Routes into Paramedicine
There are now two main pathways to becoming a registered paramedic in the UK:
1. Paramedic Degree Apprenticeship
Prefer not to study full-time at university? The apprenticeship route offers:
- A work-based programme (usually 3 years) where you’re employed by an ambulance service trust
- Training that combines on-the-job experience with academic learning delivered through a partner university
- Full funding through your employer
- Eligibility to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) on completion
This is ideal for people who want to start working immediately or prefer practical learning.
Find more about our apprenticeship here.
2. Traditional University Degree (BSc Paramedic Science)
The most common route, offering:
- A 3-year full-time programme with placements across ambulance services, hospitals, and specialist units
- Access to student finance and a £5,000 grant through the NHS Learning Support Fund, * which can make the degree more affordable
- Broader clinical experiences and academic preparation that can support future specialisation or progression
- The option to change direction later if you decide paramedic practice isn’t right for you
Should I go to uni or choose an apprenticeship?
Both routes lead to the same HCPC registration. The difference lies in how you prefer to learn and what kind of experience you want.
Why some people choose the apprenticeship:
- No tuition fees
- Immediate immersion in ambulance work
- Ideal for those who learn best through hands-on practice
- Earn while you learn with payment opportunities
Why some people choose the university route:
- Wider clinical placements, offering broader experience beyond ambulance work
- More flexibility - you’re not tied to a specific employer while training
- A supportive academic environment for building confidence and clinical skills
- Prepares you for more advanced roles in the future, such as advanced practice, education, research or leadership
- Easier to switch career paths if you later decide paramedicine isn’t your long-term goal
Thinking beyond frontline paramedic work
Still deciding whether to go straight into paramedic training or study first? It’s helpful to understand the wider opportunities available. A university degree in Paramedic Science opens doors to a much broader range of clinical, leadership, education, and emergency-response roles. Both inside and outside the NHS.
Find out more in our 'What can I do with a Paramedic Science degree?' FAQ.
