Foundation Degree in Paramedic Sciences
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This foundation degree has been specially developed for staff working in a variety of paramedic support settings, such as emergency response units. It values and builds on your experience to help you develop the knowledge, skills and competences that underpin effective practice across the paramedic science field. Your study will take an inter-disciplinary approach, with opportunities for specialisation where appropriate. You’ll also combine work-based with distance learning, enabling you to remain in employment while you study. The Foundation Degree in Paramedic Sciences is attuned to the NHS modernisation agenda, the Knowledge and Skills Framework and the Health Professions Council’s standards of proficiency. Responsibility for your learning is shared between your employer and the Open University. We provide study materials, tutorial support and assessment, while your employer manages the practice learning element of the course. The OU can also offer support in training staff identified as workplace mentors.
The programme of study for this foundation degree is also offered as the Diploma of Higher Education in Paramedic Sciences (W08). The diploma of higher education might be of particular interest to those living and working in Scotland.
How to apply
It is not possible to apply online to study for this qualification. For more information, read our Entry requirements for this qualification.
Key facts
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240
credits
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You must be employed in a paramedic science setting and be supported in your practice learning by your employer. For further information, employers and individuals are invited to contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
Important additional information about this degree, including its registration requirements, can be found on the Health Sciences Foundation Degree and Diploma of Higher Education website.
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Our fees depend on where you are ordinarily resident. We have a range of funding options to help you with
payment. When you apply to study we will tell you the fee and funding options that are
available to you. Before you apply you can read What you can expect to pay.
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Pathway to your qualification
View the pathway description to see the stages of study.
Career relevance and employability
The Foundation Degree in Paramedic Sciences has been approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC). This means that on successful completion of the qualification, you’ll be eligible to apply to the HPC for professional registration as a Paramedic.
This foundation degree course has been developed to meet the needs of experienced staff already employed as paramedic support workers in a health care setting, and will benefit both you and your workplace by enhancing your skills base.
There’s more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OU’s Employability Statement from our Careers Advisory Service. You can also read or download our publication OU study and your career and look at our subject pages to find out about career opportunities.
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
If you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards an Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible, and before you register for your chosen qualification. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.
Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.
On completion
On successful completion of the required modules students will be awarded a Foundation Degree in Paramedic Sciences and will be entitled to use the letters FD (Open) after their name.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Qualification Regulations, Module Regulations and the Student Regulations.
Qualification Regulations
Module Regulations and Student Regulations
The Module Regulations and the Student Regulations (including the Code of Practice for
Student Assessment and the Code of Practice for Student Discipline) are available
on our Essential documents website.
If you have a disability
Choosing the qualification that’s right for you is very important. Depending on your disability, long-term health condition, mental health disability or specific learning difficulty, you may need to consider any challenges posed by:
- the learning objectives: for example, to gain an honours degree in a language you must be physically able to speak the language
- how the modules are taught: for example, some of our science qualifications require that you complete laboratory work
- any work-based competency requirements.
Choosing the right qualification can be a complex mix of the subject requirements and the support you may need. To help you assess whether the qualification you are interested in will work for you, further advice is available from:
Computing requirements
You will need a computer with internet access to study for this qualification. For most OU qualifications a
Microsoft Windows (new since 2006), Apple Mac (OS X 10.5 or later) or Linux computer should be adequate.
However, some qualifications require more specific IT equipment, in which case you will need additional
software to use an Apple Mac or Linux computer. A detailed technical specification for your modules will be
made available when you register. Please note, technical specifications do change over time to match computer
developments and the way we teach.
Not sure if you’re ready? Try a short introductory Openings course
If you would like to try Open University study before you commit to a qualification, our
Openings courses could be the right place for you to start. These introductory-level courses
have been specially designed to help you find out what it’s like to study with the OU, get a
taste of a subject area, develop your study skills, and build your confidence. There is also financial
support available for these courses. Read more about our Openings courses.
Distance learning
The Open University is the world’s leading provider of flexible, high quality distance learning. Unlike other universities we are not campus based. You will study in a flexible way that works for you whether you’re at home, at work or on the move. As an OU student you’ll be supported throughout your studies – your tutor will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues. Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone.
For more information about distance learning at the OU read Study explained.
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