Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services

Image of EMS students putting someone in an ambulance.

 

 

The Department of Emergency Medical Services offers the Bachelor's of Science degree in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for students interested in a career in pre-hospital medicine and EMS management.  As the field of EMS continues to grow and change, leaders and educators with a background in emergency medicine are needed to help shape the future of pre-hospital medicine and healthcare.  This program is designed to prepare students for the clinical and administrative challenges of a career in Emergency Medical Services and healthcare in the 21st century.

▼   Important Information

Students must be within two (2) courses of completing all general education requirements before applying to the Bachelor of Science in EMS program.

▼   Accreditation

The University of South Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Questions about the accreditation of the University of South Alabama may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website.

▼   Admission to the University

Criteria for general admission of EMS students to the University are the same as those for all students.  Please consult with the University's Admission's office for more information about admission policies and procedures.

▼   Admission to the Professional Component
All students are required to fulfill a 41 semester hour General Education Core and a 22 semester hour Pre-professional Core as outlined in the curriculum below. After successfully completing these courses, students may then apply to the department for entry into the professional component. Requirements for admission to the professional component are the following:
  1. Students must have completed ALL general education requirements prior to applying for admission.
  2. Submission of a completed application by the semester deadline. Application must include a $50.00 non-refundable application fee.
  3. Successful completion of a state-approved (meeting DOT guidelines) or nationally accredited paramedic education program.
  4. Evidence of either a current paramedic license (in USA) or national registry certification (in good standing).
  5. Minimum GPA of 2.0 in all pre-requisite courses and a minimum University GPA of 2.0.
  6. Drug test and background check required. Admission contingent upon a negative drug screen and satisfactory background check.

 

▼   Paramedic to BS in EMS Track

Students who have already completed their paramedic education at another institution and who have maintained their license in good standing may apply to the department's Paramedic to BS in EMS Track. This special track allows licensed paramedics an opportunity to reach educational goals without the unnecessary repetition of courses or clinical experiences already undertaken as a paramedic student.  This track requires the student to complete a 6 semester hour bridge course during the EMS Core.  After successfully completing the course, the student can obtain up to 40 semester hours of credit for their previous clinical education as a paramedic student.  These credits may be applied towards the Paramedic Core requirements in the curriculum.  For more information about this special track, please call our office at (251) 461-1832.

▼   Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Core Schedule

Students may enter the Bachelors Degree EMS Core each semester. The Department offers the EMS Core classes fully online and also in an executive weekend format, with classes meeting for four weekend sessions per semester.  Classes are instructed in online or weekend blended format.  Check with the department for the specific weekend dates which will become available approximately 8 weeks before the beginning of the semester.

▼   Tuition and Fees

Students are responsible for payment of all tuition and fees according to University policies and procedures.  Tuition and fees are set by the University of South Alabama, upon approval of the Board of Trustees.  For current information on tuition and fees, please refer to the University's Student Accounting Office.

▼   Financial Aid

Financial aid is available for eligible students.  Interested applicants should contact the University’s Financial Aid Office.

▼   Contact Information
BS Degree Program Director/Advisor
Kristen McKenna


University of South Alabama
Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions
Department of Emergency Medical Services
600 Clinic Drive – Suite 400
Mobile, AL  36688-0002
(251) 461-1832