Emergency Medical Services
Questions? Contact Us.
Amanda Seidenzahl
- Executive Director
- Amanda%20Seidenzahl
- 479-788-7720
- Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Peak Innovation Center
Train to Save Lives as an EMT
Location: Peak Innovation Center
Times Offered: Morning and afternoon sessions available
| Apply to WATC TODAY | Request More Information |
How to Get Started
Take the first step toward future success. Follow these steps to enroll.
- Apply for Admission - Complete UAFS's Application for Early College Program Admission.
- Meet with your High School Counselor - Work with your counselor to integrate WATC courses into your schedule.
What You Will Learn
The Emergency Medical Services Program provides students with the medical skills, emergency response training, and real-world experience necessary to succeed as an emergency responder. Students who complete this program will be prepared to take the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) Exam. This program includes:
- Emergency Medical Response – Learn how to assess patients, stabilize injuries, and provide life-saving pre-hospital care.
- Airway Management and Trauma Care – Train in oxygen administration, CPR, hemorrhage control, and wound care.
- Emergency Scene Operations – Develop skills in patient extrication, rescue operations, and rapid transport coordination.
- Advanced Simulations and Hands-On Training – Work with state-of-the-art patient simulators and a full-sized ambulance at Peak Innovation Center.
- Clinical Experience and Ride-Alongs – Gain real-world experience in ambulances, hospitals, and emergency departments.
- EMT Certification Preparation – After successfully completing the program, students fulfill the requirements to take the EMT certification exam.
Industry Standards: This program follows nationally recognized EMT training guidelines, ensuring students are prepared for certification and entry into the workforce.
Earn Industry and University Credentials
Students in WATC’s Emergency Medical Services Program can earn university and industry-recognized credentials, including:
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification (upon passing the state exam)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR Certification
These certifications allow graduates to work in ambulance services, hospitals, fire departments, and public safety agencies, providing essential emergency medical care.
Continue Your Education at UAFS
High school students who complete this program can continue at UAFS to earn:
- Certificate of Proficiency in Emergency Medical Technology (EMT)
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
These degrees open doors to higher-paying positions and career advancement in nursing and healthcare administration.
Sample Schedule and Course Progression
This two-year program integrates with your high school schedule, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while earning college credit. Below is a sample schedule of the courses you may take:
|
Fall Semester – First Year |
Spring Semester – First Year |
Fall Semester – Second Year |
Spring Semester – Second Year |
|
Intro to Health Occupations (HLTH 1004) |
Phlebotomy (HLTH 1006) |
Nutrition (NUTR 2325) |
EMT (EMT 1008) |
|
First Aid (HLTH 2953) |
Medical Terminology (HLTH 1473) |
EMR (EMR 1405) |
- |
* * This is a sample schedule. Actual course offerings may vary.
Career Opportunities & Industries
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Ambulance Technician
- Emergency Room Technician
- Firefighter/EMT
- Search and Rescue Technician
- Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services
- Major Employers: Fort Smith EMS, Sebastian County EMS, Pafford EMS
- Why It’s Important: EMTs are the first responders in medical emergencies, stabilizing patients and providing life-saving care.
- Hospitals and Emergency Rooms
- Major Employers: Mercy Hospital, Baptist Health
- Why It’s Important: Hospitals rely on EMTs and emergency room technicians to assist in patient triage, trauma care, and rapid treatment.
- Fire Departments and Search and Rescue
- Major Employers: Fort Smith Fire Department, Sebastian County fire departments, Arkansas Search and Rescue
- Why It’s Important: Many firefighters are also trained EMTs, providing critical care during rescues and disasters.
- Law Enforcement and Public Safety
- Major Employers: Arkansas State Police, Fort Smith Police Department, Sebastian County Sheriff's Office
- Why It’s Important: Some law enforcement agencies employ EMTs to provide immediate medical assistance during emergencies.