University College

Become a Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

MTSU’s Emergency Medical Technician program prepares students to pass the National Registry exam and become state-certified EMTs or Advanced EMTs.

An emergency medical technician stands smiling beside the open rear doors of an ambulance, wearing a blue and neon yellow uniform with reflective stripes, with a stretcher and medical equipment visible inside the vehicle behind him.


Our Courses

Basic EMT (EMT-B)

Entry-level EMT training for those entering emergency medical services.

  • ~8 months
  • Evening-only format
  • Includes clinical rotations
  • Prepares for National Registry EMT exam

Program Overview
Gain the foundational knowledge and hands-on training needed to begin a career in emergency medical services.

Next Start Date
Expected September/October 2026

Schedule Options
Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs
6–9 PM (until 10 PM on skills nights)

Length
Approximately 8 months

Format
Evening classes with classroom, lab, and field training

Eligibility
Open to all applicants — no prior EMT certification required

Certification
Prepares you for the National Registry EMT-B exam

Next step

Many students continue into the Advanced EMT (AEMT) program after completion.

Estimated Cost
$1,700–$2,000


Enrollment Requirements
  • Completed application
  • Vaccine records
  • Payment submitted after acceptance

View complete list of enrollment requirements.

Advanced EMT (AEMT)

For currently licensed EMTs ready to advance their certification.

  • ~ 6 months
  • Evening-only format
  • Includes clinical rotations
  • Prepares for Advanced NREMT exam

Program Overview
Build on your EMT foundation with advanced skills in IV and intraosseous access, airway management, and medication administration.

Schedule
Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs
6–9 PM (until 10 PM on skills nights)

Length
Approximately 6 months

Format
Evening classes with classroom, lab, and field training

Eligibility

  • Must hold a current EMT license
  • Must have passed the National Registry EMT-B exam
  • Open to both MTSU and non-MTSU students

Certification
Prepares you for the National Registry Advanced EMT exam

Estimated Cost
$1,700–$2,000


Enrollment Requirements
  • Completed application
  • Vaccine records
  • Two signed letters of good moral character from licensed medical professionals
  • Payment submitted after acceptance

View complete list of enrollment requirements


For additional questions and/or to receive immediate EMT updates, contact Emily Armstrong at emily.armstrong@mtsu.edu or 615-494-7718.

MTSU students in EMT Training.

Why Choose MTSU EMT?

  • Experienced, credentialed paramedics
  • Structured clinical experience
  • Evening format designed for working professionals
  • Strong National Registry preparation
  • Community-focused training

How It Works

  • Classes meet two evenings per week
  • Lecture nights run from 6–9 p.m.
  • Practical skills nights run from 6–10 p.m.
  • Each cohort is limited to 30 students and filled on a first-come, first-served basis
  • Full payment is required upon eligibility verification to secure a seat in the course. (credit/debit card only)
  • Classes are held at the Andrew Woodfin Miller, Sr. Education Center (MEC) on MTSU’s campus.
Enrollment Requirements

  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language.
  • Must possess an academic high school diploma or a general equivalency diploma (G.E.D).
  • Must have no history within the past three years of habitual intoxication or personal misuse of any drugs or the use of intoxicating liquors, narcotics, controlled substances, or other drugs or stimulants in such manner as to adversely affect the person’s ability to practice as an emergency medical technician.
  • No felony convictions or be on probation for any offense.
  • Must present proof of MMR Vaccination;
  • Must present documentation of Varicella Zoster immunizations (2) or positive titer;
  • Must present proof of a negative TB skin test or negative chest x-ray.

  • Successful completion of an MTSU EMT course within the previous 120 days and a passing score on the NREMT exam; OR
  • Currently hold a Tennessee EMT license, obtain a passing score on a written exam administered by MTSU personnel AND successfully demonstrate knowledge of practical skills as evaluated by MTSU-appointed personnel; OR
  • Successful completion of a State (TN) approved EMT course within the previous 120 days and a passing score on the NREMT exam with successful completion of the MTSU AEMT placement test and practical.
  • Must be 18 years or older;
  • Have an academic high school diploma or GED certificate; specialized education or Certificates of Attendance are NOT acceptable;
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language;
  • Must submit two (2) letters of Good Moral Character with original signatures from a medical professional (MD, DO, NP, PA, RN, LPN, Paramedic or higher);
  • Must present a Medical Statement (PH-0130) as proof of medical fitness;
  • Must have no history within the past three years of habitual intoxication or personal misuse of any drugs or the use of intoxicating liquors, narcotics, controlled substances, or other drugs or stimulants in such manner as to adversely affect the person’s ability to practice as an emergency medical technician;
  • Must present proof of MMR Vaccination;
  • Must present documentation of Varicella Zoster immunizations (2) or positive titer;
  • Must present proof of a negative TB skin test or negative chest x-ray.

Cost and What’s Included

Course fees range from $1,700 – $1,950 and include the following:

  • Textbooks
  • Liability insurance
  • Scheduling software for clinical rotations.

Future course fees are subject to change.


Additional Student Expenses

  • Travel to and from class and clinical sites
  • Uniform shirts (two required; up to $30 each, cost may vary)
  • Pants, boots/shoes, and belt (cost varies)
  • State criminal background check: $37.15
  • School background check and drug screening: $81.50
  • National Registry EMT Fee: $104
  • State Application Fee: $50
  • State Licensing Fee: $75
  • Optional equipment
    • Eye protection (available on Amazon)
    • Reflective vest (available on Amazon)

Important Note

This is a non-credit program. Upon completion, students are prepared to take the NREMT exam or Advanced NREMT exam and become state-certified EMTs or Advanced EMTs. Students do not need to apply for admission to MTSU as degree-seeking students, and federal financial aid cannot be used for payment.


Veterans Benefits

The Basic EMT (EMT-B) course is eligible for Montgomery GI Bill® and Post-9/11 GI Bill® education benefits.

Please note: This course is not eligible for VA housing allowances.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.


Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you want more information about our EMT programs, upcoming courses or the registration process, we’re happy to assist.

Program Contact

Emily Armstrong, Coordinator of Academic and Professional Development Programs

emily.armstrong@mtsu.edu

615-494-7718

Program Location
Andrew Woodfin Miller, Sr. Education Center (MEC)
503 E. Bell St.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130