Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic)

The Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic) is a three-year, full-time degree delivered in partnership with Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA). The programme prepares you for registration and practice as a paramedic, equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to provide high-quality patient care.

As a paramedic, you'll respond to a wide range of medical and trauma situations, from life-threatening emergencies to lower-acuity health concerns. You'll learn how to assess patients, make clinical decisions, provide treatment, and refer people to the most appropriate healthcare services. Strong communication skills are a vital part of the role, helping you reassure patients and whānau during challenging and often stressful situations.

Your learning will combine classroom teaching, self-directed study, simulation-based learning, and extensive clinical placements, giving you opportunities to apply your knowledge in real-world healthcare settings and develop the skills needed for professional practice. Because of the clinical and academic demands of the programme, it is important to carefully consider any paid employment commitments. We recommend working no more than 10 hours per week to ensure you have sufficient time for study and clinical placements.

For students already working or volunteering in ambulance services, a Flexible Learning Stream (FLS) is available. This distance-learning option is designed for those who hold a National Diploma in Ambulance Practice (Level 5) or have a minimum authority to practice as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).