FAQs About the Paramedic Program

Q: When is the registration deadline?

The deadline for application is April 4, 2008.

Q: How do I register?

A registration form can be obtained through the Extended Education Office at 931-372-3396 or by downloading the online PDF application form. (PDF). Please include your current Tennessee EMT license with the application.

Q: What do I have to do prior to getting into the course?

You must be licensed in the State of Tennessee as an EMT-B or IV. Take the COMPASS test to see if you are college ready in math, reading and writing. You must take a basic EMT test and a psychological exam. You must also sit for an advisory board interview. The advisory board will select the top candidates for the 25 available slots.

Q: When is the dates for all these tests and the interview?

COMPASS test: TBA; Basic EMT test TBA; Psychological exam TBA and paramedic interviews TBA.

Q: What if I am not college ready in those subjects?

An introductory course is required prior to entrance into the paramedic course. Tutoring and further testing is possible to qualify in reading and writing.

Q: When does the introductory course start?

Course begins June 3, 2008.

Q: How long is the introductory course?

The course lasts for approximately 10 weeks finishing August 12, 2008.

Q: Can I test out of this course?

Content of this course is being reviewed. Testing out will not be possible. Tentatively, all paramedic students will be attending this course.

Q: When does the full paramedic course start?

The next class starts on August 25, 2008.

Q: How long is the paramedic course?

The paramedic course lasts for 11 months finishing about the first week in August 2009.

Q: What time of the day does the paramedic course meet? Also, how many days a week?

The course is from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm with breaks and a 1-hour lunch. The course meets every Monday and Wednesday.

Q: What is the cost of the course?

The course is divided into 3 semesters. The first two semesters are $965.00 and the third semester is $800.00. Cost of books is separate.

Q: Other than tuition, what is the cost of books and other fees?

That is variable but will be approximately $850.00 including all testing, licensing fees, insurance and other fees. Books are approximately $400.00.

Q: Who is the instructor or instructors?

The primary instructor is Dennis Parker who is a state certified instructor coordinator and licensed by the state of Tennessee as a paramedic. He also holds a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership from TTU.

Roger Brown is the clinical coordinator and there are a few assistants for lab.

Q: Will I get college credit for the course?

No, this is a non-credit course. However, some community colleges and universities offer partial credit for this course under the heading of life-long learning if a student decides to pursue a degree later.

Q: Is there any other pertinent information I need to know?

Background checks are required of every student. This will check for felonies and misdemeanor convictions. If this may cause a problem please check with the EMS program coordinator prior to applying for the course.

[ Top]