Midwifery

Midwifery is one of the oldest and most respected healthcare professions, concerned with supporting women and their families through pregnancy, labour, birth, and the postnatal period. Midwives are autonomous practitioners with specialist clinical skills and the professional judgement to provide continuous care during one of the most significant experiences of a person's life. The role combines clinical expertise in obstetric assessment and care with sensitive communication, advocacy for women's choices, and the ability to recognise and respond to complications that require medical involvement.

At London South Bank University, this three-year, full-time degree leads to registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as a midwife. The programme includes a foundation year for those who need to build their academic foundations before the main programme. Throughout the degree you will develop the theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills required to provide safe, evidence-based, woman-centred care.

You will study anatomy and physiology relevant to pregnancy and childbirth, pharmacology, neonatal care, public health, and the psychosocial dimensions of maternity experience. Theory and practice are integrated throughout, with substantial clinical placement time in a range of settings including community midwifery, labour ward, and postnatal care.

Graduates qualify as registered midwives and can work in NHS maternity services, independent midwifery, community settings, and abroad. Many midwives build specialist roles in areas such as high-risk pregnancy, diabetes in pregnancy, infant feeding support, bereavement care, or education and supervision. The profession is regulated, and NMC registration must be maintained through continuing professional development.

Postgraduate study in midwifery, women's health, public health, or advanced clinical practice is available for those who wish to deepen their expertise or move into leadership and research roles.