Placements with BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science

Placement learning is an integral part of the experience of training to become a paramedic

You will undertake multiple blocks of placement during each of the three years of your degree course, each year has a minimum placement hours requirement of 485, although generally more hours are available. Placements are allocated across the South West, generally, but not exclusively in Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset.
A wide range of potential placement areas reflect the generalist nature of Paramedic Science, they include general practice, mental health, paediatrics and the ambulance service.
For the duration of your placements, you’ll probably need to relocate to get the most out of your experience. During allocation, students are invited to put forward their address/es and the placement team will allocate placement areas – the ambulance service allocate ambulance placement locations and the university team non-ambulance service (acute) placements.
Each year of the programme has mandatory acute placements and in addition to this, students are invited to identify preferences for an additional short acute placement; these will then be allocated to try and ensure a fair experience for all.
Please note: additional travel / accommodation costs may be incurred during your placement. Advice on financial support available for health care students on placement can be obtained from the NHS Business Services Authority website.
Student standing by an ambulance
Students standing by an ambulance with patient

Year 1

16 week placement
You'll build confidence in communicating with patients and gain an awareness of the diverse role of the paramedic. You will have the opportunity of gaining valuable experience in a variety of exciting placement areas such as primary/acute care, mental health and ambulance services, to name a few; this range of experience will enable you build confidence and competence, in preparation for entry into the profession.

Year 2

19 week placement
You’ll have opportunities to apply theory, evidence based knowledge and practical ability within paramedic placement areas and clinical settings.

Year 3

14 week placement
You’ll become competent in translating theory into practice and demonstrate the range of skills needed to work as a newly qualified Paramedic. You’ll work with a range of clinical specialities, such as paediatrics, maternity, primary care and cardiac care.

What our graduates say

“The paramedic course at the University of Plymouth is equally divided between theory days on campus and practical placements. Obviously, most of your time on placement will be spent at your allocated ambulance station; however, placements in other emergency and urgent care settings, such as A&E departments and Minor Injuries Units, in addition to other clinical specialities such as anaesthetics, maternity, mental health, coronary care, and paediatrics helped me to develop the diverse array of skills necessary to perform in the role of a Paramedic.”

Josh Guinane – BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science graduate

“It would be impossible to become a paramedic without practical 'on the road' experience. The variety of placements gives you a very well-rounded exposure to health and social care issues in the community.”

Edd Bartlett – BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science graduate
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