Lauren Newman has always been keen to travel the world but only recently settled on a career path enabling her to work almost anywhere.

The former Emmaus College (Rockhampton) senior was proud to be part of last year's inaugural intake for the Bachelor of Paramedic Science degree.

Lauren Newman in the Paramedic Science labs

"All through high school I loved studying biology; the human body more so than plants and animals," she says.

 "When I found out that the paramedic program was being introduced into CQUniversity I thought it would be a great way to study human anatomy as well as graduate with a degree that I can take anywhere in the world."

Lauren says she is really enjoying the degree so far.

"I'm so glad I chose to do it, The lecturers are great; they are always happy to help and are so keen to get us out on the road and to see us succeed as the first cohort for Paramedic Science.

"As the days go on I get that little bit more excited to get out there and start working as a paramedic."

Lauren managed to satisfy a little of her wanderlust recently by volunteering to work in Fiji with a company called VESA - Volunteer Eco Students Abroad. She helped repaint a school, installed new water tanks and a compost bin, replanted an unstable hill and taught the local children about hygiene.

CQUniversity's Bachelor of Paramedic Science opens up opportunities to have an exciting and rewarding career in emergency care. The program is designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge to practice and deliver emergency pre-hospital medical and trauma care. Paramedics assess patient condition, decide on and deliver appropriate emergency treatment designed to stabilise the patient, and then assign patient care to other members of the health team.

The first year of the program provides foundation knowledge in sciences, human body systems, study and research skills and paramedic practice.  Years two and three focus on disease processes and their emergency treatment, with practical placements in paramedic care where students work closely with paramedics and respond to ‘real-life' emergency situations.

CQUniversity's program includes 14 weeks of integrated work placements with the Queensland Ambulance Service, providing the opportunity to experience working as a paramedic and to directly apply skills and knowledge learned in the classroom to real-life situations. The program is available via distance education, either part-time or full-time allowing students to balance study with their work and family commitments.

As well as being suitable for those with no prior knowledge or industry experience, the program is also designed for those working currently in the ambulance service who wish to formalise, upgrade and/or refresh their knowledge and skill in paramedic science.

LINK HERE for more details