in a full-time setting. Many paramedics obtain employment as municipal firefighters with an annual salary that ranges from $47,000 - $91,000.