Emergency Medical Technician
Frequently Asked Questions
How are classes taught?
The EMT program includes classroom instruction, clinical experience within hospitals, and learning experience in ambulances. Students may gain the competencies required for entry level positions in the field.
The EMS Career Ladder Programs use multimedia approaches based on the premise that active participation and personal responsibility for learning are the most successful methods for adult education. Therefore, theoretical classes include discussion groups with students presenting assigned portions of the content. Skill practice outside of the class and self-evaluation in the clinical setting are expected.
When and where are classes held?
All EMS classes in the State of Hawai'i are Kapi'olani Community College couurses. Classes are held on Oahu, and at training centers in each county. Addresses for each EMS center are provided.
In Honolulu, Emergency Medical Technician classes are regularly scheduled for both Fall (day classes) and Spring (evening classes) semesters. In Hilo, EMT classes are generally held at least once a year. EMT courses may be offered on Kaua'i or Maui if sufficient student and employment demand exists.
How much do the classes cost?
For 2006-2007, the tuition and fees for Hawai'i resident students is $56.00 per credit while tuition and fees for non-resident students is $249.00 per credit. Uniforms, books, stethoscopes and other equipment, liability insurance, and fees for certification are also the responsibility of the student and are approximately $400.00 for each level.
Hawai'i residence status involves physical presence in Hawai'i for a minimum of at least one year prior to the beginning of classes, and the intention of making Hawai'i your State of residence (e.g., filing Hawai'i Residents Income Taxes). Exemption from non-resident tuition is not to be confused with resident classification for admission purposes.
What can I do to prepare myself to enter the program?
It is strongly recommended that applicants take as many of the general education courses as possible prior to entrance into the program. BIOL 130, BIOL 130L (BIOL 130 and BIOL 130L may be substituted with all of the following classes: ZOOL 141, ZOOL 141L, ZOOL 142, and ZOOL 142L), and HLTH 125 are prerequisites and must be completed prior to the application deadline. It is highly recommended that you obtain experience in the health field (volunteer or paid)
Submit Kapiolani Community College Math and GE Placement Test with minimum scores of Math 24 & Compass Reading level of 74. Neighbor island applicants can complete the compass placement tests at their neighbor island community college. Please call your placement testing centers at Hawai'i Community College Placement Testing Center (974-7503), Maui Community College Student Services (984-3267), Kauai Community College (245-8311), Leeward Community College Placement Testing Center (455-0482), Windward Community College Learning Center (245-7498), or Honolulu Community College Counseling Office (845-9129).
It is recommended that applicants have excellent health and manual dexterity. EMT and MICT programs do a great deal of heavy lifting; thus the ability to lift and carry at least 100 pounds is important. Excellent communication skills and judgment are very important. The National Registry of EMTs requires that applicants be at least 18 years of age.
