Studying paramedic science is rewarding if you want to make a tangible impact in healthcare. The skills you gain become a lifeline for those in critical need as you learn the intricacies of emergency medical care, essential skills such as patient assessment, trauma management, and life-saving interventions.
It consists of both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience, so you’re well-prepared for the challenges of pre-hospital care. Paramedic science often involves clinical placements so you get real-world experience.
The skillset gained, along with the ability to remain calm under pressure, opens doors to various career opportunities. Graduates can go on to roles like paramedics or emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or advance into healthcare leadership positions. Paramedic science is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a fulfilling career on the frontline of medicine and emergency response.
The impact you could make
- Save lives and make a tangible difference.
- Contribute to public safety by advocating for measures that enhance community health.
- Use your skills to minimise the impact of critical injuries and medical conditions.
What you could study
- Developing clinical practice
- Introduction to bioscience
- Trauma and advanced life support
- Diagnosis and clinical decision-making
- Ambulance placement
- Acute and critical illness
- Community placement
- Evidence-based practice
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Life as a paramedic
Find out what day-to-day life is like when you're one of the first on the scene.Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Some paramedic science courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
Biology
Other sciences
Mathematics
Hard skills you'll develop
- Assessing and managing traumatic injuries
- Learn systematic approaches to assess a patient's condition
- Protocols for responding to mass casualty incidents
- Communication skills to interact with patients and healthcare professionals
Soft skills you'll develop
- Communication and teamwork
- Empathy and compassion
- Critical decision-making under pressure
- Adaptability in changing circumstances
Careers: Where it can take you
Find out more about your career prospects from studying paramedic science. The following information is based on a typical paramedic science professional role.Available jobs
Average salary
Career options
Public services
Medicine, dentistry, and nursing
What is a… medical simulation instructor?
A paramedic science education can lead to diverse and unexpected settings, such as in a lab as a medical simulation Instructor. These are paramedics with extensive experience who become instructors in medical simulation labs, where they guide healthcare professionals in realistic emergency scenarios to enhance their skills and decision-making.
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study paramedic science at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from paramedic science applicants.
A levels
Scottish Highers
Vocational
Protective services apprenticeships
Check out our guide to help you decide if an apprenticeship might be the right choice for you.Other subjects you may be interested in
Considering an apprenticeship?
Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:
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Deadline
Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer. -
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Where to apply
You apply directly through the employer. -
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No limits
You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like. -
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Apply to university and apprenticeships
There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies. -
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Find out more
Read our guide to protective services, encompassing paramedic science.
Apprenticeship vacancies
Check out live apprenticeship vacancies in protective services.Explore further
Go deeper into topics around paramedic sciences with the following:
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Inside the Ambulance
A reality series following paramedics from the West Midlands Ambulance Service. -
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Geeky Medics podcast
A variety of episodes in lots of different roles in healthcare. -
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Useful websites
There are lots of useful websites for those interested in paramedic science such as the Department for Health, the Health and Care Professions Council and the NHS.
Application advice
Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our advice will help you get ahead in your paramedic science journey.Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
- Do you have a genuine passion for helping people during times of crisis?
- Talk about any work or volunteer experience in healthcare or emergency services. Can you give examples of situations where you were exposed to medical emergencies?
- Emphasise your communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Show examples of situations where you remained calm and focused under pressure. Talk about how you handle stress and your capacity to make sound decisions during challenging circumstances.
- Highlight your empathetic nature and compassion for others. Share experiences where you showed understanding and kindness, especially in situations where someone was vulnerable or in distress.
