Paramedic training is composed of in-classroom, didactic instruction; in-hospital clinical practice; and a supervised field internship on an ambulance. Courses typically are competency-based and supported by performance assessments. Instruction provides students with knowledge of acute and critical changes in physiology, psychological and clinical symptoms that they might encounter in an emergency medical situation. Students also participate in regional disaster drills and joint training sessions with area public safety agencies.

Career opportunities for paramedics include: private or public ambulance companies, hospitals, community paramedic, industry and city health agencies, fire departments and law enforcement agencies. Park services, ski patrols, and other groups in many countries often educate their personnel to become EMTs or paramedics as part of their duties. This prepares students to write the National Registry Paramedic Exam.