20 Best Paramedic Programs In Providence, RI (2022 Updated)

To start off, the academics or classes you take are more like ones in high school you take. It doesn't make it interesting unless you are in a special major such as culinary, equine, robotics, or something of that nature. The culinary classes I was in were something. Definitely had ups and downs but it may not be worth it since some skills you learn may never be used again. Your grandmother can probably be a better instructor. Now the living situations, the dorms are alright. It is difficult to live with others since you want them to revolve around your schedule but you also have to revolve around theirs. I always had bad roommates. You know ones that stay up late (up till 2 in the morning), snore, drink, smoke weed in the room, etc. It is probably just me that I can't live with others. You can change rooms but there have been less and less dorm rooms over the years. The worst part is that when you pick your room, you are given a random time to schedule. Best bet is to have the least amount of roommates as possible and having a private bathroom in your room. Don't want to be sharing the bathrooms and showers with hundreds of other people (bring some sandals and/or slippers). The dining situation kind of blows. For a school known for a culinary program, you could cook something better. There are less dining halls than when I started. The only option for breakfast is Starbucks. Lunch and Dinner is okay. Two dining options include all you can eat which is great. The menu changes every meal but you will see the same menu items a few weeks later. Everything also closes early on the weekends. Obviously, you don't want to spend so much money on take-out and delivery so best bet is get your food from a dining hall before it closes. The meal plan can be managed. You got either 7, 10, 14, or 18 meals a week. Each plan comes with flex which is a certain amount of dollars you can spend at the dining halls if you don't want a full meal or something that isn't part of a meal swipe. Best go with 10 or 14 meals a week.Adam DeLeon (CharlieChopDog1)

I miss it!! 😭😭 Graduated Nov '19 (the last fall term with trimesters). Jwu really stands out with their career focus an all the networking opportunities via professional clubs and career fairs. There study abroad options are impressive! I was lucky enough to attend a semester at sea. Taking core courses that are taught by former industry professionals makes going to class sooo worth it. Stand out professors are Prof. Rhodes, Lavin, and Boker. 10 out of 10 experience / at times, i felt like it was worth the price tag just for them. Providence is such a cool vibe. It feels like a little slice of Boston… Without the traffic and big-city-feel nuisances. (This is also coming from somebody who thought that they did not like cities at all) On Thursdays, (also because most students don't have class on Fridays), the city will literally feel like it's coming alive. Great energy around here even though there's homeless people who consistently panhandle. (You'll get to know the familiar faces and they'll leave you alone- definitely not a deal breaker). I highly recommend getting your own apartment right away because it's outrageously priced otherwise. That is, unless you're on a full ride and room & board is covered. Although, one semester of on-campus housing is helpful in an effort to make friends. This is very cliche to reference the university mantra… but "pride, courage, character, and community" really do define what the school is. I'm very proud to be a wildcat for life and am forever grateful to have the connections I made there.Andy B

I think it’s crazy that local guides can give reviews when they know nothing about the experience of actually going to the college. Johnson & Wales was the worst choice I ever could have made in a college, which is really sad knowing I chose this school in honor of my grandfather who went here, and passed away right before getting to see me go to college. Professors are the only good part of the school. All the other workers who work in the offices, the actual people who run the school as a whole – a literal joke. The entire school is a joke. Student loans? Not worth it. This is a school that does not care about its students like it portrays that it does. Do not waste your time, you can get a better education and a better college experience probably at any. other. school.Kassie Kania

Avoid this for-profit school! Go to ANY other trade school.They canceled my student loans without my knowledge. I got pulled out of class several times in the beginning of my semester and was told to go to the bursars office, once I got there no one could tell me what was going on with my account and they told me to try the registrars office. Same thing, no one could tell me why I was getting pulled out of class or what was going on with my account. Everything looked fine they said. After about 3 weeks of that and getting zero info…I stopped getting pulled out of class and at the end of the semester I got a $5000+ bill. They've been suing me for it for the past 8 years. Everytime I've gone to court there's always atleast 10 other people there who had the same thing happen to them. Do yourself a favor and find an apprenticeship instead of wasting your money at this "school".Braeden M.

You wont get an engineering degree from here. You'll be a technician. You will never get an engineering degree from here. They don't have it on the website, you can look everywhere on it. There's no truth to the website. They overcharge you and don't teach you what youre paying for. For the price you pay, you should learn a lot more. I'm in my third term and have yet to do anything for my major. I had to wait three terms to be able to get A CLASS for my major. It's not worth it. I AM A STUDENT AND I AM TELLING YOU. DO NOT COME HERE. You're better off going to URI or any community college!! I hate it here.Heather Vias

I can not recommend enough not to go here. The administration is a joke, the amount of absolute asinine rules that are put on place make this place nearly unbearable. If you’re considering this school please put your money elsewhere. You’ll be charged $40,000 a year just to have a sub par education. Food is said to be good but is close to inedible. Internet speed gets slowed to a crawl on a daily basis. This place is beyond untransparent when it comes to any serious information that you need. Go somewhere else.Zander Knightick

I am not sure what the gentleman in the previous review is referring to, but I have hired 2 graduates of Total Approach Medical Training and they have both been amazing assets to our medical team. We are an in office laboratory in which the phlebotomist's work closely with other staff and patients. Not only have I gotten rave reviews from our staff here about the graduates wealth of knowledge and great work ethic, but also amazing reviews from our patients. I have not heard patients go out of their way before now, to speak so highly of a phlebotomist and say how incredible and painless the draw was. I have spoken to Derek and Victoria directly prior to hiring the students as mentioned above, and they were so very friendly and open to discuss anything we needed to know about their program. They are both extremely knowledgeable and qualified individuals who run an amazing program, as shown by their 2 students going above and beyond to truly succeed here. It was an absolute pleasure speaking to them both, and adding our new hires that clearly went through an amazing program. As a nurse of 22 years as well as an instructor of both nursing and medical assistant programs, I can say with absolute certainty that 40 hours is more than enough to gain the appropriate knowledge and skill set to excel in the phlebotomy field. As with all other healthcare field programs, there is nothing wrong with accelerated programs shortening the time spent in class and giving more hands on sessions. Education is constantly evolving to become better and more efficient every day, and this school should not be getting slandered for trying to give their students the best possible experience and education they can.Reese Maxwell

I'm a nursing student in a BSN program and decided to take this course to build on my skills and education, and for a certification. I found the course material interesting, informative, and easy to understand. Derek and Tori are very friendly and go above and beyond in helping each student succeed. They will take time to ensure each student understands, and will make sure that you are confident with the needles and procedures. I cannot say enough good things about this program and I strongly recommend Total Approach for anyone.Kelly Spencer

I met Derek when I needed to get labs done, and ended up taking the phlebotomy course after! It was one of the easiest blood draws I’ve ever had done on myself when he came for my appointment, painless and quick. His skill and personality made the course just as fun and interesting, and has made me confident in my ability to work with patients and give them the same experience. I feel more than prepared to start a new career path thanks to his teaching and support so I can’t thank him enough!!Ana Friedman

This place is disgusting. Especially if you are attending one of the free programs. It is unorganized and dirty. The second day being their the building got infested with scabies. The teachers are rude and bully their students. Dont waste your time here.Vahke Ne nd

If is wasn’t for the amazing staff I would never be where I am today! They are very helpful and caring for each and everyone of their students and anyone that even has a question! Thank you all! High recommend.Chris Jarvis

I love Al and his team. They are extremely professional and act with integrity and respect. This is the best EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and Health Care Industry school on the East Coast.Jacqueline Stone

This institute has flexible class times to work with almost anyone’s schedule. It also has an amazing staff and instructors who seek to ensure you completely understand both the curriculum and lab skills. I took the phlebotomy program, and I have zero complaints. Monica is amazing; She labors closely with you, so you have a solid comprehension of the steps, techniques and procedures to execute a successful venipuncture for each patient. You have plenty of hands-on time as well in the lab with your classmates and volunteers, which will give you the competency necessary to work in a medical setting. I definitely recommend!Aleah Hansen

By far the worst school I have ever gone to. They train you enough to pass the national registry but not enough to ever find a job in the different fields. The EMT instructor is sexist and rude, doesn’t help students learn, and isn’t understanding to the needs of students. The director is sarcastic and the company in general is only in it for the money. Not a single person that I know who has taken phlebotomy or EKG has ever found a job due to requirements in the area. When asked for more training they ignore you and tell you that you need to pay even more money for the extra training.Chris Attakk

The phlebotomy program through American Professional Educational Services was phenomenal. The classroom information was presented professionally and accurately without any gaps in content. The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and relatable. Ample lab time was provided for maximum hands-on skills learning. I was more than prepared for the national exam and was able to secure a job in the phlebotomy field without a delay. I highly recommend APES programs and certification classes.Debra Gosselin

911 Programs failed me to succeed in the field that I trained and tested for when active. My perception of this program, they’re only interested in helping those that they like. And, in light of assistance I received from the state while training for Phlebotomy I was not considered as someone whom was in need of a career under their watch. However, I finished at the top of my class on skills and testing results. After obtaining my certificate/license in Phlebotomy, eights years later still without work and eventually was forced to abandon my certificate/license as the renewal fee became a burden. Given my experience I would strongly not recommend this program based on their unprofessionalism, not trustworthy and dependable.Aaftaab T. Aahil

This place is a waste of money! They do not properly train you for a career, they do not help you find a job and if you criticize them or tell the truth about your terrible experience with them they accuse you of being a person that didn’t go there with a fake account and running a smear campaign on them! They also delete any negative comments on their Facebook page! This place is not professional, they do not teach properly and effectively! The owner also lives in Florida now! I would never recommend this place to anyone to try to get skills for a new career!!!Lynn Belle

They don't return calls…. I have called 3 times and left messages on a machine and with a human and still no return call. I had a friend stop in there to get brochures/information since I am in the process of moving back to RI and was interested in one of there programs….he was told they have no paper information to call and leave a message! Problem is we already did that. I am not feeling very positive about the program.Fran B

Incredible EMS Education!! I took RICTC EMT Basic class a few years ago. The instructors taught in way that I could take what was in the book and put it into practice with real world scenarios. I can't advocate for them more -than to say, I passed my National EMT- Basic test on the first try…. Then I just recently went and took their AEMT / Cardiac course and passed on the first try. They really teach you how to provide and understand EMS care not just the education to pass the test. A++ In my book! Thank you Instructor Richards for everything! I am now a successful and passionate provider because of you and your school.Shane Mercier

This review is strictly focused on the Brown University campus, and not the actual curriculum, because we have almost no shot of getting into the University. This campus is so historically gorgeous in architecture, location and layout, it really surrounds you. The capitol city of Providence is the background for the entire experience. I fell in love with Brown, and I've lived close by for 35 years. ❤️Michael Mitchell

Beautiful traditional architecture in the seemingly endless campus grounds, stately brown stone buildings, meticulous landscaping and wide-open green spaces. Thayer street is lively, and hosts a variety of small casual restaurants and cafes featuring cuisine from 3 continents (at least). The area feels quite safe, well maintained and pleasant in every way, compared to most other areas in Providence.Dilyana Ocetova

Brown university- An amazing Ivy League school historical to the city of Providence. They have one the best architectures. Campus is super clean. Make a trip on the weekend when parking is easily available and if not then you should be able to find nearby the campus for $3-$15. They have around 7 public lots available for parking. They have tonne of restaurants in the vicinity.krutartha shah

Do not think about or attempt to apply here if you are looking for a school staffed by compassionate understanding individuals. I was lied to numerous times by admissions and was told false information. They put on a good show and make it seem like they care about you and what you have to offer but at the end of the day all they care about is money and their reputation. Can’t believe I actually wanted to go hereLara Parise

Class of 2007 and had a wonderful time there. I never encountered any racism nor terrible professors. On the contrary, most of my professors went over and above what I expected from them. I will admit there was a professor or two that tested my patience but overall, they were great.Samantha Trinh

An amazing school filled with engaging, caring, and intelligent professors. This school opens you up to incredible opportunities and has an expansive alumni network. Good luck NOT getting a job after you graduate from PC… most people get a job within 5 months of graduating.Kate De Luca

If cost were not a consideration, I can't see why anyone would go to RIC. RIC has gotten into the business of exploiting working/lower middle class "first generation" students, luring them with claims of you're-getting-an-Ivy-league-education-here-for-bottom-dollar. Many other reviewers here are students who over-idealize RIC because they don't know it any other way. As a four-year college, RIC consistently ranks at the BOTTOM of college rankings (not just US News, but Forbes and Wall Street Journal, too). And just look at the graduation rate of 51%. Everyone knows that students trying to put their way through school with two jobs often drop out, but is that the only factor? I doubt it. Look at the average RIC graduate's salary, it's less than $40,000 ten years after graduation! That’s the lowest of all four-year colleges in R.I. Indeed, you get what you pay for at RIC! Never mind this excuse, "our graduates take lower paid jobs as nurses, teachers, and social workers." Other schools, like Salve and URI, have grads entering those fields and their avg. salaries aren't so pitiful! Other than nursing (which does pay well these days), accounting, finance, social work, and the arts majors, most of the other 90 programs are a joke. Why? Sure, there are lazy pothead students, like everywhere else. Other students struggle academically, coming from low performing high schools. But the real problem is the faculty (I mean the tenured ones). Many faculty put little effort into teaching and being accessible to students. Instead, they claim they're too busy with their "research," as if they're "experts" working at a major public research institution (like UConn, Rutgers, or Michigan), where they'd rely on teaching assistants to help teach the class. What kind of research do they do? I really don't know, as you don't usually pick up The New York Times or The Atlantic and read: "according to a Rhode Island College study…" Many of these faculty are pompous, deadwood, liberal elites who use their taxpayer-funded ivory tower as a job for life as they thumb their noses at students. I graduated from RIC 15 years ago, though I took some courses there since and kept tabs on the place. So I'm comfortable saying: math, philosophy, and English depts. were especially bad. Most programs in communications are awful. Political science is very mixed, psychology seemed OK. But what about majoring in education, the biggest deal RIC has going? It got some awful ratings last year when the R.I. Dept. of Ed. did its review. A few School of Ed grad programs lost accreditation and undergrad ones were put on probation. Of course, after many years of bordering on dilapidated, I’m sure the campus is looking better every day, the question is: how it’s ever going to be paid for (the bond issue was only for Gaige, Craig Lee, and Fogarty’s nursing lab). Enrollment and donations were down by the time Carrioulo got the boot 2 years ago. Unfortunately, I don’t have much confidence in Sanchez, as all he seems to care about is the politically correct diversity agenda (when RIC doesn't exactly have a diversity problem with so many urban students attending). Regardless of their background, most students should just save their time (as it almost always takes well over 4 years to graduate from RIC) and money. The best alternatives (if you want an actual job after college) are the 2 year career and technical programs at CCRI or NE Tech. Or, just go to URI, which has a much better reputation (and still has in-state discounts).Bob Richard

It's a nice college, but do your research before you sign up for the professor! It's only my second semester and I had to change this review. Some things have changed, classes are getting better but it was mostly because I looked up the professors on that 'ratemyprofessor' website. Not all of them are bad people. There's a lot of DR. Prefixes in their name but I have yet to see the quality of work. Overall it's not too bad if like I said, you research the professor before you take the class.Joshua Correia

I graduated from RIC back in 2015 and am now attending graduate school. I have so many great memories and had such a great experience here. I had attended two other colleges while trying to decide on a career path and RIC finally felt like home. Great professors and classes. Small safe campus that’s easy to navigate while still being close enough to the city/things to do. I lived in New Hall and everything was new, spacious and updated. I recommend the school to everyone!Ashley Carr

Nick lopresto who is claiming affiliation with Brown is posting selfies from within Brown establishment and also potential expose of patient information in violation of federal HIPA laws.Silver Angel Shines

This school is BY FAR, one of the BEST I have ever attended. Some time ago, I was looking to get my Paramedic. Due to my job, the traditional "Brick & Mortar" style schooling wasnt going to work for me. I searched high and low for courses that offered an online learning platform. I stumbled across one to two more in my searches. Here is what I based my criteria on: Cost, flexibility, bang for my buck, pass rate (which no one holds a candle to), ability to gather info on the program, and personality of the staff I spoke with. During my time of research and making the final decision of where I should attend, NMETC was the only one I felt at peace with when it came to handing over a healthy sum of money and my future. Not only did they teach us, but we learned how to rock solid Paramedics! I would have not gotten to where I am at today if it wasnt for this outstanding group of people and instructors! If you are looking to get you EMT or obtain that Paramedic "Golden Glitter Patch", look no further. You will not be disappointed after it is all complete and you look back on your time here. Thank you again to the entire NMETC Family! Hope to see you all again in the near future!Julian Janoviak

It took me some time to actually write a review but I thought this through and think others should as well before paying for the course. I took the hybrid paramedic course and the online portion was somewhat beneficial but also very expensive for what you're getting. The part I was most disappointed with is the leadership and some of the instructors. The in-person portion was taught by a few burned out paramedics who seemed to care about putting down students rather than lift them up. I will say there were a couple instructors who actually seemed to care but overall the program leaves a lot to be desired. If you're willing to pay quite a bit of money for a cert honestly I would look elsewhere even with the convenience of learning from home or at the site. There are plenty of other programs with instructors who will respect you, your time and money.Kyle D

I can’t stay enough about the quality of this program. After completing an EMT course here over the summer I was able to go into testing for my license with confidence that I had been given all the tools to succeed and not only pass the exam but hopefully go on to be a good provider for future patients. The instructors here are the best you’ll find anywhere and go out of their way to make sure that any student who wants to succeed will be able to reach that goal. Joe and Rachel were our two main instructors and they really are what shaped my experience at NMETC so they deserve a shout out for the time and efforts they make to make this program what it is. I can’t think of one negative to say about this program and would recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing a career in EMS.Carli B

This class was excellent! I've been a part of EMS for three years now and have interacted with lots of different health care professionals, and the instructors at ETRI are the best. Knowledgeable and down to earth, the instructors are accommodating and understand our busy schedules. They are beyond helpful and offer help to students having difficult with course content and curriculum. It is approximately a 6 month program and even though that might seem long for many students it is a 6 months well worth it. I was very confident during my psychomotor and written skills exams and passed on the first attempts! Ron also helps with the follow up for when students apply for licenses by being prompt with all the documentation. Colin and Meg were amazing instructors and engaged students by asking questions to help students understand theory of EMS practices, rather than just the skills need to pass the NREMT. if you are active and participate in the class you will pass the NREMT with flying colors. I feel much more confident a provider because of it. A great investment on your next step in your career. Highly recommend 10/10.Kyle Donovan

I absolutely loved this CPR class! This was my first time taking a CPR class with Emergency Training, and it was by far the BEST class compared to other CPR courses I have taken at different companies in the past. The learning environment is friendly and welcoming. The instructor, Ron, truly cares about the success of each person attending the class and went out of his way to create a powerpoint with real-life videos of CPR strategies being utilized. He explained concepts in a clear and concise way. Ron is a dedicated instructor and even offered to stay beyond class hours to help anyone who felt they needed additional help! I am also a visual and kinesthetic learner and really appreciated that this class utilized both of these methods of teaching! Overall, I truly learned so much and feel more confident in my abilities because of this class and the instructor. I will definitely be coming back here when I have to renew my CPR certification!Brittany Marchetti

I needed to take my EMT-B again because I want to go back to the Fire service. This was the best experience I’ve ever had taking adult education courses. The staff is friendly, kind, understanding and flexible. with owning a business it was hard to make it to class on time sometimes at all and they were very understanding and helped me every step of the way. They treat each class like a family and it shows. I have been and will continue to recommend Emergency Training RI to anybody looking to get into the pre hospital medical field!Jonathon Sisto

I attended CCRI from beginning 2015- mid 2017. During this time I can say that I was thoroughly disappointed. During the second semester of my freshmen year my grandmother fell deathly ill. This destroyed me, and prevented me from going to class. However, due to the timing of this illness, I was not allowed to simply drop courses. Instead I was charged for the entire bill and received failing grades in all but one class. When I tried to make arrangements with the professors to have them send me the work via email or digitally only ONE of FOUR was kind hearted enough to agree. The others simply waived me away and dropped me from the course for lack of attendance. This entire experience nearly discouraged me from attending school altogether. However, since leaving CCRI, I have been attending another school (University not community college) that actually cares about its students and wants them to succeed. I am now THE (singular) top performing student in my major for my class. TLDR; Don't attend here. They don't want to see you succeed and would rather give up on students then be compassionate when hard times hit.Jacob “MiiGod” B

Graduate here! Whoop whoop! I worked damn near hard for it too! I have learned so much from some amazing professors, such as Elizabeth burns, Zackery Kerigan, Michael Burdon, The biology department. Of course their are bad individuals, but so are there everywhere else. People, we live in a universe WE DO NOT control and that can be scary, trust me I know! I have dealt with some cruel heartless advisors but I did not give up and found a great advisor named Pamela who pushed me to get over my hurdle so that now I have been able to graduate! Thank you to the police officers now in the building to keep students safe from any danger even though there has not been any immediate danger thus far. Thank you again Community College of Rhode Island for allowing me to get on my feet and move forward with my life! Remember this, we cannot control the 90% of the outside world: but we CAN control the 10% internal self. Be great ! 😎Empress Ess

Unprofessional and awful professors. Have a friend here who submitted their midterm through email to a professor. They followed it up with a reminder email, AND reminded the professor again on the software they use to communicate yet still got graded a 0 for "not handing in their work". Let me repeat that this student sent TWO REMINDERS to the professor that they had turned in their work through email. This may seem like a careless mistake but as an outsider this is beyond abysmal and quite frankly indicative of how much they truly care for their students. Unsure of how they will handle this situation, don't expect much at this point. If you would like to earn a grade that you deserve and be rewarded for your efforts consider an education elsewhere.yeet yeet

Received a bill for an ambulance ride to transfer hospitals. I called the company number on the bill to place payment, nobody answered and I left a message. I called 4 more times within the span of three months to pay my bill, despite getting threatening letters in the mail that they will report me to collections. By the FIFTH time leaving a message, someone FINALLY got back to me for payment. I’ve never had to try so hard to pay someone in my life. The billing department needs to get their act together. As far as the medics in the ambulance ride- good. No complaints there. The billing department left a sour taste in my mouth.John K

Refused to take my mother home from hospital demanding cash up front even though she’s on Medicare, demanded hundreds and hundreds of dollars out of pocket. Blue Cross called and explained she is covered, Gloria denied ever speaking to blue cross even though Bluecross kept written records. Gloria also screamed at me for 5 minutes solid that her job isn’t to help sick people it’s to get payment. Expect to hear from atty gen office about Medicare fraudDavid Miles

The person that was transferring my father had little to NO knowledge on how to transfer a patient using a hoyer sling. He could not even figure out how to get the wheelchair out if the van without assistance. He also had a very difficult time pushing wheelchair, I assisted with all aspects, yet we paid them a hefty fee for poor service. Very unsatisfied. Would NOT recommend or use them again.Leann Dunn

McNeilly EMS was an easy and reliable source for BLS Recertification! Jake answered my questions via email within minutes… on the 4th of July and at 10pm! Erin was super helpful in finding the correct recertification for me and got me in same-day for a demo! Billy was a great instructor and very knowledgeable and experienced! Both were very professional and enthusiastic in sharing about the facility which is state of the art and all encompassing. An awesome resource to have here on the North Shore! I'll never recertify anywhere else! Thanks everyone at McNeilly! I'll be back!!!Tyese Aldrich