CWU Paramedic Program Undergoes Review

January 29, 2007

ELLENSBURG, Wash. -- Central Washington University's nationally accredited and internationally recognized Bachelor of Science degree program in paramedics is undergoing a mid-year review to see how the program could be enhanced for its current and future students.

"We are certainly sad to see professor Booth leave," says Dr. David Soltz, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. "She has done a tremendous job in replacing Dorothy Purser, who founded our paramedics program. The challenge we face is finding high-quality faculty to replace those like Carolyn and Dorothy when they leave. These instructors are in extremely high demand."

Central's program is fully accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP), which is a member of the national Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). During the last annual CoAEMSP reaccreditation process, it was suggested that the university enhance the paramedic program's training equipment along with adding a halftime clerical staff member.

Because of the hands-on nature of the training, a total of 24 applicants are admitted to the program each year. Founded in 1977, it is the oldest bachelor's degree program for paramedics in the country, according to Dr. Rebecca Bowers, dean of the CWU College of Education and Professional Studies.

"The program has gained a well-deserved reputation for high-caliber academics and training," Bowers notes. "Employers tell us that our graduates are extremely well prepared for the challenges -- and life-and-death situations -- that they will face."

Contact: Robert Lowery (509-963-1487/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: loweryr@cwu.edu)