University to offer paramedic masters degree

A university that 25 years ago set up the UK's first ever paramedic science degree, said it was expanding to offer a new master's degree in the profession.

The University of Hertfordshire, in Hatfield, said the two-year paramedic science course, starting in January, was for anyone who wanted to respond to medical emergencies.

Principle lecturer Alexandra Ulrich said students will be able to "study at a higher academic level and reduce the length of time and costs associated with university degrees".

The new course was announced "as the NHS signals a demand for more qualified medical professionals", the university added.

Phil Withers, professional lead for paramedic science, said: "You can 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 paramedic science degrees first began."

Students will also be able to study via clinical simulation.

"It provides a realistic environment for our students to practice and enhance their skills before entering clinical placement," he added.

Ms Ulrich said: "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."

Professor John Martin, an alumnus from the university and chief executive of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: "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."

Jaabir Booly, a third-year paramedic science student at the university, said after he graduated he hoped to work in London with a tactical response unit or in urgent care.

"I would absolutely recommend paramedic science as a career—it's dynamic, challenging, and incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to make a real difference in people's lives."