Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Paramedic Science with Integrated Foundation Year

Being a paramedic is a highly rewarding and stimulating career, presenting many opportunities to specialise within a variety of challenging healthcare environments. Our foundation course prepares you for the degree in BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Your journey starts here

Begin your paramedicine journey with a foundation that provides a comprehensive introduction to healthcare and nurtures confidence, skills and knowledge – designed to support your growth in every area essential for success.

Immersive learning

Ready yourself for real world situations in dedicated facilities, such as the home simulation suite and our simulated ambulance. Practise your professional healthcare skills in our inspiring purpose-built environment, InterCity Place.

Patient focus

Study an accredited course by the College of Paramedics designed to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care. Learn from experienced paramedics with diverse clinical backgrounds, many of whom are qualified independent prescribers.
BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science with Integrated Foundation Year
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About

The University has an excellent reputation for its practical approach and strong links with local NHS services, which I believe is essential for hands-on training. The blend of lectures, seminars and practical application has helped me develop critical thinking and decision-making abilities under pressure, which are vital in the field. Overall, I appreciate how the programme prepares us to be well-rounded paramedics ready for the challenges we will face in our careers.

Megan
BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science student

Image of Paramedic Science student smiling for the camera wearing dark blue polo top
 
 
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
A full list of potential progressions routes is listed under course details
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
 
 
 

This course is for you if...

you're compassionate and dedicated to caring for people who need your help
Two hands holding each other, depicting support
you're a team player, ready to work with healthcare professionals, patients, and families
Two healthcare professionals, one with stethoscope
you want to make a difference to society through healthcare
Hand over cross depicting healthcare
you seek early clinical exposure to develop practical skills and put theory to practise
Door opening to healthcare setting

Details

Progression routes
This course is an integrated part of the Paramedic Science degree at the University of Plymouth. Successful completion of your foundation year (Year 0) will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right but provides progression onto Year 1 of Paramedic Science .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Year 0

Our Integrated foundation course prepares you for the undergraduate degree in BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science. Taught by University lecturers on campus, you’ll be part of the University from day one. If your current qualifications don’t allow you direct entry to degree level, this course is for you. Students completing the BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science with Integrated Foundation Year course will normally progress to year 1 of BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science .
Megan practicing using needle on fake arm with fellow paramedic science student

Core modules

BHCS001
Infection, Immunity and Therapeutics 20 credits

This module will provide an introduction to microbiology and the human immune system. Students will learn the fundamental biology relating to bacteria, helminths, viruses and fungi. And also develop an understanding of how our immune system has evolved to combat infection. The module will also explore methods to control microbial contamination and therapeutic strategies to prevent disease.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BHCS002
Current Developments in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences 20 credits

This module examines the role of science in addressing key contemporary issues in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences. The module aims to take an integrative approach, aiming to develop in students both a critical appreciation of the ways in which issues in Human Biology can be approached and resolved, and to develop an understanding of the skills and attributes needed for effective study of such issues at undergraduate level.

100% Practicals

FMD001
Molecules to Cells 20 credits

This module introduces key concepts involved in cell regulation including genetic inheritance, metabolism and protein expression. The important role of enzymes in the control of biochemical pathways will be introduced, as will an introduction to cell signalling. Cellular organisation within different tissues will also be outlined, enabling students to recognise links between structure and function. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

FMD002
Introduction to Human Physiology 20 credits

This module will provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Using example systems, it will emphasise relationships between structure and function and examine homeostatic regulation in these systems. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

50% Practicals

50% Examinations

FMD004
Interdisciplinary Learning and Team Based Learning (Enquiry learning) 20 credits

This module is designed to enable learners to develop key skills required for working in multidisciplinary teams. Students will be encouraged to work with their colleagues to manage tasks and tailor learning according to their own particular discipline

100% Coursework

SOHP001
Learning Skills for Health and Social Care Professions 20 credits

This module is designed to enable learners to adapt to the learning environment of higher education by developing an independent, reflective and managed approach to learning and professional development.

100% Coursework

Core modules

HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1

PARA400
Human Anatomy and Physiology 20 credits

This module builds on existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology whilst introducing pathophysiology relevant to ongoing paramedic practice. Students will be taught via shared learning and seminars, topics covered will expand on knowledge of systems such as Endocrinology, Cardiovascular, Cardiorespiratory, Skeletal, Muscular, Neurological, Integumentary, Gastrointestinal, Urological and Reproductive.

100% Examinations

PARA401
Clinical Skills and Application to Practice (1) 20 credits

This module introduces the student to basic and intermediate clinical skills required for pre-hospital care and the theory behind them. During the module the student will gain an understanding of the patient journey and the skills required for delivering exceptional patient care within the wider healthcare sector.

100% Clinical exams

PARA402
Introduction to Paramedic Science 20 credits

This module introduces paramedic practice. It creates understanding of the profession, regulatory and professional bodies and the contemporary legislation and policy that drives patient care. It delivers strategies for communicating in multi-disciplinary and diverse working environments and will address health and safety in clinical practice. A local ambulance trust orientation is also included.

100% Coursework

PARA403
Special Patient Groups 20 credits

Paramedics must be able to assess and manage anyone presenting healthcare needs. Additional skills and knowledge may be required to assess and manage those from special patient groups. This module introduces the underpinning principles required to safely assess and manage those patients, including those who are at the extremes of age, pregnant, those with chronic ill-health, and those at the end stages of life.

100% Examinations

PARA404
Practice Placement (1) 20 credits

This module will enable the student to develop a portfolio of skills and competencies relevant to first year paramedic practice. There will be opportunities to apply theory, evidence based knowledge and practical ability within paramedic placement areas and clinical settings.

100% Coursework

SOHP401
Preparation for Practice 20 credits

This inter-professional module will introduce students to professional practice and the inherent standards expected of them. The characteristics and identity of allied health professionals, as evidence based practitioners, will underpin learning.

100% Coursework

 
 
 
 
 
 

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Hands-on learning

Practice clinical skills safely before undertaking placements at a variety of healthcare settings – enabling high quality learning and a diverse experience with support from expert health professionals.
InterCity Place is our purpose-built facility for all students from a variety of disciplines to develop skills, knowledge and experience to build successful careers.
Explore our clinical facilities
InterCity Place
 
 
 
 
 
 

We try to do as many scenarios as we can and to make it as realistic as possible. It’s all aimed at making our students better paramedics and giving them the experience so they feel well practiced and are able to apply those skills to real patients.

Watch our third-year paramedic science students in action as they triage and treat simulated casualties around Plymouth Argyle’s Home Park stadium – from the gateway and tunnel to the stands.
In this realistic major incident exercise, the paramedics of the future put their skills to the test in a dynamic and high-pressure environment.

Jason LongMr Jason Long
Lecturer in Paramedic Science (Education)

Exercise Dartmoor – clinical champion simulation

Held on Dartmoor’s rugged landscape, Exercise Dartmoor is a large-scale simulation event that immerses you in a series of complex, high-pressure scenarios that reflect the realities of pre-hospital care.
This hands-on experience pushes you to apply your clinical knowledge, make rapid decisions and work collaboratively in dynamic environments – skills essential for your future careers as paramedics
“The main objective of the event is for staff to pose difficult, but known, pre-hospital clinical situations and encourage teamwork, problem-solving and confidence as students work through these scenarios.”
Sally Nitti
Lecturer and exercise lead
 

Work alongside other healthcare students

Teamwork is essential for success in health and social care and many other careers. Interprofessional learning is all about working and learning together with people from different areas of healthcare. It helps you build valuable skills for the future.
The Plymouth Integrative Health and Social Care Education Centre supports interprofessional learning, giving students chances to work with others across different healthcare fields including radiography, dietetics, dental surgery, psychology, and child nursing. By learning together, students become confident and ready to step into their careers from day one.

It is great to know how to ensure all of our professions can work effectively together. This benefits the service user and staff.

Healthcare systems always require improvement, it’s easier to know how to improve your area if you know how other areas work too.

Health students taking part in PIHC interprofessional learning activity
PIHC interprofessional learning session - 3 students kneeling on the floor looking at an exercise
Nursing students in clinical setting
Nursing students in clinical setting
 
 
 

Real-world experience

Placements are an exciting and dynamic way to consolidate what you have learnt in the classroom. Practice takes place in a variety of healthcare settings enabling high quality learning and a diverse experience with support from expert health professionals.
 

Placements are crucial to the course, and I feel they have prepared me well for when I will be by myself on the road. It's the best chance to put the theory into practise.

Current paramedic science student Ismael shares detail into his placements working for the ambulance service, surgical theatres and maternity wards and how working in these different settings are preparing him for his future career.

Ismael in paramedic uniform in simulated hospital ward
 

Jacob's story

Jacob Maddams, BSc (Hons) Paramedic Practitioner student, is training to save lives and hopes to take to the skies as part of the Air Ambulance team.
Watch his story and discover his passion for paramedicine.
Close-up shot of Main Entrance and Emergency Department signs on a hospital - courtesy of Getty Images

Learn from experienced healthcare professionals

We pride ourselves on our innovative curriculum with an experienced, research-active teaching team, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and clinical experience into the classroom, which you will apply in clinical practice.
Megan practicing using needle on fake arm with fellow paramedic science student
Mr Ian Luscombe Lecturer in Paramedic Science


Lecturer in Paramedic Science

Mr Andrew Webber Lecturer in Paramedic Science (Education)


Lecturer in Paramedic Science (Education)

Mr Jason Long Lecturer in Paramedic Science (Education)


Lecturer in Paramedic Science (Education)

Show all
 
 
 

Join our Paramedic Society – ParaSoc

Getting involved in a society comes with many benefits, from making new friends to enhancing your CV. The Paramedic Society offers students an enriching opportunity to develop skills, network with students from other healthcare professions, deepen their understanding of specialisms in paramedicine and attend fun socials to unwind from university stress.
"The society is really great for meeting new people and creating new friends within your cohort, and also students on different stages of the course. This year we organised a winter ball, board game nights and attended the cider festival at the Students' Union. We have also organised smaller, regular welfare catch ups which are a great way to check in on one another, especially when we are all out on placement" - Mark, current ParaSoc President.
Join ParaSoc
A group of Paramedic Science students at the UPSU Societies Fair
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Making a difference

We offered recent graduates the opportunity to visit Nepal, so that they could see a different healthcare system outside of the UK before they started their career.
Paul in Nepal with other paramedic graduates
They were observed how the people of Nepal adapted to services and available resources, visit different hospitals and emergency departments in rural areas and contribute to the community through the delivery of first aid training in schools and to healthcare professionals. This immersive experience provided an insightful cultural experience, better understanding of global health challenges and enriched their professional development.
Paul in Nepal, teaching first aid skills to school children
 
 
Paul – charting a new path of service in paramedic science
After a career in the Royal Marines, Paul was passionate about working in a fast pace, unpredictable, and rewarding job so applied to study paramedic science. One year on from graduating, Paul gives an insight into his career as a newly qualified paramedic.
image of Paul in paramedic uniform in front of ambulance
 
 
 
 
 

Career opportunties

A degree in paramedic science offers far more than preparation for life on the road – it equips you with highly transferable skills, hands-on experience and access to a broad range of career opportunities. The paramedic profession combines autonomy, responsibility and variety rarely found in other healthcare roles. Whether working on the frontline as the first healthcare professional to attend patients, or in evolving roles within critical care, primary care, forensic medicine or expedition medicine, paramedics make a real difference.
As the profession grows, so do the options – from specialist, advanced and consultant-level practice to leadership, research and education roles. Paramedics are increasingly recognised as skilled, registered professionals across both emergency and non-emergency settings, enhancing job stability and professional standing within the NHS and beyond.
Exploring the wide range of clinical and non-clinical paths is key to shaping a fulfilling career. Reflecting on your interests, values and strengths will help guide your direction, whether you choose further specialism or a less traditional route.
  • ]

    95% of our Paramedic Science graduates are in work or further study

  • >

    90% of our graduates are using what they learnt during their studies in their current work

  • [

    79% of our graduates say their course developed knowledge or skills that they will need in the future

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Applicants need to achieve 5 GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) which must include the following subjects:
  • English (Consideration may be given to equivalent literacy qualifications)
  • Mathematics (Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics)
  • Science
Students not achieving mathematics GCSE at grade C/4 on application may be offered a free online mathematics support package and an examination equivalent to C grade GCSE to enable the achievement of appropriate entry requirements prior to commencing the programme. This examination is offered during the recruitment cycle to all eligible candidates.

A level
Typical offer 32 UCAS points from a minimum of 2 A levels including grade E in a Science subject. Excluding General Studies.
Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without science qualifications at level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This course is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications and who have the equivalent of basic mathematical, English and science skills (i.e. the equivalent of a grade C/4 at GCSE level)

BTEC
PPP in a science related subject.

Access
Pass an Access to HE Diploma (e.g science/combined studies/natural sciences/nursing).
Other qualifications and professional experience may be considered. Interview may be required, please refer to institution for individual consideration.

New Irish Highers
Achieve Irish Leaving Certificate with 32 UCAS points.

T level
Accepted, a minimum of a Pass (D or E in the Core) = 72 points – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.

International Baccalaureate
24 overall to include 3 at Higher Level science subject. English and mathematics must be included.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

In addition to the above, acceptance depends on a number of other factors:
  • Applicants must also submit a strong personal statement in order to be considered.
  • Before any offer can be made, successful applicants are interviewed as part of a Values based recruitment process.
  • All applicants for professional health programmes must undergo additional screening to ensure their suitability. We are typically unable to accept those with criminal convictions/cautions that were issued in the preceding two years of an application (not including fixed penalty offences, such as speeding or parking infringements). Similarly, we are typically unable to accept those who have had fitness to practise concerns raised within the last two years by an employer, regulator or another university. After a two year period, all applications that involved criminal convictions/cautions or fitness to practise concerns are considered by our professional issues committee to ensure fitness to practise on a healthcare programme. Screening includes assessment of disclosure and barring service (DBS) status as well as occupational health checks. Occupational health assessments ensure that applicants are fit to fulfil the demands of placements. As students undertake ‘exposure prone procedures’, successful applicants must be vaccinated against a number of diseases.
  • Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.

Further information

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
B959
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
    Our typical offer
    32 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    B959
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (with placements)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.