Advance Your Skills. Elevate Your Career. Make a Difference.

Your next step in Emergency Medical Services starts here!

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Clarkson University students in the EMS program work on a "patient."

Are you ready to take your EMS career to the next level? Clarkson University's ParamedicProgram offers an exciting opportunity for motivated Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to advance their clinical knowledge, develop lifesaving skills, and become leaders in prehospital emergency care.

Designed with the working EMS professional in mind, our 12-month Paramedic Program combines high-quality classroom instruction, realistic hands-on training, and invaluable clinical and field experiences—all within a supportive, student-centered learning environment.

Developed first at Clarkson University's School of Health Sciences, this innovative program is helping address the critical shortage of advanced-level EMS professionals throughout New York's North Country and surrounding rural communities.

Our mission is simple: Prepare confident, competent, and compassionate paramedics who are ready to make an immediate difference in the communities they serve.

Why Choose Clarkson University?

A Program Designed Around Your Career

We understand that advancing your education shouldn't mean putting your career on hold. Our 12-month program offers a structured schedule that allows many working EMTs to continue their employment while pursuing paramedic certification.

Small Classes. Big Opportunities.

With enrollment limited to approximately 20 students per cohort, our program emphasizes individualized instruction, meaningful faculty interaction, and a collaborative learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Train with Confidence. Learn by Doing.

Experience hands-on education using modern simulation technology, advanced medical equipment, and realistic emergency scenarios. From critical patient assessments to complex medical and traumatic emergencies, students develop the knowledge, critical thinking, and decision-making skills essential to becoming successful paramedics.

Real-World Clinical and Field Experience

Classroom knowledge comes to life through supervised clinical rotations and field internships. Students work alongside experienced healthcare professionals and EMS providers, gaining practical experience in patient care, teamwork, communication, and leadership.

Scholarship Opportunities

We recognize that investing in your education is an important decision. Several scholarship opportunities may be available to help eligible students pursue their professional goals.

A Career with Purpose and Opportunity

Paramedics are essential members of today's healthcare system. Graduates will be prepared to pursue rewarding opportunities in emergency medical services and other healthcare settings, where their advanced training and clinical expertise can make a lasting impact.

Program Structure: Your Path to Becoming a Paramedic

Our comprehensive 12-month program provides a progressive educational experience, building from foundational knowledge to advanced patient care and real-world clinical practice.

Phase One: Classroom and Simulation Education

First 7 Months | Approximately 512 Hours

  • Classes held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and select Thursdays
  • Class hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Engaging classroom instruction and practical skills development
  • Advanced patient assessment, medical and trauma management, and clinical decision-making
  • Simulations and team-based emergency scenarios
  • No regularly scheduled weekend class commitments

Phase Two: Clinical and Field Internships

Final 5 Months

  • Clinical/Hospital Experience: Approximately 284 hours
  • Field Internship Experience: Approximately 364 hours
  • Supervised patient care in clinical and prehospital environments
  • Opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-life situations
  • Progressive development of confidence, independence, and professional responsibility

Clinical and field internship schedules are coordinated with participating agencies and may include evening or weekend hours.

More Than an Education—An Investment in Your Future

At Clarkson University, we believe exceptional paramedics are developed through more than textbooks and examinations. They are shaped through mentorship, experience, teamwork, accountability, and a commitment to serving others.

Whether your goal is to advance within your current EMS organization, pursue new career opportunities, or become a stronger clinical leader, Clarkson University's Paramedic Program is ready to help you take that next step.

Your Community Needs You. Your Future Is Waiting.

Take the next step. Become a Paramedic at Clarkson University!

For additional information about admission requirements, program schedules, tuition, and scholarship opportunities, contact:

Clarkson University EMS Education Department
Clarkson University | Potsdam, New York
Phone: 315-268-4444
Email: dwilderm@clarkson.edu

The Clarkson University EMS Education Department Paramedic Program has a site visit schedule for pursuing initial accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This step in the process is neither a status of accreditation nor a guarantee that accreditation will be granted.

National Registry: There were no graduates during the 2025 reporting year.

New York State: There were 24 graduates that have attained their NYS paramedic in the first three cohorts.

Your Journey to Becoming a Paramedic Starts Here!

Take the Next Step. Challenge Yourself. Make a Difference.

Are you ready to advance your EMS career and take your lifesaving skills to the next level?

Becoming a paramedic is more than earning a certification—it's about embracing new challenges, developing advanced clinical skills, and gaining the confidence to make critical decisions when every second counts.

At Clarkson University, we're looking for motivated, dedicated EMTs who are ready to invest in themselves, expand their knowledge, and become the next generation of highly skilled paramedics.

Your future in advanced emergency medical care begins with one important step: APPLY TODAY!

Scholarships

To address financial constraints faced by some EMS providers in rural areas, Clarkson’s new paramedic program will offer a range of scholarships to qualifying applicants. These scholarships can assist with the financial obstacles that may hinder individuals who are passionate about this field from pursuing their dreams. With these resources, students can focus on their studies and the practical application of their skills in the community. Learn more about your options by clicking on the links below.

How to Apply

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Potsdam rescue ambulance and car parked outside Clarkson's Old Main Hall

We've designed our application process to help us get to know you, understand your professional goals, and learn what motivates you to pursue a career as a paramedic.

Applications can be requested by contacting the program director, Douglas Wildermuth at dwilderm@clarkson.edu for your application!
 

 

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Applicants must possess a valid New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification at the time of application and maintain that certification throughout the duration of the Paramedic Program.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the following materials:

1. Completed and Signed Application

Complete all required sections of the Clarkson University Paramedic Program application and include your signature.

2. Professional Resume and Cover Letter

Tell us about yourself! Your cover letter is an opportunity to share your passion for EMS, your professional aspirations, and what inspires you to take this next step.

Please explain:

  • Why you want to become a paramedic.
  • Why you have chosen Clarkson University's Paramedic Program.
  • What you hope to accomplish through your advanced EMS education.

3. Letter(s) of Recommendation

Submit at least one professional letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your character, work ethic, professionalism, or EMS experience.

  • Minimum of one letter required.
  • Maximum of three letters accepted.
  • All letters must be signed, dated, and submitted on official department or company letterhead.

4. Educational Documentation

Provide:

  • A copy of your high school diploma or GED.
  • Transcripts from any post-secondary educational institutions attended, if applicable.

5. Current EMS Certifications

Include copies of:

  • Your current New York State EMT certificate.
  • Your current Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification card.

6. Required Prerequisite Training

Provide documentation of successful completion of the following courses:

  • ICS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System
  • ICS-200: Basic Incident Command System
  • IS-700: National Incident Management System (NIMS)
  • IS-800: National Response Framework
  • Hazardous Materials Awareness

7. Proof of Health Insurance

Include documentation verifying current health insurance coverage.

Step 3: Submit Your Application and Fee

Once you have gathered all required documents, you're ready to submit your application package!

Please follow these instructions:

  • Secure your application materials with a paperclip in the upper-left corner.
  • Do not place application materials in a report cover or binder.
  • Include the $50 nonrefundable application fee.
  • Payment may be made by cash or check payable to Clarkson University.
  • Submit your completed application and payment before the published application deadline.

Incomplete applications or applications received without the required fee may not be considered for admission.

Step 4: Get Ready for Your Next Chapter!

Submitting your application is the first step toward joining a challenging, rewarding, and career-changing educational experience.

Our program values individuals who demonstrate dedication, professionalism, teamwork, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping others.

We're not simply preparing students to pass an examination. We're preparing future paramedics to think critically, act confidently, and provide exceptional patient care when their communities need them most.

Questions? We're Here to Help!

Taking the next step in your education is a big decision, and we're happy to answer your questions about the application process, admission requirements, or the Paramedic Program itself.

Clarkson University EMS Education Program Office
Program Director: Doug Wildermuth

59 Main Street, Room 3008
Potsdam, NY 13699

Email: dwildermuth@clarkson.edu
Phone: 315-268-4444

Don't Just Imagine Your Future—Take the First Step Toward It!

Advance your education. Strengthen your skills. Elevate your career.

Apply to the Clarkson University Paramedic Program today!
 

Department Faculty and Staff

Lennart Johns

Lennart Johns

Founding Dean of Health & Life Sciences

Email: ljohns@clarkson.edu
Office: 315/268-4019

Douglas Wildermuth

Douglas Wildermuth

Director of EMS & Experiential Learning

Email: dwilderm@clarkson.edu
Office: 315/268-4444

Contact Us

Clarkson University EMS Education Program Office
Director: Doug Wildermuth

59 Main Street, Room 3008
Potsdam, NY 13699
dwildermuth@clarkson.edu 
315-268-4444

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