BSc (Hons) - Paramedic Science Degree Apprenticeship
The BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science Degree Apprenticeship enables apprentices to combine academic study with on-the-job training, preparing them for registration as a Paramedic with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and practice under the protected title of Paramedic. Designed in line with national professional and regulatory standards, including those set by the HCPC, the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, the Quality Assurance Agency, and the College of Paramedics, the programme develops the broad knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for contemporary paramedic practice. Delivered over 24 months through a blended learning model, apprentices engage in campus-based skills and simulation alongside online theoretical study, supported by a strong work-based learning framework. With balanced and varied assessments and comprehensive academic support, the programme equips apprentices with the confidence, competence, and professional readiness to succeed in the dynamic and evolving paramedic role.
- Equip apprentices with the broad knowledge, skills and professional behaviours required of a registered paramedic, aligned with national standards including HCPC and professional benchmarks.
- Integrate academic study with practical, work-based learning, enabling apprentices to contextualise theory in the workplace and develop occupational competence at a professional level.
- Prepare apprentices to apply for HCPC registration and practice safely under the protected title of Paramedic following successful completion of the degree.
- Develop critical thinking, clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice skills through a curriculum mapped to the College of Paramedics and HCPC professional frameworks.
- Support apprentices in becoming autonomous, reflective practitioners capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centred care in diverse pre-hospital and clinical settings.
In Year 1, apprentices begin by building the essential foundations of paramedic knowledge and practice, including core anatomy and physiology, basic clinical assessment and decision-making skills, effective communication, patient-centred care and professional values required for safe practice. This year integrates academic study with workplace learning and placements, enabling apprentices to apply theory directly in clinical settings while developing the fundamental competencies expected of a paramedic.
In Year 2, the focus broadens and deepens as apprentices consolidate and expand their paramedic capabilities, exploring person-centred care in more complex contexts, research methods and evidence-based practice, health and social determinants of care, and professional aspects such as law, ethics and leadership. Clinical practice continues to be central to the curriculum, with apprentices further developing their practical skills, judgement and confidence to deliver high-quality care across a range of emergency and urgent care scenarios.
How you will learn
A variety of teaching and learning methods are designed to match learning outcomes and to provide you with some experience of the method best suited to your own learning style, we support your move to becoming an independent and mature learner.
This course emphasises practical learning and reflection on and in practice. You are actively facilitated to apply and integrate your professional knowledge within your practice and to develop an enquiring critical approach to study and professional practice. The programme team use Technology Enhanced Learning to maximise your learning experience through a blended learning approach.
Blended learning is a combination of online delivery methods and face to face learning activities and is advocated by Health Education England (2022).
Carefully considered online learning activities such as lectures, seminars, group tasks and resources are complimented by in-person learning activities such as simulations, clinical skills workshops, facilitated practice and group work. This allows learners to gain an appreciation for the link between theory and practice in paramedicine, whilst acquiring the relevant knowledge, behaviours, skills and competence required to achieve paramedic registration with the HCPC.
The benefits of a blended learning approach include:
- Work life balance- Online delivery methods reduce time spent commuting to and from the learning environment.
- Multimedia content- A variety of delivery methods allows for all learning styles to be catered for.
- Community of Practice- Blended learning encourages social interactions and collaborative learning, both proven to enhance the overall learning experience.
- Ownership of Learning- Self-directed study is encouraged and supported, allowing learners to take ownership of their own learning and professional development
- Increased confidence- Skills in the use of IT, virtual learning platforms and multimedia resources are built upon, developing confidence of learners in the use of technology. A crucial aspect of the role of a modern paramedic.
How you will be assessed
Formative assessment is an important feature within the programme and may include in‐class or online activities such as research diaries, assignments and tests. Formative assessments are assessments for learning, and they allow learners the opportunity to receive feedback on their knowledge, skills, behaviours and progression towards their summative assessments.
Summative assessments are assessments of learning, and these assessments have been designed to provide a creative and balanced strategy throughout the programme. The summative assessments all relate to the working environment of a paramedic enabling you to take your assessed learning into the practice environment to optimise the provision of patient care. These assessments include practical assessments, presentations, and assignments.
Fair Admissions
Selection Criteria
Contextual Admissions
Language requirements
Paramedics work across ambulance services, primary care, urgent treatment centres, hospitals, community services, mental health, education and research. The role is rewarding but can be physically and emotionally demanding. Applicants should understand that shift work, including nights, weekends and bank holidays, is common, and paramedics are expected to make autonomous clinical decisions.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can progress into a wide range of clinical, leadership, education and advanced practice roles. The profession continues to grow in line with the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan and the Royal College of Paramedics Career Framework.
Support During Your Studies
The University provides dedicated wellbeing, disability and financial support services to help students succeed throughout the programme. Applicants are encouraged to review the support available before applying.
Professional Registration
Successful completion of the programme provides eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Paramedic, subject to meeting HCPC requirements. Students should be aware of professional expectations relating to fitness to practise, professional conduct and continuing professional development.
Values-Based Recruitment
Our admissions process seeks applicants whose values align with those of patients, employers, the NHS Constitution, the HCPC and the College of Paramedics. Applicants should be aware that future employers may have requirements beyond programme entry criteria.
