The main focus of the course is the promotion of normality, i.e. the framing of childbirth as a normal physiological process which the majority of women will undergo in their lifetime. The course also acknowledges that a number of women have more complex needs where technological help will be needed.
You are expected to achieve the theoretical and practice standards stipulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to enable you to perform the ‘Activities of a Midwife’ (NMC 2004) within the context of promoting normality, using preventative measures, detecting complications, accessing appropriate assistance and carrying out emergency measures in the absence of medical aid.
Methods of assessment for course overall: 62% coursework.
Some compulsory skills sessions may take place in the evening.
Year 1
- Introduction to life sciences
- Foundation skills in midwifery
- Introduction to psycho-social perspectives of childbearing and childbirth
- Understanding the art and science of midwifery
- Practice-based assessment 1
- Protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding
Year 2
- Midwifery care of the compromised neonate
- Midwifery pharmacology and medicine management
- Practice-based assessment 2
- Public health role of the midwife
- Research methods and use of evidence
- A framework to support transparency in practice
Year 3
- Leadership, managing and empowering in midwifery
- Clinical emergency management in maternity care
- Independent study
- Practice-based assessment 3
- Complex needs in childbirth
- Normal midwifery practice
Employability
Midwifery as a career
Many graduates take their first posts as qualified practitioners in the NHS Trusts and hospitals where they gained experience during their training. The degree enhances employability through its emphasis on a vocational approach to teaching, leading to a professional qualification and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
The majority of roles are in the NHS, although there are opportunities at private hospitals, clinics and abroad. Day-to-day the work can be varied, as midwives have a range of responsibilities. Providing advice to women and their families; diagnosing, monitoring and examining women during pregnancy and co-ordinating with other professionals and agencies are all typical activities. There are also opportunities to enter education such as; practice development midwife, midwifery lecturer or lecturer-practitioner, research and management.
Recent graduates have become specialist midwives in teenage pregnancy, HIV, and smoking cessation counselling, whilst others have gone on to work in children’s centres or become consultant midwives.
