Application Requirements
Applicants are encouraged to gather all required documentation before beginning the online application process. Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.
Only complete applications submitted by the stated deadline will be considered for the interview process. Meeting the minimum application requirements does not guarantee an interview or admission into the program.
To be considered complete, the online application must include the following materials. All required documents must be uploaded at the time the application is submitted.
Current EMT Certification
Applicants must hold a valid EMT certification.
Current American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider CPR Certification
CPR certification must remain valid throughout the duration of the program.
Verification of Advanced Life Support (ALS) Field Experience
Applicants must provide documentation verifying a minimum of 1,000 hours of ALS field
experience.
Verification letters must:
• Be on official agency letterhead
• Be signed by an authorized supervisor or administrator
• Include dates of service and total ALS hours completed
This documentation serves as verification of experience, not a letter of recommendation.
Letters of Reference
Applicants must submit at least three letters of reference, including:
• At least two professional references
• At least one personal reference
Professional references may include supervisors, instructors, or healthcare professionals familiar with the applicant’s work or training.
Applicant Statement
Applicants must submit a short written statement (250–500 words) describing their interest in becoming a paramedic.
The statement should briefly address:
• Why the applicant wishes to pursue a career as a paramedic
• Experiences that have influenced their decision to enter the profession
• Personal qualities they believe will contribute to their success in paramedic training
• The responsibilities and challenges they believe paramedics face in the field
The statement should reflect the applicant’s own experiences, motivation, and understanding of the profession.
Government-Issued Identification
Applicants must provide identification verifying they are at least 18 years of age.
Passport-Style Photograph
Applicants must upload a current passport-style photograph.
High School Diploma or GED Verification
Required only if the applicant has not earned a college degree.
Verification of Academic Degree (if applicable)
Applicants listing a conferred degree (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.) must provide documentation verifying completion.
Acceptable documentation may include:
• Official transcript showing degree awarded
• Unofficial transcript indicating degree conferral
• Copy of diploma
• Institutional degree verification
Applicants should ensure that all documentation is accurate and complete prior to submitting the application.
The College of the Desert Paramedic Program reserves the right to verify all submitted documentation.
Submission of an application does not guarantee admission into the College of the Desert Paramedic Program. Admission is competitive and based on the applicant’s qualifications, completion of required documentation, interview performance, and successful completion of the Paramedic Preparatory Course.
The College of the Desert Paramedic Program reserves the right to verify all submitted documentation and to make final admission decisions based on program standards and available program capacity.
Failure to provide accurate or complete information may result in disqualification from the application process or dismissal from the program.
