PLNU’s EMT Certificate equips professionals with comprehensive education and skill training in the provision of prehospital emergency care. In this program, you’ll learn in a caring, enriching environment from experienced faculty who are committed to helping you become an effective, dependable EMT.

PLNU’s acclaimed EMT program equips students with the coursework, skills, and clinical hours needed to sit for the Emergency Medical Technicians national registry exam. As of 2024, this program has the highest first-time pass rate of any EMT program in San Diego. This standalone certificate program is available to the public as well as PLNU students.

This program is accredited by and maintains the standards set by the Health and Human Services Agency in the County of San Diego.

Designed for veterans and community difference-makers

The EMT Certificate program is ideal for veterans or active duty military who want to continue saving lives and impacting their community in meaningful ways. It’s also perfect for any students working toward becoming paramedics, firefighters, physicians, physician assistants, and other professionals interested in entering the critical field of emergency care.

Click here to learn more about PLNU’s robust support and discounts for veterans and active duty military.

Two semester options for your schedule

The spring semester track is designed to be compatible with full-time work schedules. The two 4-unit classes are offered Tuesday and Thursday evenings plus seven (7) Saturday sessions. PLNU also offers a five-week summer intensive track.

Learn in a supportive environment

In this program, you’ll be able to forge meaningful connections with fellow students and other emerging professionals in emergency care. You’ll also have access to top-tier mentorship from professors and advisors committed to your personal, professional and spiritual growth. They’ll help you to leverage your strengths to expand your connections and career opportunities. You’ll be able to access resources tailored to you and your career goals.

EMT Refresher Course

PLNU also offers an EMT refresher course each fall. The refresher course is for currently certified EMTs only. The course includes 27 hours of contact time including lecture and lab. If you are interested in taking our EMT refresher course please contact tbowles@pointloma.edu to let us know of your interest. 

Program Start Date(s):

• Spring 2025 Quad I — January 13, 2025
• Summer 2025 Quad I — May 12, 2025

Start Application

Please select "Accelerated Undergraduate" and not "Undergraduate" when completing the online application.

Application Checklist

The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU.

1. Submit online application for admissions (includes $50 non-refundable application fee). Fee waived if applicant is one of the following: PLNU alum, current or former military and their dependents, PLNU employee.
2. Submit proof of valid CPR Certification.
3. Submit official transcripts from each institution attended. (If applicant has fewer than six (6) units of college, a high school transcript will be required).
   
   Official transcripts must be sent to:
   Point Loma Nazarene University
   Office of Graduate Admissions
   3900 Lomaland Dr.
   San Diego, CA 92106
   
   Official electronic transcripts must be emailed to:
   gradprocessing@pointloma.edu

Note: All students are expected to have some proficiency with computer technology (email, Internet, word processing, etc.).

An EMT Certificate is ideal for a variety of opportunities, especially for first responders and medical providers. Emergency medical technicians may work within a healthcare organization or public safety department. They may also work onsite as a designated medical professional in high-risk workplaces or in high population locations, such as theme parks, sporting event locations, and other venues.

Qualify for crucial positions such as:

• Paramedic
• Firefighter
• Physician assistant
• Physician
• Nurse
• Law enforcement
• And more!

For information about the courses required for the EMT Certificate, view the PLNU Catalog.

Course Information