Officials with Eastern Kentucky University’s Department of Paramedicine today announced the launch of their online/hybrid paramedic program, the only one in Kentucky, in January 2017. 
According to Program Director Bill Young, “this program will combine the best of technology and the expertise of the nationally known EKU faculty to make it possible for EMTs who might not be able, to gain the advanced education that they need.” 
All students who complete the program will be fully eligible for financial aid in the form of federal and state grants as well as low cost subsidized federal loans to help cover the cost of tuition.  In addition, depending upon where they work, graduates of the paramedic program may be able to apply for loan forgiveness through a federally operated program.
Young went on, “all students who complete the program will graduate with either an associates or bachelor’s degree depending upon the point at which they wish to finish.”  It has been shown that college graduates can expect to make more money over the course of their lifetime. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “with a GED or your diploma from high school, you can expect to make around $652 weekly. Get your associate’s degree, and that weekly pay jumps to $785.”  The US News and World Report stated that the average holder of a bachelor’s degree earns about $51,000 a year. 
Students who are accepted will receive all recorded lectures via the internet.  That will enable them to watch the videos at a time that is convenient for them.  For the first year, all students will be required to attend on campus for ½ day per month.  That will increase to two full days each month during the second year. 
Additional regional information meetings to answer questions are planned for the fall.  For more information, contact Bill Young, Program Director at bill.young@eku.edu or call 859-429-1367.