Flexible Study Options for Mature Age Students
Starting a new course can be overwhelming at the best of times, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve studied! We’re here to tell you first hand that entering the healthcare industry is incredibly rewarding and you likely have plenty of skills that are transferable into a healthcare profession already under your belt, such as;
- Effective communication
- Maturity in decision-making
- Empathy and compassion, and much more!
At APC, we make the transition easier by offering flexible online learning that fits around your schedule. While most of the study can be completed online, our hands-on workshops are held at four key locations in NSW, QLD, WA and VIC with practical placements that can be arranged anywhere in the country. With support every step of the way, you’ll be prepared for a meaningful career in healthcare.
Quick EnquiryReady for a change?
Two of the main reasons Australian’s look to change careers is because they want to do something more fulfilling or pursue their passion.* This sentiment aligns with what we’re all about at APC, that is to help change lives and give people the confidence to go after their career goals no matter their life stage.
If you’ve been thinking about changing it up, you’re not alone! Over 85% of APC students work whilst studying at APC, with 61% working 36 hours or more per week, showcasing how easy it is to study with APC despite holding a busy schedule*.
*Sources: Seek.com; Australian Bureau of Statistics, APC student survey (2024)
1.3 million Australians changed jobs in the past year*
More than 1 million students were 25+ years in 2022*
High Job Satisfaction (4+ Stars)*
*APC Student Survey (2023)
Pursue a Career in Paramedicine
Our Mature Age Direct Entry Scheme
At APC, we’re committed to supporting career changers and those looking to start fresh in healthcare. Our Mature Age Direct Entry Scheme allows eligible students over 25 to apply with no ATAR requirement, ensuring everyone has a chance to succeed.
Why Choose APC?
Flexible Learning: Study online and set your own pace around life commitments.
User-Friendly Platforms: Enjoy easy-to-use tools for a seamless learning experience.
Supportive Community: Meet like-minded peers and grow your network during in-person Clinical Workshops.
Real-World Experience: Cement your skills through Clinical Placement, available nationwide, with options to suit your location.
Apply for Direct EntryIn Conversation | Tamara Stoddart
Tamara’s Shift from Teaching to Healthcare at Age 52
After 30 years of teaching, Tamara wanted a change and dreamed of working in emergency health care.
“I’d been toying with the idea of becoming a paramedic for 10 years. When I found out I could study online, I just went for it!”
As a mature aged student, she was focused and determined, finishing her Diploma well under the time allocated. Tamara now works in the industry as an Emergency Medical Technician and Patient Transport Officer in Sydney.
Learn how to become a paramedicGetting started
Choosing a course
Whether you’re looking to upskill, change careers or simply try something new, everyone has different goals for studying emergency and non-emergency healthcare. That means it’s important to find out which course is best for you depending on what you’re looking to achieve.
Our nationally recognised courses are designed so you can study online, no matter where you’re based in Australia:
Meeting a Course Advisor
We are proud to have a dedicated team of Course Advisors who are there to help you navigate your study journey from day one!
From answering any questions you have about the enrolment process to covering how studying with us actually works, they will support you so you feel comfortable in making the exciting decision to start your new chapter.
University Pathways
The HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care is an excellent starting point for aspiring paramedics and career changers.
This pathway enables you to develop practical skills, medical knowledge, and qualifies you for healthcare employment before pursuing university studies.
Learn more here about what’s involved in this pathway and which Australian universities accept VET Entry and have RPL available so when the time comes to apply, you can see if you’re eligible!
How to become a paramedicIn Conversation | Benjamin Somerville
From Customs Broker to Healthcare Graduate at 50
After more than 20 years as a Customs Broker, Benjamin knew he needed a career change.
Ben wasn’t sure he’d have the time to place aside for full-time work and university so decided to look into APC’s courses. Now a graduate, he believes that APC’s Diploma gave him a great grounding in healthcare and is ready to take his career to the next step at university.
“I think the course was really well set out, easy to follow. The online study was good with the theory then doing the workshops and taking it out into the real world, it really came together nicely so I’m certainly glad I took that step”, Ben shared.
Frequently Asked Questions
At APC we are passionate about offering education and continued learning to people of all ages!
We have plenty of people who have enrolled as mature-age students and enjoy studying at APC at a later stage in their life.
There are many skills mature age career changers possess which can be leveraged when transitioning into a new role in the healthcare industry!
Check out the following capabilities you can use as a medic/ paramedic which you’ll likely resonate with already.
Transferrable Skills: Mature Age Career Changers
- Effective communication: Years of experience honing your communication skills throughout many interactions enables you to have the ability to clearly convey information to patients and families in different contexts.
- Maturity in decision-making: Life experience goes a long way in giving you the skills to make thoughtful and clever decisions, even in high stress situations. This is a critical skill in emergency healthcare too.
- Empathy and compassion: It’s not uncommon for people to become more empathetic and considerate for others as they get older. These attributes will make you incredibly sensitive and supportive to patients in need too.
- Work ethic: It’s no secret that older individuals are often more reliable and take their jobs very seriously. This is a real strength for mature age students and professions which can positively contribute to a successful career later in life!
- Listening skills: Don’t underestimate the power of listening. It’s a skill that is learned, so you will no doubt be in a strong position to take your life experience and utilise it to hear patients needs and effectively respond to them.
- Diversity of skills: It’s hugely valuable for someone with a diverse background to bring their unique experience and perspectives to a healthcare job. This point of difference allows them to problem solve in a different way, and consider how to help people with a “different set of eyes” so to speak!
Yes, absolutely!
At APC we understand students have other important commitments such as full-time jobs that they need to focus on whilst studying too. This is why our courses are designed to be flexible, so you can study at your own pace when it suits you!
Many of our students work while studying, especially those who are looking to change careers.
No! Many of our students do not have any formal qualifications when they enroll at APC.
Regardless of your experience, you’re able to start a career in the emergency health care sector. This is where we come in – to help you get qualified!
Depending on which course you choose, there are different career pathways available to you once you’ve graduated.
From becoming a Patient Transport Officer to an Event Medic, or even starting your journey to becoming a Registered Paramedic, there are different job possibilities depending on your career aspirations.
Learn more about career pathways here.
APC offers flexible payment options, depending on your financial situation.
Enquire today and chat to one of our friendly Course Advisors about course fees and discover the right payment option for you!
Quick Enquiry
If you’re interested in applying for Direct Entry with Australian Paramedical College, please fill out the below form to get started today.
