National Park College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program is entering the fall semester with record momentum, reporting more than 200 percent growth in Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) applicants since Fall 2025.
With 29 EMT students and 19 Advanced EMT and Paramedic candidates, the program is welcoming its largest incoming cohort in five years, a strong indicator of NPC’s growing reputation in EMS education across Arkansas.
According to EMT and Paramedic Instructor Matt Scroggins, the surge reflects intentional growth, strong leadership and a continued commitment to student success.
“Our vision is to build a program that prepares students for real-world EMS while creating a supportive environment where they can succeed,” Scroggins said. “Together, we are building something we can all be proud of.”
In the past year, the EMS program has strengthened its structure. The addition of Program Director Scott Gann, whose background in EMS education and accreditation brings strong direction, and Ryan Hamilton, who now leads clinical coordination, helps create a leadership team focused on excellence.
“Putting the right people in the right roles allowed us to focus on what matters most,” Scroggins said. “When we put student success as the forefront, we continue to build on our goals.”
Arkansas continues to face a significant shortage of EMS professionals, and NPC is positioning its graduates to step directly into that gap.
The program offers a hybrid schedule designed for working EMTs, giving students a guaranteed day off for class while allowing them to complete coursework from home. Labs have been structured to maximize hands-on time and the program is expanding its offerings to meet regional demand.
“If you’re already working as an EMT and want to advance your career, NPC makes it possible without putting your life on hold,” Scroggins said. “We’ve updated our curriculum and added resources to help students pass the National Registry exam on the first try. Our goal is to help every graduate leave NPC confident, skilled and ready for work.”
NPC currently runs multiple EMT cohorts each year and plans to launch two Advanced EMT and Paramedic cohorts annually starting in 2027.
“We are working to meet the needs of Garland County and surrounding areas,” Scroggins said. “When services see the NPC patch, they know they’re getting someone trained to a high standard.”
For current student Nevin Spatz, who completed the EMT program in Spring 2026 and is returning this fall as an Advanced EMT student, NPC offered a clear path toward his career.
“I know a few nurses and teachers who went to NPC,” Spatz said. “I knew by their recommendation and good experience that I only wanted to attend National Park College for my Associates, EMT and Paramedic program. All the class time was beneficial for getting right to work. Once I had my license, I went straight into the field.”
Larger cohorts allow instructors to design more complex scenarios that mirror the realities of EMS work. Students begin holding each other accountable, working as a team and developing the critical thinking skills they’ll rely on in the field.
“A full roster creates a positive, competitive atmosphere where everyone raises their game,” Scroggins said. “It feels less like a classroom and more like preparation for the job they’re about to do.”
As the program continues to grow, NPC is expanding its training opportunities to ensure graduates flourish in a competitive field.
“Our graduates stand out because they’re trained to think on their feet,” Scroggins said. “They arrive on the street with stronger skills and more confidence than many of their peers. We want NPC to be our region’s program of choice and everyone on the team is working toward that goal.”