Indigenous Overview
The Paramedic program is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the dynamic field of pre-hospital emergency care. Graduates of the program will be prepared to meet the growing demands of the workforce by developing expertise in the following areas:
- Foundational Knowledge: Gain a strong understanding of the scientific and theoretical principles underlying pre-hospital emergency care by developing a strong background in human anatomy, physiology, and the theory behind emergency medical interventions.
- Emergency Management: Develop the ability to effectively assess, recognize, and manage medical and traumatic emergencies in the field.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Learn to operate in compliance with the Ambulance Act, relevant provincial regulations, and health and safety standards specific to paramedic practice in Ontario.
- Effective Communication: Build the communication skills necessary for working closely with patients, family members, and emergency team members in high-pressure environments.
- Patient-Centered Care: Focus on providing compassionate, patient-centered assessments and treatment options in emergency situations.
- Workplace Readiness: Prepare for the demands of real-world emergency care with a focus on personal health and wellness, ensuring career longevity in this physically and emotionally challenging profession.
Accreditation and Certification
AEMCA Certification: Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to write the provincial Advanced Emergency Medical Care Assistant (AEMCA) exam. Passing this exam grants certification as a Primary Care Paramedic, a requirement for both full-time and part-time employment in Ontario's emergency medical services.
Program Details
Program Highlights
The Paramedic program is designed to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career as a Primary Care Paramedic in Ontario -- and it's recognized across Canada and internationally.
By successfully completing this program, you'll be ready to ace the provincial AEMCA exam and step confidently into the role of a Primary Care Paramedic, ready to work in both bustling urban centres and remote rural areas.
Each semester is crafted to help you build on your skills, allowing for continuous growth and mastery as you learn, practice, and apply what you’ve learned in real-world situations.
Hands-On Experience: Starting in semester 2, students increase their communication skills and clinical knowledge by attending community placements that introduce students to long-term care settings, interacting with vulnerable populations and communicating with patients of all ages and needs. Clinical placements in regional hospitals during semester 2 and 3 allow students to practice assessment skills, communication, and the opportunity to practice various patient care skills pertinent to your role as Primary care paramedics. Skills and expectations increase in intensity and responsibility through Semester 3.
Full-Immersion Experience: In semester 4, you’ll work full-time with an experienced Paramedic Crew in Ontario, who will guide your learning and consolidation of skills in the real world, ensuring you are prepared for entry to practice at graduation.
This is your chance to develop the expertise and confidence needed to thrive in one of the most fast-paced, impactful careers out there.
Program Outline
2024-2025
This course is designed to develop physical fitness (cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, muscular strength and endurance) through individual training programs and group athletic activities. Students will demonstrate and practice lifting and transferring of patients, utilizing proper posture and safe lifting techniques.
This science based course supports an understanding of how the integrity of the human body, in the biological sense, influences health. The content focuses on the structure and function of most body systems, including how body systems individually and collectively contribute to the maintenance of homeostasis, thus optimal health.
This science based course supports an understanding of how the integrity of the human body, in the biological sense, influences health. The content focuses on the structure and function of most body systems, including how body systems individually and collectively contribute to the maintenance of homeostasis, thus optimal health.
This course presents the introductory theory of emergency care as it relates to the assessment and management of a person suffering from selected illness or injury. Students will apply pathophysiological concepts and begin to develop the theoretical rationale to explain alterations in patients’ conditions and predict expected changes in assessment findings. Radiotelecommunications and preparation of an ambulance for service will also be included.
This course is designed to prepare students with the introductory skills needed to provide basic emergency care to a victim of an illness/accident and to provide care and prevent further injury during transport.
This course is designed to prepare students with the introductory skills needed to provide basic emergency care to a victim of an illness/accident and to provide care and prevent further injury during transport.
This course is designed to help students develop and practice the communication skills needed to succeed in college and workforce environments. Emphasis is placed on improving foundational communication strategies-reading, writing, listening, and speaking—and on developing research and critical thinking skills.
This course is designed to further develop fitness through training and group athletic activities. Using previously learned techniques, students will enhance their ability to lift and transfer patients in simulated settings. The effects of nutrition and shift work on the health of the paramedic will also be explored.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
This course is designed to provide the student with the ability to apply relevant legislation and regulations enacted by Provincial and Federal Governments to the practice of Paramedicine. The course will also present various legal issues, concepts of accountability, responsibility, confidentiality and consent to treatment as they apply to the provision of service by paramedics.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
This course is a continuation of Patient Care Theory 1. The major emphasis of this course is placed on the responsibilities of the student in assessing, managing and transporting patients in stabilized conditions, emergency situations and situations that may become emergencies. Students will learn the assessment, pathophysiological processes and management of various medical and traumatic problems that may affect prehospital patients.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
This course is designed to introduce the student to pharmacological principles and common classes of drugs encountered by the paramedic. Sources of drugs, routes of administration, drug actions and interactions will be studied. The pharmacological activity of a select group of pharmacological agents seen in both medical and nonmedical settings by the practicing paramedic will be covered as well.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
This course builds on PARA1503 and continues to focus on pre-hospital medical and traumatic emergencies and promotes critical thinking. The etiology, clinical manifestations, complications and management of various pre-hospital emergencies will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
In a simulated setting the student will acquire the skills necessary to perform specific assessment and interventions to victims of trauma or to the critically ill. He/she will also learn to recognize complications and minimize them. These skills will be applied for the provision of emergency care in various laboratory settings.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
In this course practical experience will be provided in a number of hospital settings. Students will apply the theory content of previous courses through observation and participation in selected hospitals departments.
Prerequisite(s): FITN100 + PARA100 + PARA1000 + PARA1500 + PARA1503 + PARA1505
This course will review selected topics with in the field of abnormal psychology. The topic review will consider the issues of diagnosis/classification, physical and psychological manifestations of the current range of psychological treatments.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course is a continuation of Patient Care Theory 2. The major emphasis of this course is placed on the responsibilities of the student in assessing, managing and transporting patients in stabilized conditions, emergency situations and situations that may become emergencies. Students will learn the assessment, pathophysiological processes and management of various medical and traumatic problems that may affect prehospital patients.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course is designed to develop the student’s critical thinking skills in identifying issues surrounding patient care, professionalism and ethics that are relevant to the field of prehospital care. The student critically analyzes and evaluates current issues and trends in paramedic services as well as how these trends may be influenced by political action. In preparation for their roles as graduates the student initiates both personal and career planning.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course is a continuation of Patient Care 2. Throughout the course, students will develop their critical thinking, decision-making and prioritizations skills as they assess and manage increasing complex situations in simulated patient scenarios. Students will also develop the ability to deliver medications, and defibrillary shocks, initiate and maintain intravenous therapy and per Ministry of Health protocols skills.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course is a continuation of Hospital and Community Field Placement 1 where practical experience will be provided in a number of hospital settings. Students will apply the theory content of previous courses through observation and participation in selected hospital departments.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course emphasizes techniques necessary to ensure driver and vehicle readiness for emergency service. Students will a acquire the skills required to: maintain emergency vehicles, prepare and safely operate an emergency vehicle, drive defensively avoiding hazards and controlling skids. Students will also develop the ability to interact with Emergency Response aircraft.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This course provides the opportunity for students to gain practical experience in Emergency Health Services (E.M.S.) in true emergency patient situations in the community. Under the direct supervision of a paramedic crew the student will observe, participate in and analyze emergency situations which will form a basis for practice.
Prerequisite(s): FITN200 + PARA200 + PARA1501 + PARA2500 + PARA2501 + PARA2502 + PARA2503 + PARA2505 + PARA2506
This concentrated period of field placement will utilize the preceptor model to allow the student to apply their critical thinking, decision-making and psychomotor skills to assess and manage patients in the pre-hospital environment. With the guidance and direction of a preceptor, students will develop an increasing level of independence as thy progress through this course.
Prerequisite(s): FITN300 + PARA3500 + PARA3501 + PARA3505 + PARA3506 + PARA3507 + PARA3508
Requirements
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of Grade 11 and 12 courses at the C, U or M level including the following prerequisites:
- Grade 12 English at the C or U level
- Grade 11 Math at the C, U or M level
- Grade 12 Chemistry at the C or U level (or SCH3U)
- Grade 11 or 12 Biology at the C or U level
For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements.
This is a HIGHLY COMPETITIVE program. To be included in the competitive ranking, applications must be complete including all transcripts and proof of enrollment by February 1. Meeting minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admissions to the program. Please see the Highly Competitive Program Chart for more details.
If you are missing prerequisite courses, enroll in the Career/College Prep program - free for Ontario residents who are 19 years or older.
- Are your transcripts from outside of Canada? Please visit Applying to SLC - With Your Transcripts for more information.
Health Requirements
Immunization - Communicable Disease Requirements
Completion of the Immunization - Communicable Disease Form is a mandatory condition for your clinical/practical placement. THIS FORM IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Download your Immunization - Communicable Disease Form
Questions regarding immunizations can be emailed to immunizations@sl.on.ca.
As an active SLC student, you are automatically enrolled in a student insurance plan. To learn more about how this applies to your immunization requirements please visit www.wespeakstudent.com (domestic) or www.guard.me (international).
Other Requirements
Additional Requirements
- Standard First Aid certificate and CPR - Health Care Provider (HCP) level prior to program commencement. Certification must remain current for the duration of the program and for employment. Note that CPR must be renewed every year at the student’s expense.
- Ontario Class “F” driver’s licence or equivalent by the first day of class in Semester 3.
Note: According to the Ambulance Act, applicants should be aware that employment as a Paramedic is prohibited to any individual who has:
a) Six or more demerit points on his or her driving record in the past year
b) a driving license suspension in the previous two years
c) been prohibited from driving under the Criminal Code of Canada in the past 3 years
d) an un-pardoned criminal record
Recommended Background
- Applicants coming directly out of high school are encouraged to take the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program prior to taking the Paramedic program.
- Applicants must have a high level of physical fitness, flexibility, and lifting strength, and must maintain this throughout the program.
- Applicants should not have any pre-existing medical or physical disabilities that would impede their ability to exercise or perform repetitive heavy lifting.
Criminal Background Check: Applicants are advised that Criminal Background Checks (CBC) conducted by the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) are required for programs with field or clinical placements. Certain criminal convictions may prevent participation in placements and program completion may not be possible. Attaining and paying for a CBC and Vulnerable Sector Screening (OPP) is the responsibility of the student, and these may have to be renewed every three to six months. Applicants with criminal records are advised to contact the Associate Dean/Campus Dean of the respective school prior to applying.
Placement
Work-integrated learning is an essential part of the paramedic program, with over 600 hours of clinical placement starting in semester 2. These placements span community and hospital settings, with full-time consolidation in semester 4.
Year 1: Rotation Placement (Semester 2)
- Community Placements: Students engage with clients in non-clinical environments (e.g., schools, long-term care facilities, soup kitchens) to develop communication skills and understand the needs of diverse populations.
- Hospital Clinical Placements: Students gain experience in various hospital departments, including emergency and intensive care. Focus is on communication, assessments, and basic patient care.
Year 2: Clinical Placement (Semester 3)
- Hospital Clinical Placements: Students take on more complex patient care tasks, including IV initiation and medication preparation.
- Ambulance Observation Shifts: Students observe paramedic teams in action, learning about patient assessments, care decisions, and the unique challenges of pre-hospital care.
Year 2: Full-Time Consolidation (Semester 4)
- Students complete a 400-hour, unpaid placement with an Ontario paramedic service, working alongside a preceptor crew. As the placement progresses, students take on more responsibilities, preparing for entry into practice.
Placement Support
Pre-Placement Coordinators (PPC) will assist with placement requirements, paperwork, and coordination. The College arranges placements - students should not arrange their own placements.
Placement Requirements
Students must complete the following before placement:
- 6 Mandatory College Training Modules
- Student Declaration/Oath of Confidentiality
- Student COVID-19 Waiver
- Proof of Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
- N95 Mask Fit Card (college assisted)
- Required Orientation Packages
Placement Availability & Costs
There are limited placements available in the immediate Cornwall area. Students should expect to complete their placement throughout Eastern Ontario. Students should budget $2,000 - $3,000 for transportation and living expenses, which are not included in tuition.
For more details, contact:
Fees
2024-2025
Fees are estimates only. Tuition is based on two semesters.
Cornwall
Enjoy waterfront views, modern health labs, a newly renovated library, and vibrant student spaces in our our Cornwall campus.
Career Opportunities
- Emergency Medical Services
- Patient Transfer Services
- Fire and Rescue Departments
- Industrial First Aid
- Emergency Medical Education
- Medical Supply Sales
- Recreational and Sports Facilities
- Emergency Communications
Testimonials
Other Information
Students from health sciences program on placement are covered by Workplace Safety and Insurance Board(WSIB) coverage in the event of an incident.
To be eligible:
- A student must be currently registered in the program;
- The placement must be sanctioned by the educational institution;
- The student must not be paid for the placement.
Program Contacts
Program Contact
Karrie Loynachan
KLoynachan@sl.on.ca
613.933.6080 ext. 2166
Admissions Information
Click here to message Recruitment.