What is The Center for Emergency Programs?
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What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?
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Tell me about EMT basic classes.
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What settings do EMTs work in?
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How much are EMTs paid?
EMT pay varies tremendously from unpaid volunteers to salaried firefighters who with a few years of experience are earning over $30,000 a year. Many EMTs work as "paid" volunteers, where they are on-call and only paid if they are called out. Most full-time EMTs earn around $10 per hour. Pay will vary greatly based on the setting you are working in and your years of experience.

Do I have to be a University of Utah student to take classes?
All of our classes may be taken by anyone in the community and can be taken for University credit if you are degree seeking or for non-credit if you just want the information. Certification is not affected by whether you take the class for credit or not.

Why earn a degree with emphasis in EMS?
The future of Emergency Medical Services is rapidly moving toward requiring a degree. While initial entrance into this field does not require a degree, professional movement within the profession is much enhanced by having a Bachelor's Degree. Many health care professions such as physicians, physician assistants, and occupational and physical therapists require a degree for entry into their programs. This degree is very competitive when applying for those programs. For more information on the degree program click on the "degree" button.

How does the certification work?
All of our classes provide certificates of completion and most provide local, state, or national certification. The EMT classes qualify you to take the state certification exams offered by the Utah Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. Most of the first aid classes provide certification through the National Safety Council. CPR certification is generally through the American Heart Association or the National Safety Council. For more information on the certifying agencies click on the "related web sites" button.

What are the options for EMT continuing education?
We offer EMS continuing education in a variety of formats. This allows individuals to meet their own specific needs. Programs are available to obtain all of the required CME hours or any portion that you may need. Hours can be obtained in lecture, practical labs, through case review or article review, or on the web. We can also provide training to response agencies at your location. For more information on our CME program click on the "Continuing Education" button.