Health & Medicine
Paramedic
You are first on the scene when every second counts.
- Starting salary
- R14 000 – R24 000
- Job demand
- Always needed
- Key subjects
- Life Sciences, Physical Sciences
What do they do?
You are first on the scene when every second counts.
A day in the life
You respond to emergencies, stabilise patients, and transport them safely to hospital.
Skills you need
- Quick thinking
- Calm under pressure
- Physical fitness
- Teamwork
School subjects that help
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics or Maths Literacy
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2Emergency Medical Care qualification
- 3Registration
- 4Paramedic
Ways in: University of Technology · College programme · Work-based training. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
- Nelson Mandela University
- TVET Colleges nationwide
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R14 000 – R24 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R25 000 – R40 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R42 000 – R65 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Do a first aid course
- • Keep fit
- • Volunteer with a community rescue group
Try this career
Build a proper first aid kit for your home and explain each item.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.