EMT Training in Iowa involves not only becoming a nationally registered EMT, but a state certified EMT. EMT training programs must be approved by the state of Iowa.
There are a total of twelve colleges offering EMT Training in Iowa offering a wide range of different courses including diploma and basic certificate programs, advanced and associate’s degree programs. Some schools offer evening and weekend classes too.
Admission Requirements:
- Students must be 18 years or older
- Students must be able to show proof of a high school diploma or a GED
- Students must have a valid driver’s license
- Must hold a CPR certification
- A background check and liability insurance.
Career Requirements:
- Completion of a state-approved training program
- All certification requirements must be fulfilled.
EMT Colleges in Iowa:
Des Moines Area Community College.
This college in Ankeny offers students three award programs at two different levels. The Emergency Medical Technician certificate can be completed in one semester. Two Paramedic programs are also offered; a certificate program and a degree program. Students may wish to pursue an Associate in Applied Science degree as a Paramedic. All programs conclude with NREMT testing for certification by the state.
Eastern Iowa Community College.
Located in Davenport, offers an EMT certificate, Advanced EMT certificate and an Associate in Applied Science in EMS degree. The EMT program prepares students to take the NREMT certification exam at the basic level. Students wishing to certify as an advanced EMT can take the basic course alongside the advanced course. The A.A.S. degree program requires that students earn at least 63 credit hours of classes over four semesters including specialized classes such as advanced cardiac life support.
Indian Hills Community College.
Provides three EMT training programs at its campus in Ottumwa. The EMT certificate program prepares students for the NREMT examinations at the basic level in just two semesters. An advanced certificate program is also available requiring students to complete 8 credit hours in two terms and preparing students for the NREMT advanced test. Students wishing to take the A.A.S in Paramedics may complete only the Paramedic core classes to earn a diploma in seven terms.
Iowa Central Community College.
This college in Fort Dodge offers a variety of academic programs for students including the EMR program. The EMT- Basic training program is worth eight credit hours, the college also offers an advanced EMT course and an Associate in Applied Science. All programs prepare students to take the NREMT examination at the end of the course.
Iowa Western Community College.
This college based in Council Bluffs provides four EMT training programs. The EMT- Basic course requires students to be 17 years or older and CPR certified before enrolling. The EMT class is available in three formats; traditional, online and hybrid. Currently certified EMTs may enroll in the advanced EMT class, the EMS diploma program, or the A.A.S in EMS Paramedic program which is three semesters long and takes one summer term to acquire the 64 credit hours. The EMS diploma is available in two formats; the traditional format or the hybrid option.
Kirkwood Community College.
This college in Cedar Rapids offers an A.A.S in Paramedics, EMT- Basic and EMT Advanced certification classes. The Paramedic degree program requires the completion of 74.5 credit hours of coursework and includes clinical/field experiences. The college also has a dual enrollment program for high school students to become certified as EMTs.
North Iowa Area Community College.
Located in Mason City, provides two levels of EMT Training in addition to an EMR option. Students who wish to enroll in the EMT Basic program must be 17 years or older, pass a background check and physical exam, and hold BLS certification during the time of registration. The course curriculum includes ambulance rides and skills experience in a hospital environment. The college also offers an Advanced EMT program where only currently certified EMT-B’s are accepted and on completion, students will be able to take the NREMT examination.
Northeast Iowa Community College.
The campus in Calmar has an EMT Basic program and an Associate of Applied Science in Paramedic degree program. The EMT certificate program is available in the fall and spring semesters. Students must be CPR certified and 17 years or older before enrolling in this course. Applicants to the Paramedic degree program must pass background checks and meet minimum standard testing requirements.
- Hawkeye Community College – Waterloo, IA
- Mercy College of Health Sciences – Des Moines, IA
- Southeastern Community College – West Burlington, IA
- Western Iowa Tech Community College – Sioux City, IA
Tuition and Fees.
| College | In- State | Out – of – State |
| Des Moines Area Community College. | $4,680 | $9,360 |
| Eastern Iowa Community College | $5,184 | $7,328 |
| Indian Hills Community College. | $4,224 | $5,760 |
| Iowa Central Community College. | $5,490 | $7,890 |
| Iowa Western Community College. | $5,952 | $6,112 |
| Kirkwood Community College. | $4,832 | $6,120 |
| North Iowa Area Community College. | $5,408 | $7,721 |
| Northeast Iowa Community College. | $5,820 | $6,420 |
School Reviews:
Kirkwood Community College: Kirkwood is perfect for anyone looking to pay less. The fee is so affordable and they offer many scholarships. The professors are excellent and always willing to assist students.
Des Moines Area Community College: For a two year college, Des Moines is great with awesome teachers, lots of programs and classes offered and a great campus! I feel like I made the right choice for my future. DMACC is a great option for students looking to receive one-on-one opportunities with teachers and it is so cost effective.
EMT Training Online – Iowa
Online training is a learning method designed to enable students to work at their own pace and flexibility. It is a great help for students who are working or parenting during the week.
The Application Process:
You can apply for the online training program in four simple steps;
- First, you’ll need to complete the online application form.
- Next, hand in a scanned copy of your government issued photo ID / a national identity such as a driver’s license.
- Then, you will need to provide proof of your high school graduation or GED.
- Lastly, you will need to make the tuition payment before you can begin classes.
How does it work?
There are 3 parts of the online training. There’s a didactic/informative portion, the hands-on skills portion and clinical rotations.
The didactic portion: Gives students 6 months from the time they begin to complete all aspects of this course. It is the theory part and students are required to complete 140 hours of didactic portion online.
The hands-on skill days: There are usually 2 days out of the six months used for skills practice and at least one day for the National Registry Skills Testing. These dates are usually given in advance in order to accommodate all students’ schedules.
Clinical Rotations: These are provided by several major hospitals across the state of Iowa and throughout the United States. Students will complete 48 hours of EMS with at least 6 emergency patient transports and 24 hours of Emergency Department time.
EMT TRAINING FAQs.
How long does it take to get an EMT license?
An EMT-B program can take between 3 weeks to several months to complete. Programs for EMT-I certification are between 30-300 hours long while Paramedic programs can take 6 months to 2 years to complete and are often completed as part of an associate’s degree.
How can I contact the instructor in case of any more questions?
The best way to contact the instructor is through email.
Where can I work as an EMT?
EMTs may work in rural or urban settings, for private ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals or other rescue services.