EMT Certification & Training in California
Fast, state-approved EMT programs in Oakland & Sacramento
✓ One of California’s fastest EMT programs
✓ Job placement pathways available
✓ Trusted by healthcare & fire professionals
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.
Are You Eligible? Admission Requirements
Basic Requirements
Pre-Program Requirements
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:
Each program page provides an overview of coursework, skills training, testing requirements, and timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still Have Questions?
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