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Paramedic course without biology A-level

I am 32 and looking to change careers. I'd love to apply to do a paramedic science degree but I just don't know if it's realistic since I don't have a science A-level.

I already did a history degree and have worked in advertising for the last 7 years. I did my A-levels in English, History & French. I did work as a prescription clerk in a doctor's surgery and also a healthcare assistant at Boots, so I have a bit of relevant work experience.

Do I have a chance if I apply or should I go away and do a Biology A-level first?

Reply 1

MindMax2000

Universities Forum Helper

According to National Careers, you need a degree approved by the HPC (https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/paramedic)

There are more than one type of qualification universities accept. With A Levels, there seems to be a shelf life, but that would depend on whether the individual university will still accept them.

For one, you should be able to enrol with a suitable Access to HE diploma course (online courses can cost around £1500, and college courses can cost £3000-3500), provided it's accepted at the university, department, and for your course program. You can still do a A Levels, BTECs, etc. but it will depend on how much time you will be able to spare for your study. Birmingham City for example allows you to enter with a 2:2 degree (https://www.bcu.ac.uk/courses/paramedic-science-bsc-hons-2021-22), and Edge Hill University allows you to become a Nurse Paramedic with no subject specific A Levels (https://www.edgehill.ac.uk/courses/nurse-paramedic-adult/tab/entry-criteria/). Apparently, a number of degree programs don't need you to have a science A Level.

The other thing is you won't have access to student finance for a second undegrad, so you will need to find a way to self finance your way through your degree.

I'd check the entry requirements for the course first by calling up the undergrad admissions department of your chosen uni. The courses that are approved by the HPC are listed here:
https://www.hcpc-uk.org/education/approved-programmes/approved-programmes-results/?ProviderQueryString=&Professions=270450010&PageSize=15
Those endorsed by the College of Paramedics are listed here:
https://collegeofparamedics.co.uk/COP/Become_a_Paramedic/Endorsed_Courses/COP/Events/Endorsed_Coures.aspx?hkey=071642f2-dc56-4451-95ea-b72bb79124e3

Reply 2

JF paramedicine

Number of places don’t require Science A Level, CCCU doesn’t even require science GCSE. 112 UCAS point seems to be the bar at number of places though Wolverhampton and Napier seem to accept 104.

No need for biology a-level as anatomy and physiology taught in the modules will cover why you need.