UJ’s paramedic route is the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care (B9E01Q), a full-time four-year degree on the Doornfontein Campus. For the 2027 intake UJ lists a minimum APS of 27, English at level 5 (60%+), and Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences at level 4 (50%+) each. Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science are not accepted.
Selection goes beyond marks. UJ also assesses applicants through an interview, a phobia evaluation, a medical examination and a physical preparedness evaluation. Applications for the 2027 intake are open until 31 October 2026 at 12:00, and UJ accepts no late applications.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- A National Senior Certificate with a minimum APS of 27, calculated without Life Orientation
- English at level 5 (60%+)
- Mathematics at level 4 (50%+)
- Physical Sciences at level 4 (50%+)
- Life Sciences at level 4 (50%+)
- Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science not accepted
- Passing the selection steps described below
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
This is a degree programme at NQF level 8 with 480 credits, and it takes a minimum of four years full-time. Successful completion entitles graduates to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Emergency Care Practitioner. UJ publishes the APS and subject levels on the programme page, so read it for your intake year rather than relying on older figures quoted elsewhere.
For the wider picture of paramedic study in South Africa, see paramedic courses requirements.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
You need English at level 5 (60%+), plus Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences at level 4 (50%+). If you took Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics or Technical Science, UJ states that these are not accepted for this programme, so you would need a different route. Ask UJ admissions about alternatives such as bridging or a different qualification.
UJ calculates the APS from your six best school subjects, excluding Life Orientation, and the six must include the required programme subjects.
Documents and Application Requirements
Apply online through UJ. The UJ undergraduate admission page sets out the process. Applying to UJ is free, and you can make only two study choices per academic year. You cannot change them once you submit. South African applicants with no previous studies do not have to upload supporting documents. Transfer applicants must submit their academic record, and international applicants must submit a certified passport and school results. UJ also asks applicants to declare any previous studies. Ask UJ admissions how and when the interview, medical and physical evaluations are scheduled.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
UJ selects on academic merit and on:
- A structured personal interview
- A phobia evaluation
- A Class II Aviation or equivalent medical examination
- A physical preparedness evaluation
UJ also recommends evidence of community service or previous appropriate experience, which strengthens an application. Places are limited, so meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee a place. Apply with your final Grade 11 results if you are still in Grade 12. UJ does not consider Grade 12 mid-term results, and it ranks applicants again in January on final Grade 12 results, by total APS and available places.
Check the closing date on the UJ undergraduate admissions page: it is 31 October 2026 at 12:00 for the 2027 intake. Apply early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the UJ paramedic course requirements?
A minimum APS of 27, English at level 5 (60%+), Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences at level 4 (50%+), and success in UJ’s selection steps: interview, phobia evaluation, medical examination and physical preparedness evaluation.
Does UJ accept Mathematical Literacy for emergency medical care?
No. UJ states that Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science are not accepted for this degree.
Is there a fitness test?
Yes. Selection includes a physical preparedness evaluation, together with a medical examination to a Class II Aviation or equivalent standard.
Do I need community service or experience?
UJ recommends evidence of community service or previous appropriate experience. It is not a replacement for the academic requirements.
What registration does it lead to?
UJ states that graduates are entitled to register with the HPCSA as Emergency Care Practitioners. Confirm the registration category with UJ and the council before you enrol.
How long is the degree, and when do applications close?
The degree takes at least four years full-time. Applications for 2027 close on 31 October 2026 at 12:00, and applying to UJ is free.
Confirm every requirement with the University of Johannesburg admissions office before you apply. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.