Dakota College Launches Fast-Track Paramedic Program

New 14-month program aims to address shortage of first responders in North Dakota

Mar. 25, 2026 at 5:03pm

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Dakota College at Bottineau has introduced a new Paramedic Technology program to help address the growing need for first responders in North Dakota. The 14-month fast-track program builds on students' existing EMT certifications, allowing them to quickly gain the skills and qualifications needed to become licensed paramedics.

Why it matters

North Dakota, like many states, is facing a shortage of qualified paramedics and other first responders. This new program at Dakota College aims to quickly train and certify new paramedics to fill this critical gap and ensure communities across the state have access to emergency medical services.

The details

The Paramedic Technology program at Dakota College runs for 14 months across four semesters. Applicants must already be certified as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) before enrolling. The program then builds on the students' existing EMT knowledge and training to prepare them for the paramedic certification exam. Program manager Mary Jund says the accelerated curriculum is designed to fast-track new paramedics into the field to address the statewide shortage.

  • The Paramedic Technology program at Dakota College begins accepting applications on April 1, 2026.

The players

Dakota College at Bottineau

A public community college located in Bottineau, North Dakota, offering associate's degree programs including the new Paramedic Technology program.

Mary Jund

The program manager for the Paramedic Technology program at Dakota College.

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What they’re saying

“A paramedic shortage is impacting states nationwide.”

— Mary Jund, Program Manager, Paramedic Technology

What’s next

The Paramedic Technology program at Dakota College will begin accepting applications on April 1, 2026 for the next cohort of students.

The takeaway

This new fast-track paramedic program at Dakota College is an important step in addressing the critical shortage of first responders in North Dakota, ensuring communities across the state have access to emergency medical services.