COURSE CURRICULUM

In the first year of the midwifery program, all health sciences students begin with common courses in the first semester that provide a broad understanding of general healthcare. This foundational knowledge prepares students for more specialized study. In the second semester, students are introduced to midwifery practice, where they learn how to provide safe, competent, and culturally appropriate care within the scope of normal childbirth. This early exposure emphasizes the importance of cultural safety and respectful care in midwifery. In the second and third years, students deepen their understanding of midwifery as both an art and a science, covering topics such as pharmacology, complications during childbirth, care for newborns with special needs, women’s health, and various factors that impact midwifery practice. These courses are designed to prepare students for professional practice by developing both their clinical knowledge and practical skills. In the fourth year, students spend approximately 80 percent of their time in clinical practice placements. These placements occur in a variety of settings, including community environments and both primary and secondary maternity hospitals, where students work closely with lead maternity carer midwives who are self-employed and manage case loads. This extensive hands-on experience allows students to apply their learning in real-world situations, gaining confidence and competence in providing comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. The combination of theoretical coursework and immersive clinical practice ensures graduates are well-prepared to enter the midwifery profession, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and cultural sensitivity required to support women and families through the childbirth journey.