Purpose 

The Advanced Placement Bridge to Paramedic Career Studies Certificate is designed for experienced EMS providers who hold advanced-level credentials and wish to transition into paramedic practice. This program builds on prior training and experience, providing the advanced knowledge and clinical skills required for paramedic certification. 

This CSC is ideal for experienced providers seeking to bridge into paramedic education efficiently while applying previously earned EMS credentials. 

Students will complete classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences at local hospitals and EMS agencies. 

Courses in this certificate may be applied toward the Emergency Medical Services - Paramedic Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. 

Note: The Advanced Placement Bridge CSC alone is not eligible for federal financial aid. Students interested in financial assistance should consult an academic advisor. This program is G3 Eligible. 

Students who successfully complete all coursework, clinical, and field internship requirements within the Advanced Placement Bridge program will be eligible to take the National Registry Paramedic (NRP) exam upon successful completion of the program’s capstone psychomotor and cognitive exams. 

Admissions Requirements 

Applicants must meet the minimum standards established by the Virginia Office of EMS and Central Virginia Community College. Individual programs may require additional criteria beyond these minimums. 

• Be at least 18 years of age. 

• Hold one of the following: 

• Virginia Advanced EMT certification,  

• Virginia Intermediate certification, or  

• Registered Nurse (RN) with EMT certification. 

• A high school diploma or GED is required, and official transcripts must be submitted. 

• Students may not have been convicted of any disqualifying crime as mandated by the Virginia Office of EMS. 

• This program requires extensive physical capability including walking, bending, pushing/pulling, climbing stairs, and lifting a minimum of 125 lbs. Students must have adequate sight, hearing, speech, and motor coordination to perform patient care safely in dynamic environments. 

• Additional requirements may include health screenings, immunizations, drug screening, and other testing as required by clinical affiliates. 

Program Requirements 

To successfully complete the Advanced Placement Bridge to Paramedic Career Studies Certificate, students must: 

• Complete all required courses in the program pathway, including BIO 145 and AEMT-specific coursework. 

• Successfully complete all clinical and skills competency requirements as established by the Virginia Office of EMS. Programs may set additional standards beyond the state minimum. 

• Maintain compliance with program policies, including attendance and professional conduct standards. 

• Submit an Application for Graduation during the final semester of coursework. 

Students should consult the program advisor for guidance on prerequisites, course sequencing, and certification testing. 

Courses 

The Program Pathway below outlines the recommended course sequence for students enrolled in the Advanced Placement Bridge to Paramedic CSC. Students should follow the pathway in order to meet didactic, lab, clinical, and field competency requirements needed for National Registry Paramedic (NRP) exam eligibility. 

Students must complete all coursework, lab requirements, clinical rotations, field internships, and the program capstone exams to qualify for the National Registry Paramedic exam. 

Students should review the pathway and consult with an academic advisor or program advisor to ensure proper course planning.