Paul D. Camp Community College is now offering Emergency Medical Services Intermediate Career Studies Certificate, as part of its Nursing and Allied Health Program.

“This Career Studies Certificate will provide students the opportunity to achieve a Virginia Intermediate certification level,” said EMS Program Coordinator Gerald “Jerry” Griffith. “Students can begin completing their goal of becoming an Advanced Life Support provider.”

Emergency Medical Services provide medical care, transport to definitive care and other transport for patients with illnesses and injuries.

“The intermediate-level provider will be able to provide life-saving interventions in the pre-hospital emergency setting,” Griffith explained.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for EMTs and paramedics is projected to grow 23 percent from 2012-2022 — much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations, which is 11 percent. There were 239,100 jobs in this field in 2012, with a median annual wage of $31,020.

Applicants are encouraged to speak with the EMS program coordinator prior to applying to the Intermediate Program.

“You can complete the Intermediate certificate in two continuous semesters,” said Griffith. “However, if you need to take the EMT first, you can still complete both in three semesters.”

For more information, contact Griffith at 569-6732 or ggriffith@pdc.edu. Download an application for the program at www.pdc.edu/EMS-ApplicationPacket.