Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We have completed our CoAEMSP Letter of Review (LoR) which allows the students to sit for the NREMT. At the time these questions were published, GCC is currently in the ISSR phase of accreditation. This will grant accreditation through CAAHEP for 5 years. GCC Paramedic Program is also approved by the LACEMSA.

There are currently no prerequisites for the Program at this time. However, you must be a registered Glendale Community College student before you can apply for the Program. We also highly recommend you have a Bio course, and a college level Math course.

The application window will open in the Spring each year. This window will be open only for 2 weeks. GCC only accepts 1 cohort per year.

GCC looks as time worked. IFT EMTs need a minimum of 1,500 work hours, while 911 EMTs, need a minimum of 1,000 work hours. We also require 3 letters of Recommendation and conduct interviews of candidates.

Students are required to obtain the following:

• Uniform: A program-required uniform must be worn as directed.
• Textbook: The required Paramedic textbook must be purchased.
• Online platform: Access to the required online platform must be purchased.

Please review the course instructions for specific uniform requirements, textbook editions, and online platform details.

Yes. Students receive an ACLS and PALS certification, as well as their LA County EMSA Paramedic Accreditation.

The Program consists of a total of 8 courses. These courses will be taken over 11 months, which includes Internship.

Lecture: Monday 0800-1500; Wednesday 0800-1200

Lab: Monday 1530-1930; Wednesday 1300-1700

Yes. Students must complete the required clinical clearance documentation before participating in clinical experiences. Each hospital has its own onboarding requirements. Requirements include immunization records, health documentation, certifications, background check results, and other required items.

Do not wait until the start of clinicals to begin gathering your documents. Some vaccinations require multiple doses over several months.

CastleBranch is the online compliance management system used to collect and track required clinical documentation. Students are responsible for uploading their documents and monitoring their compliance status.

Follow the instructions provided by the program to create or access your CastleBranch account and submit the required records.

The following documentation is required according to the program's clinical clearance checklist. Review your individual CastleBranch requirements for the exact documentation and deadlines that apply to you.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

Submit either:

• Documentation of two MMR vaccinations; or
• Positive antibody titers for all three components (measles, mumps, and rubella), with the laboratory report or physician verification.

If a titer is negative or equivocal, documentation of a booster vaccination administered after the titer is required.

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Submit either:

• Documentation of two varicella vaccinations; or
• A positive varicella antibody titer, with the laboratory report or physician verification.

If a titer is negative or equivocal, a booster vaccination administered after the titer may be required. If your vaccination series is in progress, upload the available documentation and follow any additional CastleBranch requirements.

Hepatitis B

Submit either:

• Documentation of the three-dose hepatitis B vaccination series; or
• A positive hepatitis B antibody titer, with the laboratory report or physician verification.

If a titer is negative or equivocal, additional vaccination and documentation may be required. Students whose vaccination series is in progress must follow the additional requirements issued through CastleBranch.

Influenza (Flu)

Submit documentation of a flu vaccination received during the current flu season, defined by the program checklist as August through May. Flu documentation must be renewed as required.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) or Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td)

Submit documentation of either:

• A Tdap vaccination; or
• A Td vaccination.

The vaccination must have been administered within the past 10 years.

COVID-19 Vaccination

Submit the documentation accepted by the program's CastleBranch checklist:

• COVID-19 vaccination documentation, including the vaccine manufacturer; or
• A declination waiver.

If a vaccination series is in progress, additional documentation may be requested through CastleBranch.

Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

Submit one of the following:

• A one-step TB skin test;
• A QuantiFERON Gold blood test, with the laboratory report; or
• If you have a positive TB result, documentation of the positive test and a clear chest X-ray, with the required laboratory report.

For renewal after a previous positive result, a clear chest X-ray and physician clearance on letterhead are required under the program checklist.

TB screening must be renewed as required.

Yes. Students must submit a completed physical examination form.

• The examination must have been completed within the past six months.
• The form must be completed and signed by a medical professional.
• Download the required form, complete it with your medical professional, and upload the documentation to CastleBranch.

The physical examination documentation must be renewed according to the program's requirements.

Physical examinations can be completed at the health center. Please reference the health center on campus for appointments

Yes. Students pay and conduct a background check and Drug test through CastleBranch. Follow the program's instructions regarding the approved process and submission deadlines.

If a required antibody titer is negative or equivocal, additional vaccination documentation may be required. CastleBranch may generate a new requirement asking you to submit proof of a booster vaccination administered after the titer.

Check your CastleBranch account regularly for new alerts and outstanding requirements. Contact the program if you are unsure which documents to submit.

Yes, after you complete the course, including internship, you will be eligible to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).

Once you successfully complete all course requirements, including internship, you will return to the classroom for a Comprehensive exam and a skills exam. If both are passed you will be