Purpose: This study describes current curricula for paramedic students in South Korea and proposes a standardization of the curriculum.
Methods: Data were collected from 38 colleges and universities from March 1 to 31, 2016. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS 23.0.
Results: The proposed standard curriculum was below. Requisite liberal arts consisted of 2 subjects and 6 credits including biomedical ethics, communications and human relationships. Common major subjects were composed of 6 areas, 22 subjects, and 78 credits. The areas of basic medicine consisted of 6 subjects and 16 credits including medical terminology. Introduction to paramedicine consisted of 3 subjects and 7 credits. Emergency patient management consisted of 2 subjects and 9 credits. Particulars to paramedic care consisted of 8 subjects and 31 credits. The law area consisted of 1 subject and 3 credits. Other major areas consisted of 2 subjects and 12 credits including integrated simulation and physician assistance. Common field practice area consisted of 3 to 4 subjects and 9 to 12 credits.
Conclusion: It is important to establish and adapt a standardized curriculum for paramedic students in order to ensure competence and to provide high quality emergency medical services.