Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care SAQA ID: 120401

The Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care (HCert:EMC) is an entry level qualification (NQF 5 & 120 credits) designed to provide individuals with essential skills in Emergency Medical Services. The program focuses on basic life support, patient assessment, and emergency response techniques, preparing graduates to deliver immediate care in pre-hospital environments. The key components includes training in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation, clinical examination, understanding emergency protocols, gaining practical experience through clinical practice placements in a real-world settings within the ambulance services and healthcare facilities.

This qualification also serves as a foundation for advancing to higher education in Emergency Medical Care.

HCert in EMC Entry requirements

Either 1 or 2: The applicant with a Senior Certificate (Prior to 2009) must have at least a minimum of an E symbol on Higher Grade or a D symbol on Standard Grade for all of the following subjects:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Biology and/ or Physical Science
OR The applicant with a National Senior Certificate with a Higher Certificate endorsement must have the following subjects and scores:
  • English (3 matric points)
  • Mathematics (3 matric points) or Mathematical Literacy (6 matric points)
  • Life Sciences (3 matric points) and/ or
  • Physical Sciences (3 matric points)
  • Additional Subject 1 (3 matric points)
  • Additional Subject 2 (3 matric points)
AND The applicant must have a minimum of 18 points (excluding Life Orientation); The applicant must pass the Medical Fitness and Physical Fitness Evaluations; A minimum of 40 hours voluntary duties in EMS is recommended

Diploma in Emergency Medical Care

The Diploma in Emergency Medical Care (D:EMC) is a mid-level qualification (NQF 6, 360 credits) designed to prepare individuals for careers in Emergency Medical Care, with an emphasis on developing adaptable professionals to meet the health needs of developing nations

This diploma can lead to various career opportunities in Emergency Medical Services, including role as a paramedic, and other related positions. Additionally, it may serve as a stepping stone to further education, such as a bachelor's degree in emergency medical care or related fields.

Diploma in EMC entry requirements

Either 1 or 2: The applicant with a Senior Certificate (Prior to 2009) must have at least a minimum of an E symbol on Higher Grade or a D symbol on Standard Grade for all of the following subjects:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Biology and/ or Physical Science
OR The applicant with a National Senior Certificate with a Higher Certificate endorsement must have the following subjects and scores:
  • English (4 matric points)
  • Mathematics (3 matric points) or Mathematical Literacy (6 matric points)
  • Life Sciences (3 matric points) and/ or
  • Physical Sciences (3 matric points)
  • Additional Subject 1 (3 matric points)
  • Additional Subject 2 (3 matric points)
AND The applicant must have a minimum of 19 points (excluding Life Orientation); The applicant must pass the Medical Fitness and Physical Fitness Evaluations;