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 (BLS)
• Job Growth: 5% from 2024–2034 (BLS)
• Top Employers: Ambulance services, hospitals, and fire departments

What is a Paramedic?

A paramedic is a licensed healthcare professional trained to respond to 911 emergencies and provide advanced pre-hospital care. Their role goes beyond that of an EMT, as they perform complex procedures, administer medications, and make rapid clinical decisions during critical emergencies.

Typical Responsibilities

• Administering medications and IV therapy
• Performing CPR and intubation
• Using defibrillators and advanced airway equipment
• Managing trauma, cardiac, and respiratory emergencies
• Coordinating with emergency room staff and first responders

Paramedics are often the first point of medical contact during emergencies, making their work vital to saving lives.

Requirements to Become a Paramedic in Massachusetts

Before applying to a paramedic program, you’ll need to meet specific education and certification prerequisites.

Basic Requirements

• Age: At least 18 years old
• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Experience: Active EMT-Basic certification (required before applying)
• Physical and Medical Clearance: Proof of immunizations, physical exam, and drug screening
• Background Check: Required by the Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS)

Certification and Licensing

1. Complete a state-approved Paramedic Program

   • Offered at community colleges and EMS academies
   • Includes classroom, clinical, and field training

2. Pass the NREMT Paramedic Exam

   • Tests advanced knowledge in trauma, airway management, and pharmacology

3. Obtain Massachusetts OEMS Licensure

   • Apply through the Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services
   • Submit your NREMT certificate, training proof, and background check

4. Maintain Continuing Education

   • Recertify every two years through approved training courses

How to Become a Paramedic in Massachusetts

Here’s a step-by-step guide to earning your paramedic certification and license in Massachusetts:

Step 1: Complete EMT-Basic Training

Before applying for paramedic school, you must first earn your EMT-Basic (EMT-B) certification. This ensures foundational knowledge in emergency care.

Step 2: Enroll in an Accredited Paramedic Program

Enroll in a state-approved paramedic program, typically lasting 12–24 months. Programs combine lectures, simulations, and clinical experience.
You’ll study:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Pharmacology and advanced airway management
• Cardiology and trauma care
• Emergency response systems

Typical Time Commitment:

• 500+ classroom hours
• 250–500 hours of clinical practice
• 250+ hours of field internships

Step 3: Pass the NREMT Paramedic Exam

After graduation, pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam, which includes both cognitive (written) and psychomotor (skills) components.

Step 4: Apply for Massachusetts OEMS Licensure

Submit your documentation to the Massachusetts OEMS, which oversees all EMS providers in the state. Requirements include:

• NREMT certification
• Completed training hours
• Criminal background check

Once approved, you’ll receive your Massachusetts Paramedic License.

Step 5: Maintain and Renew Certification

Every two years, paramedics must renew both NREMT and OEMS certifications through continuing education and skill refreshers.

Where Can I Find Paramedic Programs in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts offers a variety of paramedic training programs through community colleges and EMS academies.

Here are a few examples:

1. Quinsigamond Community College (Worcester, MA)

   • Program: Paramedic Technology Certificate
   • Duration: 15 months
   • Format: In-person
   • Cost: ~$8,000

2. MassBay Community College (Framingham, MA)

   • Program: Paramedicine Certificate or Associate Degree
   • Duration: 1–2 years
   • Cost: ~$7,600 (in-state tuition)

3. Northern Essex Community College (Lawrence, MA)

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

Explore and compare more programs on Dreambound, where you can filter options by location, cost, and format.