The Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care equips students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to function as Emergency Care Technicians (ECTs) in South Africa. The qualification covers patient assessment, emergency care procedures, trauma management, and medical emergencies in line with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) scope of practice. It serves as an entry-level higher education qualification in the pre-hospital emergency medical services sector.
For applicants who graduated when the symbol system was still in use, the requirements are as follows:
- Senior Certificate with a minimum of an E symbol on Higher Grade or a D symbol on Standard Grade for English, Mathematics, Biology, and/or Physical Sciences.
- National Certificate (Vocational) with a minimum pass of 60% for English, Mathematics, Life Sciences, and/or Physical Sciences.
- National Senior Certificate with a Higher Certificate endorsement must have passed the following subjects with the specified minimum rating levels:
- English: Level 3
- Mathematics: Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy: Level 4
- Life Sciences: Level 3 and/or Physical Sciences: Level 3
- Additional Subject (1): Level 3
- Additional Subject (2): Level 3
Total: Minimum 15 points
Additionally, the applicant must pass the Medical Fitness and Physical Fitness Evaluations.
Duration: 1 year
