BMidwif Midwifery

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
Bachelor of Midwifery Honours/Master of Midwifery
Duration
BMidwif: 3 years, master's: 4 years
Typical A-level offer
AAB-ABB (including specific subjects).
Typical contextual A-level offer
BBB (including specific subjects).
Find out more about contextual admissions.
Refugee/care-experienced offer
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.
Find out more about contextual admissions.
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

34 points overall with 6, 5, 5 at Higher Level.

The course specific requirements are 34 points overall with three higher level subjects at grades 6, 5, 5, including Biology or Chemistry.

You may also apply without science if you have 35 points, 6, 6, 5 at higher level including at least one relevant subject eg psychology, sociology or geography.

Full entry requirements

Number of places/applicants
85+
How to apply
Apply through UCAS .

Course overview

  • Develop midwifery knowledge, understanding and skills on a course underpinned by NMC standards through university study and in the practice learning environment .
  • Build your confidence and apply theory to practice by studying and providing continuity of midwifery care.
  • Gain the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination qualification and a teaching accreditation.
  • Receive academic support with an option to extend your studies and complete an integrated Master's (MMidwif) focusing on leadership.

This course is currently only available to students who qualify for home student status.

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Midwifery at The University of Manchester

Open days

Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying midwifery at Manchester is like. Find out about our  upcoming open days .

Discover Day

We also offer a Midwifery Discover Day every summer. For more information on this, visit the Discover Day page.

Fees

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £29,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Additional expenses

An initial set of uniforms for clinical practice will be supplied by the University.

You will need to purchase a fob-watch and suitable shoes for working in the practice learning environment. Some travel costs to placements may be covered by Health Education England .

You may be required to pay for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) document check at the Post Office prior to commencing the programme.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

As per the government announcement, all UK midwifery students will receive a payment of at least £5,000 a year which they will not need to pay back. The funding will be given to all new and continuing degree-level nursing, midwifery and many allied health students from September 2020. More information can be found on the NHS website.

Please note, eligibility criteria for the new funding will be the same as the wider NHS Learning Support Fund payable to students ordinarily resident in the UK and studying at a university in England.

Find out about the financial support available to students starting at Manchester.

Contact details

School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health
Contact name
Admissions Secretary
Telephone
+44 (0)161 529 4563
Email
Website
https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/midwifery/
School/Faculty overview
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

AAB- ABB

ABB including a science such as Biology, Chemistry or Applied Science. Applicants who are not studying biology or chemistry A-level may apply if they are studying another relevant subject, such as Psychology, Sociology or Health and Social Care.

A typical offer for applicants studying a related subject not including biology or chemistry is set at AAB. Please contact the Admissions office to ask about other relevant subjects. If you receive an offer from us but have not previously studied human biology, we may recommend that you do some human biology reading prior to commencing the course.

AS-level

We do not accept AS grades in place of A2-level grades.

Unit grade information

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. 

Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application.  Unit grades will not normally form part of our offer conditions.

GCSE

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including five GCSES/iGCSES at Grade B or 6. These may include your English, Science and Mathematics if at Grade B or 6.

English Language, Mathematics and Science are required at GCSE/iGCSE level with a minimum Grade of C or 4.

GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the Admissions office for clarification.

Please note that we do not accept Functional Skills 2 or equivalent qualifications in place of GCSE English and Maths. We may consider alternative science qualifications such as the BTEC First Certificate/Diploma in Applied Science. We accept Scottish Standard Grades and Intermediates in place of GCSEs.

For applicants whose status has been confirmed as WP+ using the University's Contextual Data Eligibility tool , we will allow an overall reduction of 2 grades on the full GCSE requirements. Please note, however, that no individual subject should be lower than C/4.

For applicants whose status has been confirmed as WP++ using the University's Contextual Data Eligibility tool , we will allow an overall reduction of 4 grades on the full GCSE requirements. Please note, however, that no individual subject should be lower than C/4. 

International Baccalaureate

34 points overall with 6, 5, 5 at Higher Level.

The course specific requirements are 34 points overall with three higher level subjects at grades 6, 5, 5, including Biology or Chemistry.

You may also apply without science if you have 35 points, 6, 6, 5 at higher level including at least one relevant subject eg psychology, sociology or geography.

Other international entry requirements

Currently, this course is only available to students who qualify for home student status .

If you qualify for home student status but have qualifications from other parts of the world, please contact us to find out if you will meet our entrance requirements.

Scottish requirements

We require Scottish Highers/ Advanced Highers at grades AABBC / ABBBB, including Biology or Chemistry at grade B or above preferably with one subject at Advanced Higher level.

English Language, Mathematics and Science, not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher must have been achieved at SCQF level 5 (minimum National 5 grade C / Intermediate 2 grade C / Standard Grade Credit level grade 3). We also require at least five National Grade 5 qualifications (in a range of subjects) at grade B.

Welsh Baccalaureate

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate at grade A, and usually requires two A-levels or equivalent to be included within this.

The minimum grade required will normally be two A-levels at grades AB including Biology, Chemistry or Applied Science and not including General Studies, or two A-levels at grades AA including a relevant subject (eg Psychology, Sociology or Health and Social Care) and not including General Studies.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Admissions office.

European Baccalaureate

The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. It is acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications. Applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

We normally require a minimum of an overall grade of 77%, including at least 6 points from science subjects.

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A Level requirements for their chosen course.

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

Foundation year

The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this course.

Applicants studying a Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care must complete the Foundation Degree (levels 4 and 5) with an overall distinction grade. Your Foundation Degree studies must have included sufficient study of human biology.

We consider your full educational background. A decision about your suitability for this course will not be taken based solely on the foundation year completed, and will include all prior qualifications.

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma (2016 specification)

We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (BTEC Health and Social Care and Applied Science). If studying Health and Social Care please provide a list of the units you are studying including their title and the number of guided learning hours attached to them. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Diploma with grades D*DD with no units below merit level. A third of the units undertaken must be in science or science-related subjects.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (2016 specification)

We consider the National Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (BTEC Health and Social Care and Applied Science). If studying Health and Social Care please provide a list of the units you are studying including their title and the number of guided learning hours attached to them. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Diploma with grades D*D, with no units below merit level plus an A-level in Biology or Chemistry at Grade B.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (2016 specification)

We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (BTEC Health and Social Care and Applied Science). If studying Health and Social Care please provide a list of the units you are studying including their title and the number of guided learning hours attached to them. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with grades D*D or DD plus two additional A-levels at grade A/B, which must include Biology or Chemistry.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (2016 specification)

We consider the National Extended Certificate for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (BTEC Health and Social Care and Applied Science). If studying Health and Social Care please provide a list of the units you are studying including their title and the number of guided learning hours attached to them. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Certificate with grade D* plus two A-levels at grades B/B which must include Biology or Chemistry or National Extended Certificate grade D, plus 2 A-levels at grades A/B, which must include Biology or Chemistry.

Legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016)

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the BTEC Extended Diploma, BTEC Diploma, BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and BTEC Certificate. The grades required are likely to be the same or similar to the new BTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018) but an additional science qualification such as A-level Biology may be required. Please contact the Admissions office for clarification.

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC) (2016 specification)

We consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Diploma with grades D*DD with a third of the units undertaken in science or science-related subjects.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC) (2016 specification)

We consider the Technical Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Diploma with grades D*D plus an additional A-level at grade A/B, which must include Biology or Chemistry.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC) (2016 specification)

We consider the Technical Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Foundation Diploma with grades D*D or DD plus two A-levels at grades A/B which must include Biology or Chemistry.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC) (2016 specification)

We consider the Technical Extended Certificate for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Certificate with grade D*, plus two A-levels at grades B/B, which must include Biology or Chemistry or Technical Extended Certificate grade D plus two A-levels at grades A/B which must include Biology or Chemistry.

Legacy CTEC qualifications (pre-2016)

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy CTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the CTEC Extended Diploma, CTEC Diploma, CTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and CTEC Certificate. The grades required are likely to be the same or similar to the new CTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018) but an additional science qualification such as A-level Biology may be required. Please contact the Admissions office for clarification.

Access to HE Diploma

We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3), with merit or distinction in a subject area relevant to the chosen course.

The specific course requirements are 39 level 3 credits at Distinction and six level 3 credits may be at Merit. 30 level 3 credits must be in health or science subjects, and these must include human biology. You must have five GCSEs at Grade C (a Grade 4 in the newly reformed GCSEs in England) including English, Maths and Science. We no longer accept equivalents to GCSE for English and Maths.

Cambridge Pre-U

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects overall is taken.

Candidates taking Pre-U principal subjects in conjunction with A-levels are expected to achieve a combination of D3, M2, M2 in the Pre-U and ABB at A-level in three distinct subjects. Subjects must include biology, chemistry or applied science.

If studying a related subject such as psychology, sociology or health and social care, but not studying biology or chemistry, students are expected to achieve a mix of D3 D3 M2 or AAB grades at A-level.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Admissions office.

T Level

We will accept the Health pathway only and require an overall grade of Distinction.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement and at interview. A number of our academic Schools may also choose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (eg AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies). 

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

This course will accept grade B in Core Mathematics in lieu of the correct grade in GCSE Mathematics.

Home-schooled applicants

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the academic School for your chosen course who will be able to help you. 

Non-standard educational routes

Graduates

We are able to consider applications from graduates on an individual basis. You must have achieved a minimum of a Lower Second in your previous degree. If your degree is not in a relevant subject or if you have not studied recently, we recommend that you undertake some additional study in a relevant subject including human biology. If you have not previously studied human biology, we may recommend that you do so prior to commencing the course.

Foundation Degree

We accept a Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care for entry onto our midwifery course. You must complete your Foundation Degree (levels 4 and 5) with an overall distinction grade. Your Foundation Degree studies must have included sufficient study of human biology.

Advanced Diploma

We welcome students studying for the Advanced Diploma qualification. For this course, we require applicants to have achieved a grade A in the Society, Health and Development Progression Diploma along with a grade B at A-level or grade Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma.

Other qualifications

Please contact us at ug.midwifery@manchester.ac.uk to check whether your qualifications are sufficient for entry onto the course.

English language

All applicants to the University (from the UK and overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:

  • GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade C/4 or;
  • IELTS 7.0, with no component less than 7.0.or;
  • An acceptable equivalent qualification.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.

Additionally, our individual Schools may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found on the English language requirements page .

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Relevant work experience

Work experience from a range of different areas is relevant, particularly experience involving the use of communication and customer service skills.

Current students have also found a variety of hospitals, care homes, Sure Start centres, voluntary settings and charity organisations that support women and families to be suitable opportunities for work experience.

We recognise that it can be very difficult for you to gain work experience placements in midwifery settings. This is not a requirement for a successful application. However, we do expect applicants to have worked hard to develop their understanding of midwifery through independent reading, talking to midwives and exploring service users' views.

The programme team recognise the restrictions on work experience opportunities and will take this into account. However, we strongly recommend that you seek conversations with midwives about their role and work life.

Application and selection

How to apply

Apply through UCAS .

Advice to applicants

Please refer to the  Application Process  page for further guidance on the following:
  • how your application is considered;
  • personal statement guidance;
  • interview requirements;
  • notes to applicants.

Occupational Health Screening

As a condition of an offer of a place to study midwifery at The University of Manchester, applicants will be asked to complete a health assessment questionnaire. Please read the full occupational health screening details  (PDF).

What is it like to be a student midwife?

Read our student blog for an insight into studying midwifery at Manchester.

Things to consider:

  • Are you a people person? You should be good at listening as well as talking and have a commitment to empowering others.
  • Do you cope well under pressure? You will be proficient by the time you qualify as a midwife, but you should consider that you will experience stressful situations where you will have to make important decisions that affect the lives of mothers, babies and families.
  • Do you have good time management skills and a commitment to shift work? You will be required to fit your study around clinical days and your time in university.

Vaccination

Previous guidance regarding mandatory vaccination for Covid for courses with a clinical or healthcare placement has been paused, in line with government advice. However both NHS England and NHS Improvement view getting vaccinated for healthcare staff and students as a professional duty. We therefore continue to highly recommend all students on this course to take up their COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as they are eligible.

Interview requirements

Interviews are part of the selection process. Please refer to the  Application Process  page.

Returning to education

We welcome applications from candidates returning to education. If you are returning to education, you should have completed some assessed study at level 3 in the five years prior to the start of the course.

If you do not have recent study but otherwise meet the academic entry requirements, we recommend you consider enrolling on an AS-/A-level, Access to HE Course or an Open University module in a relevant subject to enhance your application.

Please contact us for individual advice.

Overseas (non-UK) applicants

Currently, this course is only available to students who qualify for home student status .

Fitness to practise / health requirements

All offers will be dependent on the outcome of an occupational health review to determine that you are fit to start the course and do not pose a health risk to colleagues or clients.

Midwifery requires physical stamina and emotional resilience, and you should consider these demands before you apply.

There are a limited number of medical conditions (such as being a chronic carrier of Hepatitis B) that may affect your ability to register as a midwife with the NMC and your freedom to practice in certain clinical situations on health and safety grounds.

All students are assessed by the occupational health team as they must be able to meet the essential competencies required for midwifery practice.

If you have concerns about an existing medical condition, disability or learning support need, you can be reassured that we will offer support through our excellent Student Occupational Health Department and Disability Advisory and Support Office , and will make reasonable adjustments to assist you to meet the demands of the course.

If you have any health concerns, please feel free to contact the Occupational Health Department.

Tel: +44 (0)161 275 2858Email:  waterlooocchealth@manchester.ac.uk

COVID-19 and your practice learning environment

Your health and safety are very important, and we have implemented several measures to help maintain students' health and safety while on campus and in practice. These have been informed and approved by the Occupational Health Team.

All midwifery students are required to complete an individual COVID Risk Assessment, and this enables a joined-up approach to consider the individual risk level and the risk level of the learning environment. Appropriate adjustments are made in response to these two assessments.

Depending on your assessed risk, an Individual Support Plan for Practice may be developed, and will be reviewed periodically with your academic advisor throughout the academic year.

When a student is found to be at very high risk of severe effects from a COVID infection, it may be recommended that they defer the start of their course or interrupt their studies. Midwifery is a practice-based discipline and the course requires attendance in the clinical learning environment alongside theory learning.

You will be able to discuss any concerns as part of the occupational health review and risk assessment processes before you commence your studies.

Disclosure and Barring Service check

Completion of a self-declaration form relating to any criminal record will be a condition of any offer. All students must also comply with an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which must match their previously submitted self-declaration.

For more information, see:  Criminal record checks carried out as part of the admissions process (PDF).

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation. Requests for deferred entry are granted on the discretion of admissions staff, and are normally granted for one year only. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

We accept applications from students who intend to re-sit their examinations.

We also accept applications from students who have achieved their qualifications over a number of years.

Policy for applicants who take their examinations in more than one sitting

We accept applications from students who intend to re-sit their examinations.

We also accept applications from students who have achieved their qualifications over a number of years.

Re-applications

If you have applied before and your application was not successful, you may apply again.

Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application, you should demonstrate how your application has improved.

We may draw upon all information from your previous applications, or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.

If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through  UCAS Extra  - you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course.

If you are applying through clearing, you are still required to meet the usual entry requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing, the places will be subject to availability.

If you have previously commenced a midwifery or nursing course, but did not complete this, you should include this information in your application.

Transfers

We may be able to consider a transfer from another midwifery course at the end of Year 1 if we have placement capacity and if there is a sufficient match between the Year 1 learning outcomes for the two courses.

You will only be considered if you have been making reasonable progress in your Year 1 assessments and there are no 'fitness to practice' concerns.

A reference from your current university will be required.

Please provide a full list of your Year 1 units to ug.midwifery@manchester.ac.uk so we can assess compatibility between the courses.

If you wish to transfer from a different University of Manchester degree course, you must meet our usual entry requirements and will go through the same shortlisting and interview processes as UCAS applicants, and will only be considered for Year 1 entry.

Please provide a full list of your qualifications, personal statement and referee details to ug.midwifery@manchester.ac.uk .

Course details

Course description

"I feel that my role has been extremely valued by the women I was able to care for.

I chose midwifery because I wanted to empower women and their families, and at Manchester, I have been given numerous learning opportunities to allow me to do so."

Erin Brown / Student Midwife

This course was updated and validated by the Nursing and Midwifery Councils (NMC) and the University in Mrch 2022 to align with the revised NMC (2019) Standards for pre-registration midwifery programmes and Standards of Proficiency for Midwives. 

The course is an undergraduate, pre-registration programme over three years for those taking the bachelor's in Midwifery route and over four years for those who choose to take the master's in Midwifery route.

Successful completion of either route will lead to registration as a midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

You will split your time on the course equally between theory study and clinical learning in practice learning environments. The theory component will be delivered in a blend of face-to-face and online teaching, including face-to-face lectures, tutorials and seminars, clinical teaching in our skills laboratories, online lectures and seminars, guided independent and self-directed study.

All teaching is provided by academic staff who are qualified midwives or other professionals with qualifications related to health.

Learning in clinical practice will take place under the supervision of qualified midwives and other health professionals within local NHS maternity services.

To enhance your clinical learning experience, you will move to a new NHS Trust site at the start of your second year. Your knowledge, attitude and skills will be assessed using a variety of methods, including written academic assignments, written examinations, viva voce examinations, clinical skills examinations in the skills laboratories and assessment of performance in clinical practice using the national, NMC validated Midwifery Ongoing Record of Achievement.

You will be supported by your academic advisor to decide whether to extend your studies by 10 months and take the integrated master's in midwifery, which depends on your performance during Years 1 and 2. Tuition fees apply to the fourth year, and student finance is available.

The integrated master's will support your further development in leadership, clinical practice, critical thinking, education and research through examination of new insights related to and at the forefront of midwifery practice. Successful completion of the integrated master's in midwifery will give you a step-up as you prepare for your career progression. 

What do midwives do?

Midwives are the main providers of care for the majority of childbearing women, people and their families throughout pregnancy, labour and the first few weeks after the birth. Midwives assess their wellbeing and needs, provide information on a wide range of issues, work with them to plan and provide their care, promote the health of the family, teach skills for labour and parenthood and support them and their partners throughout the childbearing process. Midwives work with and refer to a range of other professionals to provide high-quality care to birthing women and people.

Our midwifery course will develop you into a highly employable, compassionate midwife.

You will follow a person-centred approach to midwifery care based on our curriculum that has been underpinned by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Standards of Proficiency for Midwives.

Our course also includes themes such as applying bioscience knowledge to practice, tackling health inequalities through continuity of midwifery care and public health and evidence-based practice through research skills.

Your study time will be divided equally between academic and  practice-based learning , enabling you to apply theory to clinical care. You will learn from some of the country's leading midwifery lecturers, health researchers and clinicians, as well as experts from across the University.

Upon graduation, you will be able to register with the NMC and practice midwifery anywhere in the UK, as well as in many other parts of the world.

Aims

We aim to help you develop the clinical, communication and thinking skills needed to provide high-quality, evidence-based midwifery care for women, people and families from a range of diverse backgrounds, as well as to coordinate services from the wider health, social care and voluntary sectors.

By the end of this course, you will have developed into a competent, evidence-based, resilient and compassionate midwife with a unique set of skills in individualised care, clinical decision-making, leadership, research, education and public health.

Special features

Integrated weeks

Spending most weeks during Year 1 studying two days engaged in theory-learning activities such as lectures, seminars, group work and reading, and three days in the practice learning environment helps you to apply theory to practice, enjoy a varied schedule and have regular access to tutor support.

Support

You will have support from a wide range of sources, including your academic advisor and assessor, link lecturers, practice supervisor, practice assessor, our Peer Assisted Study Scheme and university services.

Inter-professional learning

Enjoy specific learning experiences alongside students studying for other healthcare profession qualifications, such as pharmacists and nurses.

Simulation

Learning through simulation-based experiences including clinical decision-making and home birth scenarios.

Continuity of care

You will experience continuity of midwifery care throughout the course, developing proficiency and building confidence in your skills.

Electives

Choose from specialist options for your Year 2 elective to explore future midwifery careers, including research, education and global midwifery practice (subject to COVID-19 regulations).

Additional qualifications

Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE): This is one part of the Standards of proficiency for midwives.

Associate Fellowship of Advance HE: This qualification is included in your degree, demonstrating your achievement in teaching and supporting learners.

Research

Manchester is ranked the best for nursing and midwifery research in the UK (Research Excellence Framework) so our undergraduates benefit from studying in a rich learning environment.

Additional course information

You will be allocated to work in practice learning environments in two different NHS maternity services to develop your midwifery skills, working regularly with midwives who have been trained to supervise, support and assess students.

More information can be found on the midwifery practice learning environment page. You can also read a blog post by one of our Midwifery students, Jennifer Pountain, about what it's like to go on placement.

Teaching and learning

Each year comprises 45 weeks of study and seven weeks' holiday. Those who follow the master's in Midwifery will have a 35-week year in their third and fourth years.

Your time is equally divided each year between academic and practice-based learning. In Year 1, the majority of your weeks contain integrated academic and practice learning.

Years 2 and 3 follow a block model of theory and practice to enable you to embed yourself in the clinical team and to enhance your opportunity for providing continuity of midwifery carer.

Year 4 comprises integrated academic and practice learning. 

Teaching

You will be taught by experienced midwifery lecturers who are qualified midwives and who work closely with our clinical practice sites through direct clinical work or as link lecturers or midwifery researchers.

Where appropriate, we draw on the expertise of a range of clinical specialists and lecturers from across the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health at Manchester.

Learning

You will engage in a range of different activities designed to make learning enjoyable, challenging and effective.

This includes integration of high-quality face-to-face and online learning activities, such as lectures, small group seminars, skills simulation, directed reading and case studies.

Simulated learning activities and sessions in the skills laboratories are part of the curriculum and are very popular.

Dedicated student support

As the course combines academic study with practice-based learning in a physically and emotionally demanding environment, we ensure that you benefit from caring and robust support systems to create a quality learning experience and an enjoyable time at Manchester.

At the beginning of the course, you will be assigned an academic advisor who will provide you with regular academic and professional guidance and pastoral support. You will get to know them really well over your three years at Manchester.

Your academic assessor will support the assessment of your progress in the practice learning environment. 

The Peer Assisted Study Scheme (PASS) Groups run by our Year 3 students are very helpful for supporting students throughout the first year of the course. You will have protected time for peer support throughout the whole course.

The University also provides many additional student support services .

Coursework and assessment

Unit assessments vary and include written and multiple-choice exams, essays, case studies, reflections, evidence-based care plans, personal development plans and portfolios.

A range of units will include the assessment of relevant skills in practice, which are carried out by the midwifery practice supervisors and practice assessors within the practice learning environment.

All assessments must be passed in order to meet the professional requirements of the NMC. Course regulations govern the decision to offer a second or subsequent attempt at any failed assessment.

Course content for year 1

The year begins with eight weeks of university-based learning activities to prepare you for your first experiences in the practice learning environment.

For the remainder of Semester 1 and 2, theory and practice will be integrated within each week, enabling immediate application of theory to practice and vice-versa, and access to academic and peer support.

In the extended Semester 2, you will have longer blocks of practice learning to enable you become part of the clinical team.

Year 1 lays the foundations for you to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills for competent midwifery practice. Professional Midwifery is the basis of a clear thread that runs through the course, enabling you to develop study and research skills, and introduce the concepts of professionalism and ethical practice.

You will experience interprofessional education by joining together with learners on the BNurs/MNurs course for the research thread of this unit.

The Foundations units support your knowledge of anatomy and physiology, microbiology and pharmacology to underpin your understanding of the physiology and later pathologies related to childbearing.

The Universal Midwifery Care units directly reflect Domain 3 of the Standards of Proficiency for Midwives (NMC, 2019), related to the care and support provided to all women/birthing people, their newborn infants and their families.

Midwifery Practice 1 supports you through your first experiences of caring directly for women/birthing people, their newborn infants and their families throughout the childbearing continuum through participation in continuity of midwifery carer.

In the clinical learning environment, you will participate in the universal care of women/birthing people and their families and some individuals with different additional needs. You will use these experiences to consolidate and apply your foundational knowledge of universal care and support.

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Professional Midwifery NURS14100 20 Mandatory
Midwifery Practice 1 NURS14110 40 Mandatory
Foundations of Midwifery Practice: Anatomy and Physiology NURS14111 20 Mandatory
Foundations of Midwifery Practice: Microbiology and Pharmacology NURS14112 10 Mandatory
Universal Midwifery Care: Pregnancy and Health Promotion NURS14121 10 Mandatory
Universal Midwifery Care: Birth, Following Birth and Infant Feeding NURS14122 20 Mandatory

Course content for year 2

Throughout Year 2, you will study in blocks of theory-focused weeks, and gain clinical experience and skill development in blocks of practice.

Year 2 supports you to build on and develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in order to apply these in more complex scenarios and competently care for those with additional needs.

Professional Midwifery: Being evidence-based continues the thread of developing your research skills with direct application to your clinical roles.

The Additional Care units reflect the Domain 4 of the Standards of Proficiency for Midwives (NMC, 2019), and builds on the Universal Care units to support you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to care for and support those with additional needs.

The Healthy Teams in Maternity Care unit reflects the midwife's role as part of the multidisciplinary team and in providing an immediate emergency response and first-line management when complications arise.

Midwifery Practice 2 supports you to apply your knowledge of universal and additional care and support by contributing to the care of all women/birthing people, their newborn infants and families, including contributing to providing continuity of midwifery carer.

The Midwifery Practice 2 unit will also enable you to experience clinical practice in another setting through an elective placement and to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in performing the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE).

During Year 2 you will also be supported to make a decision about continuing your study to master's level through our integrated master's in Midwifery.

Course units for year 2

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Midwifery Practice 2 NURS24100 40 Mandatory
Professional Midwifery: Being Evidence-based NURS24101 20 Mandatory
Additional Midwifery Care - Part 2 NURS24102 20 Mandatory
Additional Midwifery Care - Part 1 NURS24111 20 Mandatory
Healthy Teams in Maternity Care NURS24112 20 Mandatory

Course content for year 3

During Year 3, you will continue to study and practice in blocks of theory and clinically focused weeks. You will take a lead role in providing continuity of midwifery carer, demonstrating your proficiency in midwifery skills.

Year 3 enables you to consolidate your knowledge, understanding and skills, encouraging you to think strategically about the role of the midwife, and as an accountable and autonomous clinician, scholar, leader and educator.

Promoting Health for Life completes the public health thread, when you will utilise your knowledge and understanding to think strategically about the midwife's role in promoting a healthy life course for families.

Professional Midwifery: Scholarly Leadership encourages you to apply your research and critical thinking skills to practice-related topics and quality improvement of services.

The remaining units in Year 3 differ depending on which route you are taking. Those on the BMidwif will take the 30-credit Promoting Excellence in Midwifery unit. This unit considers the many different roles of the midwife, including leader, communicator, professional, change-maker and educator.

Embedded into this unit is guided preparation for you to apply for the Associate Fellowship of Advance Higher Education (HE) (AFAHE), which forms part of the assessment.

Midwifery Practice 3 (BMidwif) supports you to apply your consolidated knowledge and understanding, demonstrating proficiency in all areas and your leadership and educator skills. You will also be supported to complete their NIPE qualification.

Those on the MMidwif route will take the 10-credit Promoting Excellence in Midwifery Unit. This unit also considers the many roles of the midwife, in particular as leaders, communicators, professionals and change-makers. Leadership and education form a major aspect of your Year 4 studies.

Midwifery Practice 3 (MMidwif) also supports you to apply your knowledge and understanding by demonstrating proficiency, and to complete the NIPE qualification. You will be required to step-up to Year 4 through a self-directed reflection on your role within a clinical team.

Course units for year 3

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Professional Midwifery - Scholarly Leadership NURS34100 30 Mandatory
Promoting Health for Life NURS34101 20 Mandatory
Promoting Excellence in Midwifery (BMidwif) NURS34102 30 Mandatory
Midwifery Practice 3 (BMidwif) NURS34120 40 Mandatory
Midwifery Practice 3 (MMidwif) NURS34110 60 Optional
Promoting Excellence in Midwifery (MMidwif) NURS34112 10 Optional

Course content for year 4

The principle focus in Year 4 is leadership, reflecting the national and local goals to deliver improvements in maternity care through strong, effective midwifery leadership (RCM, 2019).

During all three theory units in Year 4, you will learn alongside learners from other professions.

Critical Appraisal and Evidence Synthesis forms part of our master's in research, and enables you to develop a comprehensive understanding of and skills in critical appraisal and evidence synthesis. These skills are essential to midwifery leadership roles in clinical practice, education, management and research.

Leadership and Management for Innovation and Education spans two semesters and reflects the enhanced skills you are expected to apply in clinical practice at master's level. Within this unit, you will be supported and guided to apply for the AFAHE accreditation.

You will critically explore perinatal mental health and the impact on parents, families and infants and strategies and interventions to identify, assess and support in the Perinatal Parent and Infant Mental Health unit.

Midwifery Practice 4 supports you to further develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in clinical practice to demonstrate leadership skills to enhance team working and develop others.

Course units for year 4

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Leadership and Management for Innovation and Education NURS44100 30 Mandatory
Midwifery Practice 4 NURS44110 60 Mandatory
Critical appraisal and evidence synthesis NURS60015 15 Mandatory
Perinatal Parent and Infant Mental Health NURS69771 15 Mandatory

What our students say

Completing the midwifery course at The University of Manchester has been an amazing stepping stone into my career as a qualified midwife. Completing a degree from a research-based university was an advantage in practice as I felt equipped with all the latest research on particular topics, including skin care of a newborn.

At Manchester, completing the case load unit in Years 2 and 3 allows management of a caseload of women throughout the pregnancy continuum, providing continuity of carer. This further supports the vision outlined in better births and leads to better outcomes for women and families.

Completing a degree in midwifery is both challenging and rewarding, but I couldn't be prouder.

Satveer Kaur / Midwifery graduate (2020)

Find out more about what it's like to study at Manchester on the  Biology, Medicine and Health Student Blog .

Facilities

You will practice a wide range of key skills in our simulation facilities to support your learning in the practice learning environment. These sessions will usually relate to infection control processes, assessing blood pressure, basic life support and antenatal abdominal examination of pregnant women and people.

Further sessions in the skills labs are included throughout the course; for example, in a ward-based decision-making simulation and homebirth simulations. These sessions in the skills lab will help you develop and refine your ability to respond appropriately and effectively to situations that you may be faced with in clinical practice.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the  Disability Advisory and Support Office .

If you have a disability or long-term health condition that might affect your ability to meet the demands of the course, we recommend that you contact the Disability Support Office and the Occupational Health Service for advice and support as part of your application process.

Where a disability or long-term health condition may affect your learning in placement, the programme team will work with you to develop a support plan for practice.

Careers

Career opportunities

Immediate career prospects are excellent for newly qualified midwives and most of our graduates take up employment within the NHS. Find out more on the NHS careers website .

Our close working relationships with the maternity services across Greater Manchester facilitate a smooth transition into employment as a midwife within the city.

Midwives may choose to continue to develop as expert clinicians or develop careers in service management, research, education or public health. Studying for our integrated master's in Midwifery will develop your leadership skills in all these areas, providing you with a big step-up in your midwifery career.

You may also be able to work in certain countries overseas, as midwifery education in the UK is well respected around the world.

This course will ensure an excellent start to a life-long career as a midwife and will provide you with a strong basis for future developments in clinical practice, public health, professional leadership, education or research.

Accrediting organisations

The Nursing and Midwifery Council  (NMC) is the UK regulator for midwifery. Its primary purpose is to protect the public by ensuring high standards of professional practice.

It maintains a register of qualified nurses and midwives eligible to practice in the UK and sets national standards for their education, training and conduct.

Our midwifery curriculum was designed in consultation with past and current students, local service users and employers in conjunction with all relevant NMC standards. The course was approved by the NMC and other external reviewers in March 2022.

Associated organisations

We have a strong collaborative relationship with all our NHS partners and there is a shared commitment to providing high-quality education for all of our students.

The University has good communication with all of the partner trusts and supports staff and students with education issues. Many experienced clinical staff contribute to the teaching of the course.

Our students undertake their practice-based learning with our partner trusts .