Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services
Do you want a degree that trains you and elevates your knowledge for an exciting health care career? If so, the BS in EMS is for you.
The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services takes paramedics to the next level of clinical care and equips them with the background necessary to become leaders in their field. Coursework meets the unique educational needs of the practicing paramedic and builds on prior paramedic education by providing the basic science background necessary to adapt to the ever-changing medical field. Graduates are prepared to understand the full range of subspecialty EMS roles with advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills to succeed in the health care industry.
There are two pathways to join the BS in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Certified paramedics complete the degree through Arizona Online while working in the field. Aspiring EMS professionals who choose to study through main campus in Tucson are able to complete EMT and paramedic certifications while completing this degree.
The program is offered on the University of Arizona main campus and Arizona Online. Learn more about the program, the required courses, and potential career paths.
Find EMS course descriptions in the University of Arizona Course Catalog.
Students holding a current NREMT certification can find additional clinically focused study and experience by completing a minor in EMS. See the U of A Course Catalog for an overview and course requirements.
Learn about EMT coursework, the paramedic program, graduate certificates and continuing education opportunities.
Academic Advising and Student Resources
Academic advising is a critical component to student success. Advisers are here to help you navigate your time as an undergraduate student at the University of Arizona. Beyond helping you plan your courses, they can help you connect to campus resources, clarify departmental and university policies, and partner with you to define and achieve your academic goals.
This program is designed to give paramedics additional subspecialty EMS clinical training as well as a foundation in the fundamental science, communications, math, language, leadership and health care systems knowledge they will need to be the leaders of tomorrow’s EMS systems.
Students enrolling in this program must hold a current national certification as a paramedic. We recognize that paramedic training includes a large amount of fundamental health care knowledge and practical skills, so we want to ensure that each student is given as much transfer credit as possible. Therefore, before starting this program, all potential students should email a program adviser who will identify any units that may be transferred from other institutions. Transfer units do not generally count for EMS selective units.
Our academic advisors offer Zoom appointments throughout the week. Be sure to check their calendar in Trellis Advise for the most accurate availability! There are several options for advising.
Scheduled Appointments
- 30-minute appointments for currently declared majors or minors. Prepare ahead of time to get the most out of your time together!
- Available through Zoom or over the phone
- Our academic advisers typically post appointments two weeks at a time. If you don’t see any availability that works for you, contact us.
Email Advising
- You can email your academic adviser for any general questions you have.
- Use your official U of A email account and include your name, student ID number and your question. Read more about best practices for email.
- It can take 24-48 business hours to get a response, excluding holidays and priority registration.
No-Show Policy
You are considered a no show if you miss the first 15 minutes of your appointment. In the case of a Zoom appointment, the Zoom room will be closed for the remainder of your appointment and you will need to reschedule your appointment or email your adviser with your questions/concerns. This policy ensures that both you and your adviser have enough time to address all questions without being rushed and/or making your adviser behind schedule or late for subsequent appointments or drop-in.
If you’re late for an appointment, please email your adviser to let them know! Depending on the situation, they may recommend that you reschedule to ensure you have the full appointment time to connect on any questions/concerns you have.
Academic advising is a collaborative relationship between you and your academic adviser. The intent of this relationship is to assist you in developing meaningful education goals consistent with your interests, values and abilities.
We strongly recommend you meet with your academic adviser at least once a semester to discuss your plans, assess progress toward your goals, and address any issues or questions you have. However, you’re welcome to connect with us as often as needed.
Student Expectations
- Seek advice from appropriate advisers at appropriate times.
- Learn academic program requirements.
- Use available resources to monitor academic progress.
- Take responsibility for actions and decisions that affect academic progress.
- Demonstrate respect for others and self at all times.
- Adhere to the University Student Code of Conduct, policies and procedures.
- Check university’s official email account multiple times per day during the regular fall and spring semesters.
Adviser Expectations
- Approve academic programs of study.
- Provide accurate and consistent information.
- Clarify program requirements and policies.
- Assist in identifying appropriate institutional resources.
- Uphold academic standards of the institution.
- Demonstrate respect for others and self at all times.
- Adhere to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) guidelines.
- Respond within 24-48 business hours upon receipt of an email from a student’s university account.
Degree Program & Course Enrollment Forms
- Add Major, Change Major, Add Minor URL needed
- Unit Maximum Override Request URL needed
- Clinical Research Course Request URL needed
- Paramedic Training Application (UA students) URL needed
Preparing for Future Education
Meet the Team
Joshua B. Gaither, MD, FACEP
Clinical Specialties
Robert N.E. French, MD, MPH
Philipp L. Hannan, MD
Aaron N. Leetch, MD, FACEP
Clinical Specialties
Rachel D. Munn, DO
Amber D. Rice, MD
Christopher G. Williams, MD
[placeholder for Casey Clark]
[Alex Booth]
Contact
Ready to Apply?
This program is designed to give paramedics additional subspecialty EMS clinical training as well as a foundation in the fundamental science, communications, math, language, leadership and health care systems knowledge they will need to be the leaders of tomorrow’s EMS systems.
Students enrolling in this program must hold a current national certification as a paramedic. We recognize that paramedic training includes a large amount of fundamental health care knowledge and practical skills, so we want to ensure that each student is given as much transfer credit as possible. Therefore, before starting this program, all potential students should email a program adviser who will identify any units that may be transferred from other institutions. Transfer units do not generally count for EMS selective units.
Set up an appointment with academic adviser Shannon Scott
Questions to discuss with your adviser
- Do I meet the program requirements?
- Do I have credits from another institution that will transfer to the U of A?
- If I am already a U of A student, how do I change my major?
- If I am already a U of A student, how do I add/change my minor to EMS?
- Do I have questions about my paramedic or EMT certification status?
- Do I need to take all of my classes on campus?
- If I am a military veteran, active duty or reserves, where do I go for information specific to my situation?
Apply to the University of Arizona main campus using the following steps: double-check - I don't have a login so can't check to see if these instructions work
- Visit the University of Arizona Admissions webpage and create a Future Wildcat Application login
- Select How to Apply.
- Complete steps listed for your particular status: Applicants will be considered transfer students based on paramedic certification
On your main campus application, please select the following categories:
- UA College: Medicine
- Major: Emergency Medical Services
- Do NOT choose UA Distance or Online Campus
If you are interested in applying to the U of A Online Campus program, find out more information and apply.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Find out how much tuition will cost using the UA Tuition Calculator.
- Campus: Main Campus
- Academic Career: Undergraduate
- College, Program or Differential Tuition: Not listed
To receive financial aid, you will need to complete your FAFSA application.