Paramedic Science: Why I was Lucan North for University
I’m Ben Malone, a lad from Lucan, and I’m a 1st year student studying BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science at Ulster University’s Magee Campus in Derry City. So, I’m often asked; “Ben, why did you decide to #GoNorthfor college?” Well, it was a simple decision and I’m going to tell you why.
BSc Paramedic Science: Qualify Faster & Fully-funded
Ever since I was about seven or eight years old, I had always wanted to become a paramedic. It led me to join the Order of Malta when I was 11-years-old as a Cadet. I have been a volunteer with them for over 8 years now. The skills and experience I received allowed me to pursue my goal of becoming a Paramedic. But why Ulster University?
Firstly, my course is only the second of its kind on the island of Ireland, and the first of its kind in the North, so I’m very privileged to be the first cohort of student paramedics in Northern Ireland.
What really attracted me to the programme at Ulster University over Paramedic Science via CAO was the fact that the course programme is only 3 years in length, which means I will qualify one year sooner than student paramedics in the Republic of Ireland.
In addition, the course is considered to train paramedics at a more advanced level because of its accreditation with the UK’s Health and Care Profession’s Council. This means not only will I be qualified to work as a paramedic anywhere in the UK after graduation, but I will also be qualified in the Republic where I can return and work as a paramedic immediately after my studies.
Another huge factor for me was the fact that the BSc Paramedic Science degree, along with other Allied Health Professional (AHP) courses such as Nursing and Diagnostic Radiography, are all fully-funded by the Department of Health in the North. This means that my tuition fees are paid for which takes away the burden of financial stress I would have had at a CAO college. Phew!
The teaching facilities at UU’s Magee campus are first class. It was no doubt a deciding factor to study up north over a CAO university. We have access to state-of-the-art training and simulation facilities, a huge modern library and fantastic teaching staff that really care about our education and training as student Paramedics.
Derry: The City of Culture
It’s really great to have such a compact, yet vibrant campus with the city centre being only a 10 minute walk away. The campus is nestled along the meandering River Foyle, and its magical gothic architecture is a sight to behold.
Derry City is a small but mighty spot full of plenty of events and activities always on going. There’s something to suit everyone here with a great nightlife full of bars and clubs to keep you partying (I recommend Peadar O’ Donnells if you’re ever stopping by!). Theres also a vast array of restaurants and café’s dotted around the city to suit everyone. If you’re like me and you enjoy a good cup of coffee, then there’s definitely some decent spots around. If you like adventures then the Causeway Coast is only a 40mins drive away and the hills of Donegal are even closer, home to some amazing beaches that would surely put Dublin to shame.
But, what makes Derry truly great is its people. And yes, Derry Girls is an accurate representation of the city’s humour, which always makes meeting people here so enjoyable.
Entry Requirements
For BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science, you need 112 UCAS Tariff points to include 5 leaving cert subjects, four of which must be at higher level. The only subjects that you must have are including English, Maths and Science, which you need a H6 or O4 in.
In terms of CAO points, I would aim for 450 points minimum as a guide. I received 473 CAO points in my Leaving Cert and met the individual subject requirements for my offer. One great thing about UCAS is that there is no points inflation, so the points required don’t change every year, you just have to meet the requirements of your offer. This is also great as you can work towards simply achieving the grades required and takes away the stress of CAO points.
The UCAS application is quite different to the CAO. It involves the same standard application as CAO of your details and course choice but you also have to create a 500 word personal statement. Your statement should be about why you think the course you’re applying for is for you and what relevant skills you have for that course.
If your application is successful and for certain courses such as Paramedics and Nursing, you’ll be shortlisted for interview. They are normally in person but this year it was a video interview. After the interview applicants are shortlisted and then given an offer if successful. Your offer will be conditional until you get your exam results after which becomes unconditional.
Ben Malone
BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science
#WeAreUU | #TaímidUU