Paramedicine

The Bachelor of Paramedicine at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in emergency medical services. This program offers a strong foundation in healthcare, honing both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to operate effectively as a paramedic in diverse environments. Students will engage with a curriculum that emphasizes clinical reasoning, patient assessment, emergency rescue techniques, and the use of advanced medical equipment, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide high-quality pre-hospital care. The program integrates real-world clinical placements, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including ambulance services, hospitals, and community health organizations. Emphasizing a student-centered approach, the degree combines lectures, practical workshops, simulation exercises, and fieldwork to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence. The Bachelor of Paramedicine also covers broader topics such as health promotion, ethics, and professionalism, preparing graduates to operate ethically and responsibly within the healthcare system. Graduates of this program will be eligible to apply for registration with relevant professional bodies, meeting national standards for paramedics. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and continuous learning, the Bachelor of Paramedicine at USQ aims to produce competent, compassionate, and adaptable health professionals ready to respond to emergency situations and contribute positively to community health.

Program structure

Courses to be studied Units

Core courses24

Total24 

Note: The Bachelor of Paramedicine consists of 22 compulsory courses (24 units) studied over three years. Note that one course, consisting of 4 weeks full-time placement, must be taken in Semester 3 of the first year of study.

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

PMC1100Anatomy for Paramedics

PMC1101Public Health for Paramedics

PMC1102Preparation for Paramedic Practice 1

PMC1103Physiology for Paramedics

PMC1000Applied Pathology

PMC1202Preparation for Paramedic Practice 2

PMC1303Paramedic Clinical Placement 1

PMC2000Introduction to Basic and Clinical Pharmacology

PMC2100Paramedic Clinical Skills 1

PMC2101Cardiovascular Conditions and Emergencies

PMC2102Respiratory Conditions and Emergencies

PMC2200Paramedic Clinical Skills 2

PMC2201Trauma and Environmental Emergencies

PMC2202Behavioural Conditions and Emergencies

PMC2203Paramedic Clinical Placement 2*

PMC3000Legal and Ethical Principles in Health

PMC3101Obstetric and Gynaecological Emergencies

PMC3102Multispecialty Conditions and Emergencies

PMC3103Paramedic Clinical Placement 3*

PMC3201Paediatric emergencies

PMC3202Preparation for Paramedic Practice 3

PMC3203Paramedic Clinical Placement 3**

Footnotes

* 4 weeks full-time placement

** 6 weeks full-time placement

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• Recommended study of one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics

Note: All students will be required to purchase a uniform, have a current valid Blue Card, current senior first aid certificate and provide evidence of immunity to Hepatitis B. 
Clinical placements are mandatory within the Bachelor of Paramedicine and for placements with the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) will be required to:

• QAS medical Assessment (Fit Slip)
• Hepatitis B immunisation
• QAS health related fitness assessment
• Criminal History Clearance Report
• University Student Clinical Placement Induction.

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 15/66

You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP allows you to defer your fees until your income reaches a certain level.

The Bachelor of Paramedicine at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and vital role within the healthcare system. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to ensure graduates are well-equipped to work in pre-hospital emergency care, community health settings, and hospital environments. The curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical practice, providing a comprehensive understanding of human health and emergency response procedures. Students have opportunities to engage in industry placements and simulation exercises, which enhance their real-world experience and readiness for the demands of the profession.

The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills, crucial qualities for effective paramedics. Students will learn to assess emergency situations rapidly, administer appropriate treatments, and operate medical equipment in high-pressure environments. The USQ's focus on flexible learning options allows students to access online coursework alongside face-to-face practical sessions, accommodating diverse student needs and enabling a balanced approach to study and personal commitments.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Paramedicine can pursue employment across a range of settings, including ambulance services, hospitals, community health organizations, and disaster management teams. The program aligns with industry standards and incorporates current best practices to ensure students are industry-ready upon graduation. In addition to technical skills, the program also emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and patient-centered care, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations with professionalism and compassion.

USQ provides state-of-the-art simulation laboratories and partnerships with healthcare providers that facilitate immersive learning experiences. The program's flexibility, combined with its strong industry connections, ensures graduates are not only qualified but also confident to meet the evolving challenges of emergency healthcare. Upon completion, students receive a qualification that supports registration with relevant professional bodies, paving the way for a rewarding career in paramedicine and emergency health services.