Midwifery
Entry requirements
To work in the NHS, midwives must hold a "pre-registration" qualification in midwifery at degree level, which allows them to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). You can enter the NHS at various levels, and be assured of practical, and possibly financial, support as you progress.
There are no national minimum entry requirements as each higher education institution (HEI) sets its own criteria. However, these are generally around 5 GCSEs plus 2 A-levels or equivalent for a degree programme. All applicants must be able to demonstrate evidence of literacy, numeracy and good character.
The NHS and education sector encourages applications from people with a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications. It is essential that applicants check with each HEI directly before applying to see if their qualifications meet their required entry standard.
Who can become a midwife?
Some people apply for a place on a full-time pre-registration course after gaining good grades at A level (or equivalent) at school or college.
Others may not possess A levels but will have relevant work experience - such as time spent as healthcare assistants or associate practitioners - and are able to show evidence of academic ability, which can be enough to meet a university's requirements.
Qualified nurses can take a shortened pre-registration course in midwifery; the course lasts for 18 months.
Midwifery training involves a mixture of modules of academic study and placements in hospitals and the community, where you will begin to work under the supervision of qualified health professionals. Once qualified, midwives are responsible for keeping their knowledge up to date, and have to keep the governing body, the NMC, informed of their progress, so that they can remain on the professional register. If you decide to take an extended career break it is important the registration is not allowed to lapse otherwise you would not be able to practice.
Whatever your entry route to midwifery, you will be able to benefit from the flexibility, support and learning opportunities offered by the NHS through all stages of your career.
For further details visit training.
