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EMR Emergency Medical Responder

Are you interested in a career in emergency medical services (EMS)? Would you like to take a step towards being a Primary Care Paramedic or Advanced Care Paramedic? The Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) program is the first level of education and training for EMS practitioners in Alberta. 

EMR is an excellent introduction to EMS and provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for students continuing on to Primary Care Paramedic programs in Alberta. It is also often a prerequisite for those seeking a career in the fire service.

Our EMR Program is approved by the Alberta College of Paramedics and is licensed with the Private Career Colleges branch, Alberta Advanced Education.  

Questions?    Contact us today.   

Delivery Full-time (Monday to Friday)
Program Length 8 weeks: 4 Wks Self Directed Learning (100 hrs) + 4 Wks in class learning (140 hrs)
Class Size Minimum 8; Maximum 24
Next Program Start Date October 8, 2024

Program Details

ESA program dates and fees are subject to change.

2024 EMR Dates

Program Code - EMR 2024-08 (Full Time) - Tuesday, August 6, 2024 to Friday, September 27, 2024

Application Deadline – Friday, July 26, 2024.  No further applications will be accepted after July 26, 2024. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, August 6, 2024, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Tuesday, September 3, 2024 to Friday, September 27, 2024, at ESA

  • Week 1 - Tuesday to Saturday (Sep 3-7, 2024) - 0830 to 1630 hrs -Sat in lieu of Monday, September 2, 2024 (Labour Day)
  • Week 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Sep 9-27) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

 

Program Code - EMR 2024-08B (Part time/Weekends) - Thursday, August 22, 2024 to Sunday, December 8, 2024

Application Deadline – Friday, August 9, 2024.  No further applications will be accepted after August 9, 2024. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Thursday, August 22, 2024, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Saturday, September 21 to Sunday, December 8, 2024, at ESA from 0830hrs to 1630hrs

  • September:  21, 22, 28, 29
  • October:  5, 6, 19, 20, 26, 27
  • November: 2, 3, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
  • December: 1, 7 & 8

No Classes - Thanksgiving Weekend - October 12 & 13, 2024 

                       Remembrance Day Weekend - November 9 & 10, 2024 

 

Program Code - EMR 2024-10 (Full Time) - Tuesday, October 8, 2024 to Friday, November 29, 2024 - program full

Application Deadline – Friday, September 27, 2024.  No further applications will be accepted after September 27, 2024. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, November 4 to Friday, November 29, 2024, at ESA

  • Week 1 - Monday to Friday (Nov 4-8, 2024) - 0830 to 1630 hrs
  • Week 2 - Tuesday to Saturday (Nov 12-16, 2024) - Sat in lieu of Remembrance Day stat on Mon, November 11, 2024
  • Week 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Nov 18-22 & Nov 25-29, 2024) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

No Classes - Monday, November 11, 2024

 

Program Code - EMR 2024-12 (Full Time) - Tuesday, December 3, 2024 to Friday, January 31, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, November 22, 2024.  No further applications will be accepted after November 22, 2024. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, December 3, 2024, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, January 6 to Friday, January 31, 2025, at ESA

  •  Week 1, 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Jan 6 - Jan 31) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

 

Program Code - EMR 2024-12B (Part time/Weekends) - Thursday, December 5, 2024 to Sunday, March 16, 2025

Application Deadline – Wednesday, November 27, 2024.  No further applications will be accepted after November 27, 2024. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Thursday, December 5, 2024, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Saturday, January 4, 2025 to Sunday, March 16, 2025, at ESA from 0830hrs to 1630hrs

  • January: 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
  • February: 1, 2, 8, 9, 22, 23
  • March: 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16

No Classes - Family Day Weekend - February 15 & 16, 2025   

*********************************************************************************************************   

2025 EMR Dates

Program Code - EMR 2025-01 (Full Time) - Tuesday, January 28, 2025 to Friday, March 21, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, January 17, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after January 17, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, February 24 to Friday, March 21, 2025, at ESA

  •  Week 1, 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Feb 24 - Mar 21) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-03 (Part time/Weekends) - Thursday, March 6, 2025 to Sunday, June 22, 2025

Application Deadline – Wednesday, February 19, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after February 19, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Thursday, March 6, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Saturday, April 5, 2025 to Sunday, June 22, 2025, at ESA from 0830hrs to 1630hrs

  • April: 5, 6, 12, 13, 26 & 27
  • May: 3, 4, 10, 11, 24, 25 & 31
  • June: 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22

No Classes - Easter Weekend - April 19 & 20, 2025 

                      May Long Weekend - May 17 & 18, 2025

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-04 (Full Time) - Tuesday, April 1, 2025 to Friday, May 23, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, March 21, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after March 21, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Tuesday, April 22, 2025 to Friday, May 23, 2025, at ESA

  • Week 1 - Tuesday, April 22 & Thursday, April 24, 2025 - 1730 to 2100 hrs
  • Week 2  - Monday to Friday (Apr 28 - May 2, 2025) - 0830 to 1630 hrs
  • Week 3 - Monday to Friday (May 5-9, 2025) - 0830 to 1630 hrs
  • Week 4 - Monday to Friday (May 12-16, 2025) - 0830 to 1630 hrs
  • Week 5  - Tuesday to Friday (May 20-23, 2025) - 0830 to 1630 hrs

No Classes - Monday, May 19, 2025

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-06 (Full Time) - Tuesday, June 10, 2025 to Friday, August 1, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, May 30, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after May 30, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, July 7 to Friday, August 1, 2025, at ESA

  •  Week 1, 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Jul 7 - Aug 1) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-08 (Full Time) - Tuesday, August 5, 2025 to Friday, September 26, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, July 25, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after July 25, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, September 2 to Friday, September 26, 2025, at ESA

  • Week 1 - Tuesday to Saturday (Sep 2-6, 2025) - Sat in lieu of Labour Day stat on Mon, September 1, 2025
  • Week 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Sep 8-26, 2025) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

No Classes - Monday, September 1, 2025

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-08B (Part time/Weekends) - Thursday, August 7, 2025 to Sunday, November 16, 2025

Application Deadline – Wednesday, July 23, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after July 23, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Thursday, August 7, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Saturday, September 6, 2025 to Sunday, November 16, 2025, at ESA from 0830hrs to 1630hrs

  • September: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28
  • October: 4, 5, 18, 19, 25 & 26
  • November: 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 & 16

No Classes - Thanksgiving Weekend - October 11 & 12, 2025 

 

 

Program Code - EMR 2025-10 (Full Time) - Tuesday, October 14, 2025 to Friday, December 5, 2025

Application Deadline – Friday, October 3, 2025.  No further applications will be accepted after October 3, 2025. 

Access to Self Directed Learning – Will be provided at the mandatory orientation at ESA

Mandatory Orientation (First Day of Program) - Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 1700hrs to 2000hrs - at ESA

ESA Classroom Sessions - Monday, November 10 to Friday, December 5, 2025, at ESA

  • Week 1 - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday (Nov 10-15, 2025) - Sat in lieu of Remembrance Day stat on Tuesday, November 11, 2025
  • Week 2, 3 & 4 - Monday to Friday (Nov 17 - Dec 5) - 0830 to 1630 hrs 

No Classes - Tuesday, November 11, 2025

                

  • Graduates of the ESA EMR program will be proficient as per the Paramedic Association of Canada definition of proficiency, to the standards and competencies outlined by the National Occupational Competency Profile (NOCP) for Emergency Medical Responder. 
  • Staff, faculty, partners, and students of ESA will be provided with a safe and respectful working and learning environment.
  • Learning at ESA will be supported through provision of access for students to experienced, qualified faculty, and the support and guidance of professional administrative staff.
  • Achievement of proficiency will be supported through access to high quality learning materials and equipment, effective instructor to student ratios, and appropriate practical training environments. 
  • Professional development of ESA students and graduates will be enhanced through ESA’s demonstrated commitment to patient focused, evidence-based EMS, modeling of a team based approach to public safety, and an established culture of accountability to ethical and professional standards.

There are definite advantages to taking your EMR training at ESA:

  • The ESA EMR Program is approved by the Alberta College of Paramedics.
  • Alberta College of Paramedics exam success rates for ESA students are excellent.
  • Low student to instructor ratios for practical training are maintained.
  • ESA instructors are career Fire Fighters, Primary Care Paramedics, Advanced Care Paramedics and Physicians.
  • ESA uses a case based program design.
  • Face to face learning is supplemented by online learning.    
  • The ESA EMR Program is licensed by the Private Career Colleges Branch of Alberta Advanced Education.

Accreditation

The ESA Emergency Medical Responder Program is approved by the Alberta College of Paramedics and is licensed by the Private Career Colleges Branch, Alberta Advanced Education.

 

 

Credentials Awarded

  • ESA Emergency Medical Responder Certificate
  • BLS Provider Certificate (Heart & Stroke Foundation)
  • ITLS Basic Certificate (ITLS)
  • ESA Ambulance Operator Certificate
  • Defensive Driving 3 Demerit Reduction Program Certificate (Fleet Safety International)
  • Indigenous Knowledge and Traditional Health Certificate -  Continuing Professional Development (Ontario Health)
  • The Secrets of Psychological Body Armour Certificate (International Critical Incident Stress Foundation - Canada, Inc.)

Prerequisites 

  • Minimum 18 years of age
  • Transcripts of Grade 12 High School Diploma/ GED/ equivalent or post-secondary education. As of January 1, 2019, this must include- English 30, Math 10 and Biology 30 or equivalent.
  • CPR- dated within one year as of the first day of the program, accepted courses include- BLS Provider, CPR Level C or Health Care Provider
  • ​Standard First Aid Certificate- dated within three years as of the first day of the program
  • Driver’s License- Class 5 (GDL accepted)

Mature Students- If you are applying as a Mature Student, submit an updated resume and  transcript that includes your highest level of education completed in English, Math and Sciences.

Commencing 2022, EMR 2022-01, the EMR program curriculum and fees will include ESA’s Ambulance Operator Course. The program was developed by ESA to meet the Alberta College of Paramedics Professional Operator Course Objectives and Ambulance Operator Course Standards. The course includes instruction, assessment and evaluation in the academic and simulated setting performance environments. EMR 2022-01 and on will no longer be required to complete the APDOC corequisite.

Application

To apply for the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Program at ESA, you must use the ESA application package from this website. There are two files to download near the top of this page.  Click on:

  • Download Alberta Enrolment Contract EMR
  • Download ESA Application 

It is the responsibility of an applicant to ensure an application submitted to ESA is complete:

  • Application is filled out and signed
  • Prerequisites are complete and included
  • Payment is included
  • Alberta Enrolment Contract is completed, signed and dated.  

An applicant is not accepted into an EMR Program until a complete application has been processed and approved by ESA.  This includes a signed Enrolment Contract (a copy may be included in application; original signed copy of the contract must be submitted to ESA before classes start at ESA). 

Applicants will be accepted into the program until the application deadline or until the maximum class size of 24 is reached. At the maximum, students can be added to a wait list or select an alternate EMR program.

Mature Students

Mature Students may be accepted into an EMR Program at ESA.

If you do not meet the educational requirements, please contact ESA to request a Mature Student Application form.  

Forward your completed Mature Student Application form to info@ESAcanada.com for review by the Registrar. You will be advised if you may proceed with an application to an EMR Program as a mature student.

2024 EMR Fees - Effective for EMR Programs starting after January 1, 2024

  • Administration Fee:     $125.00
  • Program Materials Fee: (5% GST included):     $1,450.00
  • Tuition Fee (including Registration Fee of $500.00):     $3,000.00
  • Total EMR Fees - Payable to ESA:     $4,575.00

2025 EMR Fees - Effective for EMR Programs starting after January 1, 2025

  • Administration Fee:     $125.00
  • Program Materials Fee: (5% GST included):     $1,725.00
  • Tuition Fee (including Registration Fee of $500.00):     $3,000.00
  • Total EMR Fees - Payable to ESA:     $4,850.00

ESA fees are subject to review and will be updated by October 1 of each calendar year.

ESA fees and dates are subject to change.  Notice of any changes will be listed on this website and can be confirmed by contacting ESA by phone or email.

Commencing 2022, EMR 2022-01, the EMR program curriculum and fees will include ESA’s Ambulance Operator Course. The program was developed by ESA to meet the Alberta College of Paramedics Professional Operator Course Objectives and Ambulance Operator Course Standards. The course includes instruction, assessment and evaluation in the academic and simulated setting performance environments. EMR 2022-01 and on will no longer be required to complete the APDOC corequisite.

Payment of ESA Fees for EMR (2024) - EMR 2024-01 to EMR 2024-12B:

  • First Payment for EMR - Administration Fee ($125.00) + Program Materials Fee ($1450.00) + Registration Fee ($500.00 credited to tuition) for a total payment of $2,075.00. This payment must be submitted with the Application to ESA.  
  • Registration Fee is credited towards Tuition. 
  • Second payment for EMR - Balance of Tuition Fees $2,500.00.  Due at the Mandatory Orientation at ESA.  

Payment of ESA Fees for EMR (2025) - EMR 2025-01 to EMR 2025-10:

  • First Payment for EMR - Administration Fee ($125.00) + Program Materials Fee ($1725.00) + Registration Fee ($500.00 credited to tuition) for a total payment of $2,350.00. This payment must be submitted with the Application to ESA.  
  • Registration Fee is credited towards Tuition. 
  • Second payment for EMR - Balance of Tuition Fees $2,500.00.  Due at the Mandatory Orientation at ESA. 

ESA may only accept the second payment before the Orientation at ESA if the fee is paid by a third party such as a government agency approved by the Private Career Colleges Branch. Third party payments may be made as a single payment covering all fees before the program at ESA.

Refund of Fees

  • Administration Fee: Non-refundable.
  • Program Materials Fee: Non-refundable once Online Learning has been accessed.
  • Registration Fee: If the Enrolment Contract with ESA is cancelled within five business days of signing, the Registration Fee is refunded. After five business days, the Registration Fee is non-refundable.
  • Tuition Fees: The EMR Program at ESA is licensed by the Private Career Colleges Branch, Alberta Advanced Education. Cancellation and refund policies for the EMR Program are made in accordance with Section 17(1) Private Vocational Training Regulation. Any refunds of tuition fees depend on the percentage of training provided as of the withdrawal date and are listed in the Enrolment Contract signed by ESA and the student.

Methods of Payment:  All program fees are payable to Emergency Services Academy Ltd. Payments may be made by cash, cheque, Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Debit Card. Cash payments must be for the correct amount as ESA does not keep any cash onsite.

Funds may be transferred to Emergency Services Academy Ltd. by INTERAC e-Transfer using the ESA email address:  e-Transfers@ESAcanada.com

Tuition Fees: Include EMR lectures and labs.

Online Learning: Students will receive an access code and course ID to access their online resources at the Mandatory Orientation.

EMR Fees provide accidental health and dental insurance coverage for students while attending ESA classes, off-site training and during practical assignments. EMR students are not covered under Workers Compensation.

Additional Expenses for the EMR Program & Additional Equipment Required

Commencing 2022, EMR 2022-01, the EMR program curriculum and fees will include ESA’s Ambulance Operator Course. The program was developed by ESA to meet the Alberta College of Paramedics Professional Operator Course Objectives and Ambulance Operator Course Standards. The course includes instruction, assessment and evaluation in the academic and simulated setting performance environments. EMR 2022-01 and on will no longer be required to complete the APDOC corequisite.

Stethoscope 

Students are required to have their own stethoscope for the EMR Program. This is not included in Program Materials Fees nor supplied by ESA.   

Safety Glasses

Safety glasses provide eye protection during practical training involving bodily fluids such as blood. This is not included in Program Materials Fees nor supplied by ESA.   

Watch

Students are required to have a watch for the EMR program. This is required for taking vital signs. This is not included in Program Materials Fees nor supplied by ESA.   

Penlight

Students are required to have a penlight for the EMR program. This is not included in Program Materials Fees nor supplied by ESA.   

Optional Expenses

Equipment is provided by ESA for students' use during the EMR Program. Purchase of suggested equipment includes:

  • universal scissors

Post Graduate Costs

The Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR) Exam

A registration exam is a requirement for most new EMR, PCP and ACP applicants for registration with the Alberta College of Paramedics. (The exception to this is those who are licensed in another province or have education or experience deemed equivalent by the Registrar.)

The Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR) examinations are the approved registration examinations required of applicants applying to the general register of the College. (Please note: The COPR examinations now take the place of the former Provincial Registration Examinations. For more information, please see Changes to Alberta Exams.)

The COPR examinations are currently issued in all three currently recognized designations in Alberta:

  • Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
  • Primary Care Paramedic (PCP)
  • Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP)

Information on the COPR Examinations

Information on the COPR Examinations can be found here: https://www.copr.ca/examinations/information-and-application-process/

COPR has many resources for exam candidates, including an Examination Handbook that includes information about the process, including: eligibility requirements, what to expect when applying for the exam, what happens after you apply for the exam, what happens on exam day and what to expect following the exam.

If you have any questions, please email Exams@ABparamedics.com.

The EMR registration exam for Alberta registration is now being offered by COPR. All registration for the next exam is being coordinated by COPR.

https://copr.ca/examinations-emr-pcp-acp/information-and-application-process/

Any COPR exam application questions should be directed to: coordinator@copr.ca

The Alberta College of Paramedics Registration Fees

To practice paramedicine or use the title of paramedic in Alberta, all Emergency Medical Responders (EMR), Primary Care Paramedics (PCP) and Advanced Care Paramedics (ACP) must be registered with the College and hold an active practice permit.

Alberta College of Paramedics registration fees are listed on the Alberta College of Paramedics website.  abparamedics.com

 

Funding

The EMR Program at ESA is not eligible for Canada Student Loans and provincial loans and grants, as the period of study is shorter than the minimum 12 weeks required under these programs.   

For suggestions for alternate funding such as RESPs, please refer to Student Services on this website: www.esacanada.com/student-services#financial-aid

Curriculum

Program Hours

The EMR program is 240 hours. It includes 100 hours of self directed learning activites and 140 hours of in-person instruction at ESA.

Mandatory Orientation- 3 hours

The following information will be reviewed at the orientation:

  • Review the EMR Program Orientation PowerPoint
  • Review the ESA Student Manual and OH&S Manual
  • Dowload the BAND and AHS Protocols app
  • Program materials will be distributed
  • Instructions to activate program materials with access codes
  • Review the AHS Protocols

Self Directed Learning Activities- 100 hours

Self Directed Learning - 88 hours

  •  ESA Ambulance Operator Course including worksheets, an online quiz, simulator sessions and driving lessons
  •  J&B Learning- Anatomy & Physiology for Health Professionals online module including chapter quizzes and ESA  A&P Workbook
  •  J&B Learning- Emergency Medical Responder- Pre-reading- Patient Assessments
  • Psychological Body Armour Course
  •  Patient Assessments including surveys and videos
  •  HSF BLS Provider Manual & worksheet

Fitness- 12 hours (minimum)

Students will be provided with a customized fitness plan developed by a professional fitness trainer. The fitness plan will include a variety of strength and cardiovascular workouts. Students will be required to complete and log a minimum of 12 hours of fitness training during the program, on their own time.  Sample strength and cardio workouts are included in the EMR Google Classroom program. Students are encouraged to also engage in other physical fitness activities.

ESA’s Ambulance Operator Course - 40 hours

The Ambulance Operator Course was developed by ESA to meet the Alberta College of Paramedics Professional Operator Course Objectives and Ambulance Operator Course Standards. The course is intended to expand or refresh the driving knowledge and skills of the Emergency Medical Responder. The course includes instruction, assessment and evaluation in the academic, simulated setting, and practical performance environments.

Successful completion of the ESA  Ambulance Operator Course requires that the student successfully complete the following components prior to the first day of class:

  1. Review ESA Ambulance Operator Course PowerPoint Presentation
  2. SET Safety Defensive Driving course
  3. Review the Alberta Driver's Guide for Class 4 and complete the worksheet
  4. Review the Alberta Driver's Guide for Class 5 and complete the worksheet
  5. Review the EHS Provider and Operator Information and complete the worksheet
  6. Complete the online quiz
  7. Complete two-2.5 hour sessions and/or all of the required competencies on the ESA Driving Simulator.
  8. Complete two, 2 hour driving lessons with Park Driving School

In-Person Instruction at ESA- 140 hours

  • Didactic includes a combination of online learning, in-person lectures and practical training. The practical training includes scenarios, skill stations, high fidelity simulation and patient engagement.
  • Includes CPR recertification & ITLS Basic certification

EMR Program Content

The following lessons and labs are included in the theory and practical training at ESA:

  • CPR
  • Automated External Defibrillation
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Introduction to Pre-hospital Care
  • Legalities
  • Patient Assessment
  • Vital Signs
  • History Taking
  • Patient Management Simulation (Scenarios)
  • Pharmacology for the EMR
  • Medication Administration
  • Airway Management
  • Moving the Patient
  • Respiratory Emergencies
  • Cardiovascular Emergencies
  • Shock
  • Spinal Trauma
  • Musculoskeletal Injuries
  • Soft Tissue Injuries
  • Head Injuries
  • Chest Trauma
  • Abdominal Injuries
  • Abdominal Emergencies
  • Neurological Emergencies
  • Seizures
  • Diabetic Emergencies
  • Poisonings and Overdoses
  • Burns
  • Bites and Stings
  • Environmental Emergencies
  • Obstetrics
  • Pediatric Emergencies
  • Geriatric Emergencies
  • Psychological Emergencies
  • Mental Health for the First Responder
  • Communication and Documentation
  • Aeromedical Patients
  • The Ambulance
  • Multi Casualty Incidents
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Vehicle Extrication Theory

ESA Exams

  • EMR Patient Assessment Exam
  • HSF - BLS Provider
  • ITLS Basic Provider
  • Midterm
  • Final Exam
  • Skills Evaluation
  • Final Scenario Evaluation

Alberta College of Paramedics - Provincial Registration Examination

A registration exam is a requirement for most new EMR, PCP and ACP applicants for registration with the Alberta College of Paramedics. (The exception to this is those who are licensed in another province or have education or experience deemed equivalent by the Registrar.)

The Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR) examinations are the approved registration examinations required of applicants applying to the general register of the College. (Please note: The COPR examinations now take the place of the former Provincial Registration Examinations. For more information, please see Changes to Alberta Exams.)

Thanks for the Referral!

If a new student is accepted into an EMR, PCP or Professional Fire Fighter Program at ESA, and lists the name of a former/current ESA student on their original application form in response to the question "How did you learn about ESA?", then we will e-transfer the former/current ESA student. Referrals are paid out semi-annually. Our way of saying “Thanks for the referral!”

Referrals for EMR are $50.

 

Employment Standards

ESA is committed to providing a quality program that will produce a confident and competent EMR. Our graduates are employed by industry, ambulance services and fire departments.

EMRs work in all areas including rural and remote locations where they may provide the highest level of pre-hospital care. Many are involved with volunteer service organizations.

EMR is often a prerequisite for employment in Fire, EMS or integrated Fire/EMS services in Canada.  

ESA Graduates

Recent EMR graduates are working for various EMS, Fire and industrial services in Canada. Many of our EMR graduates have also taken our Professional Fire Fighter Program or Primary Paramedic Program and with the two/ three certifications, are successful in their applications to work for large emergency services departments.

Employment places for ESA EMR graduates include:

  • Alberta Health Services, Alberta
  • Arctic Response Canada Ltd., Yellowknife NT
  • Associated Ambulance
  • CALA Safety, Lac La Biche AB
  • Calgary Fire Department, Calgary AB
  • Canadian Industrial Paramedics, Edmonton AB
  • City of North Bay Fire Department, North Bay ON
  • Devon Fire Rescue, Devon AB
  • Echo Medical, Safety & Training, Edson AB
  • Edmonton Emergency Response Department, Edmonton AB
  • Edmonton Fire Rescue, Edmonton AB
  • Firemaster
  • HSE Integrated, Whitecourt AB; Grande Prairie AB
  • Interhospital Ambulance Services (IHAS), Edmonton AB
  • IPSEMS, Nisku AB
  • Koala-T First Aid Services, Dawson Creek BC
  • Leading Edge Medical Services
  • Marmot Ski Basin, Jasper AB
  • Maskwacis Ambulance Authority
  • Mud Creek Medics, Rocky Mountain House AB
  • Rocky Mountain Medical Mobile Services, Edson AB
  • Scott Safety
  • Stantec Consulting Ltd., Edmonton AB
  • Strathcona County Emergency Services, Sherwood Park AB
  • Team Alberta Lacrosse Medical
  • Vegreville Emergency Services, Vegreville AB

​If you are a graduate of our EMR Program and successful in finding employment, please contact ESA so that we can maintain current records.

 

  • Coworkers who work in the emergency services told me that ESA was "the king of all EMR schools". ESA prepares its students the best for their ACP exams.  (Sarah, EMR 1501C)
  • I really enjoyed the knowledge and expertise that the instructors possessed. They created a focused environment with the drive to learn and develop. (Ian, EMR 1501B)
  • Instructors were great. Doing hands on scenarios was very helpful. (Morgan - EMR 1104)
  • Excellent instructors and facilities, and extremely professional. Loved the course and was very well prepared for the ACP Exam. (Andrea - EMR 1107)
  • I learned a lot and I am looking forward to taking my Professional Fire Fighter program and EMT course at ESA in the near future! I will highly recommend ESA for EMS/Fire training to anyone interested. (Adam - EMR 1104)
  • [I enjoyed] the hands on learning and different perspectives of the instructors. I was also pleased with the pre-study quizzes. They really encouraged the students to be diligent and stay on course. If we were having trouble with anything, it was very clear that extra help was always available. (EMR 1107B)
  • I'm convinced that ESA's tough love learning system is the best in Alberta. (Michael - EMR 1301C)
  • Fast paced program with good delivery. (Gordon - EMR 1311A)
  • I really enjoyed the EMR program.  It was very challenging but I felt it prepared me well both for the ACP exam and for the EMS industry. (Kirsetn - EMR 1311B)
  • Your program was awesome.  I had found training related employment before joining the army as a Medical Technician, and am currently stationed in Borden, Ontario.  (Naomi - EMR 1207)
  • Working in industry is very eye-opening.  I was one of the very, very few EMRs to work in a clinic...with Paramedics who were willing to teach and help me along.  (Jesse - EMR 1305)
  • I really enjoy my career as an EMR.  I work full-time in the Oil & Gas industry.  Thank you for the excellent training.  Cheers! (Connie - EMR 1308)
  • Really good instruction! Wouldn't change anything about having different teachers everyday. It's nice to fill the toolbox from everyone!
    (Linda - EMR 1503B)
  • The instructors are great, they're fun, share lots of real life experience, and give the class a relaxed atmosphere. The "real" scenarios and MCIs were an amazing shift in perspective from the stiff word for word surveys we practiced,to learning to apply it effectively in stressful and dynamic situations.
    (Michael - EMR 1503B)
  • I am definitely happy I chose ESA for the EMR program, don't think I could've gotten better instruction anywhere else. (Ramsey - EMR 1809)
  • Loved the course and the instructor. No questions went unanswered! (Conner - EMR 1809)
  • I really enjoyed learning from instructors who are currently in the field, and have a ton of real world stories/experience to share with the lessons. (Niklaus - EMR 1810)
  • I really enjoyed the EMR program. I loved having a variety of instructors with different backgrounds and experiences and I felt like it was a great atmosphere overall. The format of the classes made for very practical learning. (Lindsay - EMR 1801)
  • I enjoyed the real life experience of all instructors, the daily scenarios were a lot of fun, every day flew by. (Shane - EMR 1810)
  • *very hands on *brilliant instructors *great admin staff *high expectations *team like structure *t shirts *instructors were always respectful of students and each other (Jenica- EMR 1810)
  • The half days of scenarios were a blast and all the skill stations were a lot of fun, along with the teachers because every single teacher was friendly and super helpful. (Cole - EMR 1902)
  • I enjoy the content and the scenario practice a lot, the instructors and environment were very positive. (Aidan - EMR 1902)
  • I enjoyed the small classes which really ensured that teacher to student ratio was good. (Calista - EMR 1905)
  • The hands on work and slides were fantastic. The instructors are very knowledgeable and patient. (Amanda - EMR 1906)
  • it was a great introduction to the emergency services field. the information was always interesting and i never found myself bored. the instructors were amazing. (Natalie - EMR 1906)
  • I really enjoyed the amount of hands-on experience we got with this course. The instructors were all very clear, concise, and helpful with any questions I had! (Tina - EMR 1907)
  • The EMR program was very well put together, the instructors were very helpful and easy to get along with and willing to take the time to help every student succeed. I had a lot of fun during this course. (Sally - EMR 1907)
  • I enjoyed how small my class was and how hands on the learning and training was. (Jeremy - EMR 1908)
  • I loved the instructors, all were very nice, helpful, and funny. Scenario practice helped a lot! (Cassandra - EMR 1911)
  • Nearly everything about the program was great. Having different, active duty instructors coming through and sharing their knowledge and experiences was extremely valuable. The equipment was well maintained and utilized. The facility was clean and professional looking. (Cailtin - EMR 1911)
  • The instructors were what made the learning experience so enjoyable. (McKenna, EMR 1911)

FROM THE BEST...

"We had many practical days that allowed us to practice what was taught in the classroom. The equipment we were able to use was excellent. The instructors were all there to teach and showed patience with students. High level of personal expectations for the students was set on day one. "
- Michael, Fire 1109