PARAMEDIC SCIENCE

Can I become a paramedic without going to university?

Yes, you can become a paramedic without going to university, thanks to the Paramedic Degree Apprenticeship. This allows you to earn a salary while completing the training you need for HCPC registration.

Many people still choose the traditional university degree route. Why? Because it offers broader placement opportunities and more flexibility. Plus, the chance to explore different areas of health and emergency care before committing to full-time practice.

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.

Two student paramedics stood in front of mock ambulance

Explore our Paramedic Science degree

Ready to take the next step? Our Paramedic Science degree shows you how clinical skills, critical thinking, and real-world experience come together on the frontline of emergency care. You’ll get to grips with everything from patient assessment and trauma management to teamwork in high-pressure situations, guided by professionals who’ve lived it. Along the way, you’ll build the confidence and competence to make a genuine difference when it matters most - for individuals, communities, and the future of healthcare.

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