High school students in Pennsylvania can now become certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) while still in school. This is possible through a dual enrollment program at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). The program lets students take emergency medical classes at a reduced cost. It is designed for those interested in emergency medicine or healthcare careers.
Will Lychak, a senior at the Creative and Performing Arts high school, is one of the students enrolled. He said that completing the EMT basic life support course is an important step toward his goal of working in emergency care. He believes that earning this certification in high school will help him prepare for further education and a career in medicine. EMT training is often required for advanced studies in the field.
The EMT course at CCAC costs $875. Pennsylvania permanent residents who finish the program and get certified can receive up to $800 in tuition reimbursement. This support comes from a grant by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The program is open to students aged 16 and older. Classes are offered during the school year as night classes and in the summer…