This programme prepares students to become professional paramedics, delivering emergency and urgent care in real-life situations.

Why Study Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic)?

• Industry partnership with Wellington Free Ambulance
• Learn clinical decision-making & emergency care
• Extensive clinical placements (ambulance, hospitals)
• Focus on real-life emergency scenarios
• Pathway to paramedic registration and employment

Programme Structure / Subjects

Year 1 (Foundation):

• Human Anatomy & Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Introduction to Paramedic Practice
• Medical & Trauma Care Basics

Year 2–3 (Advanced):

• Clinical assessment & diagnosis
• Emergency medical procedures
• Patient transport & care
• Advanced life support techniques
• Legal & ethical healthcare practice

Practical Training:

• Ambulance placements
• Hospital & healthcare environments
• Emergency communication centres

Specialisations / Focus Areas

(No separate majors, but strong focus areas include:)

• Emergency & acute care
• Trauma management
• Ambulance operations
• Clinical decision-making 

Programme Highlights

• Real-world clinical placements from early stage
• Partnership with ambulance services
• Simulation-based emergency training
• High employability in healthcare sector
• Strong emphasis on practical skills + resilience

Career Outcomes

Graduates can become:

• Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Emergency Department Assistant
• Ambulance Officer

Work settings:

• Ambulance services
• Hospitals
• Emergency response units
• Community healthcare

Special Requirements / Important Notes

• Physically & emotionally demanding course
• Recommended max 10 hours/week part-time work
• Must complete:
  • Clinical placements
  • Health & background checks

Latest Updates (2025–2026)

• Confirmed Feb 2026 intake (16 Feb)
• Updated fees: NZD $27,000/year
• Continued partnership with Wellington Free Ambulance
• Strong emphasis on clinical placements & simulation learning
• Programme updated under Te P?kenga (NZIST)

Final Summary

The Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic) at Whitireia and WelTec is ideal if you want:

• A hands-on emergency healthcare career
  
• Real ambulance & hospital experience
  
• Strong clinical and life-saving skills
  
• Pathway to paramedic registration