In a partnership between the University of South Dakota School of Health Sciences and Sanford Health, a new program is available to students interested in a bachelor’s degree in health sciences with specialization in paramedics. June Larson is the Associate Dean for the School of Health Sciences and says the program allows students the opportunity to continue their education past paramedic training.

Larson says the degree will take two full academic years, plus some summer work required. The school hopes to initially enroll no more than ten students in the program this fall. She says this program was developed to address a significant need within the region for paramedics and pre-hospital care and treatment.

Larson says this program is unique because the students earn academic credit while receiving training.