What qualification is needed to be classed as a ‘Paramedic’?

Stand back – Paramedic coming through!

We are often asked, “How do I become a Paramedic in Australia?” and while the answer is simple, the pathways that people take to get there can vary.

To become a registered Paramedic in Australia, working for a State Ambulance service, you need to undertake a Bachelor of Paramedical Science (or equivalent). This degree is 3 years full time at a recognised university.

To become a Private Sector Medic, for example, an Emergency Medical Technician, Event Medic, or Emergency Services Officer, which are very similar roles to Paramedics, you will need to complete the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care. This is an 18-24 month-long blended learning course, completed partially online and partially face-to-face at Clinical Workshops and Clinical Placement.

The Diploma of Emergency Health Care is also an excellent pathway into university, for those students who wish to go all the way to become a Registered Paramedic, but don’t have the right grades for direct entry, or simply want to get their knowledge ‘up-to-scratch’ before embarking on the bachelor’s degree.

The term Paramedic became a protected title in 2018 and the rules changed regarding the required education. Prior to that, the Diploma (plus work experience) was enough to become registered through AHPRA, which is the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

Benefits of completing the Diploma prior to the Bachelor’s degree:

  • Having the Diploma means you can work in the private sector and gain experience, while you study the bachelor’s degree.
  • You will start your first year of university being one step ahead of your classmates, with tonnes of prior knowledge from your studies and hands-on experience from your Clinical Placements.
  • You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) which means you can skip some of the first-year subjects.
  • Your resume will be impressive when you finally apply to become a paramedic, because of the extra qualification and experience.

Do Diploma graduates excel at university?

In this video, listen Sam Willis, paramedical lecturer at Curtin University, explain how the APC graduates in his class are making huge progress in their bachelor degree. This is because they have the practical experience (via APC), which allows fellow students look to them for support and guidance. Not only is their clinical knowledge advanced, but they demonstrate the correct way to interact and engage with others, which is a huge part of the job.

Do you have what it takes to train to become a Paramedic?

Being a Paramedic or Private Sector Medic (Basic/Advanced Life Support trained), is a job like no other! The rewards from assisting patients every day are second to none. You have the opportunity to impact people’s lives in such a positive way. If you aren’t sure you have what it takes or know what pathway is best for you, we can help! You can now create your very own personalised paramedical career development plan here. The detailed report will explain to you how you can start taking the steps you need to get the career of your dreams.

About Australian Paramedical College

The Australian Paramedical College is the largest private pre-hospital health care training provider in Australia, we can help you to achieve your paramedical pathway training and career goals.

We offer three courses in the emergency healthcare sector:

Our nationally recognised paramedical pathway training provides a flexible and affordable training pathway to employment in the private sector, or as a stepping stone to university to study a Bachelor of Paramedic Science.

Anything is possible when you put your mind to it. With online learning a part of everyday life, it’s easier to fit study around your lifestyle. A few of hours here and there each week is often all it takes to begin making progress with your studies.

What is your career journey?

To discover how you can become a fully qualified Ambulance Paramedic or Basic/Advanced Life Support Medic, complete a personalised paramedical career development plan.