Over the last four decades, many in the field of EMS have called for more education in emergency medical services (EMS) leadership. According to Time Magazine, EMS is projected to grow an astounding 22% over the next ten years.
With that growth the need for leaders with formal education in the science of leadership is going to explode.
There are a number of views that say that leadership is a quality that you are born with…or not. There is no scientific basis that backs this up. A person can become a much better leader simply by learning about the scientific basis of leadership as well as observing leaders, both good and bad. Within the online classes taught at EKU’s paramedic program, we delve deeply into leadership, effective and not so effective.
One study showed that the transformational type of leader was the most effective within the realm of EMS (Mineo, 2009). Transformational leadership is defined as, “Style of leadership in which the leader identifies the needed change, creates a vision to guide the change through inspiration, and executes the change with the commitment of the members of the group.” (Business Dictionary.com, 2015). This type of leadership inspires people to follow you as you convince them of the rightness or importance of your beliefs and how it can impact and benefit them as a follower.
The online degree program for paramedics at EKU focuses in on this type of leadership. Within the classes you take, which are identical to the ones taught in our face to face offerings, you will learn more about the science of leadership, what makes an effective leader and the difference between a leader and a manager. Your experience as a paramedic is valuable and that is why we GIVE you up to 18 credits AT NO COST for that experience. In addition, there is absolutely no on campus attendance required (but we would be thrilled if you decided to come by for a visit!).
Interested in learning more about paramedicine and emergency medical care degrees for EMTs?
Complete the form on this page for more information about EKU Online’s emergency medical care program. A degree from a regionally accredited university like EKU can provide the important skills needed to gain a competitive edge in the job market. EKU has been an online education leader for more than 15 years.
Learn more about our nationally respected Emergency Medical Care program, which provides the skills and knowledge needed to pursue advancement opportunities and the flexibility required to work full time while earning your degree.
References
Mineo, F. P. (2009). An examination of the relationship between leadership styles and organizational sector culture for the emergency medical services leader (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database
What is transformational leadership? Definition and meaning. (2015, March). Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/transformational-leadership.html