| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-18 | 2023-05-05 |
Program Overview
Developed in response to an increase in learning and training requirements for paramedics, the Paramedic Practice course at Robert Gordon University is delivered in collaboration with the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS). You will learn the necessary skills that are in demand now and in the future, within unique remote and rural placement locations.
To meet the needs of this rapidly diversifying profession, this course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to confidently deliver complex high-quality care across the life-span to your local community. As a Paramedic you will play an integral part in the National Health Service. Not only will you deliver front-line emergency care on road ambulances, you’ll also work in a number of advanced paramedic practice areas such as primary care and critical care.
Program Outline
Year 1
You will undertake theory modules and develop your core skills through simulated learning before you go onto placement. This allows you to experience real-life situations but in a safe environment, and reflect on your response. Interprofessional learning will also build your communication skills.
Whilst on placement you will develop risk management skills preparing you for the urgent and emergency care environments in Year 2.
Year 2
Year 2 will build on theories and concepts, introducing more complexity relating to paramedic practice. Placements within ambulance and non-ambulance environments will focus on developing the student’s history taking and assessment skills building on exposure to the urgent and emergency care environment.
Year 3
Theory modules will consolidate learning and prepare the student to become a registered paramedic (HCPC). It will address theories and concepts such as pharmacology; advanced assessment and consultation skills; resilience and disaster preparedness; leadership and quality improvement. You may have the opportunity of an elective placement in this year.Events
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Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our
course and module disclaimer
for more information. Detailed module informationLearning Methods
This course is delivered through a variety of online and face-to-face methods in an environment that fosters student-centred learning where responsibility is shared between the student, lecturers and practice supervisors.
Your theoretical learning will be supported by lectures, a virtual learning environment, online activities, group work, virtual reality, clinical simulation and reflection on practice. In our purpose-built Clinical Skills Centre you will be able to develop your skills and confidence in a safe environment using real-life high-fidelity simulations with volunteer patients before going out on placement.
Activity Summary
Lectures
- maximum 70 students per group, on campus or online, approximately 6 hours per weekSeminars
- maximum 70 students per group, approximately 6 hours per weekPlacement / Work Based Learning
- number of students varies by placement 37.5 hours per weekHow long is a BSc Paramedic Practice course?
A Paramedic Practice course can be successfully completed in 3 years.
Independent Study
Self-study time is an important part of your success, including learning in practice settings. The course is delivered face to face in lectures and tutorials as well as online and you will be required to access and complete all elements.
The online delivery, through RGU’s virtual learning environment CampusMoodle, is highly interactive. This flexibility allows you to study at your own pace with support from peers and lecturing staff within the School of Nursing & Midwifery.
Staff Delivering on This Course
This course is delivered by appropriately experienced lecturing staff and placement educators from a variety of specialist backgrounds. Our collaboration with the Scottish Ambulance Service will also ensure you’re learning the necessary skills that are in demand now and in the future.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed each year:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
The Inclusion Centre
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
CampusMoodle
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
Study Skills Support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
University Library
Placements
Practice placements equate to 50% of your course and will be located over Grampian, Highland, Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles regions. Your placement will comprise of an equal balance between ambulance settings, where you will be linked to one area for the full duration of the course, and a variety of non-ambulance health and social care settings. These will include emergency ambulances, advanced paramedic placements, emergency departments; minor injuries units; GP practices; care homes; operating theatres; children’s hospital; coronary care; maternity; or mental health units. Students will be supported on placement by experienced Practice Educators.
We will aim to place students within their area of preference for placements however this may not always be possible and will depend on the requirements of the placement provider and their availability within that preferred area.
Job Prospects
Is Paramedic Practice a good career choice?
RGU Paramedic graduates with HCPC registration will be able to apply directly to the Scottish Ambulance Service for employment.
Find Your Career Path
