How practical would it be (from a scheduling point of view) to take paramedic classes while working as an EMT?

Answer 1

While in paramedic school, about a quarter of my class were employed as EMT's while taking paramedic clases. I worked full time as a medical assistant while in class, and a few people worked full time at other jobs. Only a couple of lucky souls could afford to cut down to part time or quit work while in school.

It's just a matter of having a flexible employer, who's willing to work with you. If your employer also hires paramedics, odds are that they will be very willing to work with your schedule, in the hopes that you will continue your employment as a paramedic once you graduate. Make sure to talk with other employees who are also attempting higher education while working. There's a lot of employers who say they are flexible, but when it actually comes down to it, they aren't willing to work with you. My fiancee found that out the hard way while he was in paramedic school. There were several times he had to bring the company van to school because his employer wouldn't let him off early enough to pick up his own car!

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

It all depends on what shift you work and how you'll squeeze school into it. Most squads would work with you because your training would benefit them in the long run.