Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)
Your Course at a Glance
- 100% online learning
- Go to university without A-Levels
- Gain crucial midwifery knowledge
- Qualification is equivalent to 3 A-Levels
- Midwifery course assessed through end-of-unit assignments
About Your Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)
A Midwife plays an instrumental role in a mother’s pregnancy and birthing process. Not only do they provide antenatal care, but they also give expert advice to help an expectant mother make the right decisions for themselves and their baby. For individuals who are natural caregivers, a midwifery career could be the perfect fit.
Prepare for a Midwifery Degree
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) will provide you with the knowledge required to apply for a university place. Targeted at individuals who don’t currently have the qualifications to study a degree, an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is the best way to progress to this level of study.
Learn the Role of a Midwife
While studying our midwifery course online, you will learn essential knowledge that will prepare you to study midwifery at university. If you eventually become a Midwife, you will be the first point of contact during the pregnancy, so it is important that you understand:
- Prenatal care
- Intrapartum care
- Postnatal care
Becoming a Midwife also involves having to develop knowledge of the healthcare system, which will be covered in your midwifery course online.
Getting Started
As soon as you enrol on the midwifery course, you will have access to the course materials you need to begin your learning journey.
Study Midwifery Around Your Schedule
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is 100% online, giving you the freedom to study at your own pace and from your own home. Due to this level of flexibility, you can achieve this qualification regardless of your circumstances.
For example, if you have a young family or work full-time, you can study midwifery whenever you have free time, whether that is in the evening or first thing in the morning.
We Help You Stay On Track
As part of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery), you will be given an Individual Learning Plan that details the submission deadlines for your assignments. This will help you keep on track.
You have two years to complete our midwifery course online, but on average, learndirect students take 9 months. The qualification is equivalent to 3 A Levels, so, if you don’t have A Levels, undertaking an Access to Higher Education Diploma is a great alternative.
| + Free Upgrade | Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support | Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support PLUS On-Demand & Live Classes |
|---|---|---|
| Access your course materials immediately | ||
| Tutor support via our market-leading platform | ||
| Study around existing commitments | ||
| Progress as quickly as you’d like | ||
| Tailored individual learning plan to help you succeed | ||
| Engaging content; from videos to interactive quizzes | ||
| Industry-leading 5 days marking turnaround | ||
| Live class scheduled between 10 am to 8 pm daily (including weekends) | ||
| Access to our video library of previous lectures available on-demand | ||
| Interact with your tutors directly during your class | ||
| Network with like-minded students via our chat functionality | ||
| Take live classes multiple times or access recordings as you like |
88%
Modules
Unit 1: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Be able to write confidently when handling an academic task
- Understand how to interpret and discuss ideas and issues relating to an academic writing task
- Know how to summarise in an academic context by selecting key points, ideas, and information
Unit 2: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand how to use sources correctly
- Know why sources are acknowledged and referenced
- Be aware of various reading strategies
- Understand a range of note-taking methods
- Know how to plan, draft and create a written assignment
Unit 3: Health and Well-being
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the relationship between resilience and mental well-being
- Know how feelings and emotions can be expressed and how they can be managed
- Understand how mental well-being can be supported and managed
Unit 4: Cell Biology
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the structure and organisation of cells, including stem cells
- Understand cellular metabolism
- Be aware of how cells grow and divide
Unit 5: The History of the National Health Service
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the background of the National Health Service and its founding principles
- Understand how political reforms have shaped the National Health Service
Unit 6: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Know how hormones regulate the reproductive system throughout life
- Know the sequence of events from conception to childbirth
Unit 7: The Roles & Responsibilities of the Midwife
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the roles and responsibilities of the midwife
- Be aware of how the Nursing and Midwifery Council operate
- Understand the multidisciplinary approach to healthcare
Unit 8: Human Nutrition & The Digestive System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of organs in the digestive system
- Know about nutrients and their sources
- Be aware of what consists of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 9: Introduction to Psychology
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the importance of research in psychology
- Be aware of the main approaches taken in psychology
- Understand ethical issues in psychological research
Unit 10: The Human Muscular and Skeletal System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the anatomy, organisation and function of the muscular system
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the skeletal system
- Be aware of how the muscular system and skeletal system interact in locomotion
Unit 11: Social Factors in Health and Social Care
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand sociological factors influencing the relationships between patients and health professionals
- Know about the role of social motivational factors in health and ill health
- Be aware of how significant social support networks are in healthcare and maintenance
Unit 12: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the nervous system
- Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions
- Know about the role of the nervous and endocrine systems homeostasis
Unit 13: Mental Health and Illness
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the difficulties in defining normality and abnormality
- Know what a psychological disorder is
- Know what treatments are used to treat people with psychological disorders
Unit 14: Cell Metabolism (Health)
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the metabolic pathways of anaerobic and aerobic respiration
- Understand the biochemical structure and the role of adenosine triphosphate in the cell
- Be aware of the role of enzymes in cell metabolism
Unit 15: Understanding Poverty
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the definitions of poverty
- Understand ways of measuring poverty
- Understand the extent of poverty in contemporary Britain
- Know how poverty is explained
Unit 16: Cell Division and Heredity (Health)
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Be able to demonstrate a knowledge of cell division
- Understand heredity
- Understand mutation and variation
Unit 17: Human Immunity
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand non-specific defences against disease
- Understand specific immunity
- Be aware of the biology of vaccination
Unit 18: Equality and Diversity within Healthcare
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know about equality and diversity within healthcare
- Understand the rights of the individual in a healthcare setting
- Understand the impact of equality and diversity legislation for healthcare
Unit 19: Human Disease & Prevention
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the categories and causes of disease by using infectious disease to illustrate your answer
- Understand the epidemiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions
- Know about preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition
Entry Requirements
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted. In many cases, to get started at university you will need: - A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade - A face-to-face interview at the university - Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university - Course-related work placements or work experience - GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.) It is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum age restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average completion timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: academic report, essay, case study analysis, illustrated mind map, illustrated report, worksheet, journal article, portfolio, academic poster, presentation (video and audio recording), revision guide, series of questions, academic writing skills tasks
Exams required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.
The assessment process of our midwifery course consists of the following:
Assignments
At the end of each module during the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery), you will be tasked with an assignment. Each assignment contains various academic tasks, and once completed and submitted, you will receive feedback from your tutor. This will allow you to develop and progress on to the next stage of your study.
Credits
Each assignment represents a certain number of credits, and overall, you will need 60 credits in total to successfully achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery). The credits are split into two categories:
- Graded – 45 credits come from graded units, which focus on the academic subject
- Ungraded – 15 credits come from ungraded units, such as writing and study skills
As part of the midwifery course, you will get help and advice in how to complete a university application and the various research that’s required to achieve the qualification.
Given that the course is 100% online, you will have 24/7 access to your course materials, which will help you complete your assignments. As mentioned, you have two years to complete the Access to Higher Education Diploma, but you will have deadlines to complete your assignments.
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: 40012530). This course has been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Career
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is equivalent to 3 A Levels. Most universities accept this qualification in applications, so you could potentially study a degree at the university of your choice, should you meet the entry requirements.
If you have ambitions to become a Midwife, then the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) could provide a stepping stone towards achieving your career goal. Prior to starting your midwifery programme, you may want to gain foundation knowledge in a similar field, such as health science. If you go on to gain a midwifery degree, you will be qualified to work as a Midwife.
Further Qualifications and Prospects
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) regulates Nurses and Midwives across the UK, and for those on the NMC register, Midwives will need to undertake 35 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year.
The purpose of CPD is to ensure that Midwives are up to date on healthcare practices and ethics so that they continue to perform competently. Outside of mandatory CPD, a Midwife can enhance their knowledge and skillset by taking various courses, including the following:
- Mental Health and Social Care
- Grief and Bereavement Counselling
- Drug, Solvent and Alcohol Misuse Counselling
- Clinical Nutrition
- Eating Disorders
During your midwifery career, if you decide that a less medical role would be better suited to you, having a midwifery degree can help you land a role as a doula or birthing partner. You may also be open to considering a position as a health visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)
Your Course at a Glance
- 100% online learning
- Go to university without A-Levels
- Gain crucial midwifery knowledge
- Qualification is equivalent to 3 A-Levels
- Midwifery course assessed through end-of-unit assignments
About Your Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)
A Midwife plays an instrumental role in a mother’s pregnancy and birthing process. Not only do they provide antenatal care, but they also give expert advice to help an expectant mother make the right decisions for themselves and their baby. For individuals who are natural caregivers, a midwifery career could be the perfect fit.
Prepare for a Midwifery Degree
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) will provide you with the knowledge required to apply for a university place. Targeted at individuals who don’t currently have the qualifications to study a degree, an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is the best way to progress to this level of study.
Learn the Role of a Midwife
While studying our midwifery course online, you will learn essential knowledge that will prepare you to study midwifery at university. If you eventually become a Midwife, you will be the first point of contact during the pregnancy, so it is important that you understand:
- Prenatal care
- Intrapartum care
- Postnatal care
Becoming a Midwife also involves having to develop knowledge of the healthcare system, which will be covered in your midwifery course online.
Getting Started
As soon as you enrol on the midwifery course, you will have access to the course materials you need to begin your learning journey.
Study Midwifery Around Your Schedule
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is 100% online, giving you the freedom to study at your own pace and from your own home. Due to this level of flexibility, you can achieve this qualification regardless of your circumstances.
For example, if you have a young family or work full-time, you can study midwifery whenever you have free time, whether that is in the evening or first thing in the morning.
We Help You Stay On Track
As part of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery), you will be given an Individual Learning Plan that details the submission deadlines for your assignments. This will help you keep on track.
You have two years to complete our midwifery course online, but on average, learndirect students take 9 months. The qualification is equivalent to 3 A Levels, so, if you don’t have A Levels, undertaking an Access to Higher Education Diploma is a great alternative.
| + Free Upgrade | Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support | Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support PLUS On-Demand & Live Classes |
|---|---|---|
| Access your course materials immediately | ||
| Tutor support via our market-leading platform | ||
| Study around existing commitments | ||
| Progress as quickly as you’d like | ||
| Tailored individual learning plan to help you succeed | ||
| Engaging content; from videos to interactive quizzes | ||
| Industry-leading 5 days marking turnaround | ||
| Live class scheduled between 10 am to 8 pm daily (including weekends) | ||
| Access to our video library of previous lectures available on-demand | ||
| Interact with your tutors directly during your class | ||
| Network with like-minded students via our chat functionality | ||
| Take live classes multiple times or access recordings as you like |
Modules
Unit 1: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Be able to write confidently when handling an academic task
- Understand how to interpret and discuss ideas and issues relating to an academic writing task
- Know how to summarise in an academic context by selecting key points, ideas, and information
Unit 2: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand how to use sources correctly
- Know why sources are acknowledged and referenced
- Be aware of various reading strategies
- Understand a range of note-taking methods
- Know how to plan, draft and create a written assignment
Unit 3: Health and Well-being
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the relationship between resilience and mental well-being
- Know how feelings and emotions can be expressed and how they can be managed
- Understand how mental well-being can be supported and managed
Unit 4: Cell Biology
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the structure and organisation of cells, including stem cells
- Understand cellular metabolism
- Be aware of how cells grow and divide
Unit 5: The History of the National Health Service
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the background of the National Health Service and its founding principles
- Understand how political reforms have shaped the National Health Service
Unit 6: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Know how hormones regulate the reproductive system throughout life
- Know the sequence of events from conception to childbirth
Unit 7: The Roles & Responsibilities of the Midwife
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the roles and responsibilities of the midwife
- Be aware of how the Nursing and Midwifery Council operate
- Understand the multidisciplinary approach to healthcare
Unit 8: Human Nutrition & The Digestive System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of organs in the digestive system
- Know about nutrients and their sources
- Be aware of what consists of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 9: Introduction to Psychology
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the importance of research in psychology
- Be aware of the main approaches taken in psychology
- Understand ethical issues in psychological research
Unit 10: The Human Muscular and Skeletal System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the anatomy, organisation and function of the muscular system
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the skeletal system
- Be aware of how the muscular system and skeletal system interact in locomotion
Unit 11: Social Factors in Health and Social Care
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand sociological factors influencing the relationships between patients and health professionals
- Know about the role of social motivational factors in health and ill health
- Be aware of how significant social support networks are in healthcare and maintenance
Unit 12: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the nervous system
- Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions
- Know about the role of the nervous and endocrine systems homeostasis
Unit 13: Mental Health and Illness
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the difficulties in defining normality and abnormality
- Know what a psychological disorder is
- Know what treatments are used to treat people with psychological disorders
Unit 14: Cell Metabolism (Health)
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the metabolic pathways of anaerobic and aerobic respiration
- Understand the biochemical structure and the role of adenosine triphosphate in the cell
- Be aware of the role of enzymes in cell metabolism
Unit 15: Understanding Poverty
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the definitions of poverty
- Understand ways of measuring poverty
- Understand the extent of poverty in contemporary Britain
- Know how poverty is explained
Unit 16: Cell Division and Heredity (Health)
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Be able to demonstrate a knowledge of cell division
- Understand heredity
- Understand mutation and variation
Unit 17: Human Immunity
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand non-specific defences against disease
- Understand specific immunity
- Be aware of the biology of vaccination
Unit 18: Equality and Diversity within Healthcare
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know about equality and diversity within healthcare
- Understand the rights of the individual in a healthcare setting
- Understand the impact of equality and diversity legislation for healthcare
Unit 19: Human Disease & Prevention
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Know the categories and causes of disease by using infectious disease to illustrate your answer
- Understand the epidemiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions
- Know about preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition
Entry Requirements
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted. In many cases, to get started at university you will need: - A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade - A face-to-face interview at the university - Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university - Course-related work placements or work experience - GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.) It is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum age restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average completion timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: academic report, essay, case study analysis, illustrated mind map, illustrated report, worksheet, journal article, portfolio, academic poster, presentation (video and audio recording), revision guide, series of questions, academic writing skills tasks
Exams required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.
Assessment
The assessment process of our midwifery course consists of the following:
Assignments
At the end of each module during the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery), you will be tasked with an assignment. Each assignment contains various academic tasks, and once completed and submitted, you will receive feedback from your tutor. This will allow you to develop and progress on to the next stage of your study.
Credits
Each assignment represents a certain number of credits, and overall, you will need 60 credits in total to successfully achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery). The credits are split into two categories:
- Graded – 45 credits come from graded units, which focus on the academic subject
- Ungraded – 15 credits come from ungraded units, such as writing and study skills
As part of the midwifery course, you will get help and advice in how to complete a university application and the various research that’s required to achieve the qualification.
Given that the course is 100% online, you will have 24/7 access to your course materials, which will help you complete your assignments. As mentioned, you have two years to complete the Access to Higher Education Diploma, but you will have deadlines to complete your assignments.
Qualifications
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: 40012530). This course has been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Career
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) is equivalent to 3 A Levels. Most universities accept this qualification in applications, so you could potentially study a degree at the university of your choice, should you meet the entry requirements.
If you have ambitions to become a Midwife, then the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) could provide a stepping stone towards achieving your career goal. Prior to starting your midwifery programme, you may want to gain foundation knowledge in a similar field, such as health science. If you go on to gain a midwifery degree, you will be qualified to work as a Midwife.
Further Qualifications and Prospects
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) regulates Nurses and Midwives across the UK, and for those on the NMC register, Midwives will need to undertake 35 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year.
The purpose of CPD is to ensure that Midwives are up to date on healthcare practices and ethics so that they continue to perform competently. Outside of mandatory CPD, a Midwife can enhance their knowledge and skillset by taking various courses, including the following:
- Mental Health and Social Care
- Grief and Bereavement Counselling
- Drug, Solvent and Alcohol Misuse Counselling
- Clinical Nutrition
- Eating Disorders
During your midwifery career, if you decide that a less medical role would be better suited to you, having a midwifery degree can help you land a role as a doula or birthing partner. You may also be open to considering a position as a health visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you would like to study the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery) but fund it with an Advanced Learner Loan you can do so with East Sussex College Group.
Click the 'Enquire Now' button and submit your contact details. One of the learner support team from East Sussex College Group will contact you within 24 hours and help you enrol on this diploma.
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