If you’re an Advanced EMT (AEMT) student planning to continue your education in a Paramedic program, you may be able to save time and effort through advanced placement. The Alabama Fire College offers a structured pathway that allows eligible students to apply previously completed clinical hours and objectives toward their Paramedic training.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how it works, who qualifies, and what you need to do.
What Is Advanced Placement?
Advanced placement allows AEMT students who have already completed a state-approved program to receive credit for certain clinical hours and required objectives. This means less duplication of training and a faster path forward, while still ensuring all competencies are met. (CoAEMSP)
Alabama Fire College AEMT Graduates:
Students who completed their AEMT program at the Alabama Fire College receive the most comprehensive credit. These credits apply only to objectives that align with the Paramedic program requirements.
- Hours Credited: 100% of required AEMT clinical hours (up to 56 hours); 100% of required field rotation hours (up to 56 hours)
- Objectives Credited (maximums): 10 pediatric assessments; 25 adult assessments; 9 geriatric assessments; 15 IV medications; 15 IV access; 8 cardiac assessments; 5 abdominal assessments; 5 psychiatric assessments; 8 respiratory assessments; 8 trauma assessments
- Requirements
- Student must request official proof of completed hours and objectives from the Alabama Fire College before the semester begins from the EMS Program Director
- Hold a valid Alabama AEMT license prior to starting clinicals
AEMT Graduates from Other Programs:
If you completed your AEMT training outside the Alabama Fire College, you may still qualify for partial credit. As with internal graduates, only applicable objectives will count toward the Paramedic program.
- Hours Credited: 75% of required clinical hours (up to 42 hours); 75% of required field rotation hours (up to 42 hours)
- Objectives Credited:
- Applied at a rate of 1 credit for every 3 completed objectives
- Maximums include: 3 pediatric assessments; 8 adult assessments; 5 geriatric assessments; 5 IV medications; 8 IV access; 3 cardiac assessments; 3 abdominal assessments
- Requirements
- Submit official documentation (transcript or certified records) showing completed hours and objectives before the semester begins to the EMS Program Director
- Obtain approval from the EMS Program Director prior to the beginning semester start
- Hold a valid Alabama AEMT license before beginning clinical rotations
Important Restrictions to Keep in Mind
While advanced placement can significantly reduce your workload, there are important limitations:
- Clinical and field hours are capped at 56 hours each
- Clinical hours may only be applied to Emergency Room (ER) rotations
- Field hours may only be applied to “Choice” rotations
- Field hours cannot be applied to EMS 256 Capstone requirements
- Objectives can only be applied to formative assessments
- Credits from external programs cannot exceed those required by the Alabama Fire College AEMT program
Advanced placement is a valuable opportunity for AEMT students to build on prior experience and accelerate their progress in a Paramedic program. Whether you trained at the Alabama Fire College or another institution, understanding the requirements and limitations will help you make the most of your previous training. If you’re considering this pathway, start early. Gather your documentation, confirm your licensure, and connect with us to ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of your EMS career.