Emergency Medical Services Administration Degree at EOU

Emergency Medical Services Administration

The Emergency Medical Services Administration (EMSA) program at Eastern Oregon University is the only West Coast degree program accredited to the National Fire Academy’s FESHE Model Curriculum standards. Designed for paramedics and EMTs, this fully online program provides advanced knowledge in managing and administering emergency medical systems.

The curriculum addresses gaps often left by on-the-job training, covering communications, legal issues, and business principles in EMS. Students can apply their EMT or Paramedic certifications for academic credit, making the program efficient and relevant. Aligned with the FESHE standards, EOU’s EMSA program equips students with the skills needed to lead and manage EMS systems effectively.


Graduates of EOU’s EMSA program gain the knowledge and skills needed to manage and lead emergency medical services with confidence. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical expertise to prepare students for success in this dynamic field.

  • Manage and lead EMS systems effectively.
  • Apply legal and regulatory knowledge in EMS operations.
  • Enhance teamwork and communication in emergencies.
  • Apply business principles to EMS management.
  • Improve EMS service delivery and patient care.

Completing the program prepares you for leadership roles in EMS organizations, empowering you to drive improvements and innovation in emergency medical services.


EOU’s EMSA program offers a fully online format designed to fit the busy schedules of working EMS professionals. This flexibility allows you to balance studies with work and personal life while advancing your education.

Online learning provides access to a comprehensive curriculum from anywhere, with interactive coursework, virtual discussions, and extensive resources. The program delivers a high-quality, flexible education that prepares you to succeed in the management and administration of emergency medical services.


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