Emergency Medical Services Administration Degree at EOU

Emergency Medical Services Administration

Welcome to Emergency Medical Services Administration at Eastern Oregon University, the only degree program on the West Coast accredited to meet the National Fire Academy’s FESHE Model Curriculum standards. Our program is designed for paramedics and EMTs who seek advanced knowledge in managing and administering emergency medical systems. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or enhance your expertise, our flexible, fully online program offers the comprehensive education needed to excel in this critical field.

EOU’s EMSA program provides specialized training tailored to the unique needs of emergency medical services management. The curriculum is crafted to fill the gaps often left by on-the-job training, covering essential topics such as communications, legal aspects, and fundamental business principles within the context of emergency medical healthcare. Students can leverage their existing EMT or Paramedic certifications for academic credit, further enhancing the relevance and efficiency of their educational journey. By aligning with the National Fire Academy’s FESHE Model Curriculum, our program ensures that you gain the advanced skills needed to lead and manage EMS systems effectively.

Skills for Effective EMS Management


Graduates of EOU’s EMSA program are prepared to tackle the complexities of managing and administering emergency medical services with confidence and expertise. The program equips you with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in this dynamic field.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Develop advanced management and administrative skills specific to EMS systems.
  • Apply legal and regulatory knowledge to ensure compliance and effective operation.
  • Utilize communication strategies to enhance teamwork and coordination in emergency situations.
  • Integrate business principles into the management of EMS resources and operations.
  • Assess and implement best practices for improving EMS service delivery and patient care.

By completing this program, you’ll be well-prepared to assume leadership roles within EMS organizations, leveraging your comprehensive education to drive improvements and innovations in emergency medical services.

Online Convenience for Busy Professionals


EOU’s EMSA program is designed with flexibility in mind, offering a fully online format that accommodates the demanding schedules of working EMS professionals. This online approach allows you to balance your studies with your professional responsibilities and personal life, providing a convenient and accessible path to advancing your education.

The value of online education for this degree is significant. It enables you to engage with a robust curriculum from any location, making it easier to integrate learning with your existing commitments. With interactive coursework, virtual discussions, and a wealth of online resources, you’ll receive a high-quality education that is both flexible and effective, preparing you for success in the management and administration of emergency medical services.

Contact Us


Kevin Walker, J.D., M.B.A.
Associate Professor
FSA and EMSA Program Chair
541.962.3373
kwalker@eou.edu


Dan O’Grady, B.S.
FSA and EMSA Administration Degree Advisor
EOU Portland
Clackamas Community College
Harmony Campus-Rm 130
7738 SE Harmony Rd
Portland, OR 97222
541.962.3341
dogrady@eou.edu

“I enrolled in the Emergency Medical Service Administration (EMSA) program at EOU in fall 2015 with a specific goal in mind: to become a contributing leader in the field of emergency medicine. I have followed a non-traditional path with regards to my education. I enlisted in the Army right out of high school and after 6 years of service I was medically discharged due to a parachute accident during an airborne jump. Through this experience, I developed an interest in emergency medicine and began pursuing the required education to become an EMT-Paramedic. I currently work as an incident medical specialist on wildfires while taking classes full time at EOU. The EMSA advising team is extremely helpful and willing to work with students based on their individual background and existing commitments. I was granted permission to complete my paramedic program concurrently with the EMSA program. The flexibility of the online format is great as it allows me to work while taking courses. As a veteran, EOU’s team was able to guide me through the process of using my GI Bill® benefits to the fullest. The knowledge gained from my EMSA courses directly applies to the field and is essential to understanding the leadership and administrative responsibilities in emergency medicine. “

Peter Byrne
Emergency Medical Service Administration
Incident Medical Specialist