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USC introduces paramedic degree to save lives
The University of the Sunshine Coast will introduce a Paramedic degree in 2008 to complement its existing health programs and provide a steady flow of graduates into this vital profession.
This exciting new degree is just one of the new programs which will be featured at USC’s annual open day – Courses for Careers Day – on Sunday 19 August.
The Bachelor of Paramedic Science degree will assist in meeting the high demand for paramedic graduates across Queensland and beyond and follows a recent major funding injection from the State Government for additional paramedics.
Queensland Combined Emergency Services Academy director Dennis Jess said the highly-valued profession was vital to the welfare of the community and was very rewarding for those suited to the job.
“Students need to be good communicators, have the ability to manage extreme situations with calmness and leadership, be good team members and have a genuine willingness to contribute to the community,” he said.
The introduction of this new program reinforces the University’s growing reputation for quality programs and commitment to the advancement of health and well-being in the community.
USC and the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) are working together to develop innovative and flexible delivery methods for the program, making it considerably different from those offered by other Australian institutions.
Senior Intensive Care Paramedic and Senior Clinical Educator Nick Prass said paramedicine was a unique and continuously developing area within the health care and emergency service environments.
“The profession naturally draws those who like to work in interesting and diverse environments, but requires motivated and enthusiastic people who like to learn because the profession’s knowledge base is always growing and changing,” he said.
“I believe one of the key benefits which drew me to the profession was that it is in high demand, both in Australia and across the globe.
“It provides an array of diverse career opportunities which you can follow once completing your basic Paramedic training and, as a qualified paramedic professional, you have significant autonomy within your own working environment.”
The program not only will give students the knowledge, skills and ability to operate as Advanced Care Paramedics, but also will provide students with full orientation to QAS policies, procedures and equipment, including emergency driver training.
Download a Courses for Careers Day program guide from the USC website at <www.usc.edu.au> or phone (07) 5459 4795.