Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours

1 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Edith Cowan University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours at Edith Cowan University is an advanced fourth-year program designed for high-achieving midwifery students who want to deepen their clinical knowledge while developing strong research capabilities. It is ideal for students aiming to move into leadership, specialised practice, or postgraduate research, combining coursework with an independent research thesis.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 (Honours year / fourth year)
In this honours year, you transition into advanced academic and research-focused learning, building on your prior midwifery training. You’ll engage in research methodology and evidence-based practice, developing the ability to critically evaluate healthcare practices and apply findings to maternal and newborn care.

A major part of the program is the honours research thesis/project, where you investigate a specialised midwifery topic under supervision. Alongside this, coursework and seminars strengthen your analytical thinking, preparing you to contribute to healthcare improvements and progress into higher research degrees such as a Master’s or PhD.

Focus areas (in a string):

Midwifery research, evidence-based maternal care, clinical decision-making, maternal and newborn health, healthcare innovation

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Develop advanced research and critical analysis skills; apply evidence-based approaches to midwifery practice; conduct independent research projects; prepare for postgraduate study or leadership roles

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Builds on an accredited midwifery qualification and aligns with advanced professional practice and research pathways within the Nursing and Midwifery field

Reputation (employability rankings):

Edith Cowan University is recognised for top teaching quality in Australia and strong student experience ratings, supporting high graduate employability in healthcare sectors

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Edith Cowan University (ECU), the Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in midwifery. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in hands-on experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in a learning environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Midwifery program at ECU:

- Clinical Placements: Students participate in extensive clinical placements in various healthcare settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-life situations and gain invaluable experience working alongside experienced midwives.

- Simulation Labs: The program features advanced simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity mannequins and realistic birthing scenarios, enabling students to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment.

- Group Projects: Collaborative learning is encouraged through group projects, where students work together to solve complex midwifery-related problems, enhancing their teamwork and communication skills.

- Digital Tools: Students have access to various digital tools and software that support their learning, including electronic health records systems and midwifery-specific applications that help streamline patient care.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local healthcare facilities and community organizations, providing students with insights into different aspects of midwifery practice and the healthcare system.

- Research Opportunities: Students can engage in research projects, often in collaboration with faculty members, allowing them to contribute to the advancement of midwifery knowledge and practice.

- Library Resources: ECU's libraries offer a wealth of resources, including access to medical journals, textbooks, and online databases specifically related to midwifery and healthcare.

- Supportive Learning Environment: The program is supported by experienced faculty who are dedicated to mentoring students and providing guidance throughout their studies.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Edith Cowan University’s Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours are highly respected for their advanced clinical expertise, research capability, and compassionate approach to maternal and newborn care. The honours qualification gives graduates a strong competitive advantage for specialised clinical, leadership, and research-focused roles within Australia’s healthcare sector. Graduates can pursue rewarding careers as Registered Midwives, Maternal and Child Health Practitioners, Women’s Health Specialists, Clinical Midwifery Educators, or Midwifery Researchers across hospitals, maternity wards, community health centres, and regional healthcare services.

This strong professional preparation is supported by several future-focused opportunities:

Edith Cowan University offers dedicated career and employability support services, including career counselling, resume and interview workshops, networking opportunities, and graduate employment assistance for health students.
Students complete extensive clinical placements across a variety of maternity and healthcare settings, helping them gain real-world experience and establish valuable professional industry connections before graduation.
ECU maintains strong partnerships with hospitals, maternity services, and healthcare organisations throughout Western Australia, providing students with exposure to diverse models of maternity care and healthcare delivery.
The Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), enabling graduates to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
The honours component strengthens research, analytical thinking, and evidence-based practice skills, preparing graduates for advanced clinical roles, leadership positions, and healthcare research opportunities.
Midwifery remains one of Australia’s high-demand healthcare professions, with increasing employment opportunities across metropolitan, regional, and rural healthcare settings.
Graduate midwives in Australia generally earn starting salaries ranging from AUD 70,000–85,000 annually, with strong opportunities for salary growth through specialisation, advanced practice, and leadership roles.
ECU is recognised for its practical learning approach, industry-focused healthcare education, and strong emphasis on patient-centred care and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Access to research laboratories, digital healthcare technologies, and partnerships with healthcare institutes further enhances graduates’ readiness for modern midwifery practice and future career progression.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) Honours, graduates can continue into postgraduate qualifications such as a Master of Midwifery, Master of Public Health, Master of Healthcare Leadership, or specialised women’s health and maternal care programs. The honours qualification also provides a direct pathway into research-focused study such as a Master by Research or PhD, leading to opportunities in advanced clinical practice, maternal health research, university teaching, healthcare leadership, and policy development.