🛡️ Public Safety ↑ 5% growth · Average

EMT / Paramedic

EMTs and Paramedics are the first responders in medical emergencies — treating cardiac arrests, trauma, strokes, and overdoses in the field before reaching the hospital. Paramedic is the advanced level with drug administration and advanced airway skills.

$36,680 Median Salary
265K US Jobs
3 weeks (EMT) – 2 years (Paramedic) Training
$1,000–$15,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$28,000
Median
$36,680
Experienced
$62,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

5%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Average
265K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
EMT-Basic or Paramedic
Required Credential
EMT-Basic or Paramedic (NREMT)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
EMT Certificate (120 hrs) or Paramedic AAS
Program Length
3 weeks (EMT) – 2 years (Paramedic)
Typical Tuition
$1,000–$15,000
Work Setting
Ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals, event medicine
🏆 Credential Required: EMT-Basic or Paramedic (NREMT)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a EMT / Paramedic involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Ambulance services environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 97

Polk State College

📍 Winter Haven, FL

One of Florida's top-rated community colleges for allied health. Near-perfect licensure pass rates across all programs. ...

Respiratory CareCardiovascular TechnologyPhysical Therapist AssistantRadiographyNursing (RN)
Public State College
⭐ 95

Miami Dade College

📍 Miami, FL

Florida's largest college (~160K students). Broadest allied health program array in South Florida. Multiple campuses acr...

Nursing (RN)Respiratory CareDental HygieneRadiographySonography
Public State College
⭐ 93

Hillsborough Community College (HCC)

📍 Tampa, FL

Major Tampa Bay area college with extensive allied health and trades programs. Multiple campus locations across Hillsbor...

Nursing (RN)Dental HygieneRadiographySonographyPhysical Therapist Assistant
Public State College
⭐ 93

St. Petersburg College

📍 St. Petersburg, FL

Pinellas County's primary college with unique programs including Vet Tech and Funeral Service in addition to allied heal...

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygieneDental AssistingFuneral Service

🗺️ EMT / Paramedic by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: