DeSales University Launches Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services
New degree completion program targets nation's paramedic workforce, opening pathways to career advancement.
DeSales University has launched new a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services (BS-EMS), a fully online degree completion program designed to help licensed and certified paramedics earn a bachelor's degree and advance their careers in healthcare. Enrollment for the program is now open for Fall 2026 start.
The program, developed through a collaboration between the Adult Studies division and the College of Healthcare Professions, addresses a significant gap in higher education: more than 100,000 paramedics are currently practicing in the United States, yet fewer than 30 bachelor's-level EMS programs exist nationwide. Despite their critical role in the healthcare system, many paramedics in the United States earn an average salary of around $50,000 and face a barrier that limits their opportunities for professional growth.
"This program reflects our commitment to developing compassionate, ethical leaders in healthcare. Paramedics serve others in some of life’s most critical moments, and this degree provides them with the opportunity to grow, lead, and be recognized for the vital role they play in caring for our communities,” said Dr. Alan Heckman, DMSc, PA-C, the program's lead developer, associate professor and founding director of the Doctor of Medical Science Program. “This program recognizes the rigorous training paramedics have already completed and builds on it. At DeSales, we saw an opportunity to serve this workforce in a meaningful way and position our university as a leader in prehospital healthcare education," added Dr. Heckman.
The BS-EMS is structured as a 120-credit degree completion program, and a key feature is its recognition of prior learning. Through a recommendation from the American Council on Education (ACE), the same organization used to evaluate military training for college credit, eligible paramedics will receive up to 46 college credits for their professional training. That recognition dramatically reduces the time and cost needed to complete the degree.
Students will complete general education requirements through DeSales' Connections Curriculum, which emphasizes critical thinking, ethics, scientific inquiry, and cultural awareness. Major coursework includes foundational classes in healthcare systems, healthcare economics, management, anatomy and physiology, and EMS-specific content. Students also choose 12 elective credits and may follow suggested pathways tailored to their career goals, including tracks focused on EMS management, preparation for the Physician Assistant program, accelerated nursing, or an MBA.
Beyond the immediate program, DeSales sees the BS-EMS as a foundation for long-term growth in healthcare education. Future possible opportunities include certificates in EMS Leadership, Disaster Medicine, and Community Paramedicine, as well as a potential master's degree in EMS Administration.
“At its core, this program is about opening doors for paramedics to grow professionally, step into leadership roles, and be fully recognized for the impact they make in healthcare,” continued Dr. Heckman. "Students who complete the BS-EMS may go on to pursue a graduate degree, a PA program, or nursing right here at DeSales."
Learn more about the BS-EMS program, including admissions requirements and how prior paramedic training may apply toward degree completion. Contact the DeSales University Office of Adult Studies Admissions with any questions at adultstudies@desales.edu or 610-282-1100 ext. 1277.