GADSDEN– The Gadsden State Community College Emergency Medical Services Program has earned full five-year programmatic accreditation.

The program will also welcome 115 students this fall, its largest incoming class in more than 15 years.

The college announced both milestones Thursday. Gadsden State said the record class reflects growing demand for emergency medical professionals across Northeast Alabama.

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs granted the accreditation. Its decision followed a recommendation from the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions.

According to Gadsden State, the five-year term represents the highest accreditation level awarded.

Accreditation Review Covers Curriculum and Student Outcomes

During the accreditation process, reviewers evaluated the curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, clinical experiences, field internships, and institutional support.

Programmatic accreditation assesses whether specialized professional programs meet accepted quality standards. In addition, it helps support a well-prepared and qualified health care workforce.

Gadsden State credited EMS Program Director John Hollingsworth with helping the program meet the standards. The college also recognized full-time faculty members Tracy Shew and Brian Selke.

The program also partners with regional hospitals, ambulance services, fire departments, and other health care organizations. Those partnerships give students clinical and field experience alongside classroom and laboratory instruction.

Dr. Joey Battles, dean of Health Sciences, called the accreditation “a tremendous accomplishment.” He said it reflects the commitment of faculty and staff to providing students with an exceptional education.

Battles also linked the record enrollment to the need for highly trained emergency medical professionals. As a result, he said the program will help strengthen the region’s EMS workforce.

Record Class Reflects Regional Workforce Demand

Gadsden State expects to welcome 115 EMS students for fall 2026. According to the college, that marks the program’s largest incoming class in more than 15 years.

Students receive hands-on instruction from experienced faculty, along with training on advanced equipment and emergency simulations. They also gain clinical and field experience through regional EMS agencies and health care providers.

The program emphasizes clinical excellence, evidence-based practice, teamwork, and leadership. Ultimately, graduates leave with the technical skills and confidence needed to respond during critical emergencies.

“Emergency medical professionals play an essential role in the health and safety of our communities,” Hollingsworth said.

He said the incoming class will help meet workforce demand by preparing EMTs, Advanced EMTs, and paramedics.

Meanwhile, the EMS milestone follows another enrollment record within Gadsden State’s Health Sciences Division. This summer, the Gadsden State Cherokee nursing program welcomed its largest class, with 54 students at the Centre campus.

More information is available through Gadsden State’s Health Sciences programs.