How Long is an ACLS Course? Course Duration & What To Expect

When I first heard about the ACLS course, one of my numerous questions was, “How long does an ACLS course last?” As with other healthcare professionals, I had to improve my emergency response abilities, yet I also had to schedule my work time and life. As a nurse, paramedic, or medical student, finding out how long the ACLS course lasts will allow you to decide when and how you ought to take the course.

In this article, I’ll introduce you to the actual time consumed to complete the ACLS certification, the type of formats to which you may opt, the contents of what you get from training, and how you might choose the ideal healthcare training school that suits your purpose.

acls certification course

What Is ACLS and Why Is It Important

ACLS stands for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. It is a professional training course intended for healthcare professionals who are in charge of treating cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies. Unlike basic life support (BLS), ACLS delves further into clinical interventions such as airway management, pharmacology, and team communication during resuscitation.

If you’re working in an emergency room, ICU, or critical care setting, ACLS training is not just helpful—it’s often mandatory. Many hospitals and clinics require ACLS certification as a standard credential for doctors, nurses, and emergency responders

In regions like Dubai, demand for qualified specialists with up-to-date certifications is growing extremely quickly. This led to a spike in healthcare education programs in Dubai, particularly life support training like ACLS and BLS.

Now, let's get straight to the point—ACLS course duration.

How long it will take is determined by whether you are a first-time participant or are renewing a course. On average:

First-time ACLS Certification

If you are completing the ACLS course for the first time, it will take around 10 to 12 hours. This includes:

  • Pre-course self-study and online assessment

  • Instructor-led classroom training

  • Practice scenarios and skill demonstrations

  • Final written and practical examination

It’s a full-day commitment in most cases, and some ACLS training Dubai centers may split it over two shorter days to accommodate working professionals.

ACLS Renewal Course

For those renewing their certification, the duration is slightly shorter. A typical renewal course lasts around 6 to 8 hours. Since you’re already familiar with the content, more time is spent on practice and testing rather than learning the theory.

If your certification is not due but close to the date, a renewal course is your best option to stay compliant without wasting much time.

ACLS Certification Time in Blended Learning Format

Thanks to Prime Wellness Training Institute, most healthcare training centers now offer blended learning formats. You complete the theoretical portion online at your convenience and come physically only for the practical session.

I personally opted for this path, and it reduced my ACLS certification time to approximately 6 hours. The online module allowed me to learn materials at my own pace, and I only had to spend a few focused hours on the hands-on training and testing at the institute.

This cross-training option is becoming increasingly popular, especially for career individuals taking ACLS classes in Dubai where there is continually a demand for improved work-life balance.

What Does ACLS Training Involve?

The training course in ACLS is extensive and covers various skills that preserve lives. Following is an overview of what it entails:

  • Cardiac and respiratory arrest identification and management

  • Management of advanced airway devices and ventilatory assistance

  • Pharmacology of cardiovascular emergencies

  • Good team communication during resuscitation

  • Acute coronary syndromes and stroke treatment

  • Scenario-based simulations in realistic situations

All of these are addressed through lectures, practical and simulation-based instruction. When registering for an ACLS course in Dubai, see to it that it offers maximum opportunities for practicing hands-on skills on recent manikins and equipment.

Choosing the Best Healthcare Training Institute

All training centers are not created equal when it comes to delivering quality education. When your time and money are invested, it is important to select a healthcare training facility that is accredited by well-established organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) or alike.

When comparing your options, remember the following:

  • Are the instructors certified and skilled in emergency medicine?

  • Does the center offer flexible class schedules, including weekends?

  • Are the teaching materials employed in class up to date with the latest AHA guidelines?

  • Is the certificate issued recognized globally?

What is the student-to-teacher ratio for simulation training?

There are several centers with a good reputation that offer specialized ACLS courses in Dubai, providing world-class training specific to the region’s healthcare professionals. Some of them even provide fast-track training for experienced staff, further reducing the time it takes to get ACLS certified.

Choosing the Best Healthcare Training Institute

To maximize your ACLS training and potentially shorten your classroom time, the following are some helpful hints:

  • Complete your pre-course self-assessment before class. Most providers make study materials available ahead of time.

  • Review ECG interpretation and pharmacology. These are two of the primary topics of emphasis in ACLS and will keep you behind if you are not well-prepared.

  • Practice BLS skills. Since ACLS builds on BLS, becoming proficient in CPR skills will reduce testing time.

  • Ask questions during training. Engaging with your instructor makes it simpler to grasp concepts earlier and gains confidence on the day of testing.

With these tips, not only will you complete the course earlier, but you’ll depart with real-world knowledge that can save lives.

Final Thoughts on ACLS Course Duration

So, how long is an ACLS course? Duration varies with your experience level, the mode of training you choose, and the organization you pick. On average:

  • Initial certification: 10 to 12 hours
  • Recertification course: 6 to 8 hours
  • Blended learning (online + in-person): As little as 6 hours

Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or renewing your credentials, completing your ACLS course in Dubai through a professional training provider ensures you’re getting certified the right way. Look for well-established institutes offering a variety of healthcare training courses in Dubai, especially those that specialize in emergency care.