BSc (Hons) Midwifery Studies (Extended Degree)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

If you’ve always dreamed of supporting women and families through one of life’s most meaningful experiences, this degree gives you the perfect start. It’s designed for caring, motivated students who want to combine academic study with real clinical experience — gaining the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to become a qualified midwife.

Curriculum structure

Foundation Year (Year 0):
Your journey begins with a foundation year that helps you build essential academic and professional skills. Through modules such as Study Skills, Becoming a Professional, and Collaborative Project, you’ll explore how health and social care systems work and develop the confidence to succeed in degree-level study.

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll explore what it truly means to be a midwife. Modules like The Professional Midwife: Foundations as Student and Scholar, Introduction to Universal Midwifery Care for Women and Families, and Continuity of Care: Models and Approaches introduce you to the full journey of pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care. You’ll also begin supervised clinical placements, applying what you learn directly in real healthcare settings.

Year 2:
This is where your skills and confidence start to grow. You’ll study modules such as Developing the Student and Scholar, Provision of Universal Midwifery Care, and Additional Midwifery Care: Presentation and Management. These modules help you care for women and families with more complex needs, strengthen your clinical judgement, and understand the wider public health aspects of midwifery.

Year 3:
Your final year focuses on becoming a capable, independent practitioner. Through modules like Consolidation as Student and Scholar, Appraising Universal Midwifery Care, and Proficient Midwifery Practice, you’ll refine your leadership, evidence-based decision-making, and communication skills. By the end, you’ll be ready for professional registration and confident to step straight into practice.

Focus areas: continuity of care, universal and complex midwifery practice, public health, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making.

Learning outcomes: graduates will be able to provide safe and compassionate care, apply research to improve outcomes, work collaboratively with women and families, and meet all professional standards required for NMC registration.

Professional alignment: The degree is fully approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), enabling graduates to register and work as professional midwives in the UK.

Reputation: Northumbria is ranked 9th in the UK for Nursing & Midwifery (Complete University Guide 2026), with 100% of graduates in highly skilled employment or further study within 15 months of graduation — a strong sign of the program’s quality and reputation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Northumbria University, the Midwifery Studies program is designed to give you real, hands-on experience so you graduate ready to provide excellent care. You’ll combine classroom learning with practical placements, simulations, and interactive sessions, helping you build confidence, develop clinical skills, and learn to respond effectively in real-world situations.

Here’s how your learning is brought to life:

Clinical Skills Centre – Practice essential midwifery procedures using advanced simulation equipment in a safe, controlled environment.
Practice-Based Learning – Apply your knowledge in real clinical settings, gaining experience with women, families, and babies.
Simulation Equipment – Use realistic simulation tools to develop decision-making and technical skills in a risk-free setting.
Digital Resources – Access the university library and online platforms for research, evidence-based learning, and academic support.
Small Group Clinical Skills Sessions – Work closely with peers and tutors in interactive sessions that foster teamwork, reflection, and hands-on skill development.

These opportunities make sure you’re not just learning theory—you’re gaining the practical expertise and confidence needed to thrive as a professional midwife.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Northumbria’s Midwifery Studies program are ready to step into meaningful, hands-on careers in healthcare. With strong practical training and a solid academic foundation, typical career paths include: Registered Midwife, Community Midwife, Midwifery Lecturer, Clinical Educator, Health Advisor, Maternal Care Specialist.

The university provides excellent support to help you launch your career:

Employability Services – Personalized career guidance, CV workshops, and interview preparation through Northumbria’s Careers and Employment team.
Clinical Placements – Hands-on experience in NHS and community settings, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world environments.
Professional Development – Continuous support and training to build confidence and expertise throughout your studies.
University–Industry Partnerships – Strong collaborations with NHS trusts and healthcare networks provide invaluable learning and networking opportunities.
Accreditation – Fully accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), ensuring your qualification meets UK professional standards.
Graduate Outcomes – High employment rates, with many graduates securing positions within six months of completing the program; competitive starting salaries aligned with NHS pay scales.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, there are plenty of ways to advance your career:

MSc Midwifery Studies – Focus on advanced practice, leadership, and specialization.
PhD in Midwifery or Healthcare – Conduct research and contribute to the academic and clinical development of midwifery practice.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Short courses to update skills, learn new techniques, and expand career opportunities.

These pathways ensure you can continue growing professionally while making a lasting impact on maternal and child healthcare.