Paramedic Science - Level 3 Access to Higher Education

If you are aged 19 or over and would like to study Paramedic Science at university — but do not have the traditional qualifications — this Access to Higher Education Diploma provides a direct and supportive route back into learning.

Validated by OCN London, this Level 3 qualification (60 credits) is widely recognised by universities as an alternative to A Levels. It prepares you for degrees in Paramedic Science, Emergency Care, and related allied health professions.

Delivered at Angel Campus (Capital City College), the course offers a combination of face-to-face and online learning, taught by experienced staff who understand the needs of adult learners. You will gain the core scientific knowledge, applied skills and academic confidence required to begin your journey into frontline emergency healthcare. A personal tutor will also guide you with your UCAS application.

Did you know?
If you complete a university degree after your Access to HE Diploma, Student Finance England will write off your Advanced Learner Loan.

You will study a blend of science, health studies, professional knowledge and real-world emergency care concepts designed to prepare you for paramedic training.

Core topics include:

• Human Biology & Anatomy – physiology, body systems, clinical responses, biological foundations of emergency care
• Emergency Care Contexts – emergency care systems, the role of the paramedic, inter-professional working, health inequalities and the social context of emergency services
• Applied Paramedic Knowledge – professional practice, decision-making, legal and ethical considerations in paramedicine

• Hold a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications)
• Demonstrate interest in emergency care — volunteering, first-aid, or health-related experience is beneficial
• Show commitment to full-time study and progression to university
• Attend an interview to confirm course suitability

Assessment is continuous throughout the year and includes:

• Written assignments and research tasks
• Scenario-based assessments
• Presentations
• Examinations and timed tests

Assignments are internally assessed by tutors and externally moderated by OCN London. You will also be expected to complete an independent study each week to support your progress.

Adults - Access to Higher Education

This course may be free if you meet certain conditions:

• If you are not working or have a low income. You need to show proof of your income or benefits.
• If you are aged 19-23 and you do not have a full Level 3 qualification (a full L3 is the equivalent of two A-levels at A* - E grade). You need to show us proof of any qualifications you already have.
• Residency rules apply. You need to show you have permission to live, work and study in the UK without conditions, and live in London If you live outside London, you need to pay fees.
• There are some exceptions, such as certain visa types.

Check here which documents you need to show us, and which visa types are allowed.

If you do not meet the residency rules, you can still enrol on the course but you may have to pay some fees. All applicants are fee-assessed during enrolment.

If you are not eligible for a free or reduced-cost course, you need to pay the full fee yourself, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

If you have to pay for your course, and decide to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan (ALL), the residency rules are different: https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.

Some courses have additional costs, such as for specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

Once you complete the Access to HE Diploma (Paramedic Science), you can apply for a range of higher education courses, including:

• BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science
• BSc (Hons) Emergency Care
• Allied Health Profession degrees (subject to entry requirements)

You will finish the course with a strong academic foundation and the professional awareness needed to begin your journey into paramedic training and frontline emergency healthcare.