Course Summary

This program adopts a blended learning approach, combining online theoretical instruction with practical residential workshops distributed throughout the course duration. Residential schools are conducted on the Rockhampton Campus.

The Diploma of Emergency Health Care is designed to equip individuals for roles in pre-hospital and out-of-hospital settings, focusing on patient assessment, healthcare provision, and transport services.

Participants will develop the clinical competencies and theoretical understanding necessary to perform clinical assessments and execute pre-hospital and out-of-hospital emergency interventions. This includes the acquisition of advanced life support skills.

To successfully complete this qualification, students must undertake a minimum of 160 hours in Vocational Placement. This practical experience is crucial and must directly relate to the learning outcomes specified in the Assessment Requirements.

Entry Requirements

Prospective students must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the course, which has intakes in March and July. Prior to enrollment, applicants are required to complete an online literacy and numeracy assessment through bksb (Basic Key Skills Builder), unless they have previously completed a course at the same or a higher level.

Eligibility for the diploma program is broad, welcoming candidates from various educational backgrounds who demonstrate the capability to engage in vocational education and training at this level. Students must possess adequate reading, writing, and basic arithmetic skills to complete coursework, including workbooks, assignments, and assessments.

Enrollment necessitates access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet connectivity, a camera, a microphone, and speakers. The program includes mandatory vocational placements: physical fitness is important, as students must be able to perform tasks such as patient lifting and CPR during placements or simulation exercises.

This diploma is delivered through a blended learning model. While theoretical components are conducted online, attending the three compulsory residential workshops is mandatory. These workshops may necessitate travel and accommodation arrangements at the student's expense for those outside the Rockhampton location.

Vocational Placement and Work Integrated Learning

Students must complete a Vocational Placement and/or Work Integrated Learning as part of this qualification.

Additional information

A total of 160 hours are required to be completed for Vocational Placement in a pre-hospital / out of hospital context. These are usually identified by the student at a convenient location. The Vocational Placement activities will be negotiated between the Head of Course (VET) and the individual student to ensure suitability of placements. Vocational Placement opportunities may also be identified by the University. All costs in attending Vocational Placements are borne by the student. Note: Placements with State Ambulance services are not available to Diploma students.

Before commencing Vocational Placement, students must submit all CQU requirements to the Schools Work Integrated Learning Officers nine weeks prior to commencement of placement.

Immunisations:

- COVID-19 approved vaccination (If the provider or state requires this) Applicants should be aware that this may become a mandatory requirement, it is recommended applicants commence a COVID-19 vaccination for their future employment as health professionals.

- Hepatitis B

- Influenza vaccine

- Tuberculosis (TB) – Mantoux test or QuantiFERON Gold test (QLD Ambulance Service Placements Only)

- Varicella (chickenpox)

- Diptheria/Tetanus/Pertussis

- Measles, Mumps Rubella

- Working With Children Check (WWCC) in the state where placement is taking place

- National Police Check with Australian Federal Police (AFP)

- Current approved First Aid Certificate and updated CPR: HLTAID011 First Aid is valid for 3 years, but CPR requires updating every 12 months.

VET Student Loan Information

VET Student Loans may be available for eligible students in approved Diploma level qualifications. The loan can be used towards Tuition Fees only and does not cover additional expenses such as textbooks, uniforms, equipment, travel, tools, and accommodation or general living expenses. Loan limits or caps may apply for some eligible courses and where a loan limit is reached for a course, students may be required to pay upfront for any remaining units.

For more information or to check your eligibility for a VET Student Loan, please visit our VET Student Loans webpage or contact us .

Course Details

Admission Codes

Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations

Upon successful completion, graduates are poised for a range of career opportunities within the health care and patient transport system. The core and elective units cover essential skills such as working with diverse populations, legal and ethical work practices, infection prevention and control, safe work practices, and managing personal stressors in the work environment. This robust curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to handle the demands of their roles effectively.

Career paths for graduates of this diploma include positions as ambulance officers, emergency medical technicians (EMT), and paramedic assistants. These roles are crucial in the health and community services industry sector, providing critical care and support to patients in emergencies.

Note: The Diploma in Emergency Health Care does not support AHPRA registration as a Paramedic.