Leading the Next Generation of EMTs: Inside PERCOMOnline’s Texas EMT Program

By Jane Dinsmore: BS, LP, NREMT-P; Program Director of PERCOMOnline EMS School

Every year, hundreds of aspiring Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) across Texas start their journey with a mixture of excitement, determination, and a healthy dose of nerves. At PERCOMOnline EMS School, I see this firsthand. As Program Director, I’ve watched our online EMT course transform students from all walks of life—working parents, college students, career changers—into skilled, confident, and compassionate healthcare professionals.

So what makes our online EMT program different? What does it take to succeed in this field, and why is online education not just a convenience, but in many ways, the future of EMS training in Texas? Let me take you behind the scenes.

The PERCOMOnline Approach

Our roots are deep in Texas EMS education. We’ve been state-approved and operational since 2007, and our EMT course is accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), as well as recognized by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). This means our curriculum isn’t just up to standard—it’s built to exceed expectations, blending rigorous academic content with the flexibility that today’s learners need.

Why Online?

When people hear “online EMT class,” they sometimes imagine a watered-down version of traditional instruction. That’s not what we do. Our program is designed to deliver the same quality of training you’d get in a brick-and-mortar classroom, but with the flexibility to fit real lives.

Here’s what sets our online EMT course apart:

Comprehensive, Self-Paced Didactics: Our online platform is open 24/7. Students can access high-quality lectures, reading assignments, interactive modules, and quizzes whenever and wherever they want. This doesn’t mean it’s easy—self-motivation and discipline are essential—but it does mean that people who work odd hours or live far from training centers can participate fully.
Live In-Person Skills Labs: You can’t become an EMT without hands-on training. We use live, instructor-led skills sessions at our facilities, where students demonstrate psychomotor skills over video under direct observation from certified instructors. This real-time feedback is crucial; we won’t sign anyone off until they’ve mastered the required competencies.
In-Person Clinical and Field Rotations: After mastering online and hands-on skills, students complete clinical shifts in hospitals and ride-alongs with EMS agencies. We have partnerships with sites throughout Texas, and our clinical coordinators work hard to help students find locations convenient to them.
National and State Exam Preparation: Our graduates are eligible for both the NREMT certification and Texas EMT license. We provide robust prep for NREMT certification, including research and final exams, content review, and one-on-one support.

Regulatory Compliance and Accreditation

As Program Director, regulatory compliance is always at the top of my mind. Our EMT course is fully approved by Texas DSHS and follows the 2009 National EMS Education Standards. We’re also recognized by the National Registry, so our graduates are eligible to work not just in Texas, but in most other states (always check individual state requirements).

Our accreditation and approvals aren’t just paperwork. They’re a promise—to our students and to the communities they’ll serve—that our training is current, comprehensive, and meets the highest standards in the industry.

Student Experience: Rigor, Support, and Real-World Readiness

What’s it like to be a PERCOMOnline EMT student? Challenging, for sure. But also deeply rewarding. Here’s what our students can expect:

Personalized Advising: Every student has access to our staff and faculty, who are there to answer questions, provide encouragement, and help navigate any bumps in the road.
Responsive Instructors: Our faculty are all experienced EMS professionals who understand the realities of prehospital care. They’re available by email and virtual office hours.
Community: Our online forums, study groups, and peer support networks foster a sense of belonging and teamwork, even in a virtual environment.

The Texas Difference

Texas is unique. Our EMS system is among the largest and most diverse in the country, serving sprawling rural areas, dense cities, and everything in between. Our EMTs need to be adaptable, resourceful, and ready for anything. We design our training with this in mind, using Texas-specific protocols, scenarios, and clinical sites whenever possible.

Who Should Apply?

If you’re disciplined, self-motivated, and passionate about helping others, you can succeed here. Our students range from high school graduates to seasoned healthcare professionals seeking new skills. Some are looking for a stepping stone to paramedic training, nursing, or medicine; others want to serve their communities on the front lines of emergency care.

The Application Process

Admission to PERCOMOnline’s EMT program is straightforward but selective. We require a high school diploma or GED, a clean background check, and a genuine commitment to the demands of EMS work. Prospective students can first discuss their background and qualifications with our Admissions team via phone, email, or Support ticket to assess their ability to join the EMS field. Once pre-qualified, the prospective student can then signup for a course at our online store and complete the registration process for enrollment.

Outcomes That Matter

Our graduates have a strong track record of passing the National Registry and Texas state certification exams. More importantly, they enter the workforce ready to make a difference—whether that’s saving lives on an ambulance, working in emergency rooms, or continuing on to advanced EMS or medical careers.

Why PERCOMOnline?

We’re not the biggest EMS school in Texas, but we pride ourselves on quality, integrity, and student outcomes. Our online EMT program isn’t for everyone—if you want a diploma with minimal effort, look elsewhere. But if you’re ready to work hard, learn deeply, and join a family of dedicated EMS professionals, we’re here to help you take the next step.

Final Thoughts

The world of emergency medicine is changing. Today’s EMTs need more than just technical skills—they need adaptability, empathy, and the ability to learn on the fly. Online education, delivered thoughtfully and rigorously, is helping to shape the future of EMS in Texas.

At PERCOMOnline, we’re proud to be leading that charge.

For more information about our EMT course, please visit our info page for PERCOMOnline’s online EMT Program. My team and I are always happy to answer questions and help you chart your path forward. The communities of Texas need skilled EMTs. If you’re ready to answer that call, we’re ready to help you get there.