Bachelor of Science (Nursing)/Bachelor of Science (Midwifery)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Edith Cowan University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Nursing)/Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) at Edith Cowan University is a dynamic dual degree designed for those passionate about providing exceptional healthcare to women and families. This program is perfect for students who aspire to make a meaningful impact in the nursing and midwifery fields, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare graduates for a rewarding career.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will lay a solid foundation in health sciences with units such as "Human Anatomy and Physiology" and "Introduction to Nursing and Midwifery." These courses introduce essential concepts and skills, focusing on the human body and the roles of nurses and midwives in healthcare settings.

During the second year, the curriculum deepens with units like "Pharmacology for Nursing and Midwifery" and "Mental Health Nursing." Students will explore the complexities of medication management and mental health care, gaining critical insights into patient care and the psychological aspects of health.

In the third year, students engage in advanced studies with units such as "Midwifery Practice" and "Nursing Care of the Child and Family." This year emphasizes hands-on experience and specialized knowledge, preparing students for real-world challenges in both nursing and midwifery.

The final year culminates in comprehensive clinical placements and units like "Leadership in Nursing and Midwifery" and "Research in Nursing and Midwifery." Here, students refine their leadership skills and engage in research, ensuring they are well-equipped to lead and innovate in their future careers.

Focus Areas: Clinical practice, patient-centered care, leadership in healthcare, research methodologies.

Learning Outcomes: Competence in nursing and midwifery practices, critical thinking, effective communication, and leadership skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): This program is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, ensuring that graduates meet the national standards required for registration.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Edith Cowan University consistently ranks highly for employability in the QS World University Rankings, reflecting the strong demand for its graduates in the healthcare sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Edith Cowan University (ECU), students pursuing the Bachelor of Science (Nursing) and Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) programs are immersed in a rich experiential learning environment that equips them with the practical skills necessary for their future careers. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources designed to enhance hands-on learning, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the healthcare sector.

Through a combination of simulations, clinical placements, and collaborative projects, students gain invaluable experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice. Here are some key features of the experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:

- Simulation Labs: ECU features advanced simulation labs where students can practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment, using lifelike mannequins and medical equipment.

- Clinical Placements: Students complete extensive clinical placements in various healthcare settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain insights from experienced professionals.

- Interprofessional Education: The programs encourage collaboration with students from other health disciplines, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for effective healthcare delivery.

- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research laboratories enables students to engage in innovative projects, contributing to the advancement of nursing and midwifery practices.

- Digital Learning Tools: Students utilize cutting-edge software and digital resources, including electronic health records systems, to familiarize themselves with the technology used in modern healthcare.

- Field Trips: Opportunities for field trips to healthcare facilities and community organizations provide students with a broader understanding of the healthcare landscape and the various roles they can play.

- Library Resources: ECU's libraries offer extensive collections of nursing and midwifery literature, journals, and online databases, supporting students' research and study needs.

- Supportive Learning Environment: The university provides access to academic support services, including tutoring and mentoring, to help students succeed in their studies.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Nursing) and Bachelor of Science (Midwifery) at Edith Cowan University are highly employable healthcare professionals equipped with strong clinical knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry-ready skills. These programs prepare students for rewarding careers in hospitals, community healthcare, women’s health services, and regional healthcare settings across Australia and internationally. Graduates commonly work as Registered Nurses, Registered Midwives, Neonatal Care Nurses, Community Health Practitioners, Mental Health Nurses, and Maternal Health Specialists.

This strong career preparation is supported by excellent graduate outcomes and industry-focused opportunities:

Excellent Employment Prospects: Nursing and Midwifery remain among Australia’s highest-demand healthcare professions, with ECU graduates benefiting from strong employment opportunities across public and private healthcare sectors.
Competitive Graduate Salaries: Nursing and Midwifery graduates in Australia typically earn a median starting salary of approximately AUD $65,000–$72,000 per year, with higher earning potential as they gain experience or specialise in advanced healthcare areas.
Career Development Services: ECU supports students through dedicated employability programs, career counselling, interview and resume workshops, networking events, placement support, and graduate employment assistance specifically tailored for health science students.
Strong Industry Partnerships: ECU has established partnerships with hospitals, healthcare organisations, and community health providers throughout Western Australia, giving students access to valuable clinical placement opportunities and professional industry exposure.
Professional Accreditation Value: Both programs are 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) through AHPRA. These qualifications are highly respected both nationally and internationally.
Hands-On Graduate Readiness: Extensive clinical placements, advanced simulation training, and interprofessional learning ensure graduates develop the confidence and practical skills required for modern healthcare environments.
Long-Term Career Growth: Graduates can pursue specialised pathways in emergency care, neonatal and maternal health, mental health, surgical nursing, intensive care, public health, rural healthcare, leadership, and healthcare management.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing these programs, students may continue their studies through postgraduate qualifications such as Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, or Master’s degrees in Nursing, Midwifery, Mental Health, Public Health, Healthcare Leadership, Clinical Education, or Research. ECU also offers higher research pathways including Master by Research and PhD programs for students interested in academic careers, advanced clinical practice, healthcare innovation, or research leadership.