Bachelor of Midwifery
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
About the programme
Qualify in just three years* with this internationally renowned programme.
Our degree gives you real-world practice from your first month, working with midwives and women/pregnant people in your community. This programme takes passion, determination and commitment but we'll give you all the support you need to succeed. And, with the flexibility of blended learning, it's possible to do most of your study from your home base.
Lots of support
We have a lot of support available to help you succeed in your studies.
Blended learning means you'll learn through weekly face-to-face hui ākonga (tutorials), online learning, midwifery practice experiences (such as hospital shifts and community-based midwifery experience) and wānanga (block courses) held on our campus in Dunedin and Porirua. Each site has a designated kaiako (midwifery lecturer) who provides support and runs the face-to-face hui ākonga.
Māori and Pasifika tailored support
We also have a national programme, Te Ara Ō Hine - Tapu Ora, to support our learners who whakapapa Māori or Pasifika. We provide resources and tailored support to help you complete your midwifery qualification, so that Māori and Pasifika babies can be born into Māori and Pasifika hands.
Registration and careers
Our Bachelor of Midwifery leads to registration with Te Tatau O Whare Kahu (Midwifery Council of New Zealand). Our graduates are highly sought-after and there is a particularly high demand for Māori and Pasifika midwives.
Career options include being a community-based, case loading midwife, working within a maternity facility, being involved in education and research in the field of midwifery, and providing advice to professional and regulatory bodies, government departments and maternity stakeholders.
Registered Nurse pathway
If you're a Registered Nurse who's interested in transitioning into a career in midwifery, we've developed a pathway programme just for you. Find out more.
Studying part-time
We know that full-time study isn't always possible. You can choose to study part-time over four years* at any of our locations. If you choose this option, you will:
- only do theory in Year One (not practice)
- complete the Year One practice and Year Two theory in Year Two
- complete Year Two practice in Year Three, and
- then your final yearmust be full-time.
Find more information about this part-time option in the Workload section below.
*Please note: We are currently involved in the development of a four-year midwifery degree. This will be delivered over four calendar years. The degree is awaiting final NZQA/Midwifery Council approval. If we get approval, this new degree will start in 2025.
About the provider
If you want to get a job and build a great career, Otago Polytechnic is a smart choice.
We’re known for offering the highest quality, hands-on training that helps students succeed. Our graduates are confident, skilled, and ready to work from day one. And, employers love that.
We’ve earned the highest ratings from the New Zealand Government for our teaching and support. Our flexible study options make it easier for you to learn in a way that suits your life.
At Otago Polytechnic, you’ll gain practical skills, real-world experience, and the confidence to make a real impact - in your career and in your community.