| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Emergency Services Fundamentals
Program Overview
The Emergency Services Fundamentals (EMSF) program, which is unique to Durham College, will provide you with fundamental skills required in many emergency service or health science careers. This pathway program focuses on communications, math, science, and other relevant topics that will prepare you for further studies in a related field such as, Paramedic, Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training, Police Foundations, Protection, Security and Investigation, 911 Emergency and Call Centre Communications or Practical Nursing. EMSF will also help familiarize you with college life and the workload required for success in your destination program.
Intakes and Availability
| Date | Domestic Availability | International Availability |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Open |
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Are you missing admission requirements? We are here to help.
Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet admission requirements in English and/or math. Domestic applicants that are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s) i.e., Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.
DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on-campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:
- Grade 12 Math (MAP4C equivalent)
- Grade 12 English (ENG4C equivalent)
- Grade 11 Biology (SBI3C equivalent)
- Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4C equivalent)
Tuition
- Year one domestic: $2,722 (CAD)
- Year one international: $15,309 (CAD)
Semester 1 Courses
Core Courses
- Mental Health for Emergency Responders (ADMH 1301)
- Communication Foundations (COMM 1100)
- APCO Public Safe Telecommunicator (EMCC 1100)
- Pre-Health Math I (MATH 1702)
- Diversity and Inclusion for First Responders (SOCI 1103)
Optional Courses (students choose two of the following)
- Pre-Health Biology I (BIOL 1700)
- Pre-Health Chemistry I (CHEM 1701)
- Canadian Criminal Justice System (LAWW 1108)
- Psychology (PSYC 1108)
Career Options
As a graduate you will be prepared to pursue further studies in other emergency service programs. Pathway options are illustrated in the linked chart.
Program Transfer, Degree Completion and Additional Credentials
Qualified graduates can go on to take Durham College’s 911 Emergency and Call Centre Communications; Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training; Paramedic; Police Foundations; Protection, Security and Investigation or an allied health science program.
Through the EMSF program, you may also acquire:
- Up to four credits that can be used towards diploma programs
- Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials certification
- Ontario Security Guard license
Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions.
Tech Requirements
To help students have the best remote learning experience possible, Durham College’s IT Services department has identified technology recommendations for each program based on course needs and software requirements. While not required, students may want to consider these suggestions if they are purchasing a computer or laptop for the upcoming academic year.
- Processor: i3
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Professional or Education x64 SP1
- Internet Browser: Internet Explorer 11 or Google Chrome (newest version) or Firefox (newest version)
- Network Adapter: 802.11ac 2.4/5 GHz wireless adapter
- Camera: Webcam/built-in camera
- Internet connection
Experiential Learning
Project Lord Ridgeback
Project Lord Ridgeback (PLRB) is multi-disciplinary experiential learning exercise that simulates a local disaster. Interacting with actors who play victims, casualties, emotionally distressed persons and the elderly in a staged, choreographed event, students from a wide range of programs learn by acting and responding as they would in real emergencies. Subject matter experts design injects into disaster-related scenarios which simulate authentic workplace demands.
Following the mock disaster, students participate in follow up exercises to apply learning in mock court testimony, critical incident stress debrief, crime-scene lab work, and form completion specific to their program areas.
Student participants are from a wide range of DC programs including: Emergency Services Fundamentals, Practical Nursing, Primary Care Paramedic, Police Foundations, Protection Security & Investigation, Paralegal, 911 Call Centre Communications, Advanced Law Enforcement and Investigations, Journalism Mass Media Program, Social Service Worker, Activation Co-ordination – Gerontology, Court Support Services.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN THE PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
EMSF students often have opportunities to volunteer during practical evaluations in the paramedic program. Students may act as patients or bystanders in various scenarios giving them insight into the paramedic program.
Program Details
The two-semester EMSF program is designed for those interested in exploring post-secondary options in emergency services or preparing for a specific emergency services or health science diploma. To help you develop a strong academic foundation for success in a related college program, you will study:
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Addictions and mental health
- Ethics
- Law and civics
- Leadership
- Diversity and inclusion
- Health and fitness
- Fundamental computer applications
- Portfolio development and professional skills
In preparation for a post-secondary diploma program in a related field, your options also include:
- Courses in biology, chemistry, Canadian criminal justice, psychology, or security guard
- One to four credits that can be used toward diploma programs
- Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials certification
- Ontario Security Guard license
Please note: Admission to other programs is not guaranteed.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Recognize the economic, social, political and cultural variables which impact the law enforcement and emergency services sector.
- Apply computer skills and knowledge of information technology to support the role of law enforcement and emergency services providers.
- Work effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and other law enforcement and emergency services providers.
- Apply research skills to gather and interpret available information.
- Develop an education and career plan within the range of law enforcement and emergency services.
- Communicate basic mathematical knowledge required in the law enforcement and emergency services fields.
- Utilize appropriate vocabulary, terminology and communicate strategies necessary in the law enforcement and emergency services fields.
- Develop and implement ongoing effective strategies for personal and professional development.
Course Delivery
In person
Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements. Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
Costs
The fees below are estimates only based on information available at the time of publication, and do not include the cost of textbooks. There may be additional costs; however, not all courses require textbooks.
Finances shouldn’t be a barrier to you achieving your educational goals. DC’s Financial Aid and Awards office is here to help you navigate a number of financial aid programs to support your education.
Emergency Services Fundamentals Year 1 Costs
| Semester 1 | Tuition: | $1,361.02 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fee: | $0 | ||
| Ancillary Fee: | $493.77 | ||
| DCSA Ancillary Fee: | $430 | ||
| Total: | $2,284.79 |
| Semester 2 | Tuition: | $1,361.02 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fee: | $0 | ||
| Ancillary Fee: | $493.77 | ||
| DCSA Ancillary Fee: | $120 | ||
| Total: | $1,974.79 |
Durham College
Overview:
Durham College is a public college located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It offers a wide range of full-time and part-time programs, including diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships. The college is known for its focus on experiential learning and its commitment to providing students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Durham College provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) offers tutoring, workshops, and other resources to help students succeed academically.Career Development:
The Career Development Centre assists students with career planning, job searching, and resume writing.Co-operative Education:
Many programs offer co-op opportunities, allowing students to gain practical work experience in their field.Financial Aid:
Durham College offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards to help students finance their education.Health and Wellness:
The Campus Health and Wellness Centre provides a range of services, including counselling, health education, and fitness programs.Housing:
Durham College offers on-campus housing options for students.Library:
The college library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Student Association:
The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) represents the interests of students and provides a variety of social and recreational activities.Campus Safety:
Durham College has a dedicated Campus Safety department that provides security services and emergency response.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham College offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including:
Athletics:
Durham College has a competitive varsity sports program, as well as intramural and extramural sports.Esports:
The college has an Esports Gaming Arena where students can compete in various video games.Student Events:
Durham College hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and guest speakers.Social Media Hub:
The college has a dedicated Social Media Hub where students can connect with each other and stay up-to-date on campus news.Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Durham College emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with real-world experience in their chosen field.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs that are designed to prepare students for specific careers.Strong Industry Connections:
Durham College has strong relationships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships and job placements.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and welcoming environment for students, with a variety of resources and services available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Durham College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Full-time Programs:
Diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships in a variety of fields, including business, technology, health care, and the arts.Part-time Programs:
Professional and part-time learning opportunities for individuals looking to upgrade their skills or pursue a new career.Online Learning:
A variety of online programs and courses available for students who prefer to learn remotely.Other:
- Durham College has two campuses: Oshawa and Whitby.
- The college is committed to diversity and inclusion, with a dedicated Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
- Durham College is a smoke-free campus.
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The college has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact.
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Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.
