Paramedic Education Program Awarded Continued Accreditation

Jefferson State Community College is proud to announce that its Paramedic education program has been awarded continued accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This prestigious accreditation underscores Jeff State’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training that meets the national quality assurance standards established by CAAHEP. The Jeff State EMS Program has been continuously accredited by CAAHEP since 2009 making it one of Alabama’s longest continuously accredited EMS programs.

CAAHEP Accreditation Benefits Students, Employers, and the Public

CAAHEP accreditation offers significant advantages for students, graduates, and employers alike. For students, it ensures a high-quality educational experience that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies essential for success in their chosen health profession. Graduates of CAAHEP-accredited programs are highly sought after by employers, opening doors to enhanced job opportunities and career growth. Additionally, the National Registry of EMTs requires graduation from a CAAHEP-accredited program for eligibility to sit for the Paramedic certification exam—an essential step toward licensure and professional practice.

Employers can trust that graduates from CAAHEP-accredited programs are well-prepared to meet the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare field. These graduates bring a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience, enabling them to deliver high-quality care and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Dr. Barry S. Eckert, President of CAAHEP, emphasizes the importance of accreditation: “Choosing a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health. It ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care.”

A Commitment to Excellence in Allied Health Education

At Jefferson State Community College, we are dedicated to fostering excellence in allied health education and are preparing for the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals. For more information about our accredited EMS program, please visit About Emergency Medical Services – Jefferson State Community College or contact Wes Ward at [email protected].

About the Jeff State EMS Program

The Jeff State EMS Program offers three certification levels: EMT, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic. The program allows students to get certified without taking any general education courses, or students can earn their associate’s degree in the same amount of time. It takes 1 semester for EMT, 1 additional semester for Advanced EMT, and our Paramedic program is one calendar year. The Jeff State EMS Program provides excellent training and education at an affordable cost. Program Director, Wes Ward, attributes the success of the program to “…a unique and synergistic partnership with our medical director, Dr. Will Ferguson, and the UAB Emergency Medicine Department. Physicians play a big role in the training of our students. We use state of the art simulation equipment to immerse our students into the content while being guided by our faculty and by UAB physicians. With abundant high-paying job opportunities, there has never been a better time to enter the EMS profession.”