Bachelor of Midwifery
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
An internationally recognised qualification for those seeking to register as a midwife in New Zealand, combining theoretical study with real-world practice through a blend of online learning, face-to-face tutorials, and clinical placements.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 6 locations
It will take a total of 4 years
Core skills this course teaches
Register as a midwife in New Zealand
Meet the competencies required by the Midwifery Council of New Zealand to be eligible for registration as a practising midwife.
Deliver safe and effective midwifery care
Provide midwifery care that is safe, effective, culturally appropriate, and upholds the mauri o te wahine and whānau relationships.
Practice with cultural competence and responsiveness to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Demonstrate understanding and application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles within midwifery practice and care delivery.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Midwifery is a four-year (full-time) or six-year (part-time) degree that prepares graduates for registration as a midwife in New Zealand. Delivered through blended learning, students undertake academic coursework, practical experience with women/pregnant people and midwives in both community and hospital settings, and attend block courses (wānanga) in Dunedin and Wellington. The programme emphasises Te Tiriti o Waitangi, cultural competence, responsive and autonomous practice, and equips graduates to meet the competencies set by the Midwifery Council of New Zealand. Comprehensive support is provided throughout, and there is strong employment demand for Māori and Pasifika midwives.
Course Content
- Blended learning (online, in-person tutorials, practical clinical placements)
- Four-year programme structure focused on theory and 2,400+ clinical hours
- Year 1: 300 clinical hours, simulated and real-world experience, four one-week block courses
- Year 2: 470 clinical hours, physiological pregnancy, childbirth, clinical reasoning, 3–4 block courses
- Year 3: 670 clinical hours, complex health conditions in pregnancy, consolidation of practice
- Year 4: 960 clinical hours, professional practice, legal/ethical frameworks, emergency response
- Face-to-face weekly hui ākonga with kaiako (years 1–3)
- Wānanga/block courses in Dunedin and Wellington
- Online learning (tutorials, self-directed learning)
- Evidence-based practice and professional communication
- Preparation for Midwifery Council registration
What you need to know first
University Entrance as defined by NZQA, including NCEA Level 3: 18 credits at Level 3 in biology, chemistry or physics; 16 credits at Level 3 in an English-rich subject; a further 16 credits at Level 3 or higher in two approved subjects.
20 credits at Level 2, including 16 credits in biology and a further 16 in chemistry or physics; plus 16 credits in another Level 2 subject.
Literacy: 10 credits at Level 2 or above (5 credits in reading, 5 in writing).
Numeracy: 10 credits at Level 1 or above via achievement or unit standards.
OR successful completion of NZ Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4).
OR a recognised equivalent (including international qualifications).
English language requirements: Academic IELTS 7.0 overall (minimum bands: 6.5 Reading, 6.5 Writing, 7.0 Speaking, 7.0 Listening) or OET with passes at A or B (350+ each area), if English is not a first language.
Testimony from at least two referees as to character and safety to practice.
Self-declaration of mental and physical fitness; medical report or evidence of good health as required.
Personal statement addressing suitability, learning and practice.
Current First Aid Certificate (including CPR).
Drivers licence and access to reliable transport.
Compliance with safety check provisions of the Children’s Act 2014 (CV, police check, risk assessment, reference checks).
Vaccination as required by placement providers (tuberculosis, varicella, measles, hepatitis B, pertussis).
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Midwifery
Health care
Allied health
Future employment opportunities might be
Registered midwife
Community-based Lead Maternity Carer (LMC)
Midwife in maternity facilities (hospital or clinic)
Midwifery education and research roles
Professional advisory and regulatory bodies
Government maternity services and stakeholders
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.