Westfield State University Launches Paramedic Program to Meet Workforce Needs

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University announced the launch of its new Paramedic Program, beginning in January 2025. Developed in collaboration with key healthcare providers and emergency-management organizations — including Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Holyoke Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center; fire departments from East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Southwick, and Westfield; and EMS providers from Chapin Ambulance, Northern Berkshire EMS, and Cataldo Ambulance — this program addresses the critical regional demand for highly skilled emergency medical professionals.

The program is designed to support workforce development by establishing a direct career pathway for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to advance to paramedics. Through strong partnerships with employers in the field, Westfield State will ensure the curriculum reflects industry standards, equipping students with the skills and expertise needed for immediate employment in emergency medical services.

Students will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art training facilities. The program includes one year of classroom instruction followed by clinical, field, and capstone internships, and can be completed in two years or through an accelerated 12- to 18-month track. To meet the diverse needs of working students, the program offers hybrid, live lectures enabling remote participation with the in-person classes. Hands-on skills labs are held in person.

Applications are now open for the inaugural class starting Jan. 7, 2025. Prospective students can visit www.westfield.ma.edu/paramedic for detailed admission requirements and program specifics.