Extended Care Paramedicine

The Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and challenging career in emergency medical services and pre-hospital care. This program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping graduates with the expertise required to provide advanced patient care in diverse settings. The curriculum covers essential areas such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, clinical assessment, trauma management, and mental health. Students will gain hands-on experience through simulated scenarios and clinical placements, working alongside experienced paramedics and healthcare professionals. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, decision-making, communication, and leadership skills, ensuring that graduates are capable of delivering high-quality care in urgent and complex situations. Graduates of this program can pursue roles in ambulance services, community health organizations, and emergency departments, with the potential for further specialization or postgraduate studies. The program is delivered by a team of experienced academic staff and industry professionals, providing students with current best practices and innovative approaches to paramedicine. ECU’s state-of-the-art facilities and simulation laboratories enable students to hone their clinical skills in a controlled environment before engaging in real-world practice. The Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine also includes components focused on health promotion, cultural competency, and ethical considerations, preparing students to deliver respectful and effective care across diverse populations. With a strong emphasis on practical application and community-oriented care, this degree aims to produce competent, compassionate, and professional paramedics ready to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare system. Upon successful completion, graduates will be eligible for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as qualified paramedics. The program supports students throughout their journey, fostering a learning environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning to ensure career readiness in the rapidly changing landscape of emergency healthcare.

The Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the advanced clinical skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to excel in the evolving field of emergency medical services. This program focuses on preparing graduates to provide high-level pre-hospital care across a diverse range of settings, including rural, remote, and urban environments. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that integrates foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology with advanced paramedicine practice, ensuring they develop a thorough understanding of human health and emergency response strategies.

Throughout the course, students will learn vital skills in patient assessment, trauma management, cardiovascular care, pediatric emergencies, mental health crises, and aged care. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and decision-making skills to ensure students are capable of delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care in complex situations. In addition, the program incorporates extensive clinical placements in partnership with healthcare providers, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. These placements span hospital emergency departments, ambulance services, community health settings, and specialized clinics, providing diverse exposure and helping students build confidence and competence.

The curriculum also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and communication skills, preparing students to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and alongside other healthcare professionals. Ethical considerations, cultural competence, and patient-centered care are integral components of the program, ensuring graduates are equipped to serve diverse populations with sensitivity and professionalism. The program is designed to meet national competency standards and prepare students for registration as paramedics, supporting their career advancement within the emergency healthcare sector.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine will be well-equipped to handle a wide array of medical emergencies, contribute to community health initiatives, and pursue further postgraduate study or specialization in areas such as critical care, retrieval medicine, or leadership roles within emergency services. The program's combination of theoretical instruction, practical skills training, and clinical experience ensures graduates are prepared to meet the demands of a challenging and rewarding career as an extended care paramedic.

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 Bachelor of Extended Care Paramedicine at Edith Cowan University offers a range of flexible financing options to assist students in funding their studies. Domestic students may be eligible for government support schemes such as the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which substantially reduces the tuition fees. These students can also access financial assistance through the Australian government’s Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), including HECS-HELP, which allows deferred payment of fees until income reaches a certain threshold. International students are required to pay full tuition fees upfront or may explore alternative financial arrangements depending on their home country's agreements or private loans. ECU also provides payment plans and scholarships for eligible students, which can ease the financial burden during their coursework. Scholarships awarded can be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria set by the university or external organizations. Students are encouraged to contact ECU’s Student Financial Support Services for personalized advice on financing their studies. Additionally, some students may qualify for part-time work options or external funding sources. The university’s website offers detailed information on payment deadlines, fee structures, and assistance programs. It is recommended that students plan their finances carefully in advance, considering tuition, books, equipment, and living expenses. The university maintains transparent policies regarding fees and offers support services to help students navigate their financial situation throughout their academic journey. By leveraging these options, students can better manage their educational expenses and focus on their professional development in the field of extended care paramedicine.

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University is designed to prepare students for advanced roles within the pre-hospital and community healthcare settings. The program emphasizes comprehensive training in the assessment, management, and transportation of patients requiring extended care, focusing on scenarios that go beyond basic paramedic skills. Students gain in-depth knowledge of emergency and non-emergency patient care, including advanced airway management, pharmacology, and clinical decision-making. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with practical placements, providing students with real-world experience in various healthcare environments, such as ambulance services, community health centers, and hospitals.

Throughout the course, students develop skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle complex clinical situations. The program also covers legal and ethical considerations in paramedicine, patient safety protocols, and contemporary advancements in emergency healthcare. Graduates are prepared to work as extended care paramedics, delivering a higher level of service that includes advanced life support, chronic disease management, and health promotion within the community. This qualification aims to meet the increasing demand for highly skilled paramedics capable of providing comprehensive care in diverse and challenging environments. The program aligns with national healthcare standards and integrates innovative teaching methods, including simulation labs, case studies, and interprofessional education. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for registration with relevant health authorities and can pursue employment opportunities in emergency response services, community health agencies, and advanced care settings.