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Southeast Tech–Sanford partnership reports high pass and placement rates for paramedic graduates
Summary
The college’s two-year paramedic associate degree, launched with Sanford Health in 2021, reported a 96% National Registry pass rate and 100% employer placement for graduates.
Southeast Technical College and Sanford Health briefed the board on the paramedic science program’s outcomes and partnerships, saying the program has produced certified paramedics who are being hired throughout the region.
Ryan Sittig, program director for the paramedic program, described the partnership as combining Southeast Tech’s academic framework with Sanford’s clinical training and simulation resources. “This collaboration combines the strengths of both institutions,” Sittig said. He told the board the program is a two‑year associate of applied science and includes six specialty certifications in addition to eligibility to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Paramedic Exam.
Sittig reported 18 students currently enrolled and said 24 students have graduated since the program began in 2021. He said program retention is “almost 80%” and the national registry pass rate is 96%, with nearly 90% passing on their first attempt. “Our positive placement rate or employment rate is 100 percent,” he added, noting graduates are working in Sioux Falls and surrounding communities.
The program’s instructional team includes paramedic educators and physician leadership from Sanford; Sittig emphasized access to Sanford’s level‑1 trauma center and simulation technology as distinctive training assets. Board members asked about differences between volunteer or shorter training tracks in rural systems and the college’s program; Sittig explained paramedic education is substantially longer and more in depth than the 50–200 hour EMT/EMR trainings and that Southeast Tech’s degree curriculum (roughly 1,200–1,400 hours of instruction) is designed to prepare graduates for supervisory and education roles.
Board members also asked about psychological supports for students; Sittig said the program includes early-year training on mental health and resiliency and that Southeast Tech student‑support services are available for referrals.
The board moved to acknowledge the paramedic program report; the motion passed.
