UPEI offers Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine for Holland College paramedicine graduates
The following is co-released by UPEI and Holland College
The University of Prince Edward Island is offering a degree pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine for graduates of Holland College’s paramedicine programs or any other two-year paramedicine program accredited by the Canadian Medical Association.
The pathway, which reduces the duration of the BSc program from four years to two, is designed for paramedics interested in enhancing their scientific knowledge and their research and communication skills in order to access post-graduate opportunities, research experiences, or business opportunities to advance their careers.
Graduates from the two-year Paramedicine program who are enrolled in the BSc in Paramedicine program take 20 courses. Of these,15 are core courses and the other five are electives. The core courses are primarily in sciences, including four advanced courses in Paramedicine. Students must choose two of their electives from the areas of Science (Chemistry, Nutrition, Kinesiology or Physics) or Social Science (Business, Psychology or Philosophy). Students with an average of 75 per cent or better in their first year at UPEI may apply to complete an Honours research thesis during their second year.
Dr. Trevor Jain, Program Director for Paramedicine at UPEI and Medical Director of the Primary Care Paramedicine and Advanced Care Paramedicine programs at Holland College, said the new degree provides professionals with the opportunity to prepare for anticipated changes in the field.
“The addition of a BSc specializing in Paramedicine is a natural evolution in the credentials required for these health care providers. The Canadian Paramedic Association of Canada has indicated that within ten years a degree will be required to enter this profession. UPEI and Holland College are poised to become national leaders within this framework, providing a tailor-made BSc program for Paramedics.”
Brent Nicholson, lead instructor in the paramedicine programs at Holland College, said the pathway is a wonderful opportunity for paramedics.
“Holland College has a 30-year tradition of being a national leader in paramedic education. In this unique partnership, UPEI and Holland College have created an academic pathway that has the potential to change the profession. Paramedics have become respected members of the health care team, so it is important that we also evolve toward an academic profession. What cannot be lost in this important and needed evolution is the connection to practical, hands-on and experiential learning. A college and university partnership allows for both institutions to draw on their strengths and in the end will produce the leaders of the next generation of paramedics,” he said.
The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.
