Paramedics, or paramedicine or paramedic science, is a professional course offering medical training courses shorter than MBBS. You can opt for paramedic courses in various fields like operations theatre, respiratory care, and medical laboratory technology. To pursue a career in paramedic science, universities like University College Cork, Ireland, in collaboration with the National Ambulance Service (NAS), offer paramedics at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
During a paramedic science degree, you can access world-class education facilities, pre-hospital training and clinical experience. You will gain situational awareness, problem-solving, mental toughness, patient assessment, and navigating challenging situations. Careers in paramedics include combat medic, emergency room technician, MRI technician, research assistant, and medical technologist.
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Top Universities for Paramedic Courses in Ireland
1. University of Limerick
The University of Limerick is a public research university established in 1972 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick. The education and health sciences faculty offers paramedical courses at NFQ Level 8 (honour’s bachelor’s degree) and is considered one of the best universities for paramedic science.
The curriculum comprises four main domains of study: knowledge of health and illness, clinical and anatomical skills, professional skills, and pre-hospital research. You will be taught via Problem-Based Learning, allowing you to work on hypothetical clinical scenarios. The programs and placements are approved by the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC). A regulatory exam must be undertaken in the first year, comprising multiple choice questions, an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE), and a short written exam. The University of Limerick manages the placement, and the students are paid National Ambulance Service (NAS) employees.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science in Paramedic Studies
- Entry requirements: minimum grade of 70% in class XII and minimum IELTS of 6.5
- International fees: €25,118
- Faculties: Education and Health Sciences
- Campus: Limerick, Ireland
2. University College Cork
The University College Cork is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland situated in Cork. Established in 1845, it is ranked as one of the best universities for paramedic science. The College of Medicine and Health offers a paramedical science degree at the bachelor’s and practitioner-entry level.
The two-year BSc paramedic studies (practitioner-level entry) is designed to develop skills and knowledge applicable to practice in specialist areas, assisting you with professional development and life-long learning. Courses are delivered through teaching using an e-learning approach and participation in workshops. Graduates of the program are eligible for postgraduate degrees in the relevant field.
The four-year BSc (Hons) in paramedical science comprises modules blended with theory and clinical practice. You will also participate in ambulance-supervised placements and multiple clinical settings, such as emergency departments and coronary care units.
- Suggested course: BSc Paramedicine (Hons)
- Entry requirements: minimum grade of 70% in class XII and minimum IELTS of 6.5
- International fees: €6,500
- Faculties: College of Medicine and Health
- Campus: Cork, Ireland
Study in Ireland
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FAQ
How many years does it take to become a paramedic in Ireland?
In Ireland, a paramedic bachelor’s program lasts three years, while a master’s degree lasts two years.
What is the difference between EMTs and paramedics in Ireland?
An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) receives specialized training in pre-hospital emergency care, which includes patient assessment, primary trauma care, and airway management. Paramedic courses offer training in fields like nursing, optometry, physiotherapy, and radiography.
I have completed training beyond the level of primary care paramedic (e.g. advanced care paramedic and critical care paramedic). Can I apply to this programme?
you can apply to the programs, such as advanced and critical care paramedics.
What is the highest-paid paramedic?
The average salary of a paramedic is €34,663 annually. The highest-paid paramedic jobs in Ireland include emergency room paramedic, flight nurse paramedic, and paramedic supervisor.