Programme in Midwifery Science
This programme consists of three semesters of full time studies. The education is conducted in Swedish only. Few people working within healthcare have such a close relationship with women and families as the midwife. It is the midwife who provides support and security during childbirth – a particularly special time. The midwife also carries out other important duties, such as promoting women's health throughout life.
The field of study of the midwife is called "reproductive and perinatal health". The area is closely linked to the beginning of life and human reproduction. Within this area of specialisation, skills are studied and developed in relation to the normal process and associated complications in connection with pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. There is also a focus on the development of parenting skills, women’s reproductive health from a life-cycle perspective, sexuality and family planning.
Local profile
The Sahlgrenska Academy's midwifery science programme has a local profile. There is an emphasis on childbirth as a natural process, in which unnecessary interventions should always be avoided, and the need for a good relationship with the mother-to-be and her family. The programme includes a particular emphasis on the supportive role of the midwife. This means, for example, that the midwife must have an in-depth understanding of childbirth from a family perspective and a life-time perspective, as well as being able to consider the way in which attitudes and values can affect how the care provided is experienced. The midwife should also support the development of the parents-to-be and the new parents.
The Programme
The programme extends over 1.5 years, and comprises 90 higher education credits. Nine courses are included in total. Professional theory and method, Women's sexual and reproductive health, Normal child birth, Degree project in reproductive and perinatal health, Delivery skills 1 and 2, Women's and family health 1 and 2 and Professional approach and complicated childbirth. Half of the programme is comprised of on-site training that is located in Gothenburg and other cities in Västra Götaland.
The degree
The Programme in Midwifery Science leads to a Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery. Upon completion of the programme, the student can apply for a licence as a midwife with the National Board of Health and Welfare. The programme also provides the basis for completing a one-year master’s degree. Continued studies are offered to achieve a full two-year master's degree in the main field of study. A few places in the programme are reserved for achieving a full two-year master's degree.
Studying and working abroad
The programme has been internationally adapted, and prepares students for working in international and multicultural contexts. It is possible to complete parts of the programme at one of the universities or university colleges worldwide with which the Sahlgrenska Academy has a partnership arrangement.
Admissions
Admissions take place every autumn semester. This programme is conducted in Swedish.
A Swedish nursing licence, a completed Bachelor's degree in any major in the health sciences or the equivalent, one year's professional experience as a nurse at the beginning of the course, as well as language skills equivalent to Swedish B and English A.