This mixed-methodology study explored the perceived necessity for a college degree in the paramedic profession from the view of paramedics and paramedic employers in the United States. Since its inception in the 1960s, the paramedic profession has not established a college-level education standard in the United States. Although there are presently two states that require an associate degree for new paramedic certification, no specific degree major is required. This researcher surveyed over 3900 paramedics and over 400 paramedic employers in the United States to better understand the perceived necessity for a college degree in the paramedic profession. The surveys included personal, professional, and education demographic information and Likert-style statements regarding college degrees and soft skills commonly used in paramedicine. In addition, an open-ended survey was also used to understand better how a college degree contributed to specific soft skills in paramedic practice. Data collected demonstrated that paramedics with a college degree were likelier to believe their college education contributed to developing their soft skills. This belief increased as the level of completed education increased. This belief was consistent between states that require a degree for new paramedic certification and states that do not. Additionally, paramedic employers who believed that college degrees contribute to soft skill development preferred paramedics with college degrees. Finally, paramedics who have a college degree or who have attended a paramedic training program that offered a college degree are not more likely to pass the NREMT paramedic certification exam on the first attempt when compared to paramedics without a college degree or who attended a training program that did not offer a college degree. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]