Why Choose Project Heartbeat for EMT Training?

Project Heartbeat provides state-approved EMT training programs in California for students pursuing careers in emergency medical services and healthcare. With campuses in Oakland and Sacramento, our EMT programs are designed to prepare students for National Registry EMT (NREMT) certification through hands-on instruction, skills training, and structured coursework. Students can choose from accelerated, standard, or extended EMT program options based on their schedule, experience level, and career goals.

Choose the EMT Program That Fits Your Schedule & Goals

Project Heartbeat offers multiple EMT training pathways to accommodate different schedules, learning styles, and career timelines. All EMT programs meet California state requirements and prepare students for National Registry EMT (NREMT) certification.

A Day in the Life of an EMT Student

What EMT Training Looks Like at Project Heartbeat

EMT training at Project Heartbeat combines classroom instruction, hands-on skills labs, and real-world emergency scenarios. Regardless of program length, students follow a structured progression that builds confidence, clinical judgment, and readiness for the National Registry EMT (NREMT) exam.

Students can expect a typical training experience to include:

• Interactive classroom sessions covering EMS systems, patient assessment, medical and trauma emergencies, and professional responsibilities
• Skills lab days focused on vital signs, airway management, CPR/AED, bleeding control, splinting, and patient movement
• Scenario-based training using real-world medical and trauma simulations to reinforce decision-making and teamwork
• Skills evaluations and testing aligned with California and National Registry EMT standards
• Exam preparation and review to support success on written and practical certification exams

Program pacing varies by format, but all EMT students complete the same core competencies required for certification.

Hands-On Skills Are Central to EMT Training

EMT education is skill-driven. Throughout the program, students rotate through multiple hands-on skill stations designed to mirror real emergency situations. Training emphasizes:

• Patient assessment and vital signs
• Airway and ventilation management
• Cardiac arrest response and CPR/AED
• Bleeding control and trauma care
• Lifting, moving, and extrication techniques

Skills labs are structured, proctored, and performance-based. Students must demonstrate competency across required EMT skills to successfully complete the program.

Program Structure That Builds Confidence

Each EMT program is designed to balance instruction with practice. As students progress, training shifts from foundational concepts to increasingly complex medical and trauma scenarios. This approach helps students develop:

• Clinical confidence
• Team communication skills
• Situational awareness
• Readiness for field environments

Accelerated programs move at a faster pace, while extended programs allow more time for reinforcement — but all formats lead to the same EMT certification eligibility.

Career Pathways & Job Placement Opportunities

Project Heartbeat has established relationships with several Northern California ambulance companies to support EMT graduates as they transition into the workforce. Students who successfully complete EMT training and required certifications may qualify for job placement opportunities, depending on employer requirements and availability.

Please contact Allan Bulda at abulda@eagle-ambulance.com for details on potential job placements upon graduation and completion of all pre-employment requirements.

Learn More About Each EMT Program

For schedules, daily expectations and to sign up, explore each program page:

• Accelerated 2.5-Week EMT Program
• 5-Week EMT Program
• 8-Week EMT Program

Each program page provides an overview of coursework, skills training, testing requirements, and timelines.

29 Years of Healthcare Education Excellence

Since 1996, Project Heartbeat has been Northern California’s trusted leader in healthcare education. Our mission—”Saving Lives Through Education”—guides every EMT program we offer, from accelerated training to hands-on skills development.

Frequently Asked Questions

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