University-Based Training
By earning a certificate through CSULB instead of a private academy, you'll gain the added option to convert your training into 6 units of academic credit toward CSULB's Minor in Emergency Management for just $99 more.
In-person • Complete in 11 Weeks
Become a Certified EMT in SoCal
Launch Your Career as a First Responder with University Training
The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate Program at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is designed to prepare you for a career in emergency medical services, firefighting, nursing, and public safety. The program emphasizes hands-on, real-world training aligned with Los Angeles County EMS standards. Build the skills to pass the industry-recognized National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam and qualify for California State EMT certification in just 11 weeks!
- Enroll Now
- Complete in: 11 weeks
- Format: In-person (weekday evenings + Saturdays)
- Approx. Cost: $1,495
Is This Program Right for You?
The EMT Certificate Program at CSULB is designed for individuals who want to enter or advance in emergency medical services, healthcare, or public safety. This program is ideal for those who want to:
Pursue a career as a first responder, EMT, paramedic, or firefighter
Gain emergency medical certification to boost an existing job in healthcare
Earn student experience while working towards a degree in nursing or medicine
Change careers to enter emergency services or public health
Qualify for in-demand jobs across healthcare-related fields
Why Choose the EMT Certificate Program at CSULB?
The EMT program at CSULB delivers comprehensive emergency medical training with the credibility of a university setting. You'll receive a rigorous, career-focused education through access to professional-grade training equipment, industry-standard curriculum, and experienced faculty.
Real Ambulance Ride-Along Experience
Students complete 24 hours (two 12-hour shifts) of ambulance ride-along experience with at least 10 documented patient contacts, which helps you qualify to sit for the NREMT exam.
Low Student-to-Instructor Ratio
With approximately one skills instructor per 10 students, you'll receive individualized attention and direct feedback to learn each hands-on skill.
Taught by Working EMTs
Every instructor is an active emergency medical professional, so you'll learn from people responding to real emergencies—not just certified instructors.
NREMT Exam Preparation
The program is structured around preparing you to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam. Then you'll be prepared for real-world deployment—whether in Los Angeles County, other regions of California, or across the U.S.
Payment Plans Available
To help you offset the cost of the program, payment plans are available—our helpful staff can provide specific details and guide you through the process.
What You'll Learn
The CSULB EMT curriculum provides a thorough foundation in emergency medicine while emphasizing skills-based, hands-on application.
- Access to professional equipment including EKG machines, gurneys, simulation manikins, and more
- Airway management, respiration, and artificial ventilation
- Patient assessment and monitoring
- Anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology
- Pathophysiology and shock/resuscitation
- Pharmacology and LA County EMT scope of practice medications
- Special patient populations: pediatrics, obstetrics, geriatrics
- Trauma and multi-system emergencies
- NREMT exam review
Why Earn an EMT Certificate?
Emergency medical services is one of the fastest-growing fields in the country. Employment of EMTs and paramedics is projected to grow 11% through 2030 (much faster than average) with approximately 20,700 openings projected per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Completing an EMT certificate program prepares you for California State EMT certification, lays the groundwork for paramedic training, and provides the hands-on experience valued by medical schools, PA programs, nursing programs, and fire departments across Southern California.
What Career Opportunities Can You Expect?
Graduates of the CSULB EMT program are prepared for roles that require emergency medical training and first responder certification.
Common career paths include:
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Respond to emergency calls, assess patients, and provide pre-hospital care while transporting patients to medical facilities.
Firefighter / Firefighter-EMT
EMT certification is a standard requirement for fire department hiring pipelines across Los Angeles and Southern California.
Nursing & Allied Health Pathways
Use EMT training as a foundation for nursing, physician assistant, physical therapy, or healthcare administration programs.
Law Enforcement & Public Safety
Apply emergency medical skills in law enforcement, campus safety, correctional services, or military roles.
Athletic Trainer / Event Medical Staff
EMT-trained professionals are increasingly sought by sports organizations, athletic programs, film and media productions, and large event coordinators.
Healthcare Support Roles
EMT certification supports careers such as emergency department technicians, patient care technicians, medical assistants, and surgical technologists.
Ready to Start Your EMT Career?
The CSULB EMT Certificate Program gives you the hands-on training and NREMT exam preparation you need to become a certified EMT. With this certificate, you'll be ready to pursue a career in emergency medical services, firefighting, healthcare, and other related fields. Connect with us to learn how this program fits your goals!