Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP)

The program is suitable for people with a high level of physical and emotional fitness along with strong verbal communication skills and who are interested in providing on-site medical services during traumatic events.

Program Strengths 

The JIBC PCP program is the ONLY accredited PCP program in BC.  The Program exceeds the National Occupational Competency Profile (NOCP) for primary care paramedics developed by the Paramedic Association of Canada (PAC) and is accredited by Accreditation Canada.

Program graduates continue to exceed the national average in pass rates, standard scores and individual testing categories in the Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR) entry to practice examination.  Plus the number of students we graduate each year means we are actually raising the national average! View the report for 2022 here.

Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure in British Columbia through the Emergency Medical Assistant Licensing Branch (EMALB).

The program's hand on learning approach means graduates are prepared to step straight into employment opportunities as paramedics, in an expanding range of paramedical environments, in this in-demand field.

Students benefit from the skill sets and hand-on experience of faculty current in their field such as practicing paramedics, registered nurses, emergency room attendants and heath science educators.

Sometimes referred to as laddering, the 30 post-secondary credits earned completing the PCP certificate can be applied towards JIBC's 60 credit Diploma in Health Sciences  - Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The PCP program provides the education and training required to practice as a primary care paramedic.

The program focuses on the skills required to assess and manage patients in a pre-hospital care environment. It delivers a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology to strengthen the decision making and treatment actions required to care for critically ill or injured individuals in a pre-hospital setting.

Program Format 

You can select to study this tuition-based program in a full-time or part-time format.

Full-Time Study

The full-time format is eight months in duration. It is an intensive program, beginning with a one month online instructor-facilitated Anatomy and Physiology course, followed by the classroom component, which is five days a week for four months.  Upon completion of the classroom component, you'll be scheduled for your hospital and ambulance practicum shifts. These shifts are scheduled over a 90 day period following the classroom component. You'll need to provide open availability (24/7) during this period to allow for scheduling of these practicum shifts.

The full-time program will be offered in New Westminster, Victoria, Chilliwack and Kelowna as well as two to three larger community locations in British Columbia.

Part-Time Study

Part-time study is called the Distributed Learning format and is delivered over a 17 month period. Independent study, in preparation for the face-to-face weekend workshops, makes up a large component of this program. This program is as intensive as the full-time delivery model; however, it is delivered over a longer period to allow for independent study and assignment completion in preparation for the workshops for those who wish to work during the periods between workshops. Scheduling of each weekend workshop is normally at two to four-week intervals, depending on the class location and requirements of the participants.

The program begins with a one month online instructor-facilitated Anatomy & Physiology course.  You'll then participate in 16-weekend workshops (usually Fri-Sat-Sun) spread over 12.5 months. Learners are expected to have the didactic work completed prior to each intensive, hands-on workshop. Additionally, these workshops will include seven evaluation sessions. In between some of the workshops you will be required to attend hospital and ambulance placements. Upon completion of the classroom component, you'll be scheduled for your final hospital and ambulance practicum shifts. These shifts are scheduled over a 90 day period following the classroom component. You'll need to provide open availability (24/7) during this period to allow for scheduling of these practicum shifts.

The distributed learning program will be delivered in various rural and regional sites throughout the province.

Program Location and Date 2023-2024 

Click here for JIBC campus locations.

Applications Accepted - Jan 8 to Apr 4, 2024
EMR Medical Knowledge Test (online) must be completed between Apr 11-14, 2024

Applications Accepted - May 14 to Aug 13, 2024
EMR Medical Knowledge Test (online) must be completed between Aug 16-19, 2024

Policy and Procedures

JIBC recognizes that some programs require exceptions to JIBC policy. Program-specific requirements are detailed in the ACP and PCP Program Guidelines and Procedures document.

• ACP and PCP Procedures
• Academic Status Quick Reference

Tuition

Domestic Tuition $5,192.40

International Tuition: $15,577.22

Additional Fees

• Domestic Application Fee $75
• International Application Fee $150
• Learner Services Fee $195.20
• Student Union Fee $66.25
• Student Union Health & Dental $275
• Textbooks $550-$750
• Uniform and equipment (approximately) $750
• Immunizations - variable
• Criminal Record Check $28

Note:

Tuition fees are effective for programs starting April 1, 2024. All fees are subject to change without notice.

Application fees and program deposit ($500 - Domestic or $5,000 - International) are non-refundable and non-transferable in all circumstances.

Payment Terms

A $500 deposit must be paid within five working days of acceptance into the program. This deposit will be credited towards your tuition fees. 

The balance of tuition and the Learner Services Fee is due a minimum of two weeks before the first day of the program (commencement of the PARA-1100 course).

If a student withdraws before the start of the program, they receive a 100% refund less deposit. The program start is defined as the start of the PARA-1100 online course.

If a student withdraws within the first two weeks of the start of the program (PARA-1100 online component), they will be eligible for an 80% refund less deposit.

Students who withdraw by the following dates will be eligible for a 50% refund less deposit:

• Full-time program - before the first day of the classroom component
• Part-time program - before the first day of the first in-person workshop
• After this time there is no refund of tuition.

International Students: Please contact the program area for details regarding payment terms.

Financial Aid and Awards

Candidates for this program are eligible to apply for JIBC awards and bursaries such as the EMA education fund Award and others.

Many PCP students have recently benefitted from grant funding which has covered their tuition and training costs. However, this funding is never guaranteed and while we will make every effort to apply for future grants, students must always be prepared to pay their own fees.

For more information, contact Student Services.

Textbooks & Supplies

Please note: JIBC Store recommends that you place your textbook/ebook and uniform order one month prior to online and in person class start dates to ensure that your order may be fulfilled and shipped to you in time for the beginning of your program.   Orders can be submitted by fax, email or in-person to the JIBC store. The cost of textbooks and uniforms is the responsibility of each student.

Textbooks

Textbook Order Form 

Uniforms

Uniform Order Form

Tablet

Throughout the PCP program, you will be documenting skills, simulations and patient contacts on electronic Patient Care Records in both the classroom and practice education environments. The program will be evaluating student competency and performance through the use of CompTracker, our competency management system. The required text book will also have components which will be accessed online.  Additionally, classroom online exams use Respondus LockDown Browser to maintain the integrity of exams.

Students are required to have either a laptop or tablet during the program to support the use of these systems.  Please note: For the best experience utilizing these online systems including our E-book textbook it is recommended that if you are using a tablet, that you use an Apple iPad and that Chromebooks are not supported. Please ensure your device meets the operating system requirements noted below.

Operating System Requirements are:

• Windows: 11 and 10.
• Mac: MacOS 10.12 or higher.
• iOS:11.0+ (ipad only). Must have a compatible LMS integration. Check Browser here.

Practice Education 

There may be times when students will need to travel outside their region for practice education shifts. Students must be prepared to accept the financial cost of travel and living expenses associated with attendance at these shifts.

STEP ONE - Apply to the Program

All applications and supporting documents must be received by the deadline. 

• View the Becoming a Paramedic in BC videos for information on the program
• Complete and submit the Online Program Application Form using Education Planner BC.

STEP TWO - Submit Institutional Admission Requirements

Proof of high school graduation or meet JIBC definition of a mature student AND a minimum grade of a C in English 12 or equivalent (Official Transcript required) 

STEP THREE - Submit PCP Program Specific Requirements

Note: All supporting documents must be submitted as one PDF document

• Complete the Immunization Checklist Form with required Hep B serology report confirming immunity. Click here for Immunization FAQ.
• Prepare your PCP Program Document Submission Form or PCP Program Document Submission Form - International Students
• Proof of completion of JIBC Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Certificate (PARA-1050 or PARA-1051) within last 3 years. Basic Life Support (BLS) is included in this course.

Acceptable equivalent courses: 

• Valid EMR License plus Basic Life Support (BLS)  
• Current OFA  Level 3 plus Basic Life Support (BLS) 
• Non-JIBC EMR Certification plus Basic Life Support (BLS) 
• Requests for equivalency will be reviewed at the time of application. Equivalent must include Basic Life Support (BLS)

Beneficial Supporting Documents

Applicants who submit these documents will receive bonus points in the selection process.

• Transcript showing Grade 12 science course (biology, anatomy & physiology, chemistry or physics) min grade C
• Letter from organization verifying volunteer experience (minimum of 3 months service)

Documents can be submitted by mail or email and must be received by the application deadline.

Selection Process

Candidates who meet admission requirements will be required to participate in an online EMR Level Medical Knowledge Test. Candidates will be ranked based on the results of this test combined with any supporting documents that have been received through the admissions process. Only completed applications will be considered.  

EMR Level Medical Knowledge Test (online)

This online test will assess your level of knowledge relative to the medical science knowledge needed for entering the PCP program. This test will be administered online over a set 3 day period for each intake.  Exam dates can be found with the application deadline information.  You will be provided with access to the Candidate Assessment Online Campus just prior to the exam dates. 

Admission to the Primary Care Paramedic program is contingent on the availability of seats, completion of all admission criteria, submission of supporting documentation and applicant ranking as determined by a selection process.

Final Requirements

Upon acceptance to the program you will be required to provide the following in order to fulfill both Practice Education BC requirements as well as Provincial Health Orders:

Criminal Record Check (CRC) from the Criminal Records Review Program (RCMP check is NOT acceptable). You will be provided with full instructions as well as the required access code.

Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination is required. You will be provided with full instructions on how to submit this information.

TB Skin Test - You will be provided with details on when to have this completed to ensure your results are valid at the time of your first practice education placement.  Tests completed outside of the dates provided to you may not be valid.

Information For Returning Students

If you are a student seeking to complete the PCP program after any absence of withdrawal, you will need to re-apply to the program and meet all admission requirements including the candidate selection process in place at that time.

1. Check intake dates and application deadlines

• Students must re-apply within one year if the re-entry point is for any course after PARA-1100 or may apply at any time to retake the entire program.

2. Determine your re-entry point and course fees

• Click here for Re-admission Fee Table.
• If you are an International student click here for Re-admission Fee Table for International Students.
• You must re-enter the program at the course following the last course you completed successfully. If you failed a course you must repeat that course. You also have the option to audit courses you have previously successfully completed in order to refresh your knowledge.

3. Apply to the program

• Follow the process under the Admission Requirements and Application Process tabs.
• Students seeking re-admission may apply to any location however admission to the PCP program is competitive and the candidate selection ranking process will be followed.
• Note: In accordance with JIBC policy, students may only enrol in a program twice. If you wish to apply for a third attempt, you must send a written request, along with documentation of development you have completed to support your ability to successfully complete this program, to pcp@jibc.ca. Supportive documentation includes transcripts of formal education or training. This request will be reviewed prior to acceptance into the program.
• For full program guidelines on re-admission click on Policy and Procedures located in the Program Details section. Email us at pcp@jibc.ca with any questions.

Q: Where can I take the program?  

A: The full-time program takes place at JIBC's New Westminster, Victoria, Chilliwack and Kelowna campuses. It is also available at two to three larger community locations in British Columbia.

The Part-Time program is delivered in various rural and regional sites throughout the province. 

Q: What is the physical fitness requirement?

A: Applicants should self-assess and monitor their physical ability for the program, however, no documentation is required. Throughout the program, you will be performing the tasks of a paramedic during classroom simulations and while on practice education shifts.

A high number of job-related injuries occur when lifting patients. Physical fitness is critical in maintaining the wellness of paramedics and is incorporated into the philosophy of the PCP program and the paramedic profession.

A paramedic also requires a high level of emotional fitness to deal with the psychological stress associated with pre-hospital care work.

Q: Do I need a Class 4 Driver's License?

A: Although it is not a requirement of the program, students who wish to apply for employment with BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) are encouraged to obtain their Class 4 Driver's License as soon as possible.

Q: Do I need to wear a uniform during classroom time?

A: Yes. Paramedic students are required to wear uniforms during all program activities and are expected to be in uniform on the first day of class. Uniforms are available at the JIBC Store.

Q: Where will my Practice Education Placements take place?

A: The program includes approximately 200 hours of ambulance and hospital placements. This must be completed within 90 days after the classroom portion of the program. Wherever possible, practice education shifts will be scheduled in the same training region as the classroom portion of the program. However, students can expect to travel to other areas where shifts are available.

Students must be prepared to accept the financial cost of travel and living expenses associated with their required attendance at the placement sessions. Ambulance stations and hospitals may not be located on routes that are accessible by public transportation. Students are responsible for making the appropriate arrangements to ensure their ability to attend placement sessions at the assigned sites.

Q: What evaluations are there?

A: You will receive ongoing feedback from instructors as you engage in and practise the program's curriculum. You will complete a set of formal evaluations including written assignments, written exams, skill stations, simulations, projects, and presentations. You must also successfully complete hospital and ambulance placement evaluations. You must successfully pass each course to continue in the program.

Q: What are the computer requirements?

A: Students are required to complete online work and assignments as well as a web-based competency tracking program. All students must have access to a computer with internet capability.  All students must also have access to a tablet or laptop in order to be able to complete portions of their face to face learning as well as practice education.  For the best experience utilizing these online systems including our E-Book textbook it is recommended that if you are using a tablet, that you use an Apple iPad product and that Chromebooks are not supported. 

Q: How do I get my license to practice?

A: Each province has its own licensing regulations and fees. Students are encouraged to review requirements for the province in which they wish to practice. In BC, you must successfully complete a formal evaluation conducted by the Emergency Medical Assistant (EMA) Licensing Board within one year of program completion. Click here to visit their website for full details and fees.

Q: Am I covered by WorkSafeBC during the program?

A: JIBC provides WorkSafeBC coverage to students while participating in the hospital and ambulance placement. This coverage does not extend to any other components of the program.

Q: What student learning support do you have?

A: Whether you need guidance with study skills and test-taking, or if you identify as a student with a disability, the Manager of Student Learning Supports and Disability Resources is happy to meet with you to provide information and resources in their office at JIBC's New Westminster campus. There are also many online resources available through our Student Support and Library web pages. For more information please visit our web page at Student Support. 

Q: Do you accept international students into the PCP program?

A: Congratulations on choosing to study in British Columbia, Canada.  International applicants are encouraged to visit the International Studies page or contact JIBC Office of International if you have any questions.