Best Paramedic Courses In South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

You might never appreciate paramedics’ important jobs until you require them directly or indirectly. It is then and only then that you’d see that paramedics are heroes without capes like doctors.

To become such a hero in South Africa, you must undergo compulsory intensive paramedic training. This is why our article will focus on paramedic courses in South Africa.

So, if you are passionate about saving lives and interested in becoming a paramedic, our article is a must-read.

South Africa boasts of a robust health sector in which paramedics play a vital role. As first responders, paramedics are trained with core life-saving skills that buy time for the victim before other health professionals arrive.

There are many courses one can study to excel in this health field. They cut across different medical lines and study.

With the help of our guide, you can access the properly outlined best paramedic courses in South Africa, which you can enroll in.

We also outlined some institutions offering the courses and the cost of obtaining the skills.

Paramedics in South Africa

In the pre-hospital context, paramedics primarily provide emergency medical care. Paramedics treat patients wherever they are, whether in a roadway, down an embankment, or at their home or place of employment.

Paramedics stabilize, treat, and transport patients before transferring them to a medical facility. While the patient is being transported between hospitals, paramedics also tend to their needs in the ambulance.

Paramedics may offer more than basic ” first aid.” Depending on their qualifications, they can provide different procedures and interventions.

In emergency medical services, paramedics with rescue qualifications also provide emergency medical rescue.

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Best paramedic courses/studies in South Africa

With several courses in South Africa, we have listed the best paramedic courses that one can apply for and get certified as a first emergency responder.  

1. Basic Paramedic Courses in South Africa

Basic Life Support (BLS) courses provide the foundational skills for those looking to enter emergency medical services for handling life-threatening situations and assisting higher-level paramedics. These paramedic courses in South Africa are ideal for individuals new to the field.

Course Objectives

Basic Life Support courses are designed to equip students with essential life-saving skills, including:

• CPR and First Aid: Techniques to assist in cardiac arrest and emergencies.
• Basic Trauma Care: Handling injuries and supporting critical cases until advanced help arrives.
• Patient Assessment: Evaluating a patient’s vital signs to determine the next steps.

Course Content

Typical BLS training includes:

1. Basic airway management
2. Oxygen administration
3. Handling medical equipment for emergency scenarios

Career Outcomes

Graduates of these courses typically qualify as Basic Ambulance Assistants (BAA) or First Responders and can assist at accident sites and emergencies.

Requirements and Duration

• Education Level: Grade 10 or equivalent.
• Course Length: Generally a few weeks of intensive training.

These paramedic courses are an excellent starting point for anyone looking to make a difference and gain practical emergency skills in South Africa’s EMS field.

Enroll Here

2. Intermediate Paramedic Courses in South Africa

For those ready to take on greater responsibilities in emergency care, Intermediate Life Support (ILS) courses offer advanced skills essential for managing complex medical emergencies. These paramedic courses in South Africa prepare students to handle critical situations with enhanced medical techniques.

Course Objectives

Intermediate Life Support courses are designed to expand on basic skills, providing training in:

• Intravenous Therapy: Initiating IVs and fluid therapy.
• Medication Administration: Administering emergency medications under supervision.
• Airway and Trauma Management: Advanced airway control techniques and handling severe trauma cases.

Core Content

ILS training typically covers:

1. Pharmacology for emergency medication.
2. Techniques in advanced patient stabilization.
3. Hands-on practice in trauma management.

Career Outcomes

Graduates qualify as Ambulance Emergency Assistants (AEA), capable of providing intermediate-level care in the field and supporting Advanced Life Support paramedics.

Requirements and Duration

• Education Level: Completion of Basic Life Support (BLS).
• Course Length: 6 to 9 months of training and practical experience.

Institutions Offering ILS Courses

Several recognized institutions, like Netcare Education, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), and the University of Johannesburg, offer ILS paramedic courses in South Africa. These courses help students advance their EMS careers with in-depth training and hands-on learning experiences.

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3. Advanced Paramedic Courses in South Africa

For those aiming to reach the highest levels of emergency medical care, Advanced Life Support (ALS) courses are the most intensive paramedic courses in South Africa. They prepare students for critical, life-saving roles in emergency situations.

Course Objectives

Advanced Life Support courses focus on developing complex skills required to manage high-risk emergencies, including:

• Cardiac Life Support: Performing advanced techniques in cardiac arrest situations.
• Pediatric and Neonatal Care: Specialized care for infants and young children.
• Complex Trauma Care: Managing severe trauma cases with comprehensive medical intervention.

Core Content

ALS training covers advanced topics such as:

1. Intubation and Ventilation: Ensuring effective breathing for unconscious patients.
2. Pharmacology: In-depth knowledge of emergency medications.
3. Defibrillation and ECG Monitoring: Skills for handling cardiac emergencies.

Career Outcomes

ALS certification qualifies graduates to work as Critical Care Assistants (CCA) or Advanced Life Support Paramedics. These professionals often take lead roles in emergency responses or work in specialized areas, such as intensive care or flight paramedics.

Requirements and Duration

• Education Level: Completion of Intermediate Life Support (ILS).
• Course Length: Generally 1 to 2 years of advanced study and clinical training.

To Enroll check out the Institutions Offering ALS Courses below:

The Durban University of Technology (DUT), University of Johannesburg, and Mediclinic are top providers of ALS paramedic courses in South Africa, offering comprehensive programs to prepare students for high-level emergency medical roles.

4. Comprehensive Emergency Medical Care Courses in South Africa

For those seeking extensive training for advanced paramedic roles, Diploma and Bachelor’s degree programs in Emergency Medical Care are the most comprehensive paramedic courses in South Africa. These programs are designed to prepare students for leadership and specialization in emergency medical services (EMS).

Enroll Here.

#5. Diploma in Emergency Medical Care (2-Year Program)

This diploma thoroughly explains advanced life support techniques and pre-hospital care.

• Core Content: Students learn critical care, trauma management, and hands-on skills needed in high-stakes emergencies.
• Career Outcomes: Graduates are qualified to work as Advanced Life Support Paramedics, taking on advanced roles within ambulance services, hospitals, or specialized medical teams.
• Institutions Offering the Diploma: Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and Netcare Education provide recognized diplomas in Emergency Medical Care.

Enroll Here

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#6. Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Medical Care (4-Year Program)

The bachelor’s degree is ideal for those aiming for roles in EMS leadership, education, or advanced pre-hospital care.

• Course Modules: Covers advanced emergency medical care, intensive trauma care, critical patient management, and EMS management.
• Career Outcomes: Graduates can become Emergency Care Practitioners (ECPs), pursue management positions, or work internationally.
• Institutions Offering the Degree: University of Johannesburg and Durban University of Technology (DUT) offer bachelor’s degrees that meet South African and international EMS standards.

These comprehensive paramedic courses in South Africa provide in-depth academic and practical training, helping students build successful, high-impact careers in EMS.

Enroll Here

#7. Specialized Paramedic Courses and Certifications in South Africa

For those looking to enhance their expertise in specific areas of emergency medical care, specialized paramedic courses provide advanced skills and certifications. These paramedic courses in South Africa enable professionals to take on unique roles in emergency medical services and respond effectively in specialized situations.

Enroll Here

#8. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

This course focuses on emergency care for infants and children, equipping paramedics to manage pediatric emergencies effectively.

• Course Content: Advanced techniques in pediatric resuscitation, trauma care, and airway management tailored to young patients.
• Career Benefits: Certification in PALS allows paramedics to work in specialized pediatric care, enhancing career prospects within hospitals and clinics.

Enroll Here

#9. Trauma and Rescue Courses

These courses train paramedics to handle emergencies in hazardous or challenging environments, such as road accidents or remote areas.

• Core Topics: High-level trauma care, vehicle extrication, wilderness rescue, and handling emergencies in confined spaces.
• Career Benefits: Trauma and rescue training professionals can qualify for roles in specialized rescue teams, disaster response, or remote EMS services.

Enroll Here

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#10. Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) Certification

For paramedics interested in managing complex, high-risk cases, Critical Care Paramedic training provides skills to care for critically ill patients during extended transport.

• Course Modules: Advanced airway management, intensive monitoring, and handling life-support equipment.
• Career Benefits: CCP certification opens opportunities in air ambulance services, critical transport units, and advanced hospital care.

These specialized paramedic courses in South Africa, available through institutions like Netcare Education and Mediclinic, help paramedics build targeted skills and advance their careers in emergency and critical care.

Enroll Here

What is the fee structure of Paramedic Courses in South Africa?

The cost of paramedic courses in South Africa varies by level.

Basic Life Support (BLS) courses start around R8,000 – R15,000, Intermediate Life Support (ILS) costs between R20,000 – R40,000, and Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Diploma/Bachelor’s programs range from R60,000 – R150,000.

Financial aid options, including scholarships and bursaries, are available at some institutions to help cover these costs.

What are the ER24 paramedic course fees in South Africa?

ER24 paramedic course fees in South Africa depend on the specific course you want to study. However, the resource centre fees yearly are close to R500.

If it is a 6-month paramedic program, you must part with R400. The cost for 3 months is close to R240. You can apply for EMT scholarships and grants if you cannot afford the course fees.

Download the file here for a full breakdown of er24 paramedic course fees in South Africa.

Which course is best for paramedics?

Universities offer a bachelor’s degree in health sciences, which lasts four years. It provides paramedics with all the abilities they need to practice advanced life support and is at level NQF8.

How long is a paramedic course in South Africa?

There is a two-year Emergency Medical Care Diploma program. Accredited universities also provide this certificate, and graduates will register as paramedics with the South African Health Professions Council. In Cape Town, Mediclinic provides the Diploma in Emergency Medical Care.

How much are paramedics paid in South Africa?

In South Africa, paramedics typically make R 252 000 a year, or R 129 per hour. The starting salary for entry-level jobs is R 162,000 annually, while the average salary for experienced professionals is R 406,800.

Are paramedics in demand in South Africa?

One major issue in South Africa is the lack of ALS paramedics. The expected number of advanced life support paramedics in South Africa is 1618, well below the global average. There are three types of ALS paramedic migration in South Africa.

paramedic courses in South Africa requirements

The minimum admission requirement is a Senior Certificate with university exemption, or an equivalent (NQF Level 4) achievement, as determined by a status committee, with the following subject combinations and symbols:

• 1.1 Biology or Physiology with at least a Higher Grade D or Standard Grade C symbol.
• 1.2 Physical Science with at least a Higher Grade D or Standard Grade C symbol.
• 1.3 Mathematics with at least a Higher Grade D or Standard Grade C symbol.

What qualifications do I need to be a paramedic in South Africa?

Completing the Diploma in Emergency Medical Care leads to registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a paramedic, and completing the Bachelor in Emergency Medical Care leads to registration as an Emergency Care Practitioner.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Choosing the right paramedic course in South Africa is essential for building a successful, rewarding career in emergency medical services.

From Basic Life Support to Advanced and specialized programs, each course level provides critical skills to meet the country’s diverse healthcare needs.

With recognized institutions offering extensive training, South Africa presents a solid foundation for aspiring paramedics.

By pursuing these courses, students can embark on impactful careers, equipped to make a difference in urgent medical situations.

Start your journey today and become vital to South Africa’s healthcare and emergency response system.

References

• 11 Paramedic Courses in South Africa – https://iyouth.co.za
• Paramedics in South Africa – https://www.kznhealth.gov.za

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