Extended Care Paramedicine

The Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for advanced roles in emergency medical services and community healthcare. This innovative degree builds upon foundational paramedicine knowledge, equipping graduates with the specialized skills required to provide extended care in diverse and complex settings. The program integrates theoretical coursework with practical training, ensuring students gain both the academic understanding and hands-on experience necessary for effective patient management across a broad spectrum of medical emergencies and chronic conditions. Students will explore topics such as advanced clinical assessment, medical decision-making, pharmacology, healthcare ethics, and health promotion, enabling them to deliver high-quality care in pre-hospital environments, community clinics, and other healthcare settings. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to work independently or as part of multidisciplinary teams. Emphasizing innovation and evidence-based practice, the program also incorporates contemporary advancements in paramedicine and healthcare delivery. Throughout the course, students participate in simulated scenarios, clinical placements, and community engagement activities to develop confidence and competence in real-world situations. Graduates of the Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine are uniquely equipped to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare system, contributing to improved patient outcomes and community well-being. Upon completion, students are eligible for registration with relevant health authorities, enabling them to pursue employment in emergency medical services, community health organizations, and related roles. This forward-thinking degree reflects Edith Cowan University’s commitment to excellence in health education and its dedication to preparing future healthcare professionals for impactful careers in extended care paramedicine.

Structured to prepare students for a dynamic career in advanced pre-hospital care, the Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The program is designed to equip students with the clinical competencies, decision-making abilities, and ethical understanding necessary to provide high-quality care in diverse emergency and community settings. Throughout the course, students engage in a wide range of subjects including advanced airway management, trauma assessment, patient stabilization, medical emergencies, and mental health support. They also develop strong communication skills essential for effective teamwork and interaction with patients from diverse backgrounds. Hands-on training is a core component, with practical placements in real-world environments such as ambulance services, hospitals, and community health settings. These placements allow students to apply their learning in supervised scenarios, fostering confidence and professional competence. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptive learning to prepare graduates for the complex challenges of modern paramedicine. Additionally, the program covers areas like professional practice, legal and ethical considerations, and health promotion, ensuring graduates are well-rounded practitioners committed to patient-centered care. Successful completion of the Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine enables graduates to work as qualified paramedics, providing essential healthcare services in urban and rural environments, and offering leadership in community health initiatives. The program reflects Edith Cowan University’s commitment to innovative health education and aims to produce highly skilled, compassionate, and adaptable health professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

University entry requirements apply. All applicants need to have a Bachelor's degree in Paramedicine, with equivalents considered. Alternatively applicants may apply with equivalent prior learning including at least five years appropriate professional experience.

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for advanced roles within emergency medical services. Regarding financing studies, students are advised to explore a range of funding options to support their academic pursuit. Domestic students are eligible to access Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) funding, which significantly reduces the cost of tuition fees, making higher education more accessible and affordable. Additionally, eligible students can apply for government assistance programs such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which allows students to defer their tuition fees and repay them via the taxation system once they meet the income threshold.

International students planning to enroll in the Extended Care Paramedicine program should be prepared to pay full tuition fees, which are detailed on the university’s official website. These fees vary year by year and are typically paid upfront or through payment plans arranged with the university’s finance office. The university also provides various scholarships and financial aid options based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as Indigenous status or regional backgrounds. Prospective students are encouraged to review the university’s scholarship database regularly for updated opportunities.

Students may also consider external financial sources such as private loans, third-party sponsorships, or employer-funded training programs if applicable. Some regional healthcare organizations and ambulance services offer funding or sponsorship opportunities for students undertaking paramedical degrees, especially those committed to working in rural or underserved areas after graduation. Additional costs associated with the program may include textbooks, uniforms, equipment, and transportation, which students should budget for accordingly.

ECU's Financial Aid service provides comprehensive support and guidance to students regarding budgeting, funding options, and applying for financial assistance. Students are encouraged to contact the university’s Student Funding and Scholarships Office early in their studies to ensure they maximize available financial resources. Overall, financing studies at ECU involves a combination of government support, scholarships, personal savings, and possibly external funding sources, aimed at making paramedical education accessible and sustainable for students from diverse backgrounds.

Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University offers a comprehensive pathway for students aiming to develop advanced pre-hospital emergency skills and knowledge. The program is designed to prepare graduates to work as extended care paramedics, capable of managing complex patient needs in a variety of emergency situations. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical clinical placements, ensuring students gain both knowledge and hands-on experience. Students learn about advanced life support, patient assessment, trauma management, pharmacology, and communication skills essential for effective emergency medical response. The program emphasizes critical thinking, decision-making, and autonomous practice, reflecting the evolving scope of paramedicine roles. Students also engage with simulations and real-world scenarios to build confidence and proficiency in managing emergency cases across diverse environments. The degree aligns with national and international standards for paramedic education and may include collaboration with health services and ambulance organizations to facilitate practical exposure. Graduates of the Extended Care Paramedicine program are equipped to provide high-quality pre-hospital care, support community health initiatives, and pursue further postgraduate studies and specialist roles. The program offers a pathway for career advancement in emergency health services and aligns with the growing demand for highly skilled paramedics capable of operating independently within a broader healthcare context.