Step into one of the most advanced roles in emergency healthcare. The Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) Diploma Program at Keyano College prepares experienced Primary Care Paramedics (PCPs) to deliver high-level, life-saving care in high-pressure environments, from roadside trauma scenes to rural clinics and medevac units.
This two-year, blended diploma program is built around Alberta’s provincial ACP curriculum and combines online coursework, in-person labs, and supervised clinical placements. Learn from experienced paramedics and educators while staying connected to your home community. Supported by regional industry leaders like Suncor, this program delivers real-world learning that prepares you for an advanced scope of practice.
What You’ll Learn
Build on your existing paramedic experience to master advanced procedures and patient care techniques. You’ll gain confidence in:
- Advanced pharmacology and pathophysiology
- Emergency diagnosis, trauma assessment, and intervention
- Life support techniques and patient transport protocols
- Interprofessional collaboration and professional communication
- Leadership, resiliency, and mental wellness in practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates are eligible to:
- Practice as Advanced Care Paramedics in Alberta and other provinces
- Work in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), industrial medical teams, rural and urban hospitals, medevac services, and specialized clinics
- Pursue additional training in critical care, education, or paramedic leadership
Admission Requirements
Academic Background
Alberta High School Diploma or equivalent:
- English 30-1 or 30-2 (minimum 50%)
- Biology 30 (or another 30-level science)
- Math 20-1 or 20-2
Paramedicine Certification & Credentials
- Valid Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) Certificate from a recognized program
- Current unrestricted PCP registration with the Alberta College of Paramedics
- Class 4 driver’s licence
- Current BLS Provider certification
- Résumé showing relevant field experience
Practicum Requirements
Before starting clinical placements, students must submit:
- Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
- Up-to-date immunization record
- Completed medical forms
Pre-Entry Interview
Selected applicants will participate in a mandatory Selection Day interview with the Prehospital Program Coordinator to assess readiness for ACP-level study and practice.
English Language Proficiency
Required if English is not your first language. Accepted tests and minimum scores:
- TOEFL iBT: 79 (no section below 19)
- IELTS Academic: 7.0
- CAEL: 60
- MELAB: 80
- Duolingo: 115
- PTE Academic: 65
Refer to the Credit Calendar for other accepted ELP alternatives.
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Tuition and Fees
Subject to change. See Credit Calendar for full breakdown.
Year 1: $12,632.84
Year 2: $12,815.00
Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.
Lab fees and optional costs not included.
Sample Program Structure
Category Requirements
Course selection may vary depending on your intended major and transfer destination. Below is a sample two-year plan:
Year 1 - Foundations of ACP Practice
Winter Term
- ACP 501 – Anatomy and Physiology (6 credits)
- ACP 502 – Pathophysiology (6 credits)
- ACP 503 – Pre-hospital Skills (6 credits)
Year 1
Spring Term
- ACP 505 – Introduction to Pharmacology (3 credits)
- ACP 507 – Physical Examination (3 credits)
- ACP 516 – Introductory Life Support (3 credits)
Year 1
Summer Term
- ACP 509 – Intermediate Ambulance Practicum (6 credits)
- ACP 518 – Communications (1 credit)
Year 2 - Advanced Clinical Practice
Fall Term
- ACP 508 – Advanced Pharmacology (3 credits)
- ACP 511 – Emergency Diagnosis & Treatment I (6 credits)
- ACP 514 – Advanced Paramedic Skills (3 credits)
Year 2
Winter Term
- ACP 506 – Obstetrics (3 credits)
- ACP 510 – Professional Practice (3 credits)
- ACP 513 – Advanced Life Support (3 credits)
- ACP 517 – Paramedic Wellness (3 credits)
- ACP 519 – Emergency Diagnosis & Treatment II (6 credits)
Year 2
Summer Term
- ACP 512 – Hospital Practicum (6 credits)
- ACP 515 – Final Ambulance Practicum (6 credits)
Hear From Our Students
"I came to Keyano from a small town thinking I’d have to move away for the ACP program. Being able to learn from home, with local support, made all the difference."
— Morgan H., ACP Grad
Stay Connected
This program is not currently accepting applications for 2024–25.
Interested in preparing for a future intake or exploring other pre-hospital care programs?
Email: nursing@keyano.ca
Check back soon for application updates