Paramedic science and the range of roles for paramedics in the healthcare sector have developed and expanded because of professionalisation, says the university behind the UK’s first ever paramedic science degree.
The University of Hertfordshire, which offered the UK’s first paramedic science degree some 25 years ago, is now launching a master’s degree in paramedic science for graduates who wish to train as paramedics, commencing early in 2025. The new course comes as the NHS signals a demand for more qualified medical professionals.
Since setting up the first undergraduate degree course in 1998-99, the university estimates it has graduated over 1000 qualified paramedic scientists.
Now academics teaching the courses say that the professional qualifications have allowed the role of paramedics to expand because of their increased versatility, and they are no longer exclusively found in ambulances.
“Many believe paramedics only work in ambulances, but that is a popular misconception”, says Phil Withers, professional lead for paramedic science at the University of Hertfordshire.
“You can also find paramedics in GPs surgeries, control rooms, primary care and also in research. Having a degree has opened up a range of options that were not there when we paramedic science degrees first began.”
Other institutions followed Herts’ lead, and a degree level qualification is now required to practice as a paramedic in the UK. But the practical side of learning remains fundamental for graduates.
Phil, in common with many of his staff, is himself an alumnus of the course, said:
“The majority of the University’s paramedic teaching staff also holds a dual role in clinical practice.
“Our strong emphasis on vocational training through 30 weeks of placements over our three-year course, and also in our teaching keeps our courses totally up to date and career focused.
“Our graduates know what to expect when they enter the world of work and are well-prepared for it.”
There’s a further boost for the University’s paramedic students: it has just opened a brand-new suite of simulation facilities.
Phil Withers says:
“We have recently invested in our specialist teaching areas to provide an immersive space for clinical simulation. It provides a realistic environment for our students to practice and enhance their skills before entering clinical placement. With the ability to video and audio record their simulation, students can review and reflect on their performance, helping them develop as clinicians.”
The new master’s course is led by Alexandra Ulrich, Principal Lecturer and Programme Lead for the new MSc Paramedic Science (Pre-Registration) who said the two-year master’s degree will commence in February and is now open for those wanting to enrol.
She said: “The value of our MSc Paramedic Science (Pre-Registration) programme is in giving students who already hold a degree and have healthcare experience, the opportunity to become a paramedic within two years.
“By recognising their existing knowledge and experiences, these students are able to study at a higher academic level and reduce the length of time and costs associated with university degrees.
“Bringing in graduates from other disciplines will enhance the profession and the career options of our graduates.
“Herts has a long tradition of producing successful graduates with many undertaking specialist roles in advanced practice, research and clinical leadership: shaping the profession for the future. We’re really excited to welcome our first cohort of MSc Paramedic Science (Pre-Registration) students in January and see where their careers will take them.”
One of those who graduated from the first ever paramedic degree course has gone on to considerable success: Professor John Martin was the first chief paramedic to sit on an ambulance Trust Board and is currently Chief Executive of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
He is also a visiting professor of paramedic science at the University. He said:
“One pleasing aspect of the growth of paramedic science since I studied here is the increased diversity of those interested in a career as a paramedic.
“There is now an improving mix of gender and ethnicity, and also a number of mature students changing course in life as well as those just setting out.
“We know that healthcare is a challenging field but becoming a paramedic is a brilliant career for anybody wanting to work in health and to make a real difference to other people’s lives.”
The University’s healthcare courses are taking a huge step forward with both a new medical school opening in 2026 to train doctors and a new healthcare building also being built.
The University’s nursing courses are already ranked among the UK’s highest by the present Guardian University Guide.
