Abstract
Introduction: This study sought to assess how graduates of Wallace Community College's paramedic program impacted their readiness for the NREMT Paramedic examination and entering the workforce, specifically comparing those who completed an associate degree to those who completed the certificate program. Methods: This qualitative study analyzed the perspectives of graduates from the paramedic program using a phenomenological approach. Using a purposive sampling technique, nine graduates were chosen for one-on-one interviews, and six were selected for a focus group. Results: Analysis of participant responses revealed three main themes: the perceived value of a degree, student preparedness for the NREMT exam and subsequent success, and the challenges associated with pursuing a degree. Participants expressed that the education they gained prepared them for the exam and for entering the workforce. They also expressed that the requirement of a degree would benefit the profession by enhancing the skills and knowledge necessary for advanced certifications such as critical care and community paramedic. Additionally, participants and literature highlighted how degree prerequisites in other professions contribute to a deeper understanding of medicine and the development of leadership and critical thinking abilities. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of collaboration among relevant stakeholders to develop an educational framework that meets professional needs, underscores a degree's relevance, and garners stakeholder support.
Acknowledgements
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Gray from ATSU for her guidance during my research project. I would also like to express gratitude to my academic advisor Presley Melvin and my classmates for their support and encouragement during this project. Special thanks to the administration and colleagues at Wallace Community College for their assistance with the collection of data during the study. I would also like to thank my colleagues whom I have met through conferences with the National Association of EMS Educators. I will never forget your words of wisdom and hope to be as helpful to our profession as you are. To my family, thank you for your unwavering love, encouragement, and understanding throughout my academic journey. Even when I did not believe in myself and wavered in my goals, you helped me keep on the path. Thank you, Oma and Papa. May you rest in peace. Thank you, Mom, Crystina, and all my aunts, uncles, and cousins. To my boys, Michael and Ian, Daddy is done. All this time that I have not been able to spend with you and the long nights working on this study have been for you. I started this journey only months into your life, and it has come to fruition three years later. Finally, thank you to my beautiful wife, Joni, for your continued support as I progressed through this journey. Since we started dating, one of us has been in school. Now, we are done and can finally enjoy life together without school. You, indeed, are the love of my life, and I would not have been able to get this far without you behind me. Again, thank you to everyone, as this would not have been possible without your assistance.
Recommended Citation
Wood JH. The Perceived Benefit of a Degree Requirement in Emergency Medical Services Education and Success. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Sep 01;24(3), Article 7.
Included in
Adult and Continuing Education Commons, Education Policy Commons, Fire Science and Firefighting Commons, Interprofessional Education Commons, Other Medicine and Health Sciences Commons
