The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is inviting eligible candidates to apply for the Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care Training Programme – July 2026 Intake. This training opportunity is aimed at developing skilled emergency medical personnel who can effectively respond to medical emergencies and provide life-saving care within the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system.
The programme is offered through the KZN College of Emergency Care and is designed to strengthen both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required in emergency medical response.
Application Details
- Application Closing Date: 03 April 2026
- Training Location: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Training Institution: KZN College of Emergency Care
- Programme Intake: July 2026
This training programme forms part of the department’s ongoing commitment to improving emergency healthcare services across the province by equipping EMS personnel with modern medical knowledge, practical emergency skills, and professional competencies.
Programme Overview
The Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care is a healthcare qualification designed to prepare emergency medical practitioners for greater responsibilities in emergency response, patient stabilization, and pre-hospital medical care.
Participants in the programme will be trained to respond effectively to various emergency situations such as road accidents, medical crises, trauma incidents, and disaster scenarios.
Programme Details
- Qualification: Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care
- NQF Level: 5
- SAQA ID: 120401
- Credits: 125
- Duration: 1 Year (Full-time)
Throughout the programme, students will gain a combination of academic knowledge, hands-on clinical training, and field experience, ensuring they are well prepared to operate in demanding emergency environments.
What You Will Learn
The programme includes classroom-based learning and practical emergency training, allowing participants to build both theoretical understanding and real-world skills.
Key areas of study include:
- Patient assessment and evaluation
- Emergency medical procedures
- Trauma care and management
- Ambulance operations and patient transport
- Basic life support techniques
- Emergency scene management
- Medical ethics and professional conduct
In addition to classroom learning, students will participate in supervised field practice, where they will work in real emergency environments under professional guidance. This practical exposure ensures that trainees gain valuable experience in handling high-pressure medical situations.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following academic qualification requirements:
Senior Certificate (Before 2009)
Applicants must have passed:
- English
- Mathematics
- Biology and/or Physical Science
- Other relevant required subjects
National Senior Certificate
Applicants must have passed:
- English
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences
National Certificate (Vocational)
Applicants must have achieved at least 60% in:
- English
- Mathematics
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences
Additional Admission Requirements
Apart from academic qualifications, applicants must also meet the following conditions:
- Minimum APS score of 18
- Must pass a medical fitness examination
- Must pass a physical fitness assessment
Emergency medical professionals often work in physically demanding and stressful environments, including accident scenes, emergency situations, and disaster areas. As a result, maintaining good physical health and endurance is essential for candidates entering the programme.
APS Score Calculation
The Admission Point Score (APS) is used to determine whether applicants meet the academic entry requirements for the programme. The typical scoring scale is as follows:
- 7: 80–100%
- 6: 70–79%
- 5: 60–69%
- 4: 50–59%
- 3: 40–49%
- 2: 30–39%
- 1: 0–29%
The APS is calculated using the six best matric subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Applicants must achieve a combined score of at least 18 points to qualify for admission consideration.
Important Application Notes
Applicants are advised to take note of the following important information before applying:
- Only in-service EMS personnel are eligible to apply for this programme.
- Applications must be submitted before the official closing date.
- Late applications may not be accepted.
This programme offers a valuable opportunity for emergency medical professionals to advance their careers, strengthen their medical expertise, and contribute more effectively to emergency healthcare services in South Africa.
