Midwifery with Registered Midwife BMid (Hons)

Why choose this course?

Midwives give care and advice to women and birthing people, and their families throughout pregnancy and the transition to parenthood. This essential role requires scientific knowledge, practical skills, interpersonal skills and empathy, which you'll gain on this course. This course offers a degree and a professional midwifery qualification. You'll graduate ready to enter the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and register as a qualified midwife.

Placements are available in maternity units in hospital and community settings.

Midwifery students not only have the use of the new Simulated Learning and Clinical Skills suite but have a dedicated Midwifery Skills space. This flexible learning space can be adapted to be a home-from-home or hospital environment, enabling students to gain confidence in a variety of settings.

Please note if you already have a BSc (Hons) at grade 2.2 or above, you could enrol on our Masters of Midwifery (MMid) course.

NHS Training Grant

Nursing and Midwifery students on pre-registration courses from September 2020 will receive a payment of at least £5,000 a year which they will not need to pay back, subject to eligibility criteria. For more information please visit the NHS Business Service Authority.

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Attendance UCAS code Year of entry
3 years full time B727 2022
2023
Location Kingston Hill
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Reasons to choose Kingston

  • Kingston University is ranked No.1 in London and No.6 overall in the UK for Nursing and Midwifery (Guardian league tables 2022).
  • Our students are highly sought after, 100 per cent of students from this course are in highly-skilled employment within six months of graduating (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2018/19).
  • We have a new dedicated midwifery simulation suite for you to practice your clinical skills.

What you will study

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

In Year 1, you will be introduced to midwifery theory and practice focussing on birth as a physiological process.

Core modules

Bodies and Birth 1

30 credits

This module will introduce the biological basis which underpins the provision of midwifery care, including an introduction to pharmacology, genomics and genetics.

This module will enable students to:

  • gain a detailed understanding of the underlying concepts related to the normal anatomy and biological function of the human body
  • have an in-depth understanding of genetics, epigenetics, genomics and pharmacology applied to midwifery practice
  • apply their understanding of the physiological process which occur during pregnancy and childbirth to support participation in effective, evidence-based maternity care
  • understand the relationships between the different physiological processes of lactation and the importance of human milk and breastfeeding to public health and well-being.
Social and Political Context of Birth 1

30 credits

This module will introduce the socio-political influences shaping the changing context of maternity care provision.You will develop an understanding of feminist theory, psychology, sociology and public health as it applies to childbearing.

This module will enable you to:

  • investigate and critically analyse the social, psychological and political context of birth and childbearing
  • understand the principles of public health and maternity care provision in the UK and evaluate the contribution of midwifery to individuals, families and society
  • critically analyse the historical and contemporary position of women and birthing people in society
  • explore the concepts of evidence-based practice, identify and evaluate sources of authoritative data.
Midwifery Profession and Practice 1A

30 credits

This module introduces the concepts of being a professional midwife. The contemporary role and scope of the midwife is identified and defined. The professional values and culture of midwifery will also be explored.

This module will enable you to:

  • begin to understand the role and responsibilities of the midwife in supporting and caring for women / birthing people and their families
  • gain an insight into the professional, legislative and cultural context of the midwifery profession
  • develop the necessary skills to recognise and respond to vulnerability in self and others
  • identify and analyse the best available evidence in order to participate in the provision of evidence-based care.
Midwifery Profession and Practice 1B

30 credits

This module introduces midwifery professional practice. It identifies the role of the midwife and locates the responsibilities of the midwife within the scope of midwifery practice, providing universal care to women and birthing people and their newborn infants. Professional behaviour, values and culture will also be explored.

This module will enable you to:

  • participate in the provision of universal midwifery care for women and birthing people and their newborn infants, under close supervision and direction, across the childbearing continuum
  • demonstrate an understanding of the professional, legislative and cultural context of the midwifery profession
  • identify the regulatory legal and ethical issues affecting midwifery practice.

In Year 2, we build on your knowledge and skills gained in Year 1 and introduce the complexities that can occur during pregnancy for some mothers and babies.

Core modules

Bodies and Birth 2

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • systematically analyse the quality and significance of published literature
  • develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of pharmacology and appropriate medicines management across the childbearing continuum
  • have a detailed understanding of fetal and neonatal development and be able to identify the normal parameters of systematic newborn examination
  • develop systematic knowledge and understanding of human pathophysiology, pathophysiology, genetics, epigenetics and genomics including the physiological processes of lactation, bonding and infant nutrition
Social and Political Context of Birth 2

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • critically analyse the socio-economic, political and cultural factors which impact on health outcomes
  • synthesise the interconnected issues which affect the health and care needs of women and birthing people and their families to generate transformative solutions
  • source and systematically analyse authoritative data relating to public health and the socio-political context of maternity care
Midwifery Profession and Practice 2A

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • optimise normal processes in a variety of contexts even where there may be additional care needs for the woman or birthing person, fetus, and/or newborn infant
  • have a systematic understanding of the role and scope of the midwife in order to collaborate with other healthcare practitioners when caring for women and birthing people and/or the newborn infant with additional care considerations and work collaboratively within the team
  • critically analyse and synthesise the available evidence to support women and birthing people as they adapt to pregnancy and childbirth, anticipating complications by evaluating findings from assessment, screening and care planning
  • apply systematic knowledge and understanding to identify pre-existing, current and emerging complications affecting the women and birthing people, fetus and/or newborn infants.
Midwifery Profession and Practice 2B

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • protect and promote aspects of normality in a variety of contexts even where there may be additional care needs for the woman or birthing person, fetus, and/or newborn infant
  • demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the role of the midwife and participate in the shared responsibilities of caring for the woman or birthing person, fetus and/or newborn infant in unpredictable and complex situations, alongside other members of the health care team
  • use a range of strategies and tools to ensure effective professional communication

Year 3 continues to develop your midwifery knowledge, understanding and skills, preparing you for autonomous practice as a midwife.

Core modules

Bodies and Birth 3

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • have a deep and systematic knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, genomics and genetics to provide universal and additional midwifery care for women, birthing people and babies
  • have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of sexual and reproductive health and contraception options
  • apply their systematic knowledge of normal physiology to develop innovative strategies to promote physiological childbearing and mitigate the factors in the care environment that can negatively impact these processes
  • recognise actual and potential additional care needs for childbearing women, birthing people and babies and initiate first line management of complications that may occur for the woman or birthing person, fetus, neonate or both
Social and Political Context of Birth 3

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • investigate the historical and socio-political influences related to childbearing and critically analyse how this shapes the way midwives work both within the UK and globally
  • critically analyse the local, national and international strategies and initiatives designed to promote equity of access to maternity and women's and birthing people's health services in a variety of contexts and evaluate the extent to which these promote and support individuals' rights, preferences, beliefs and cultures
  • critically evaluate the impact of variations in childbirth and midwifery practice in a global context
  • source and critically appraise the data relating to human rights and advocacy in maternity care to identify how this shapes their professional practice
Midwifery Profession and Practice 3A

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • demonstrate confidence and responsibility as an accountable, autonomous, critical and analytical practitioner, fit for employment at the point of registration
  • gain a systematic knowledge and understanding of professional and ethical frameworks for midwifery practice
  • develop in-depth knowledge of midwifery principles and practice in order to effectively support and advocate for women and birthing people and newborn infants across the childbearing continuum
  • implement and evaluate strategies to engage in personal health and wellbeing, ongoing education and professional development
Midwifery Profession and Practice 3B

30 credits

This module will enable students to:

  • provide and critically evaluate safe and effective universal care for all childbearing women and birthing people, newborn infants and their families optimising physiological processes and managing common symptoms
  • anticipate and prevent complications and take appropriate action when caring for women and birthing people and newborn infants with additional care needs working in partnership with interdisciplinary and multiagency colleagues
  • critically analyse and apply evidence-based, best practice approaches across the maternity care continuum, including those which are complex and unpredictable
  • provide first line management in emergency situations.

 

The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, this may not be offered.

What our students say

Entry requirements

Typical offer 2023

UCAS tariff points: 128–144

GSCEs at grade C/4 including English, Mathematics and Science. Enhanced DBS check and Occupational Health Clearance. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.

The typical requirement for entry for this course is 128–144 UCAS points, Health and Science subjects preferred:

  • A-levels ABB (General Studies not accepted)
  • BTEC Extended Diploma Distinction Distinction Merit
  • Access to HE course to value of 128 UCAS points normally achieved with 33 Distinctions and 9 Merits.

Typical offer 2022

UCAS tariff points: 128–144

GSCEs at grade C/4 including English, Mathematics and Science. Enhanced DBS check and Occupational Health Clearance. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.

The typical requirement for entry for this course is 128–144 UCAS points, Health and Science subjects preferred:

  • A-levels ABB (General Studies not accepted)
  • BTEC Extended Diploma Distinction Distinction Merit
  • Access to HE course to value of 128 UCAS points normally achieved with 33 Distinctions and 9 Merits.

Additional requirements

  • GCSE at grade 4 or above (or grade C or above for GCSEs taken before 2017) in English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject or equivalent qualification e.g. Functional/Key skills level 2 in numeracy and literacy; Level 2 Applied Science. GCSE Science grade 4 or above (formerly A*-C) is not required from Access students undertaking a science or health based access course.
  • Wherever possible candidates are encouraged to gain practical work experience in a care setting prior to undertaking the programme.

Covid-19 vaccination requirement

UPDATE 3 March 2022:

The Covid vaccine mandate for NHS staff in England that was due to come into effect on 1st April has been revoked by the Government. [https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2022-03-01/hcws654] This means it is unlikely that vaccination will be a requirement to access placements on your course.

However, we are aware that some placement providers may still require their staff and students to be fully vaccinated for some clinical areas. It therefore remains our position to strongly recommend everyone eligible to be fully vaccinated for health and care courses.

You can book your vaccinations here.

You can read information about Coronavirus vaccines here.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council, General Pharmaceutical Council and Social Work England strongly encourage everyone eligible to be fully vaccinated as quickly as possible to keep yourselves and your community safe.

We will continue to update this page if there are any further changes.

Alternative routes

We welcome a wide range of qualifications and qualification combinations to the value of 128 UCAS points. We assess each application individually, taking in to account any experience and skills you may have in your chosen field.

Typical other routes include:

  • Foundation degree in related programmes 65%
  • International Baccalaureate 28 points
  • FETAC Level 5 Distinction in all modules

Selection process

All suitable applicants are required to attend an online interview. This includes a series of short value-based questions, tasks or scenarios.

Admission is subject to occupational health screening and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) enhanced check, including checks against the Adult and Child Workforce Barring lists, if you are offered and accept a place on the course.

International

We welcome applications from International Applicants. Non-native speakers who do not have the equivalent of GCSE English at grade 4 (formerly grade C) (eg. Functional Skills Level 2 Literacy) require an IELTS score of 7.0 overall with 6.5 in writing and 7.0 in all other elements.

Country-specific information

You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.

Find your country:

Typical offer and UCAS points explained

Like most universities, we use the UCAS Tariff point system for our course entry requirements.

Find out more about UCAS Tariff points and see how A-level, AS level, BTEC Diploma and T-level qualifications translate to the points system.

Changes from 1 August 2022

This course is currently offered through a partnership with St George's, University of London, the Faculty of Health Social Care and Education. For students enrolling from 2022, the course will be delivered through a structure which is the sole responsibility of Kingston University. There will be no impact on the teaching or the award of the degree. Read here for further information about the changes.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching includes academic study and clinical practice experience. You will have access to well-equipped skills laboratories and simulation suites where you can use clinical equipment and practise on mannequins and teaching models that are relevant to maternity care.

There is a continuous assessment of theory and practice. This includes extended essays, written and oral examinations, reflective journal writing and project.

Guided independent study (self-managed time)

When not attending timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Academic support

Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.

Dedicated personal tutor

When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and who will show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.

Your workload

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1
  • Scheduled learning and teaching: 384 hours
  • Guided independent study (self-managed time): 96 hours
  • Clinical Practice: 720 hours
Year 2
  • Scheduled learning and teaching: 384 hours
  • Guided independent study (self-managed time): 96 hours
  • Clinical Practice: 720 hours
Year 3
  • Scheduled learning and teaching: 384 hours
  • Guided independent study (self-managed time): 96 hours
  • Clinical Practice: 720 hours

 

  • Year 1 -  32% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity
  • Year 2 -  32% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity
  • Year 3 -  32% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity
  • Contact hours may vary depending on your modules. 

How you will be assessed

There is a continuous assessment of theory and practice. This includes extended essays, examinations, reflective journal writing and projects.

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1
  • Coursework: 50%
  • Exam: 25%
  • Practical Exam: 25%
Year 2
  • Coursework: 62%
  • Exam: 20%
  • Practical exam: 18%
Year 3
  • Coursework: 62%
  • Exam: 0%
  • Practical exam: 38%

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students Wednesday afternoon are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Who teaches this course?

You will be taught by leaders in the field who regularly contribute to research, particularly in the care of the mother or birthing person and child, before, during and after pregnancy. Our teaching has an extensive focus on practical skills development, in partnership with local NHS Trusts to ensure you are fully equipped and competent to practice.

Ms Jane Forman

Admissions Tutor

Mrs Claire Mckellow

Course Director

Mrs Suzanne Achilleos

Dr Melania Calestani

Dr Kirstie Coxon

Miss Paula-Maria Cummins

Mrs Angela Frankland

Dr Lindsay Gillman

Mrs Denise Hall

Sarah Purdy

Hazel Ransome

Mrs Georgina Sims

Mrs Tina Woodford

Course fees and funding

2023/24 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'Overseas' student. In 2023/24 the fees for this course are:

 Fee category Amount
Home (UK students) £9,250*
International Year 1 (2023/24): £16,200
Year 2 (2024/25): £16,500
Year 3 (2025/26): £16,800

* For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

2022/23 fees for this course

 Fee category Amount
Home (UK students) £9,250*
International Year 1 (2022/23): £15,900
Year 2 (2023/24): £16,200
Year 3 (2024/25): £16,500

* For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Funding

Salary support

These courses are funded by the government with salary support worth equivalent to the mid-point of AFC band 5 and a tuition fee contribution of up to £9,250 per student per annum, pro rata for the length of the course (students starting September 2022).

Students eligible for this funding offer will not be able to access the Learning Support Fund (LSF). Further information on eligibility requirements for LSF are available on the NHS Business Services Authority website. However, students are entitled to seek support, if eligible, from the Student Loans Company for a maintenance loan.

Note for EU students: UK withdrawal from the European Union

The Government has recently announced that new students from the European Union and Swiss Nationals starting their course after August 2021 will no longer be eligible for a student loan in England for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies for 2021/22 academic year. This decision only applies to new EU students starting in 2021/22. If you are an existing/continuing EU student, you will continue to be funded until you graduate or withdraw from your course.

Need to know more?

Our undergraduate fees and funding section provides information and advice on money matters.

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Textbooks

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks, this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees; this may cost up to £100 per year.

Uniform and equipment

We provide you with a uniform. You will need to purchase appropriate shoes (£20 to £60) and a fob watch (£5 to £20) for practice. You will need to purchase a lab coat (costs £10 to £20), details will be given at the start of course.

Travel

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.

Placements

Placement expenses for travel and accommodation may be reimbursed by NHS Bursaries where, for example, the requirement exceeds that of attending university; or requires additional accommodation to that of the usual term time location. These expenses may need to be covered initially by the student before any applicable reimbursement is received. Please note: EU and international students may not be eligible for support for travel and accommodation.

DBS check

The University pays for the processing of the application which is £51 but students are expected to pay a small fee (approximately £7) to the Post Office to get their ID documents verified and £13 per year for subscribing to the Update Service. This subscription allows universities and potential employers to view any changes to students' DBS.

Occupational health

You will need to fill out an Occupational Health Form. In some cases, we will require extra information and may ask you to get your GP to complete a routine screening form. All GPs have their own policies on charging fees for completion of these reports. The minimum fee recommended by the BMA is £30. Some GPs will not charge you for completion of the form but some GP surgeries are unable to make exceptions and will charge you the standard rate for their practice (in some cases this can be £50 or more). Neither the Faculty nor Occupational Health will be able to reimburse students for fees charged by their GP.

The majority of the required vaccinations should be free from your GP or via the NHS. Our Occupational Health Service will see you in the first two weeks of the course to ensure you have obtained the necessary vaccinations and will undertake any vaccinations/screening tests you have missed. Neither the Faculty nor Occupational Health will be able to reimburse students for any fees charged by their GP or other vaccination providers for vaccinations incurring a cost. If you are being charged for a vaccination we would suggest that you wait until you start the course where you will be able to obtain the vaccination at no cost to yourself.

Membership and professional fees

Professional body membership fees whilst on course are approximately £10. Nursing and Midwifery Council registration fees, once qualified, are currently £120 for the year.

Facilities

Our Kingston Hill campus offers you modern facilities and include well-equipped laboratories where you can practise within a safe environment. Our new simulation suite houses all the equipment needed to develop clinical practice skills.

This versatile space can be used for simulated home settings or a delivery suite setting. It also has a range of equipment, including a birthing pool, birthing mattresses, manikins, resuscitaires and exercise balls for you to learn with.

Facilities

After you graduate

Registered midwives can choose to develop their skills and experience in the NHS, or the independent or voluntary sectors. Midwives can elect to work clinically, teach, undertake research or even manage a complete maternity service. Extensive postgraduate study opportunities are also available at Kingston and St George's.

Midwifery today is a highly attractive career with good financial rewards and excellent employment prospects in the UK and overseas.

The majority of midwives work in the NHS, either in the community working alongside GPs, district nurses and social workers, or in hospital environments in partnership with obstetricians, anaesthetists and neonatologists. Others work in private maternity hospitals or practice independently.

There are many practice-based roles and also management opportunities in both midwifery and general health care which can enable midwives to develop and support modern midwifery practice. Midwives may also take on consultant roles.

Accreditation

This degree confers both an academic award and a professional qualification in midwifery. On completion of the programme, students are recommended to the Nursing and Midwifery Council for professional registration.  

Links with the health sector

You will do a range of placements in different settings, including hospitals, community settings and continuity of care. We have a range of practice partners for midwifery from the NHS including:

  • Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
  • Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust
  • Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
  • St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
  • Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust
  • Ashford and St Peters Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Key information set

The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).