NC Dept of Health – Emergency Care Assistant 2027 (Apply 31 Oct 2026)
If you are a young person in the Northern Cape who wants a stable career in emergency medical services, a full‑time study place is available – but the deadline is close. Northern Cape Department of Health is offering the chance.
What the opportunity is
The Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care – Emergency Care Assistant (ECA) 2027 intake is being run by the Northern Cape College of Emergency Medical Care in partnership with the University of Johannesburg. It is a full‑time, 12‑month programme at NQF Level 5. Only 20 training places are offered.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care |
| Career pathway | Emergency Care Assistant (ECA) |
| Intake | 2027 |
| Training institution | Northern Cape College of Emergency Medical Care |
| Provincial department | Northern Cape Department of Health |
| Academic partner | University of Johannesburg |
| Number of places | 20 |
| Study mode | Full‑time |
| Duration | 12 months |
| NQF level | 5 |
| Minimum qualification | Grade 12 / Matric |
| Province | Northern Cape |
| English | Level 5 or higher |
| Life Science | Level 4 or higher |
| Mathematics | Level 3 or higher (Mathematical Literacy not accepted) |
| Physical Science | Level 3 or higher |
| Two additional subjects | Level 3 or higher each |
| Closing date | 31 October 2026 |
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
You must have a Grade 12 certificate that meets the following subject levels:
- English – Level 5 or higher
- Life Science – Level 4 or higher
- Mathematics – Level 3 or higher (Mathematical Literacy does NOT count)
- Physical Science – Level 3 or higher
- Two other subjects – Level 3 or higher each
Only applicants who live in the Northern Cape will be considered. An additional tertiary qualification in a related clinical field is helpful but not required.
What you will gain
The certificate equips you with the competencies needed to work as an Emergency Care Assistant under the supervision of qualified emergency‑care technicians and medical officers. You will learn about:
- Emergency patient assessment
- Pre‑hospital care procedures
- Communication and professional ethics
- Health‑and‑safety standards
Graduates can work in ambulance services, emergency medical services, and other pre‑hospital care settings.
How to apply – step by step
Option 1 – Apply through the Northern Cape College of Emergency Medical Care
- Visit the college in person for assistance.
- Complete the University of Johannesburg application form (available at the college).
- Prepare a detailed CV, a copy of your South African ID, and your Matric certificate.
- Submit the form and documents to the college office.
Option 2 – Apply online via the University of Johannesburg
- Go to the official university portal: University of Johannesburg.
- Select the “Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care” and choose the 2027 intake.
- Upload the same documents listed above.
- Submit the online application.
College contact details
Northern Cape College of Emergency Medical Care
Next to the New Mental Hospital, Road R31, Northern Cape
Phone: 060 983 2957 / 082 566 8043
Office hours: 07:30–16:00 on weekdays
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check your Matric results against the subject requirements before you start.
- Gather all documents early and keep copies for your records.
- Be ready for physical and cognitive tests that assess stamina, strength, and reactions to heights, confined spaces and water.
- Practice answering interview questions about why you want to work in emergency care, how you handle pressure, and your teamwork skills.
- If you already hold a related clinical qualification, highlight it in your CV.
- Submit your application well before the 31 October 2026 deadline to avoid last‑minute problems.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, start preparing your documents today. Apply through the method that suits you best and keep the contact details handy for any questions.
While you wait for a response, explore other health‑sector learnerships and training programmes listed on the SETA SA platform. Having multiple options will strengthen your career plan.
Disclaimer
SETA SA is an independent education and careers information platform. It is not the Northern Cape Department of Health, the Northern Cape College of Emergency Medical Care, or the University of Johannesburg and does not recruit, shortlist, select or admit candidates for this programme.
All requirements listed above are taken from the official recruitment notice for the Emergency Care Assistant 2027 intake. Applicants should verify the programme details, admission criteria, application process and closing date with the relevant institution before submitting an application. Never pay anyone who claims they can guarantee admission, selection or placement.
