Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This NMC-approved undergraduate programme integrates theory, professional practice and clinical skill development across antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care. Teaching combines campus-based modules, simulation and practice placements in a range of settings including hospital maternity units, community midwifery teams and family centres.

• Core topics: normal midwifery practice, physiological and psychosocial aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, neonatal wellbeing, public health for maternal and child health, and safeguarding.
• Clinical skills and decision-making: labour and birth skills, newborn assessment, perineal care, pain relief options, emergency procedures and recognition of complications.
• Professional practice and law/ethics: midwifery legislation, professional standards, informed consent, record-keeping and working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Research and evidence-based practice: introduction to research methods, critical appraisal and applying evidence to improve care and outcomes.
• Continuity of care and caseloading models: learning to provide woman-centred care across pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.
• Practice placements: substantial supervised clinical hours across a variety of settings to meet NMC practice requirements; students work with experienced midwives and other healthcare professionals.

Assessment typically combines written assignments, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), reflective practice portfolios and assessed practice in placement. Successful completion leads to eligibility to register as a midwife with the NMC.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is from school/college with a mix of A-levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications. Candidates are usually expected to demonstrate strong GCSE-level achievement in English language and mathematics (or equivalent) and often a science subject. Oxford Brookes considers applications holistically; relevant health or caring experience, mature entry and access to healthcare qualifications are welcome.

All applicants must satisfy pre-course occupational health requirements (including immunisation checks) and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Selection commonly involves an interview or multiple-mini interview process and assessment of values and suitability for professional practice.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to register as midwives and typically start their careers in NHS trusts, community midwifery services or independent midwifery. Early roles include staff midwife positions in labour wards, birth centres and community teams. With experience, midwives can progress to senior clinical posts, team leadership, specialist roles (for example in neonatal care, public health or perinatal mental health), education, research or management.

Other career pathways include practice development, policy and commissioning roles, non-executive positions and international midwifery work. The programme also provides a foundation for postgraduate study such as specialist community public health nursing, advanced clinical practice or midwifery-related research degrees.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers an NMC-approved midwifery degree delivered by a school with established partnerships across local NHS trusts and community services, ensuring a diverse range of placement experiences. The university combines academic teaching with practical skills training in simulation facilities and interprofessional learning opportunities with other health programmes.

Students benefit from supportive academic and clinical mentorship, focus on evidence-based practice and opportunities to engage with applied research and service improvement projects. The course emphasises compassionate, woman-centred care and prepares graduates to meet the professional standards required for contemporary midwifery practice.