Program Overview

---

Pre-hospital Care (EMT) for Nurses Course

The Creighton University RN to EMT accelerated course offers an intensive, three-phase pathway for nurses and other experienced healthcare professionals seeking to expand their scope of practice into the prehospital environment. Designed to build on participants existing clinical expertise, the program follows a blended learning model that integrates online preparation, hands-on instruction, and real-world experience.

Course Structure

• Phase I: Online pre-work and self-assessments to establish foundational EMS knowledge
• Phase II: One-week, in-person session on the Omaha campus focused on essential EMT skills, patient assessment, and emergency care scenarios
• Phase III: Supervised field experience through ambulance ride-alongs, which allows participants to apply their learning in active prehospital settings

Course Overview

To ensure the highest quality, most up-to-date EMT education, this innovative Pre-hospital Care for Nurses course was developed by emergency medical and education experts. It follows the United States Department of Transportation Emergency Medical Technician Educational Guidelines and Standards. The curriculum blends evidence-based instruction with hands-on skill development, giving nurses the opportunity to expand their clinical expertise into the field of pre-hospital training.

The course will build upon existing knowledge of patient care in the clinical environment while training participants to provide exceptional and compassionate emergency care outside of a clinical setting. The course helps open new opportunities to serve in emergency medical services, disaster response, and other urgent care roles. By completing this course, participants will be equipped to bridge the gap between hospital-based care and the demands of the field, making them versatile and highly trained providers of emergency medical care.

Certification

This course also prepares participants to sit for the National Registry of EMT Certification examination.

Admission Requirements

Along with the application, participants must submit:

• Transcripts from institution(s) attended for professional training, the institution that awarded the highest degree, and any institution where the participant is currently enrolled
• A comprehensive certified background check, completed by a vendor chosen by Creighton
• Proof of RN or LPN licensure
• Resume
• A short essay
• A minimum of two references; possible recommenders include an instructor, professional colleague, or employer
• A copy of the drivers license or other government-issued photo ID

Immunizations

Admitted students must also comply with the immunization requirements for Creighton Health Sciences students.

Course Pricing

The total cost, including tuition and associated University fees, for this course is $1,200. Payment is due in full 60 days before the course start date.

Other variable expenses include:

• Textbook
• Certification exam fee
• Uniform
• Immunizations (if not current)
• Required background check and drug screen
• Parking pass for on-campus parking
• Travel, housing, and meal expenses

Career Opportunities

Graduates can use their EMT-for-Nurses training to prepare for roles like:

• EMT (paid or volunteer) with local EMS/fire services after NREMT/state certification
• Event and venue medical teams (sports, concerts, community gatherings) leveraging RN/LPN and EMT skills
• Disaster response and preparedness
• Emergency department liaison/triage nurse strengthening prehospitalED handoffs and rapid assessment
• Interfacility/transport and mobile care teams where RN experience is required
• Community paramedicine partner supporting home visits, navigation, and follow-up care

Upcoming Course Dates

June 15, 2026

Application deadline is March 1, 2026, unless spots are filled before the application date.

November 26, 2026

Application deadline is August 1, 2026, unless spots are filled before the application date.

Students will have 6 months from the start of the course to complete all clinical components of the course but will attend on-campus classes for one week, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to enroll in the Pre-Hospital Care for Nurses course?

The course is intended for RNs, LPNs, and other healthcare professionals who want the skills to deliver emergency care outside hospital settings.

Are there any prerequisites or required certifications?

There are no prerequisite courses or assessments, and no certifications are required.

Does the course prepare students for the National Registry of EMT Certification examination?

Yes, the course is designed to prepare participants for this exam. Participants should be prepared to pay the certification exam fee.

How long is the course?

While its only a week-long course, participants will need to commit extra time outside the course to successfully meet its requirements. Participants will have 6 months from the start of the course to complete all clinical components of the course.