EMT Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Pod

What are the prerequisites for the course?

There are no prerequisites (aside from being at least 18 years old) for this course; however, passing CPR in our EMT course is a requirement to pass. Students are not required to have their CPR certification prior to enrolling in the EMT class as BLS certification is included in the course. You must be 18 years old to take the NREMT written exam (www.nremt.org).

Am I required to apply to Sacramento State as a student?

No, students are not required to apply to the university or meet the Sac State admissions criteria. Students can register directly for the course online at www.cce.csus.edu/ems or by calling registration at 916.278.4433, extension 2.

How long is the course?

The EMT course is nine weeks long. We typically offer three sections of the course with different schedules to accommodate the needs of our students (other classes, work, etc). 

What is the cost of the EMT course?

The cost of the course is $1,700 (includes uniform polo and BLS certification). Students will need to purchase the course textbook  prior to the first day of class. Links to the specific book and required online access will be emailed by the program coordinator.

What is the refund policy?

Please refer to our Non-Credit Registration and Refunds page. The drop deadline for a full-refund (minus $10 for processing) is seven calendar days before the class starts.

Is there a payment plan available?

No, students must pay the course fee at the time of registration.

Are financial aid and student loans eligible for this course?

No, unfortunately this course does not qualify for financial aid or student loans. Payment for the course will need to be made at the time of registration. No payment plans are available.

Do you accept VA/GI Bill money?

Yes, we accept VA/GI Bill money. You will need to contact Kim Smith in registration at the College of Continuing Education at 916.278.4433, extension 2 to get started with the appropriate paperwork.

I have to miss a day of class, can I still enroll in the course?

It is not recommended that students miss any days of the class as it is an accelerated program. Although the CA State requirement is 170 hours, our program only allows for a maximum of 8 hours missed. More than 8 hours missed will result in dismissal from the EMT program.

What am I required to bring with me to class?

Students are required to bring either a laptop or tablet with them to class in order to take quizzes online during class time. Students are also required to purchase safety glasses, a stethoscope and blood pressure cuff to utilize for the skills portions of the class.

Am I required to receive any immunizations prior to the course?

The CSU COVID-19 vaccination policy strongly recommends that all students and employees receive their booster as soon as they become eligible. You can visit Sacramento State’s COVID-19 Information page for FAQ’s and more information.

Which textbook do I need to purchase?

Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured, 12th Edition. Students will need to purchase one of the “Advantage” package options two weeks prior to the first day of class. You will be emailed more information (including links to where to purchase the package) from the program coordinator upon registering for the course.

Note: buying the textbook from Amazon is NOT recommended. Amazon does not sell the “Advantage” package, which is REQUIRED for the course.

Do students have to pay to park?

No, currently the EMT course is being held at our McClellan facility (4931 Arnold Avenue, Suite 150 McClellan, CA 95652) and there is no cost to park there.

Is the coursework transferable to another college or university?

No, unfortunately the EMT Basic course is not transferable. The Sac State EMT course is a non-credit certificate program. There are no academic units granted for the course.

Are students required to wear uniforms?

Yes, students are required to wear a uniform to class. Students will need to purchase Navy Blue EMS style pants. Students will be given a Sac State EMT polo which is worn every class meeting along with the EMS style pants, and black shoes (an inexpensive pair of black boots is recommended for the ride-a-longs).

Do you provide assistance in obtaining work after completing the course?

We do not provide job placement. However, you will get a chance to network with other students, as well as your instructors who all have careers working as a paramedic, EMT or firefighter. 

I’m also interested in the Paramedic Program at Sacramento State, who can I contact?

For more information about the Paramedic Program, you can visit our website at www.cce.csus.edu/paramedic.

Are you on social media?

Yes! “Like” us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram or Twitter at @SacStatePHE!

When will you be offering the course next?

We typically offer the course in January, March, June and September each year; however, this may change depending on circumstances. Please check back on our website periodically or follow us on social media for updates on when registration will open for the next EMT course.

Has the course been approved?

Yes, the EMT course is approved as a provider by the Sacramento County Emergency Medical Services Agency.

When did the course begin?

The Sacramento State EMT course began in October of 2009.