Surry Community College began offering an Associate in Applied Science in Emergency Medical Science in Fall 2020. This program allows students who have obtained their paramedic credential through a certificate program to bridge over to an AAS EMS degree.
The program is designed to provide an opportunity for paramedics currently credentialed by the North Carolina Office of EMS or National Registry to earn an associate degree online. The associate degree is being strongly suggested by the Office of Emergency Medical Services and expected to become the entry level for paramedics in the near future. The program consists of 45 credit hours.
Hunter Blose, a recent graduate, completed the associate degree program while working full-time for the Surry County Emergency Services.
“I enjoyed being able to still work full-time for an EMS agency while getting my degree. This program was very affordable because there are not many classes you need after obtaining your paramedic certification.” He added, “This degree will help me advance my education. I am working to obtain my bachelor’s degree right now from Western Carolina.”
Students may be eligible for a tuition scholarship. Fall classes start Aug. 16. For more information about the program, contact Dr. Douglas Underwood at (336) 386-3584 or underwoodd@surry.edu. Go to surry.edu to learn more.
