Prerequisites & Requirements

Schedule Overview

RCC’s paramedic pathways follow a two-year training schedule that helps you build strong emergency medical skills and prepare for quick entry into the workforce. Your first year includes Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training along with general education courses that support the communication, science and problem-solving skills needed in this field. These courses give you a solid foundation before you move into advanced paramedic study. 
 
The second year is a four-term sequence in the paramedic education series. During this year, you learn patient assessment, advanced pathophysiology, airway management, general pharmacology, respiratory emergencies, intravenous therapy, obstetrics and pediatrics. You also take part in lab sessions and simulated emergency scenes that help you practice hands-on assessment and use Basic and Advanced Life Support equipment. Throughout the year, you develop skills in managing emergency medical scenes, coordinating resources and delegating tasks — all essential for working on an active Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team. 
 
You also complete clinical shifts in hospitals and EMS agencies across Southern Oregon. These experiences help you apply classroom learning in real emergency settings. Most students complete their Paramedic Capstone Internship during summer or fall of the second year.  

Because this is an intensive, full-time program, working full time while enrolled is not recommended. Many students do work part time, but the schedule requires flexibility and strong time management. 

Entry Requirements

Before you begin any of RCC’s paramedic pathways, it’s important to understand the steps required for admission. These programs are part of a special admission process, which means you must complete an Emergency Services application in addition to applying to Rogue Community College. The paramedicine application period opens April 1 and usually closes in early June for fall entry. Because requirements can vary, it is recommended that you review your plan with an Emergency Services advisor to make sure you are fully prepared.

Once you meet the entry requirements below, you may complete the application for this special admission program:

• Be at least 17 years old.
• Possess a high school diploma, GED® or equivalent.
• Hold an Oregon EMT license in good standing with OHA.
• Become an RCC student and complete the RCC Placement Process. Complete required course prerequisites with a grade of “C” or higher.
• Complete all vaccination and screening requirements for tuberculosis, substance use and criminal background checks as outlined in OAR 409-030-0190.

Required Materials

Once accepted into one of RCC’s paramedic pathways, you will receive detailed instructions about required items.

You will need the following to begin the program:

• Approved uniforms for class, clinical and field time.
• A reliable tablet computer or compact laptop.
• Required textbooks, including a paramedic text, an ECG/12-lead text and current editions of ACLS, PALS and PHTLS books.

For more information about RCC’s paramedic courses, email emergencyservicesinfoFREERogue%20Community%20College. 

Graduation Requirements

The Paramedicine Associate of Applied Science degree requires the completion of 93 program credits in addition to 11-13 prerequisite courses, which may be waived based on placement. Students must complete all courses outlined in this program with a grade of “C” or better to earn a certificate in paramedic care. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an Emergency Services department advisor before beginning any coursework.

See the Program Map in our academic catalog for specific course requirements.

Paramedicine Program Map