Midwifery Shortened University of Suffolk

Overview

Why Midwifery at University of Suffolk?

The University of Suffolk stands out in the academic landscape, particularly in the field of health professions. It has earned a remarkable 2nd place ranking in the UK for graduate employment within 15 months post-graduation, as noted in the Guardian University Guide 2026. Additionally, it has been recognised for exceptional student support and teaching quality, achieving 1st place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025. These accolades reflect the university’s commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. The Midwifery Shortened programme is specifically designed for Adult Nurses who are already registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This unique pathway allows students to leverage their existing nursing knowledge and experience, thereby completing the course in just two years, which is shorter than the traditional route. Upon successful completion, graduates will gain an additional NMC registration as a Midwife, enhancing their professional qualifications. The course structure is meticulously aligned with NMC Standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education that builds upon their foundational nursing skills. The curriculum focuses on delivering safe, high-quality, and evidence-based maternity care, preparing students for real-world challenges in midwifery practice. Students will alternate between theoretical learning at the Ipswich campus and practical placements within employing NHS Trusts. This hands-on approach not only enriches the learning experience but also ensures that graduates are well-prepared for their roles in various healthcare settings. The recruitment for placements is conducted through NHS Trust websites and the NHS Jobs platform. Successful candidates will be employed by a Trust for the duration of the course, receiving a salary aligned with the mid-point of Agenda for Change band 5. NHS England currently offers a tuition fee contribution of up to £9,250 per year for students commencing their studies between January 2022 and April 2024. This funding is subject to review for future cohorts, so prospective students should stay informed about any updates.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the B.Sc. in Midwifery Shortened are as follows:

• International Fee: £9,250 per year
• National Fee: £9,250 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course is structured into two years, divided into trimesters, allowing for a balanced approach between theory and practice. Each year includes designated annual leave and clinical recovery time. The first year comprises seven weeks of theory followed by seven weeks of practice per trimester, while the second year features six weeks of theory and eight weeks of practice. Key modules include:

• Continuum of Midwifery Care
• Care of the Newborn Infant and Infant Feeding
• Pre-existing and Antenatal Additional Care
• Labour, Birth and Postnatal Additional Care
• Skills for Midwifery Practice 1
• Optimising Normal Physiological Processes
• Future Midwife
• Research Project
• Skills for Midwifery Practice 2 and NIPE

During practical blocks, students will gain exposure to various aspects of midwifery, including community care, antenatal and postnatal wards, intrapartum areas, and neonatal care.

Careers with Midwifery

Graduates of the B.Sc. in Midwifery Shortened can expect diverse employment opportunities as midwives in both community and hospital environments within the NHS, as well as in private practice. The qualification is also recognised internationally, facilitating career options in countries such as those in the EU, New Zealand, and Australia. Potential career paths include clinical practice, research, management, and education, with further academic pursuits available through MSc and PhD programmes in midwifery practice.