Midwifery BSc

Midwifery is a rewarding and deeply impactful career. As a midwife, you're at the heart of one of the most significant moments in a person's life: childbirth. If you're considering studying midwifery, understanding your educational options in the UK and abroad can help you make the right decision for your future.

Studying Midwifery in the UK

Midwifery education in the UK is well-structured, regulated, and highly respected. Courses are approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), which ensures high professional standards.

Who the Course Suits

Midwifery is best suited to people who are compassionate, resilient and committed to supporting others through life-changing experiences. Midwives need to be confident communicators, able to work under pressure and make decisions quickly when circumstances change. The role also requires sensitivity, empathy and respect for cultural diversity.

Students who enjoy both scientific learning and hands-on care often thrive in midwifery. A genuine interest in women’s health, child development and family support is essential.

Course Structure:

• Typically a three-year BSc (Hons) Midwifery degree.

• Combines academic learning with clinical placements in NHS hospitals, birthing centres, and community settings.

• Students are trained to deliver holistic care to women and families before, during, and after childbirth.

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels or equivalent qualifications (often including science subjects).

• GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science.

• A successful interview and health screening.

• Some universities require UCAT or literacy/numeracy assessments.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but the following are especially useful:

• A levels: Biology, Human Biology, Psychology, Sociology or Health and Social Care. Typical offers are around BBB–ABB.

• BTECs: Applied Science or Health and Social Care are often accepted, sometimes alongside an A level in Biology.

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Biology and other science or social science subjects are usually preferred.

• Strong foundations in science and healthcare subjects will strengthen your application.

What Makes a Strong Application

Midwifery is competitive, so applicants must demonstrate both academic ability and personal suitability. A strong application includes:

• Solid academic results in relevant subjects.

• Relevant experience such as volunteering in maternity units, care settings or community support roles.

• A personal statement that shows empathy, resilience, teamwork and a genuine interest in women’s health.

• Interview performance, often in the form of Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs), testing communication, decision-making and professional values.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Midwifery degree builds professional expertise along with transferable skills, including:

• Clinical and technical skills: Delivering safe maternity care, managing emergencies and supporting normal births.

• Communication and empathy: Supporting women and families through emotional and physical challenges.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Responding to complex medical situations.

• Teamwork and leadership: Collaborating with doctors, nurses, health visitors and other professionals.

• Resilience and adaptability: Managing long hours, emotional situations and high levels of responsibility.

These skills are valuable across healthcare and can lead to progression into leadership, education and research.

Funding:

Students in England may be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, offering a non-repayable grant of at least £5,000 per year.

Student loans may also be available for tuition and maintenance.

Registration and Career:

Graduates can register with the NMC and begin work as a qualified midwife in the NHS or private sector.

Midwifery offers career progression into advanced practice, education, research, and leadership.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Midwifery Students

Exploring books on midwifery can help you gain insight into the role and strengthen your application. Four excellent recommendations are:

“Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth” by Ina May Gaskin

A renowned midwife shares insights into natural birth and the philosophy of midwifery care.

“The Roar Behind the Silence: Why Kindness, Compassion and Respect Matter in Maternity Care” by Soo Downe and Sheena Byrom

A collection of essays and reflections on the importance of compassionate maternity care.

“Call the Midwife” by Jennifer Worth

A memoir of life as a midwife in 1950s London, offering both history and inspiration.

“Birth: The Surprising History of How We Are Born” by Tina Cassidy

An exploration of childbirth practices across history and cultures.