EMS Qualifications

How to enter the profession of emergency care?

Where can I study in this field?

Certain universities offer a four-year Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Medical Care (BEMC). Graduates of this programme can register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as Emergency Care Practitioners (ECP). Emergency Care Practitioners provide the highest level of pre-hospital emergency care.

The Diploma in Emergency Medical Care is a mid-level qualification offered over two-years. Upon successful completion of the programme graduates are able to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Paramedic.

The Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care is a one-year - entry level - qualification and enables qualified graduates to register as Emergency Care Assistants with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Mediclinic Private Higher Education Institution offer both the Diploma and Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care in Cape Town.

Are short courses available?

Historically, vocational certificate qualifications were the primary means by which practitioners entered the profession, these were referred to as ‘the short courses’. The short course route of entry was terminated in 2017. Currently the only route of entry into the Profession of Emergency Care is through completion of the formal qualifications offered at a higher education institution.

Can I work as a volunteer?

ER24 does not have a volunteer programme. Registered professionals may be employed part-time to fulfil a specific need at a branch. Please contact the branch manager at your nearest ER24 base should you be interested in part-time work.

Overview of qualification structure and requirements:

Below is an overview of thequalification structure and entrance requirements as set out by the Health ProfessionsCouncilof South Africa (the below serves as a guide onlyand specific requirements may differ per institution and qualification).