Program Information

The Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) to Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP) program is a 9-semester diploma program offering training to EMRs who are presently practicing in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Provision of emergency medical services (EMS) is a unique and vital community service. Paramedics are highly skilled members of a health care team who function within the discipline of emergency and pre-hospital care. Paramedics initiate medical treatment for individuals in urgent and non-urgent situations. Based on sound knowledge, these practitioners demonstrate rational problem-solving abilities and excellent decision-making skills. This program addresses the operational/procedural skills of primary care paramedics, as well as the ethical and professional behaviours such as effective communication. Mental/physical fitness and healthy lifestyles are emphasized throughout the program, as paramedics must be fit to perform the requirements of the occupation.
 
This part-time diploma program is designed with a blended delivery model and part-time schedule to promote advancement of skills from the EMR level of practice to the PCP level. This program engages students online in virtual classrooms, with on-campus labs, and clinical simulation. These paired with robust clinical experiences will support students in meeting the requirements for entry-to-practice PCP level in accordance with the National Occupational Competency Profile for Paramedics (NOCP). Students will be required to attend all on campus laboratory sessions offered throughout the semester, the frequency and amount of time required each semester will vary based on course requirements. In addition, there are two full-time clinical placements that are mandatory in the program (Semester 6 for 3 weeks and Semester 9 for 14 weeks).
 
This is a challenging program that provides students with extensive laboratory, simulation and clinical experience. Graduates of this program will be prepared to work in a competent and skillful manner providing pre-hospital care in accordance with the national standards for paramedics.

Note:  In person labs for this program will happen throughout the semester and may occur at both Prince Philip Drive and Bay St. George Campuses.
 
Note: Graduates of the program are eligible to write the certification examination set by Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR).

 

• Completion of an Emergency Medical Responder program
• Current licensure as an Emergency Medical Responder in the province of NL
• Minimum of one-year experience (1,900 hours) as an EMR
• High School Graduation
• Letter of Support from Employer

Note: ESL students only – must meet School of Health Sciences English proficiency as outlined in Policy No. AC-102-PR.

Additional Requirements Upon Acceptance

1. Complete a HS Student Information and Program Awareness Package, which includes:

• Criminal Record Screening (RNC) or Criminal Record Check (RCMP)
• Vulnerable Sector Check (RNC or RCMP)
• NL Student Preplacement Immunizations and Communicable Diseases Screening Form

2. Program specific requirements:

• CPR (BLS) – Annual renewal required for duration of the program
• Class 04 Driver’s License (minimum)

See the Additional Information for Health Sciences Applicants (Definitions and Regulations) section of the calendar or under the Admissions Regulations section of our website for details.
 
Notes: 

•  Applicants with a criminal offense listed on their Criminal Record Check may be denied access to clinical placements and may be unable to complete their program. Acceptance of the Criminal Record is at the discretion of the clinical placement site.
• The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all medical requirements are met, and health screening records are complete before submission. Certain immunizations require a series of tests or vaccines, requiring weeks or months to complete. Start the process as early as possible.
• The applicant is responsible for all associated costs (vaccinations, laboratory testing, healthcare fees, certificate of conduct fees, etc.).

CODE	TITLE	Hrs/wk
Semester 1	Sept - Dec 2024	Cr	Le	La
BL1180	Anatomy and Physiology	5	5	0
TM1130	Medical Terminology	3	3	0
CM1250	Communications in the Workplace	3	3	0
Semester 2	Jan - April 2025	Cr	Le	La
PA1210	Health & Fitness I	2	1	3
PA1370	Pharmacology I	2	2	0
PA1125	EMS Basics	5	4	4
Semester 3	July - Aug 2025	Cr	Le	La
PA1211	Health & Fitness II	2	1	3
PA1290	Community Paramedicine	2	1	2
HG1681	Ethics in Health Care	3	3	0
Semester 4	Sept - Dec 2025	Cr	Le	La
PA1371	Pharmacology II	3	2	3
PA1230	Airway Management	2	1	3
PA1280	Cardiology	4	3	2
Semester 5	Jan - April 2026	Cr	Le	La
PA1460	Medical Emergencies I	3	2	2
CM1270	Communications in Health Care	3	3	0
PA1520	Mental Health	2	2	1
Semester 6	July - Aug 2026	Cr	Le	La
PA1470	Medical Emergencies II	5	4	2
Prior to beginning PA1440 students in the EMR to PCP program complete PA1470
PA1440	Clinical	3	0	3 wks
Semester 7	Sept - Dec 2026	Cr	Le	La
PA2000	Traumatology	5	3	5
PA1515	Special Considerations	2	2	0
PA1415	Interagency Relations	3	2	2
Semester 8	Jan - April 2027	Cr	Le	La
PA2005	Obstetrics and Pediatrics	3	2	3
PA2020	Simulation Lab	3	0	9
Semester 9	May - Aug 2027	Cr	Le	La
PA2025	Practicum	14	0	14 wks