Paramedic at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Program Overview

The Paramedic program at Durham College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in emergency medical services. This program is recognized by the Ministry of Health and offers an Ontario College Diploma upon completion. Students will engage in a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory activities, and hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the profession. The program emphasizes both physical and emotional wellness training, which is crucial for those entering the high-stress field of paramedicine.

Program Structure

The Paramedic program is structured over a period of four semesters, providing a comprehensive educational experience. The program includes:

In-person classes with some hybrid course delivery.
A series of practicum opportunities throughout all semesters.
Clinical placements in long-term care facilities during the first two semesters.
Hospital clinical rotations and an on-ambulance preceptorship with professional paramedics in later semesters.

These practicum placements are designed to help students gradually accept graded responsibilities, progressing towards competency as defined by the Paramedic Association of Canada. Additionally, students must meet specific physical fitness requirements to participate in field placements, ensuring they are capable of handling the physical demands of the job.

Featured Experiences

The Paramedic program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and practical application:

Project Lord Ridgeback: A multi-disciplinary experiential learning exercise simulating a local disaster, where students interact with actors portraying victims and learn to respond to emergencies.
Emergency Services Fundamentals (EMSF): A one-year certificate program that develops foundational skills for entry into emergency service fields.
Hands-on clinical opportunities in various healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Field placements that provide graded responsibilities and evaluations based on competency standards.

Career Options

Graduates of the Paramedic program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Paramedic: Provide emergency medical care and transportation to patients in critical situations.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Assist paramedics in providing pre-hospital care and support during emergencies.
Clinical Paramedic: Work in hospital settings, providing care and support to patients in emergency departments.
Community Paramedic: Focus on preventive care and health education within communities, often working with at-risk populations.
Instructor/Trainer: Teach and train future paramedics in educational institutions or through community programs.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a significant impact in the healthcare field.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Durham College official website

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Paramedic program, prospective students should be aware of the following Academic Requirements:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses: Not explicitly mentioned.
Field placement eligibility requires a high degree of physical fitness, flexibility, and lifting strength. Students must be able to:
- Transfer patients weighing up to 95 kg (210 lbs)
- Perform two-person lifts
- Manage the weight of any necessary equipment
Pre-placement requirements include:
- A clear and current Criminal Reference Check (CRC) with Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS)
- Current Level C CPR from a recognized provider
- Current standard first aid certification from a recognized provider
- Entry immunization form completed by a health-care provider

For international students, it is advisable to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all requirements and deadlines.

Language Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to Durham College for our undergraduate programs if they have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent high school diploma from another country which includes:

One senior-level English language credit (from an English-speaking country as listed below)
Equivalent English Proficiency test results (see chart below), or
Completion of an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through one of our recognized English Language Partner schools.

Applicants from Canadian curriculum high schools, both inside and outside of Canada, must complete a minimum of three years of high school credits to be considered for exemption from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript.

Applicants with a minimum of three years of high school or post-secondary studies in Canada, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, some Caribbean countries, and selected other countries may be exempted from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript. Exceptions may apply.

English Language Score Requirements:

Academic IELTS: 6.0, no band score less than 5.5
IBT TOEFL: 80, with minimum section scores of 20
PTE Academic: 53 minimum overall, no section below 49 L,W,S,R
CAEL: Overall scores of 60 with no section below 60
DET: 105

Exceptions:

Practical Nursing: Academic IELTS: 7.0, with no band less than 6.5
TOEFL: 94, with minimum section scores of 23

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!