Newswise — Paxton, MA (November 12, 2012) Anna Maria College announces that it is launching a new, online Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services Administration (EMSA) degree with classes beginning in January 2013. This new program, which is one of the first of its kind in the Country, is designed for certified and/or licensed paramedic professionals, who are seeking an online, non-clinical pathway toward degree completion. Graduates of the program will be able to assume managerial and leadership roles in the emerging pre-hospital healthcare arena.
“Since the 1970's, emergency medical technicians and paramedics have been filling increasing important roles in the delivery of medical care prior to hospitalization,” comments I. David Daniels, Assistant Professor and Director of Fire Science Programs at AMC. “As the population in our Country ages, and the strain on the health care industry increases, fire/rescue organizations, as well as public and private ambulance service providers, will need many more professionals serving in management and leadership roles.”
Ted Flanagan, Director of AMC’s Paramedic Science Program adds, “This new degree completion program offers flexibility due to its online format so that certified and licensed professionals can achieve their goals easily and affordably, without having to participate in the rigors and time commitment of clinical hours.”
While the typical entry point for EMS professionals requires significant education and training, the current curriculum and licensing procedures do not include management training or leadership development. Given that in the Fire Service nationally 80 percent of all calls are EMS related there is increasing need for EMS care and management to be given more priority. The challenges and opportunities faced in the EMS field are increasingly requiring paramedics and EMS supervisors to utilize advanced analytical and research skills.
“AMC’s new Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services degree is an exciting opportunity for EMS professionals throughout the United States,” shares Jack P. Calareso, Ph.D., President of Anna Maria College. “In keeping with our vision of excellence, this online, degree-completion program is built on the College’s core principles of ethical leadership, informed citizenship and compassionate care.”###
About AMCAnna Maria College is a four-year, private, co-ed, Catholic, liberal arts institution accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Founded by the Sisters of Saint Anne in 1946, the College is located on a 192-acre campus in Paxton, MA, minutes from the vibrant college-town of Worcester, MA. AMC provides quality programs that integrate liberal education and professional preparation that is committed to the fundamental value of liberal arts and sciences education rooted in the traditions of the Sisters of Saint Anne.
Anna Maria College offers 40 undergraduate degree programs and over 15 graduate and continuing education programs. AMC distinguishes itself through its career-oriented liberal arts education, prominent and responsive faculty, small class sizes, and a variety of co-curricular activities. Popular undergraduate majors include art therapy, business, criminal justice, education, English, environmental science, fire science, health science, legal studies, music and music therapy, nursing, paramedic science, political science, social work, sport management and psychology. AMC also offers an Honors Program with unique study abroad opportunities.
AMC is member of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium, a group of 12 colleges that allows students to cross register at no additional cost. Graduate and continuing education programs are offered both on-ground and online. Bachelors programs include RN-BSN, fire science, business management, criminal justice, and a new degree in emergency medical services administration. Masters’ programs include an MBA, counseling psychology, criminal justice, education/special education, emergency management, fire service management and public administration, among others.
As part of its strategic plan, Excellence at Anna Maria College, AMC is growing exponentially with new curricular and co-curricular programs, 17 NCAA Division III sports teams, a new all-purpose athletic field and stadium, and five residence halls, including a new, 200-bed suite style hall. Enrollment growth has been exceptional with Anna Maria College being rated the 16th fastest growing campus in the Chronicle of Higher Education’s 2011 Almanac.
The New England setting of Paxton, Massachusetts offers students the best of both worlds: a relaxed, closed-campus environment in which to live and study, and close proximity to a vibrant college town. AMC students can enjoy all that an AMC campus life has to offer and also partake in the excitement of the Worcester area, including concerts at the DCU Center and the Palladium, skiing at nearby Wachusett Mountain, art exhibits at the world-class Worcester Art Museum and great restaurants in Worcester’s growing downtown. AMC is also about an hour’s drive to Boston, Cape Cod, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont and Rhode Island.