EMS Programs

Minimum Admission Requirements

EMT Student Prerequisites

1. Students must be 17 years of age on or before the official end date of the course.
2. Possession of a high school diploma, high school equivalency, or successful completion of an exam assessing basic reading comprehension at a minimum at the eleventh-grade level.

Paramedic Student Prerequisites

1. Students must be 17 years of age on or before the official end date of the course.
2. High school diploma or high school equivalent.
3. Possession of a valid and active North Carolina EMT Credential, NREMT, or other state’s EMS Credential prior to the start of the course.
4. Successful completion of college-level English, or within the previous 12 months complete a written assessment placing the individual into college-level English.
• Placement by RISE without the use of a written assessment will not meet this requirement.
5. Successful completion of college-level Math, or within the previous 12 months complete a written assessment placing the student into college-level Math.
• Placement by RISE without the use of a written assessment will not meet this requirement.
6. Successful completion of a college-level Anatomy and Physiology course prior to the start of the field education component (field education begins summer semester).
• Courses that are currently accepted include: BIO-168 and 169 Anatomy and Physiology I & II (must complete both sections with a C of higher within the previous 5 years). Equivalent CE courses will be accepted when the course meets all other requirements of these guidelines to include meeting SACSCOC standards for instructors of curriculum-level courses.
• Accepted courses shall possess articulation agreements for curriculum credit.

*Special note related to A&P requirements: The North Carolina Office of EMS admissions requirements state EMS-3163, BIO 163, and BIO 165 and 166 are acceptable A&P courses; however, Carteret Community College only offers BIO 168 and BIO 169 which will award curriculum credit. BIO 165 and 166 may be accepted for transfer credit if they meet the five-year limitation requirement.

Need more information about prerequisites? Email a Health Science Admissions Coordinator at [email protected].

Program Outcomes

State Written Exam Pass Rates

The National Registry (written and/or practical) threshold set by the National Registry or State Exam (written and/or practical) threshold set by the State is 70%. The success of any results will be computed over the most recent reporting year (2017) based on the total number of (students) completing the program.

• 2025 | 100%
• 2024 | 100%
• 2023 | 87.5%

Retention Rates

The paramedic program has a retention benchmark of 70% and it is measured annually.

• 2025 | 83%
• 2024 | 71%
• 2023 | 53%

Job Placement

The Positive (Job) Placement threshold set by the CoAEMSP is 70%. Positive (Job) Placement means that the graduate is employed full or part-time or volunteers in the profession or in a related field; continuing his/her education; or is serving in the military.

• 2025 | 94%
• 2024 | 100%
• 2023 | 87.5%

Program Accreditation

The Carteret Community College Paramedic program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions.

Transfer Opportunities

Looking to transfer to a university after you complete your EMS degree at Carteret CC? Explore your options.

Step 1: EMT Certification

If you want to start a career in EMS, the first step is becoming an EMT. You can complete your EMT certification at Carteret CC in two ways:

• EMS 110: This is a credit-based course for students enrolled in a college program.
• EMS 4200: This is a Workforce Continuing Education course, perfect for those who want a non-credit option.

A number of variables may influence which pathway you choose to take, such as academic goals, time commitment, finances, and several others. Let us know if you need help determining which one will best fit your individual needs, we're here to help.

Step 2: Continue to Paramedic

After completing your EMT, you can advance your career by earning your Paramedic certification. Carteret CC offers two pathways for students to earn their Paramedic certification:

• Paramedic Degree Program: This is a credit-based course leading to an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Science. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible for the NC state paramedic exam.
• Paramedic Certificate Program: This is a Workforce Continuing Education program

A number of variables may influence which pathway you choose to take, such as academic goals, time commitment, finances, and several others. Let us know if you need help determining which one will best fit your individual needs, we're here to help.

Step 3: For Current Paramedics

If you're already a certified paramedic and want to earn an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Science, you can enroll in our EMS Bridging program. Paramedics must have an active state or national paramedic credential to be eligible.

The program provides formal education in EMS management, EMS education and advanced pre-hospital practice. It also allows students to complete general education classes that meet the requirements for university transfer.

The bridge program is available to paramedics who have an active state or national paramedic credential and meet minimum enrollment standards. The 100% onlineprogram provides the flexibility for paramedics to study around their work shifts and complete the program at their own pace. Individuals can join the program in any semester.

EMS professionals can use the EMS Bridge AAS Degree for university transfer, to meet the requirements for promotion or to gain additional knowledge. Most courses also qualify for continuing education credit.

AAS - Emergency Medical Science

Emergency Medical Science (EMS) degree students will learn the practice of emergency medicine and will complete more than 600 hours of clinical in area hospitals and EMS agencies. At the end of the program, students will be eligible to take state or national paramedic credentialing exams.

AAS - Emergency Medical Science Bridging

The Emergency Medical Science Bridge program is designed for credentialed paramedics who want to obtain their EMS degree. The program provides formal education in EMS management, EMS education and advanced pre-hospital practice. It also allows students to complete general education classes that meet the requirements for university transfer.

Pathway - Emergency Medical Science (CCP)

Career & College Promise (CCP) offers high school students the opportunity to take tuition-free college courses that count toward both high school and college graduation requirements. In about two years or less, students can complete college credits, certificates, or other credentials—giving them a valuable head start on their education and career goals. By enrolling in CCP, students save time, save money, and gain the confidence of knowing they are already on the path to success in college and beyond.

EMS Continuing Education

In addition to preparing the next generation of EMTs and paramedics, Carteret Community College offers targeted specialty courses designed for working professionals and EMS agencies.

Whether you're renewing certifications or expanding your expertise, our hands-on training helps you stay sharp, stay certified, and stay ready to serve.