Colorado Mesa University is quickly climbing the ranks of accredited education programs with recognition on Fire Science Online’s list of 100 Colleges Where Graduates Save Lives.

Due to nine first response programs, CMU is ranked number 48 of 100 schools for future first responders, including firefighting, EMT and law enforcement.

Fire Science Online reviewed about 7,000 programs available at 2,500 colleges and universities, with most schools averaging 2.7 first responder programs.

The need for first responders such as EMTs and paramedics has grown immensely in the past several years ­­— by 33 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“First response careers hold a special place in society today and require dedicated and highly-trained men and women,” said Matt Davis, managing director of Fire Science Online. “These 100 colleges help students transition from life-changing courses to life-saving careers.”

Students interested in a career in emergency first responder services can enroll in the Emergency Medical Responder course. The course meets the requirements to become a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Responder (NREMR).

Other first response certificates available at CMU include a Technical Certificate in Emergency Medical Technician, Technical Certificate in Paramedic and Associate of Applied Science in Paramedic.

arildefonso@mavs.coloradomesa.edu