SOUTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · CANADA
Primary Care Paramedic
Certificate · Taught in en · UCAS 51.0904
At a glance
40 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Certificate
Level
This immersive certificate program is designed for individuals aspiring to build a career in pre-hospital emergency care. You will gain essential skills under the guidance of experienced professionals, becoming a vital part of a healthcare team. The curriculum covers comprehensive patient evaluation, interpretation of diagnostic tools, critical interventions, and proficiency in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and International Trauma Life Support (ITLS). Through state-of-the-art simulation labs and practical experience in hospital, urgent care, and ambulance settings, you will develop the competencies needed for effective emergency response. Graduates will be well-prepared to provide high-quality patient care in challenging environments and meet the demands of emergency medical services.
Curriculum
The Primary Care Paramedic certificate requires 34.5 credits (15 courses) and spans 40 weeks over three semesters. The Fall intake is primarily on-campus, while the Winter intake is blended, with theory online and labs on campus. Both options require full-time study.
- Semester 1
- Physiology and Physical AssessmentANPH 201
- Basic PharmacologyEMRG 223
- Traumatic EmergenciesEMRG 227
Careers
Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators registry exam and must register with the Alberta College of Paramedics to work in Alberta. This program is also recognized by the Canadian Armed Forces for the Medical Technician occupation.
- Paramedical Occupations
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Primary Care Paramedic certificate program?
- Applicants must successfully complete an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) course and pass the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process. Essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and physical fitness are also required.
- How long is the Primary Care Paramedic program?
- The certificate program is 40 weeks long, spanning three semesters, and requires full-time study. It consists of 34.5 credits over 15 courses.
- What are the career prospects after completing the program?
- Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators registry exam and register with the Alberta College of Paramedics to work in Alberta. The program also prepares graduates for the Medical Technician occupation within the Canadian Armed Forces, with a 98% graduate employment rate and an average starting salary of $66,389.
- What is the application process for international students?
- International applicants must first complete the mandatory Emergency Medical Responder course and the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing. They should then review program and practicum requirements, submit their application through SAIT's international admissions, and prepare all necessary documentation for practicum placements.
Entry requirements
Emergency Medical Responder courseMust be successfully completed as a mandatory admission requirement.
Applicants are also required to complete the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process by the set deadlines. You need to be comfortable assessing injuries and illnesses, performing sensitive patient care procedures, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), and handling potential latex exposure. Paramedics work extended hours, including nights and weekends. Strong communication, leadership, decision-making, critical-thinking, and adaptability skills are essential. You must also be able to work under stress, maintain professional behavior, and regulate emotions. Fine motor skills, the ability to lift and transport patients, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team are necessary. Physical fitness is important, and you must be able to obtain a tight facial seal with a respiratory mask (shaving may be required for religious reasons if it prevents a seal).
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
How to apply
1. Complete Mandatory RequirementsSuccessfully complete the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) course and the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process.
2. Review Program and Practicum RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the program curriculum, practicum expectations, and any specific documentation needed for clinical placements, especially concerning health and safety regulations like respiratory mask fit testing.
3. Submit ApplicationFollow the standard SAIT application procedures. International applicants should consult SAIT's international admissions for specific guidance.
4. Prepare for PracticumEnsure all required documentation for practicum participation is submitted before placement begins. This may include health records and compliance with specific safety protocols.
Accreditation
Accreditation Canada (Primary Care Paramedic level), meets Alberta College of Paramedics core competency requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Primary Care Paramedic certificate program?
+
Applicants must successfully complete an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) course and pass the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process. Essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and physical fitness are also required.
How long is the Primary Care Paramedic program?
+
The certificate program is 40 weeks long, spanning three semesters, and requires full-time study. It consists of 34.5 credits over 15 courses.
What are the career prospects after completing the program?
+
Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators registry exam and register with the Alberta College of Paramedics to work in Alberta. The program also prepares graduates for the Medical Technician occupation within the Canadian Armed Forces, with a 98% graduate employment rate and an average starting salary of $66,389.
What is the application process for international students?
+
International applicants must first complete the mandatory Emergency Medical Responder course and the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing. They should then review program and practicum requirements, submit their application through SAIT's international admissions, and prepare all necessary documentation for practicum placements.