SALISBURY, N.C. – Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has successfully completed a site visit with the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP), marking a major milestone in the program’s reaccreditation process through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
The visit, held in July 2025, represents a key step in a yearlong process that began with the submission of the program’s comprehensive self-study and supporting documentation. During the site review, evaluators conducted an in-depth analysis of student outcomes, program operations, and instructional quality, while also meeting with students, faculty, advisory committee members, clinical preceptors, institutional leaders, and medical directors.
At the conclusion of the visit, evaluators reported no citations or findings, an uncommon and significant distinction, as most programs receive multiple citations during reaccreditation. The site team highlighted several strengths of the Rowan-Cabarrus EMS Education Program, including strong unity among the EMS education team, experienced leadership and faculty expertise, advanced simulation and instructional resources, and robust stakeholder engagement.
Evaluators also praised the exceptional level of community involvement, noting that three agencies, two hospitals and several community partners actively participated in the advisory committee session, demonstrating strong collaboration and support for the program’s continued success.
“A key component of an EMS educational program is collaboration,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Dean of Public Services Alan Thompson. “Our agencies provide premier clinical training opportunities, guidance on program direction and job placement for graduates. This outstanding outcome reflects both the strength of our program and the unwavering support of our community partners.”
The site team’s findings have been forwarded to CAAHEP for final review. The College anticipates an official reaccreditation announcement following the next CAAHEP meeting in the spring of 2026.
“The results of this visit affirm what we already know, that Rowan-Cabarrus delivers one of the strongest EMS education programs in the state,” said Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “We are deeply appreciative of the faculty, students and partners who make this success possible and who prepare the next generation of emergency medical professionals for service to our communities.”
Rowan-Cabarrus extends its gratitude to the many community partners, advisory members, students, faculty and staff whose dedication and collaboration contributed to this achievement.