• Blended Learning (online portion, followed by hands-on skills session) HeartCode BLS uses a variety of eLearning assets such as dramatizations, eSimulations, animations, self-directed learning, and interactive activities to teach students BLS knowledge and skills.
• HeartCode BLS is the AHA’s BLS blended learning delivery method. Blended learning is a combination of eLearning, in which a student completes part of the course in a self-directed manner, followed by a hands-on skills session.
• Complete the online portion + hands-on skills session with an AHA Instructor, or with a voice-assisted manikin (VAM) or Simulation Station. 
  • The online portion of HeartCode BLS can be completed in approximately 1 to 2 hours.
  • Time to complete the hands-on skills session varies from 60 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the experience of the student.

Classroom BLS

• Instructor-led, hands-on class format reinforces skills proficiency
• The BLS Instructor-led course teaches both single-rescuer and team basic life support skills for application in both prehospital and in-facility environments, with a focus on High-Quality CPR and team dynamics.
• Full BLS Provider Course takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete, including skills practice and skills testing
  • BLS Renewal Course takes approximately 3 hours to complete, including skills practice and testing
  • *Course time based on 1 instructor: 6 students: 2 manikins

For more information on 'Blended Learning HeartCode® BLS' and Classroom BLS: https://cpr.heart.org/en/courses/basic-life-support-course-options.

Click below to download a list of AHA BLS classes offered at Illinois Fire Departments and other locations near our 6 campuses*. Please note that the availability of these classes* might be limited. For more classe options, search for 'BLS' cps classes (e.g., 'BLS Provider', 'BLS Provider Skills Session' and 'BLS Renewal' via American Heart Association website.