Bachelor of Midwifery

University Entrance as defined by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority:
-a minimum of 18 credits at level 3 in biology and/or chemistry as per the three subjects required at level three on the National Qualifications Framework
-a minimum of 16 credits at level 3 in an English language rich subject
-a further 16 credits at level 3 in an additional two subjects or domains on the National Qualifications Framework
-16 credits at level 2 in biology or chemistry if the applicant has not studied these subjects at level 3

or (for those over 20 years): evidence of academic equivalence of the above qualifications, such as through successful completion of a Level 4 bridging programme for health-related degrees or demonstrated evidence of ability to study
successfully at degree level, such as applicants who have already successfully completed a degree programme and have demonstrated transferable study skills.

Applicants for whom English is a second language must achieve in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (academic version) with an overall score of 7 and not less than 6.5 in writing and comprehension; and not less than 7.0 in speaking and listening, or equivalent. This score must be achieved in one sitting of the IELTS test within the two years preceding the proposed date of enrolment (MCNZ, 2015, p. 18).

Applicants must demonstrate that they have good health and good character, via a medical report, identity confirmation, a police check, referee reports sufficient for safe and effective practice as a midwife, as required by the Vulnerable Children's Act 2014, now known as the Children's Act 2014.
Applicants must demonstrate strong communication skills and self-responsibility in relation to their learning practice.
Registered health practitioners from other disciplines who seek Recognition of Prior Learning on the basis of their professional qualification and practice experience must hold registration with the relevant authority in New Zealand and provide a Certificate of Good Standing from that authority.

Additional Entry Criteria
In addition to the criteria described above students must apply online and are required to address the following by submitting a curriculum vitae and an application essay to allow for selection of those who have met thetry requirements
-Demonstrated commitment to practising midwifery
-Life experience relevant to midwifery and/or women's health
-Personal qualities appropriate for midwifery practice
-Completion of a current comprehensive or standard First Aid certificate, including proficiency in CPR (NQF unit standards 6401 and 6402 or equivalent)
-Demonstrated computing skills
-A driver's license.

Additional Entry Criteria for Pathway for Registered Nurse Transition into Bachelor of Midwifery programme
-Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Nursing undertaken in a New Zealand educational institution within the last 10 years unless evidence of recent postgraduate study
-Current Annual Practicing Certificate (APC) with a minimum of one year's practice experience
-In good standing with their Regulatory Authority (Nursing Council of New Zealand)
-Completed Vulnerable Children's screening as per the Children's Act 2014
-Meet local District Health Board immunisation requirements (Health New Zealand)
-Successfully complete the selection process for the Bachelor of Midwifery programme.

What can I expect out of this qualification?

On completion of this programme graduates will be able to practise within the Midwifery Scope of Practice and meet the Competencies for Entry to the Register of Midwives as set by the Midwifery Council of New Zealand. This programme prepares midwives for practice in New Zealands maternity services although the knowledge, skills and professional behaviour attained will be transferable to health and maternity systems in other countries. Upon graduation and registration graduates will be able to work as Lead Maternity Carers (LMCs) or as Core Midwives and will be eligible to enter postgraduate midwifery programmes. For more information refer Otago Polytechnic http://www.otagopolytechnic.ac.nz

Status one year after study

Employment rate two years after study

96%

Employment rate two years after study

Main Campus Office

Free phone: 0800 762 786
Phone: (03) 477 3014
Fax: (03) 471 6870
Email: info@op.ac.nz
Web: https://www.op.ac.nz/