Key Points

• Job Duties: Provide advanced emergency medical care and patient transport
• Training Length: 12 to 24 months
• Education Needed: State-approved paramedic program
• Certification: NREMT + Massachusetts OEMS licensure
• Average Salary: $68,790/year in Massachusetts (BLS)
• Job Growth: Projected 6% increase from 2023–2033 (BLS)
• Top Employers: Ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals

What is a paramedic, what do they do, and how do you become one in Massachusetts?

Paramedics are licensed medical professionals trained to respond to 911 calls and emergencies. They assess patient conditions, deliver life-saving care, and transport patients to hospitals. Common duties include:

• Administering medications
• Performing intubation and CPR
• Using defibrillators and IVs
• Managing trauma and cardiac emergencies
• Coordinating with ER teams and first responders

Their scope of care is broader than EMTs, requiring more advanced training and clinical experience.

What are the training and certification requirements to become a paramedic in Massachusetts?

To become a paramedic in Massachusetts, you must:

1. Complete an accredited paramedic education program
   Offered at community colleges and EMS academies. Includes classroom training and hands-on clinicals.

2. Hold current EMT-Basic certification
   This is a prerequisite for paramedic school.

3. Pass the NREMT Paramedic Exam
   This national exam tests your knowledge and clinical decision-making skills.

4. Obtain state certification from OEMS
   Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services requires background checks and proof of completed hours.

5. Stay current with continuing education
   Recertification is required every two years.

Learn more about licensing at the Massachusetts OEMS website.

How long does it take to become a certified paramedic in Massachusetts?

Training typically takes 12 to 24 months. Fast-track certificate programs may take closer to 12 months, while associate degrees may require 18–24 months. Most programs combine:

• 500+ hours of classroom work
• 250–500 hours of clinical experience
• 250+ hours of field internships

Where can I find paramedic programs or classes in Massachusetts?

Here are three examples of paramedic schools in Massachusetts:

1. Quinsigamond Community College (Worcester, MA)

   • Program: Paramedic Technology Certificate
   • Format: In person
   • Duration: 15 months
   • Cost: ~$8,000 (financial aid may be available to those who qualify)

2. MassBay Community College (Framingham, MA)

   • Program: Paramedicine Certificate and Associate Degree
   • Format: In person
   • Duration: 1–2 years
   • Cost: ~$7,600 (resident tuition, certificate only)

3. Northern Essex Community College (Lawrence, MA)

   • Program: Paramedic Technology Degree
   • Format: Hybrid
   • Duration: 2 years
   • Cost: ~$8,500

Compare more options on Dreambound, where you can filter by tuition, format, and length.

Are there online paramedic or hybrid options available in Massachusetts?

Yes. Some Massachusetts schools offer hybrid paramedic programs with online coursework and in-person clinicals. These formats are ideal for working adults or parents needing flexibility.

• Online theory classes allow you to study from home
• Labs and fieldwork are scheduled locally
• Financial aid may be available to those who qualify

Use Dreambound’s filters to search online paramedic programs in Massachusetts.

What certification exams or licenses are needed to work as a paramedic?

To work legally as a paramedic in Massachusetts, you must:

1. Pass the NREMT Paramedic Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams
2. Obtain OEMS Paramedic Certification
   This includes proof of education, passing test scores, and a background check.

Some programs also prepare you for:

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS)

These optional certifications can make you more competitive.

What is the job market like for paramedics in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has a strong demand for paramedics across urban and rural regions. Job environments include:

• 911 ambulance services
• Fire departments
• Hospital emergency rooms
• Air medical transport
• Event-based EMS (concerts, sports)

Top employers hiring paramedics include:

• Boston EMS
• Brewster Ambulance
• Cataldo Ambulance Service
• UMass Memorial Medical Center
• American Medical Response (AMR)

Check local listings at MyNextMove.

Career advancement opportunities for certified paramedics

Paramedics can grow into high-paying or specialized roles such as:

• Flight Paramedic (requires additional certification and flight hours)
• Emergency Department Tech
• Tactical EMS
• EMS Supervisor or Training Officer
• Bridge Programs (e.g., Paramedic-to-RN or Physician Assistant)

Dreambound also lists programs for nursing, health IT, and home health careers to help you level up your career.