Midwifery

Midwifery is a profession built on the knowledge and skills to support women and families through pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal period. Midwives are autonomous practitioners who provide care across normal and complex situations, requiring a blend of scientific understanding, clinical expertise and deeply humane communication. The profession is central to maternity services and plays a vital role in public health, as the quality of care around birth shapes outcomes for both mothers and children in ways that can last a lifetime.

At the University of Northampton, this three-year full-time programme leads to registration as a midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. You will develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to provide safe, evidence-based and compassionate care. The programme covers the physiology of pregnancy, labour and the newborn, the recognition and management of complications, pharmacology and medicines management relevant to midwifery practice, mental health awareness and the social and cultural dimensions of maternity care.

Clinical placements are integrated throughout, giving you substantial experience across a range of maternity settings.

You will learn to make sound clinical judgements, communicate clearly with women and their families, collaborate with the wider healthcare team and advocate for the people in your care. The programme develops your capacity to reflect critically on practice, engage with research and adapt to an evolving healthcare environment. These professional skills are as important as clinical knowledge in qualifying you to practise well.

On completion you will be eligible to register and work as a midwife in the NHS and independent sector. Career pathways include community midwifery, hospital-based practice, specialist roles in antenatal and postnatal care, labour ward practice, education and clinical leadership. Postgraduate study in advanced practice, public health or healthcare leadership is available for those who wish to develop further.