BSc (Honours) Paramedic Science

Year of Entry 2024/25
Paramedic practisicing resuscitation

BSc (Honours)

Paramedic Science

Course full Full-time Paramedic science

Learn how to become an adaptable and skilled paramedic, providing high-quality unscheduled care in diverse, unpredictable and challenging environments.

This course is now full for 2024

Sorry, there are no places left on this course starting in 2024.

Please see other courses with places available.

 

Everything you need to know...

  • Pound sign

    What is the fee?

    Home: £9,250 per year
    International/EU: £18,155 per year

  • Time

    How long will I study?

    3 Years

  • Location

    Where will I study?

    Collegiate Campus

  • Bookmark

    What are the entry requirements?

    128 UCAS Points

  • Checkmark

    What is the UCAS code?

    B780

  • Date

    When do I start?

    September 2024


Employability

98% of our graduates are in work or further study fifteen months after graduating, with 88% in highly skilled employment or further study (2020/21 Graduate Outcomes Survey).

Student satisfaction

This course scored 91% for teaching satisfaction in the 2023 National Student Survey.

Course summary

  • Combine theory with practice to meet the challenges of integrated patient care. 
  • Learn to assess, diagnose, stabilise, treat and manage patients across the lifespan.  
  • Meet the future healthcare agenda through digital competence. 
  • Study an integrated curriculum with other healthcare professions. 
  • Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). 

From learning to deliver a baby to resuscitating a patient whose heart has stopped, every day is different as a paramedic. The BSc in Paramedic Science is our pre-registration programme for this rewarding career – innovative and challenging, with a mix of university and practice-based learning. The full honours award entitles you to apply for registration with the HCPC as a paramedic. You’ll develop your knowledge and skills to enter this unique and evolving profession. 

Accredited by
  • Health and Care Professions Council, the (HCPC)

This course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and endorsed by the College of Paramedics. Graduates are eligible to apply to register with the HCPC and to apply to become members of the College of Paramedics. You must be registered with the HCPC in order to practise as a paramedic in the UK.



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Find out more at our undergraduate open days. Book now for your place.

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How you learn

Watch course leader Sharyn Edwards talk about this course.

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive. 

This course is designed to promote independent learning,  supporting you to explore knowledge and develop your skills and attitudes in meaningful ways for your professional development. You’ll learn with, from and about students on other health and social care courses in the faculty – helping you understand how knowledge is applied when health professionals work together. 

Our Department of Allied Health Professionals is one of the biggest of its kind in the UK. This means you’ll get significant experience of cross-discipline working practices, preparing you for fast-paced work in multi-professional healthcare teams. 

The course has been expertly evolved over the years – alongside clinicians, education specialists, commissioners and service users. You’ll have the support and skills you need to register as a qualified health and social care professional.

You learn through: 

  • Practicals, seminars and lectures 
  • Digitally enabled online materials 
  • Online webinars 
  • Practice-based learning experiences  
  • Peer-supported practice and study
  • Simulated learning environments

Key Themes

In your first year, you’ll immerse yourself in understanding both your professional identity and the socioeconomic backgrounds of service users. You’ll delve into the intricacies of the body's systems, learning about potential dysfunctions and how to apply foundational assessment techniques, basic skills and treatments. Throughout the year you’ll receive support from practice educators as they gain practical experience during placements.

In your second year you’ll incorporate pharmacological interventions and more complex paramedic skills into your practice. You’ll become adept at assessing and treating trauma patients, as well as learning about major incident response. 

In your third year you’ll prepare for your final project in an area of personal interest or importance, while continuing to solidify your learning through practical placements. You’ll study specialised patient groups such as paediatrics, maternity and mental health cases. You’ll refine your paramedic skills and explore treatment pathways in greater detail, consolidating your learning through diverse placement experiences. 

You’ll also study leadership styles – enhancing your ability to lead in challenging situations.

Course Support

You’ll be supported in your learning journey towards highly skilled, graduate-level employment through several key areas, including: 

  • Access to our unique student support triangle to help with your personal, academic and career development 
  • Access to our Skills Centre with one to ones, webinars and online resources, where you can get help with planning and structuring your assignments 
  • Industry-specific employability activities such as live projects, learning in simulated environments and networking opportunities
  • The option to join our multi-award-winning Paramedic Society
  • Support from a dedicated learning and teaching support librarian
  • Support during placements, with an allocated mentor 

Course leaders and tutors

Sharyn Edwards
Sharyn Edwards
Senior Lecturer

Sharyn is a Lecturer in Paramedic Practice based within the College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, delivering teaching on the DipHE Paramedic Practice cours … Read more

Applied learning

Live Projects

You’ll apply the theory you study to practice-based learning experiences. Here you’ll develop critical and ethical approaches to your practice – preparing you to become a life-long, competent professional. 

These experiences are compulsory to achieve the course’s practice-based learning outcomes. They’ll help you build your skills, confidence, creativity, resilience, integrity and curiosity. They’ll take place in different practice-based learning environments – reflecting the range of ways services are currently delivered. This might include simulated learning and virtual placements, alongside real-world experience of services delivered face to face to service users.   

We’ll ensure the practice-based learning element of your course complies with the requirements of the Professional and Statutory Regulatory Body (PSRB) which governs the paramedic profession. So, by the end of your course, you’ll have the opportunity to show that you meet the requirements to register as a paramedic.

Work Placements 

Placements are available during each academic year – strategically scheduled to follow teaching blocks so you can consolidate your learning in real-world settings. They provide invaluable hands-on experience across various healthcare settings, including Ambulance NHS Trusts, other NHS Trusts, the private sector, and even opportunities within the Fire Service. 

By undertaking these placements, you’ll not only gain practical skills but also develop the critical thinking skills and adaptability you’ll need to effectively respond to emergency scenarios.

Field Trips 

There may be opportunities for field trips as part of the course. Previous opportunities have included volunteering to support overseas projects such as refugee camps and working at festivals. 

Networking Opportunities

You’re encouraged to subscribe to the College of Paramedics to increase your learning opportunities. You’ll get to meet students from other training providers through the College’s international student conferences, research conferences and other continuing professional development (CPD) events. 

You’ll also benefit from an extensive range of guest lecturers from a variety of healthcare backgrounds, as well as employer presentations. We also have an experienced student support officer network.


Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in:  

  • Ambulance Trusts
  • Specialist roles in critical care, urgent care or mental health
  • Advanced practice
  • Primary care
  • Research
  • The Police
  • The prison system
  • International settings
  • Private practice
  • Wilderness and remote medicine
  • Cruise ships
  • Education
  • Leadership

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for: 

  • Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust 
  • East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust 
  • Northeast Ambulance Service NHS Trust 
  • Northwest Ambulance Service NHS Trust  
  • London Ambulance Service NHS Trust 
  • Yorkshire Air Ambulance 
  • The Australian Ambulance Service 
  • British Columbia Emergency Health Services 
  • Sheffield Hallam University 
  • The New Zealand Ambulance service 
  • Yorkshire Hazardous Area Response 
  • East Midlands Hazardous Area Response 
  • Yorkshire Ambulance Education Department 
  • The Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust 
  • Private healthcare practice in Dubai 

Where will I study?

You study at Collegiate Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Collegiate campus

Collegiate Campus can be found just off Ecclesall Road, a bustling student district.

Collegiate Campus map | Campus facilities 


Collegiate Campus map
Location

Collegiate Crescent
Sheffield
S10 2BP

Get directions
Students outside Collegiate Library
Collegiate library

Collegiate Library can be found just off Ecclesall Road. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.

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Equipment and facilities

On this course you work with:  

  • Simulated environments
  • High fidelity simulation equipment
  • Cutting-edge pre-hospital equipment
  • Specialist manikins
  • A specialist health and wellbeing learning resource centre

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Health and Social Care Facilities Tour

Learn what it's like to study health and social care at our Collegiate Campus from our adult nursing student Alex.

Entry requirements

All students

UCAS points

128

From A levels which must include at least 32 points from either a natural science subject, such as Biology, Chemistry or Physics, or equivalent BTEC National qualifications which includes natural modules. We do not accept AS levels or general studies.

For example:

  • ABB at A Level including relevant subject(s)
  • DDM in BTEC Extended Diploma
  • Distinction overall from a T level qualification
  • A combination of qualifications including relevant subject(s)

You can find information on making sense of UCAS tariff points here and use the UCAS tariff calculator to work out your points.

Or

  • Access to HE Diploma from a QAA recognised Access to HE course in health studies, health science, nursing or another science-based course. Normally we require 15 of the level 3 credits to be graded at distinction with 9 of these distinctions from natural science units.
  • If you are in the process of completing the FdSc Professional Practice in Health and Social Care at one of our partner colleges and are looking to progress your career as a registered professional, we would welcome an application from you. Please note the different application routes below:
    • Completing the level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Professional Practice in Health and Social Care means you can apply via UCAS to be considered for entry at Year 1 of your chosen professional degree
    • Completing the full two year FdSc to level 5 means you can apply to be considered for entry in to Year 2 of this professional degree. This is a direct application process in accordance with the partnership arrangement between Sheffield Hallam University and your college, not via UCAS. Please note that places to commence this course in Year 2 are limited.

Other equivalent qualifications are considered individually, and include previous degrees that are grade 2.2 or above

And

GCSEs (single or double) in

  • Science at grade C or 4 or equivalents*
  • Maths at grade C or 4 or equivalents**
  • English Language or Literature at grade C or 4 or equivalents***

*GCSE Science equivalents

  • OCR Science level 2
  • Science units gained on a level 3 BTEC or OCR National Diploma or Extended Diploma quualification
  • Science credits gained on Access to Higher Education Diplomas (at least 12 credits at level 2 or 6 credits gained at level 3)
  • Science equivalency test from www.equivalencytesting.co.uk

**GCSE Maths equivalents

  • Level 2 Key Skills/ Application of Number/ Level 2 Maths credits from an Access course
  • Maths quivalency test from www.equivalencytesting.co.uk

***GCSE English equivalents

  • Level 2 Literacy
  • Level 2 Key Skills

IELTS

If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills, or equivalent. If your level of English language is currently below IELTS 6.5 we recommend you consider an appropriate Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve the required level of English. Please note that the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) require IELTS 7.0 with no element below 6.5 for registration

Helping your application succeed

Experience

Experience of interacting with members of the public from a range of backgrounds in different settings is essential when applying to a health or social care course. This is so you will have an understanding of the diversity of the population who access health and social care. It is important to be able to understand and explain how your experiences relate to the activities and qualities which are required for the profession at your interview.

Reference

You must provide a reference from a current or recent employer or educational institution with your UCAS application.

Interview

If your application is shortlisted you will be required to complete an additional task before being considered to attend an interview. This task is to produce and submit a 2 minute (maximum) video answering the following questions:

Tell us what you know about the profession, and why do you want to join?

View our interview guidance to ensure you understand the interviews process and how you can prepare for this.

Course enrolment - professional requirements

Before enrolling you must fully declare the following information on the pre-admission declaration forms provided during the admissions process:

  • unfiltered criminal convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings. For further information on unfiltered offences please see the Disclosure and Barring Service website.
  • involvement in disciplinary proceedings during paid or voluntary employment or education establishments
  • involvement with safeguarding proceedings, social services or related organisations
  • enrolment on a health or social work professional course at another University

In addition

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Criminal Record Check

  • you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal record check prior to or during the enrolment week of your course. This will be provided by the University free of charge.
  • you will need to present valid identity documents (PDF) (PDF, 38.1KB) as part of the application process
  • if you have lived outside of the UK for more than six consecutive months in the last five years you must provide an overseas criminal record check. Further information on obtaining an overseas criminal record check.
  • where your DBS Enhanced Disclosure certificate contains any recorded information you must present this to the Professional Issues Team within ten working days of receipt of the certificate.

Occupational Health Screening

You will need to undertake occupational health screening to determine your suitability to undertake the course. This will be provided by the University free of charge. As part of this assessment you are expected to provide all relevant, truthful and accurate information to ensure a safe environment for yourself and service users.

Immunisations

You must undertake a programme of immunisations as required by the Department of Health and meet the immunisation and immunity requirements of placement providers. This will be provided by the University free of charge. Please obtain details of your immunisation history from your doctor so you can submit this during your Occupational Health Screening.

Pre-course Day

After completing the above professional checks, if you reside in the UK it is important for you to make every reasonable attempt to attend a Pre-Course Day event to undertake the next stage of the professional requirements for your course. The pre-course day is also a good opportunity to meet fellow applicants on the health & social care courses who will be starting their studies at the same time as you, as well as some current students and teaching staff. We will look forward to welcoming you on the day.

Other professional suitability information

Your full enrolment on your course will be confirmed when the Professional Issues Team have verified that your Enhanced DBS Disclosure (and overseas criminal record check where relevant) indicates that you are suitable to work with vulnerable groups including children and clearance from your health screening has been received. 

If your personal circumstances change in relation to any of the professional requirements, from when you apply to the end of your course, please tell the Professional Issues team immediately by calling 0114 225 5637 or emailing HWB-Professional-Issues@shu.ac.uk.

Disability support

We strongly recommend that you tell us about any long term health conditions, learning difficulty or disability you may have. This is so we can assess whether we can deliver the course in such a way that you can meet the Health and Care Professions Council standards of proficiency and take part without disadvantage both in University and on placement.

You can contact our disability coordinator on 0114 225 2588 to explore any issues you may have, or you can contact our university disabled student support team on 0114 225 3964 (voice and Minicom).

The Disability Disclosure booklet provides information for students on health and social care courses and will help you understand the importance of disclosing your disability at the earliest possible stage. This is so you can be assessed for the support you may require to succeed on the course.

Open day

Our open days give you an opportunity to chat to our teaching staff and current students. You can explore the campus and view our facilities, as well as asking any questions you may have. To book your place at one of our open days, please follow this link University open days.

Additional information for EU/International students

If you are an International or non-UK European student, you can find out more about the country specific qualifications we accept on our international qualifications page.

For details of English language entry requirements (IELTS), please see the information for 'All students'.


Modules

Important notice: The structure of this course is periodically reviewed and enhanced to provide the best possible learning experience for our students and ensure ongoing compliance with any professional, statutory and regulatory body standards. Module structure, content, delivery and assessment may change, but we expect the focus of the course and the learning outcomes to remain as described above. Following any changes, updated module information will be published on this page.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Module
Credits
Assessment
Clinical Placement Practice 1
Credits -
Assessment
Collaboration For Individual And Community Wellbeing
Credits 20
Assessment Practical(100%)
Foundations Of Paramedic Practice 1A
Credits 40
Assessment Coursework(50%) , Practical(50%)
Foundations Of Paramedic Practice 1B
Credits 40
Assessment Practical(100%)
Personal And Professional Development
Credits 20
Assessment Coursework(100%)
Year 2

Compulsory modules

Module
Credits
Assessment
Assessing And Addressing Complexity In Practice
Credits 20
Assessment Practical(100%)
Clinical Placement Practice 2
Credits -
Assessment
Developing Paramedic Practice 2A
Credits 40
Assessment Practical(100%)
Developing Paramedic Practice 2B
Credits 40
Assessment Practical(100%)
Evidence And Enquiry For Practice
Credits 20
Assessment Coursework(100%)
Final year

Compulsory modules

Module
Credits
Assessment
Clinical Placement Practice 3
Credits -
Assessment
Complexity & Leadership In Professional Practice
Credits 20
Assessment Coursework(100%)
Independant Paramedic Practice
Credits 20
Assessment Practical(100%)
Specialist Populations In Paramedic Practice
Credits 40
Assessment Practical(100%)
The Advancing Professional
Credits 40
Assessment Coursework(100%)

Fees and funding

Home students

Our tuition fee for UK students starting full-time undergraduate study in 2024/25 is £9,250 per year. These fees are regulated by the UK government and are therefore subject to changes in government policy.

If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions under student fees regulations.

International students

Our tuition fee for International/EU students starting full-time study in 2024/25 is £18,155, which includes an annual placement supplement of £1,500.

HSC bursary image

Health and social care funding

Home fee-paying students can access a non-repayable maintenance grant of at least £5,000 per year. You may also be eligible for additional financial support based on your circumstances.

Learn more

Additional course costs

This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These are estimates and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

Additional costs for Paramedic science courses (PDF, 332.7KB)

Legal information

Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations.

 

Why choose us?

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Teaching

We are Gold rated in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for the outstanding quality of our teaching and student outcomes

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Accommodation

We guarantee to find you an affordable place to live that’s close to campus and comes with all bills included

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Employment

95% of our UK graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating (2020/21 Graduate Outcomes Survey)

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