Northwood University offering accelerated degree programs for first responders | News [Video]

MIDLAND, Mich. (WJRT) – First responders are out everyday helping keep our communities safe.

Many doing so with just an associates degree and little time, working long hours.

“That’s why it’s so difficult for them to attend college and get these degrees like other people who are seeking higher education their schedule doesn’t allow it,” said Northwood Military and Public Safety Recruiter Henry Reyna.

That’s why Northwood University has launched a fast track program for first responders and retired military

It’s creating a pipeline to obtaining leadership roles and keeping first responders in jobs that experts say need to stay filled as shortages continue.

“For ems, we still estimate that we have about 500 openings at the paramedic positions in our state, ” said Executive Director of Michigan’s Association of Ambulance Services Angela Madden.” “I will say we are making …