Primary Care Paramedic

Credential:: certificate
Program length:: 40 weeks
Campus:: Main
International applicants:: Not Accepted
Faculty:: School of Health and Public Safety

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

Applied Degree

SAIT's full-time applied degree programs involve one year of study through classes and lab work followed by one year of directed studies in a workplace setting. This builds on the completion of a recognized two-year diploma, which you must have to be admitted to an applied degree program.

You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

A certified journeyperson is recognized as a qualified and skilled person in a trade and is entitled to the wages and benefits associated with that trade. You must complete all apprenticeship periods and pass the exams to earn a journeyperson designation.

Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Mandatory requirements

Applicants for this program are required to successfully complete the Emergency Medical Responder course as a mandatory admission requirement for this program.

Review admission requirements for more details.

Overview

The Primary Care Paramedic program provides education and training for pre-hospital care professionals, preparing graduates to work within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Taught by experienced practitioners, this program covers all aspects of pre-hospital emergency care. Areas of study include patient assessment, diagnostics, critical interventions and treatment, including Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS) and International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) assistance.

This competency-based program provides applied theory and hands-on learning through high-fidelity human patient simulation education in the Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation and during practicum rotations. Working under the direct supervision of a preceptor, practicums occur in hospitals or urgent care centres and ambulance settings.

You'll experience success in this program and profession by developing the following traits, skills and aptitudes:

fine motor skills
critical thinking and adaptability
effective communication skills (speaking, reading, writing, and listening)
ability to work independently
actively participate in classroom, lab, and practicum activities as scheduled by the program
ability to work well under stress, maintain professional behaviour and emotionally self-regulate
ability to use technology
attention to detail
can wear Personal Protective Equipment for extended periods and tolerate latex and disinfection materials
willing to work extended hours, including nights and/or weekends and shift work
ability to tolerate the sight of human blood and tissue
ability to assist in transporting, lifting, and positioning patients and/or equipment and meet the physical demands of the job (for example, spending most hours working on your feet, walking, bending, and other repetitive tasks)
comfortable with performing patient care procedures which may be sensitive or performed in close proximity.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for Emergency Medical Personnel, the Paramedicine National Occupational Competency Profile and Alberta Health Service’s F.A.R.E. Paramedic requirements to ensure they understand the functional ability required to achieve all the competency-based objectives and bona fide occupational requirements for the program and profession.

Some examples include:

Lifting a stretcher with a 95.5 kg (210 lbs) patient with a partner from a lower level to the load position and back down
Lifting and carrying a long spine board with 95.5 kg (210 lbs) and ascending and descending 10 stairs with a partner
Pushing a stair chair 10 m with 95.5 kg (210 lbs) and ascending and descending 20 stairs with a partner
Lifting a bilateral side carry of 9 kg (20 lbs) of weight in each hand
Front carrying 18 kg (40 lbs)
Performing CPR for two minutes.

The opportunity to advance your education by transferring into this program or gain credit for previous postsecondary courses may be available.

Graduates of this program are qualified to apply for the Advanced Care Paramedic program and earn their diploma.

Learn more about program and institution transfer options.

You'll participate in a clinical practicum as well as an ambulance practicum. An on-site preceptor and a SAIT instructor provide expert guidance and evaluations throughout each practicum.

The School of Health and Public Safety has many practicum partners in Alberta and Canada. Practicum placements in Calgary are limited, and you may be required to travel or relocate outside the city. Due to limited practicum spots for the paramedicine programs provincially, some practica may not end until August.

Successful applicants will be assigned their practicum placement. While we'll strive to assign your practicum location based on your preference, it is not guaranteed. Special considerations will not be given. You will be responsible for fees associated with the practicum, such as entrance requirements, relocation and travel costs.

In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be requested to provide proof of the following requirements:

current Heart and Stroke Foundation BLS Provider course
updated immunization records
Police Information Check, including Vulnerable Sector Check
N95 respiratory mask fitting
health and wellness status

Please note: If you cannot obtain a tight facial seal due to the presence of facial hair and refuse to shave for religious reasons, you are considered unfit by AHS standards and will not be allowed on an ambulance practicum. As practicum is an essential component of the program, you cannot complete the Primary Care Paramedic program successfully.

Learn more about practicum requirements

The Primary Care Paramedic program delivered by SAIT is accredited by Accreditation Canada at the Primary Care Paramedic level and meets the Alberta College of Paramedics core competency requirements.

All graduates are eligible and required to register with the Alberta College of Paramedics to work in Alberta as a Primary Care Paramedic.

Upon completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Primary Care Paramedic certificate.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Primary Care Paramedic certificate requires 34.5 credits (15 courses) to complete.

The program spans 40 weeks, with three semesters. Depending on practicum site availability, your ambulance practicum may continue beyond the third semester.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
ANPH-201	Physiology & Physical Assessment	1.5
EMRG-223	Basic Pharmacology	1.5
EMRG-230	Community Integration	1.5
EMRG-233	Respiratory Emergencies	3.0
EMRG-236	Primary Care Paramedic Laboratory I	3.0
EMRG-244	Professional Practice I	1.5
EMRG-262	Cardiac Emergencies	3.0
Semester 1 total		15.0

Semester 2

Course code	Course name	Credit
EMRG-227	Traumatic Emergencies	3.0
EMRG-249	Medical Emergencies	3.0
EMRG-251	Special Populations	3.0
EMRG-266	Primary Care Paramedic Laboratory II	3.0
FTNS-202	Fitness and Wellness	1.5
PRAC-242	Clinical Practicum	1.5
Semester 2 total		15.0

Semester 3

Depending on practicum site availability, your final practicum may continue beyond the end-of-year date.

Course code	Course name	Credit
EMRG-265	Professional Practice II	1.5
PRAC-252	Ambulance Practicum	3.0
Semester 3 total		4.5
Program total		34.5

Course	Credits
Physiology and Physical Assessment embraces an integrated approach to the study of body systems with a focus on both anatomy and physiology. Key components of this approach include gathering a patent’s history, developing interview strategies and learning how to conduct a comprehensive physical examination.	1.5
Basic Pharmacology focuses on the theory and practice of safe medication administration. Topics include Canadian drug legislation, scope of practice guidelines specific to Alberta and an emphasis on experiential learning in the lab environment.	1.5
Traumatic Emergencies will focus on the pathology, assessment and management of various types of traumatic emergencies and injuries. Topics include burns, trauma to the head, spine, chest, abdomen and extremities. Geriatric, pediatric, obstetrical trauma patients will also be studied. International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) Basic certification will be awarded upon completion of this course. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	3
Community Integration is a unique experiential opportunity that puts theory into practice by implementing communication and history-gathering strategies as well as components of the physical exam. Emphasis is placed on interpersonal communication skills and the ability to demonstrate professionalism and leadership skills at all times.	1.5
Respiratory Emergencies will focus on the pathology, assessment and management of common respiratory illnesses and diseases. Basic respiratory pharmacology and therapies will also be studied.	3
PCP Lab 1 focuses on the integration of knowledge and skills learned during the first semester of the Primary Care Paramedic program. Interpersonal communication skills and the ability to demonstrate professionalism and leadership skills at all times will be practiced in simulated scenarios.	3
Professional Practice 1 examines legislation governing the practice of Primary Care Paramedics (PCPs) in Alberta. Topics include professionalism, workplace leadership and communications, documentation and verbal reporting specific to emergency medical services and an introduction to research methodologies. Current legal and ethical issues will also be examined.	1.5
Medical Emergencies focuses on the pathology, pathophysiology, assessment and management of medical emergencies related to toxicology, anaphylaxis and allergic reactions, gastrointestinal - genitourinary (GI-GU), environmental situations, infectious diseases and altered levels of consciousness. Performance assessments will be conducted to evaluate the integration of skills. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	3
Special Populations focuses on the pathology, pathophysiology, assessment and management of medical emergencies related to obstetrics and gynaecology, neonates and paediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, psychological and behavioural issues, and physical challenges. Performance assessments will be conducted to evaluate the integration of skills. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	3
Cardiac Emergencies focuses on the pathology, assessment and management of common cardiac emergencies. Basic cardiac therapies and diagnostics, including pharmacology and electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring are explored and implemented in the simulated and non-simulated patient environment.	3
Professional Practice 2 prepares students for the transition from the classroom to the practicum environment. Areas of professional responsibilities which will be focused on include: WHMIS, vehicle stabilization and patient extrication. The professional registration examination process will be reviewed. Pre-requisites: EMRG 227 EMRG 249 EMRG 251 EMRG 266 FTNS 202 PRAC 242	1.5
PCP Lab 2 builds upon knowledge and skills covered in Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) Lab 1. Emphasis will be placed on pathophysiology covered, and skills attained during the second semester of the program. Interpersonal communication skills and the ability to demonstrate professionalism and leadership skills at all times will be practiced in simulated scenarios. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	3
Fitness and Wellness promotes physical fitness, mental health, nutrition and safe workplace strategies. Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is also explored as a tool to help students develop a stress management plan to prepare themselves for the strenuous demands of the profession. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	1.5
Clinical Practicum provides a hands-on opportunity to exercise comprehension of course materials and demonstrate skills acquisition while following procedural practice in a clinical setting. Expert guidance and evaluations are provided throughout the practicum by an on-site preceptor and a SAIT instructor. Pre-requisites: ANPH 201 EMRG 223 EMRG 230 EMRG 233 EMRG 236 EMRG 244 EMRG 262	1.5
Ambulance Practicum provides a hands-on opportunity for learners to apply theory and practical skills in a pre-hospital setting. Expert guidance will be provided throughout the practicum by an on-site preceptor and SAIT instructor. Pre-requisites: EMRG 227 EMRG 249 EMRG 251 EMRG 266 FTNS 202 PRAC 242	3

Progression

Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents.

At least 50% in each of the following courses:

Math 20-1 or Math 20-2,
English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2,
Biology 30 or Science 30

AND

Proof of completion of an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certificate or a medical sciences-related diploma, degree, or equivalent.

The following qualifications are recognized as equivalent to the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certificate or medical sciences-related diploma or degree:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with at least one year of experience
Medical First Responder (MFR) or First Medical Responder (FMR) with International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) provider certification
Registered Nurse (RN) with at least one year of experience
Licensed Physician with at least one year of experience

Applicants must be at least 18 by the program's second semester.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English Language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Available intakes

Winter 2024

Start dates:

Jan 08, 2024

Domestic students: Closed: Application deadline: Oct. 26, 2023

Fall 2024

Start dates:

Sep 03, 2024

Domestic students: Closed: Application deadline: June 28, 2024

Costs

2023/24 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2023. They are an estimate of tuition and fees based on the recommended course load per year.

Domestic students

Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5*	$4,899	$1,873	$6,772
Total cost:				$6,772

_{**.5 indicates a combination of full-time semester(s) and part-time semester(s) in the same academic year. In many cases, students are completing a practicum during their part-time semester. Part-time students are those taking less than nine (9) course credits in a semester.}

Books and supplies are approximately $4,000 for the duration of the program.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

You are responsible for any additional expenses related to your practicum, including pre-practicum requirements outlined by the program and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.

Required equipment/tools

You will be evaluated on your competency performance level using a tracking system called CompTracker.

You will require a wifi-enabled Apple tablet that can run the most up-to-date operating system to support the CompTracker system. Any size tablet is acceptable.

Keyboards are advisable but not mandatory.

Smartphones are not acceptable devices for CompTracker.

There is a required user license fee of $75 billed on a per-semester basis.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE) and uniform

Uniforms and PPE need to be purchased before Orientation Day.

Print and take the uniform order form to Trademark Workwear Inc. to order your SAIT uniforms.

Refer to the form for details and ensure you order your uniform early.

CSA-approved safety glasses and black steel-toed duty boots may be purchased where available.

Ballistic vests

The SAIT paramedic programs do not require ballistic vests.

Currently, many practitioners can be issued a ballistic vest by their employer as PPE. This is an employee's decision if they want the ballistic vest or not.

As a best practice for scene safety, police deem the situation safe before EMS crews enter, and our students are not first in any situation where this type of PPE is required.

If you wish to purchase your own ballistic vest for use on practicum, you can do so through the AHS-approved vendor Urban Tactical, Winnipeg, which has the required minimum specifications for a ballistic vest.

If you decide to purchase and wear the vest, you must ensure that your SAIT crest and student identification are clearly visible on the vest without compromising the integrity of the vest.

If you have a ballistic vest from an employer, you are not allowed to wear that employer’s issue as part of the SAIT uniform.

If you choose to wear a ballistic vest during your program, you must purchase a personal ballistic vest.

Ballistic vests are personally fitted, have a limited lifespan, and are not resalable as they do not provide the appropriate protection second-hand. If you choose to wear a personal ballistic vest, you must wear it for every call during your practicum rotations.

Additional fees

There is a fee for the Alberta College of Paramedics (ACP) provincial exam and an annual registration fee. ACP annual registration fees are approximately $425 (the initial registration fee is approximately $475).
There is a fee associated with obtaining a Police Information Check, including a Vulnerable Sector Check and is payable to the Police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
You must have your immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines to be administered will result in additional charges.
A fee of approximately $50-$100 is associated with an Electronic Student Permit Checking submission, which is required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
A Class 4 Driver's license may be required for employment. We recommend you review the Alberta government information for requirements and begin the process while in the program.

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside of the typical 15-week program.

2023/24 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

Fees	< 9 credits per semester	> 9 credits per semester
SAIT fees
Campus athletic and recreation	$51.50	$103
Student support fee	$52.75	$105.50
Student technology fee	$52.75	$105.50
UPass*	N/A	$160
Total	$157	$474
Saitsa fees
Student association fee**	$16.23/credit	$146
Health plan***	N/A	$86 ($172 annually)
Dental plan***	N/A	$79 ($158 annually)
Total	$311 maximum	$476

_{*The City of Calgary has increased their UPass fee from $160 to $165 effective for Winter 2024. This increase was not reflected in the above-quoted tuition and fee amounts at the time of publishing.}

_{**Additional eligibility requirements apply for students to obtain a UPass. To check your eligibility, visit our Upass page.}

_{***Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.}

_{****Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. In most cases, program fees quoted are based on students paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Learn more at saitsa.com/benefits.}

What your SAIT fees pay for

Student support fee: supports student services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including services such as Career Advancement Services, and Student Development and Counselling.

Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance the student experience.

Campus recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, student events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of student engagement initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.

Upass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Ineligible students are not required to pay this fee. Learn more about eligibility requirements.

Lab and materials fees: ensures SAIT labs and living classrooms have the required equipment and materials to support the necessary training for students.

Laundry fee: covers the cost of laundering the required uniforms. Applicable only to certain programs and apprenticeships.

Saitsa fees: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of a variety of student services, activities, and programming.

Health and dental fees: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt out. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits.

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the admission process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.

We recommend you add hps.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

Prepare for a strong start and get the details you need to make a decision about your future. Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions, and provide information about:

School of Health and Public Safety Advising

Phone: 403.284.8500
Email: hps.info@sait.ca

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Primary Care Paramedic

On this page:

Mandatory requirements

Overview