Paramedic Education
How do I become a Paramedic?
Paramedics in Prince Edward Island are highly trained health care professionals who must have successfully completed a Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP) diploma program, and if they so choose may continue their education in Advanced Care Paramedicine (ACP), and/ or receive a Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine (BScP). All paramedic training programs in PEI ensure graduates have met competency standards as reflected in the Paramedic Association of Canada's National Occupational Competency Profile (NOCP).
After completing a paramedic training program, paramedics must be licensed by the Emergency Medical Services Board of Health PEI. For more information on licensing and licensing requirements click here.
Listed below are the paramedic training programs and educational opportunities offered in PEI.
Primary Care Paramedicine
Primary Care Paramedicine is offered by Holland College in a 2-year diploma program which is accredited by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). The program prepares participants to work in the field of pre-hospital care - an important part of our health care system. Students gain an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology as it relates to medical and traumatic emergencies. Students also learn how to manage emergency scenes, complete patient assessments, perform life-saving procedures, and perform and communicate effectively in a variety of often complex situations.
This program will prepare graduates for employment opportunities as a Primary Care Paramedic in PEI, and Canada, as well as continuing education in Advanced Care Paramedicine and/ or a Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine.
For more information contact Holland College or see their program description here:
For information on how Primary Care Paramedics Practice in PEI and what they are capable of see our page on Scope of Practice.
Advanced Care Paramedicine
Primary Care Paramedics may further their education in Advanced Care Paramedicine at Holland College. An additional 1 year, this program is also accredited by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and prepares students for an expanded scope of practice and the ability to provide advanced life support to critically-ill patients.
For more information contact Holland College or see their program description here:
For information on how Advanced Care Paramedics Practice in PEI and what they are capable of see our page on Scope of Practice.
Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine
Holland College and the University of PEI have designed a first in Canada 2-year Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine degree pathway. Students who have completed at least 2-years of study in an approved paramedic training program are eligible to apply, and upon acceptance must complete 2 additional years of foundational science courses, senior specialized courses in the life sciences, and advanced capstone paramedicine courses. The program is designed to enhance a paramedics science knowledge, as well as their research and communication skills. A Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine increases access to post-graduate opportunities, and improves job prospects in careers like Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine Researcher, Emergency Medical Services Managment, Business Development, Disaster Medicine Planner, and Health System Policy Advisor. Students may also graduate with honors providing them with the research experience required to design, carry out, evaluate and write up a scientific research project.
For more information contact the University of Prince Edward Island or see their program description here: Bachelors of Science in Paramedicine.
Pictured from left to right is Sue Norquay, Michael Hannah, Brent Nicholson, Damia Scott, Matthew H MacLeod, Haidar Karem, Luke Slysz, Collin Dares, Billie McQuaid, Matthew R MacLeod, and Dr. Trevor Jain. Missing from the picture is Dr. Aaron Sibley, Alex Stirling, Jan Jensen, Josh MacPherson, and Mathieu Morin. Photo credit: Samantha Kennedy.
Updated: April 1 2018