General Information

Our Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program is an exciting way to enter the expanding field of paramedicine. Jobs in are high demand and include careers in community paramedicine with the BC Ambulance Service, emergency response, and private industry.

Our program has been designated by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training. This means you can trust that we are delivering a quality educational experience. We are the only paramedic academy in BC to have earned designated status.

Our Application Guidebook contains all the details about the program, including how to apply. Paramedicine is a rewarding but challenging career path. Applicants must be emotionally mature and physically capable of dealing with patients and the day to day demands of being an emergency care provider.

Paramedic Training in British Columbia

Program Format

Full time – 4.5 months:
In class delivery, Monday to Friday, 40 hours/week
Tuition: $8,350
Available in Langley and Victoria

Part time – 8.5 months:
A blend of online instruction combined with in-class workshops. Workshops are Friday – Sunday, 27 hours/weekend, every second week
Tuition: $8,350 
Available in Langley and Victoria. Also offered in different communities around the province (schedule changes annually)

These programs involve a rigorous and comprehensive course of study. The academic demands will be considerable and motivation to pursue a paramedic career is important for success. Individuals in the part time program need to properly manage their online study and learning requirements in order to successfully participate in weekend workshops.

Program Components

Students are expected to complete a course of pre-reading prior to the program. The program includes both classroom instruction to learn and practice skills, as well as on-car practicums with BC Ambulance to demonstrate those skills in the field.

• Pre-Reading – Anatomy & Physiology Course
  • Must be complete prior to first in-class day of program
  • Self-paced, typically 25-30 hours to complete
  • Access provided 1 month prior to start of in-class program

• Classroom Instruction
  • Full time program – 100% in person
  • Part time program – 83% in person and 17% online

• Practicum with BC Emergency Health Services (BC Ambulance)
  • Minimum 12 shifts (typically 12 hours each)
  • Must obtain all required NOCPs, which often necessitates extra shifts|
  • Scheduling is arranged by BC Ambulance. Students will need to make themselves freely available and may be required to travel at their own expense.

Program Assessment

Evaluation is an ongoing process conducted through a variety of both formal and informal methods. This includes in-class simulations, assignments, written evaluations, and practical exam simulations. Students must also complete a practicum placement on ambulance.

Successful completion of the program requires:

• 100% attendance for in-class component
• Obtaining a grade of at least 75% on:
  • all assignments
  • all mid-term exams
  • final written exam
  • final practical exams (2)
• Practicum completion, as measured by:
  • • Minimum of 12 shifts on ambulance performed
    • Exposure to all required NOCPs

Certification and Careers

Graduates receive a Primary Care Paramedic Certificate. Students who receive their certificate must then apply for licensing examinations – individuals working in this occupation must have a license in order to practice.

In BC, the Emergency Medical Assistants Licensing Board (EMALB) provides regulatory oversight for licensing. More information on this process and the requirements can be found on their website here.