Prospective students should be aware that the B(EMC) programme is taxing in many ways. Each student will be stretched to their limits in terms of mental capability, emotional pressure and physical challenges.
Training
A high degree of fitness is required throughout the programme to encourage a healthy lifestyle that enables the student to do what is required of a paramedic. Training sessions will be held every morning and students will have access to the gym, swimming pool and showers.
Being a paramedic is not just another job that can be achieved by anyone. It requires individuals that comprehensively understand what the job requires. It will be in the best interest of any prospective student to spend time with a paramedic in the workplace. Gaining experience of the variety on circumstances paramedics are exposed to is highly recommended.
During the programme, students will be expected to cultivate the necessary attributes and values that constitute the making of an excellent paramedic. Professionalism, altruism, maturity, respect, discipline, punctuality, endurance, uniformity, being well-groomed and many more values, will be addressed during the programme.
Uniform and equipment
It will be expected of students to procure a predetermined list of uniform and equipment that will proudly serve to distinguish them as paramedic students. The list of uniform and equipment has been carefully selected so that the student can wear the appropriate attire to the different practical sessions.
Practical sessions
Many hours are spent during the programme in the workplace. This can either be at an ambulance service, a hospital unit or at a voluntary organisation. While at the workplace, students work under the supervision of a qualified paramedic, a doctor, a nurse or a rescue specialist. The experience gained will ensure that students become acquainted with real life situations and how to deal with adverse situations from as early as possible.
Every student must complete a workbook that reflects on the lessons learnt and skills mastered during a shift. At least one 12 hour shift will be spent in the workplace every week. Some of the time during the holiday breaks could also be assigned to working shifts. Students will be expected to use their own transport to travel to practical areas. All practical areas will be in the Port Elizabeth Metro area.
How to Apply
NMU Online Application for paramedic courses is like any other NMU course. NMU application window opens from April to September.
Contact Details
Tel: +27 (0) 41 504 1111
Fax: +27 (0) 41 504 2574 / 2731
Email: info@mandela.ac.za
PO Box 77000, Nelson Mandela University
Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa