Midwifery
Original price was: £1,499.00.£1,249.00Current price is: £1,249.00.
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Begin your journey to becoming a Midwife with our fully accredited Access to Higher Education Diploma. This qualification provides the perfect stepping stone to some of the best Midwifery degree programmes in the UK, giving you the academic foundation, study skills, and confidence you need to succeed at university.
Enrol on our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery
Are you deeply committed to women’s health, childbirth and supporting families, but don’t yet hold the qualifications required to enter a university Midwifery programme? Our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery is designed to help you take that crucial first step towards this rewarding and vital profession.
This diploma is specifically developed for adult learners who want to return to education or make a career change, and who need the core academic knowledge, practical understanding, and confidence to progress to degree-level Midwifery study. Whether you’re starting afresh or building on previous experience, our course offers a flexible, supportive learning structure to help you succeed.
With expert teaching, a clearly structured curriculum, and a focus on preparing you for university, this diploma opens the door to Midwifery degree programmes across the UK. Enrol now and begin your journey toward a fulfilling career supporting mothers, newborns, and their families.
Midwifery Diploma Overview
The Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery is a full-year course designed for those who don’t yet have the traditional qualifications needed for university, but who are passionate about supporting mothers, babies and families during pregnancy, childbirth and beyond.
This Diploma gives you the academic foundation and subject-specific understanding to succeed on a Midwifery degree programme. You will study essential topics such as human biology, reproduction, fetal growth and development, anatomy and physiology, health care practice, psychology, and how healthcare professionals work together. Alongside this, you’ll develop the study skills universities expect: research, essay writing, independent learning, communication, time management and critical thinking.
Upon completion, you will have earned 60 credits (most at Level 3), and be well-prepared to apply to Midwifery degree programmes across the UK. This qualification is your stepping stone into a rewarding healthcare career where you can make a difference in the lives of women, newborns and families.
Ascentis Access to Midwifery Diploma
This course is accredited by Ascentis, the Access Validating Agency (AVA) for the Diploma. All Access to HE Diplomas are regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), which ensures that the qualification meets the high standards required by universities and further education institutions. With this diploma, you will be fully prepared to progress onto a Midwifery degree and take the next step toward becoming a qualified Midwife.
Flexible Enrolment
To make our Access to Higher Education Diplomas as flexible as possible, enrolment is open year-round. You can begin your Midwifery Diploma whenever it suits you and progress through the assignments at your own pace, completing the course as soon as all of your work has been successfully assessed. If you are planning to apply for a university place with a September intake, you should aim to complete your Access Diploma by the end of May to meet application deadlines.
Online Study
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery is delivered entirely online through our dedicated virtual campus. Within the platform, you’ll have access to all the lessons, study materials, and assignments required to complete your course. Throughout your studies, you’ll also be supported by our experienced team, who are on hand to provide guidance and help with any technical queries you may have along the way.
Full Tutor Support
Every student on our Access to Higher Education Diplomas is assigned a personal tutor who will support you throughout your studies. Your tutor will be your main point of contact for questions, as well as the person who marks your work and provides constructive feedback on your assignments. Tutor support is completely unlimited, and we aim to respond to all queries within 1 working day, with assignments marked and returned within 5 working days.
Units on this diploma
This Access to Midwifery covers 17 units, which build up the full Diploma.
Biochemistry is fundamental to understanding life at a molecular level, as it explores the structure and function of biological molecules and the key principles governing cellular processes. This unit focuses on the essential biomolecules—carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids—along with their roles in maintaining life.
Cells are the fundamental units of life, forming the basis of all living organisms. This unit explores the essential principles of cell biology, including the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, membrane structure and transport mechanisms, and the processes of cell division.
This unit provides learners with the opportunity to design and plan an independent biological investigation. It develops essential skills in project formulation, planning, and research design, preparing learners for further study or scientific inquiry in applied and academic contexts. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that the investigation is grounded in biological theory, is feasible within given constraints, and adheres to scientific and academic conventions.
This unit provides learners with the opportunity to carry out a previously planned scientific investigation and to demonstrate competence in practical scientific skills, data handling, and critical reflection. Building on prior work in investigation planning, this unit focuses on the implementation, analysis, and evaluation stages of the scientific process, preparing learners for further study or work in applied scientific and technical fields.
The human skeletal and muscular systems form the structural and functional foundation of the body, providing support, movement, and protection for vital organs. This unit explores the intricate relationship between bones, joints, and muscles, examining their structure, classification, and physiological roles in movement and stability.
The human body is a complex and highly organised system composed of multiple organ systems that work together to maintain life. This unit explores the fundamental aspects of human physiology, focusing on the organisation of the body, the functions of key organ systems, and the vital process of homeostasis.
Infectious diseases have shaped human history, influencing populations, economies, and healthcare advancements. These diseases are caused by pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, helminths, and prions. Pathogens have evolved diverse mechanisms to invade hosts, evade immune responses, and spread within populations, making them a significant challenge to public health.
The Social and Community Welfare Provision unit explores the social issues that influence health and well-being and examines how welfare systems have evolved to meet the needs of individuals and communities. It develops learners’ understanding of the historical and contemporary factors that shape service provision and highlights the importance of values and ethics in professional practice.
The Equal Opportunity and Diversity unit introduces learners to the key concepts, theories, and practices related to promoting equality and valuing diversity in contemporary society. It equips learners with the knowledge and analytical skills required to understand and address different forms of prejudice, stereotyping, and oppression while fostering awareness of the principles underpinning inclusive and equitable practice. The unit supports learners in recognising how discrimination can manifest at individual, cultural, and institutional levels, and how to apply legislative and organisational frameworks that support equality and diversity.
The Ethical Issues in Professional Practice unit introduces learners to the fundamental ethical principles, legal frameworks, and professional responsibilities that underpin decision-making in various care and service contexts. It provides the tools to understand ethical theories, evaluate the relationship between law and ethics, and apply moral reasoning in realistic professional situations.
The Health Promotion unit equips learners with the knowledge and critical understanding needed to explore the purpose, delivery, and impact of health promotion in a range of individual and societal contexts. It introduces key concepts and models of health promotion and enables learners to assess how these influence public health strategies and personal well-being.
This unit explores the foundational role of communication in promoting high-quality care and building positive relationships with service users. It equips learners with the knowledge and understanding necessary to identify effective communication approaches, assess individual communication needs, and recognise and overcome barriers to communication.
The Perspectives of Health unit enables learners to explore how health is understood, influenced, and experienced across different social, cultural, and personal contexts. It develops the ability to analyse how definitions and models of health shape both individual understanding and the delivery of care, and how wider social inequalities affect health outcomes.
The Academic Writing Skills unit equips learners with the tools required to analyse academic questions, produce well-structured written responses, and apply appropriate academic conventions. It focuses on developing the ability to interpret the meaning and implications of specific questions, identify key concepts and terminology, plan responses, and present them clearly and logically using appropriate academic formats and referencing practices.
The Improving Your Own Learning unit supports learners in developing the awareness, strategies, and personal management skills necessary to succeed in further or higher education. It encourages self-reflection, goal-setting, and the application of study skills across a range of academic tasks, promoting autonomy and lifelong learning habits.
The Researching and Understanding Opportunities for Higher Education unit equips learners with the knowledge, planning skills, and personal insight required to make informed decisions about progression into higher education. It supports learners in identifying suitable study options, evaluating the implications of HE pathways, and preparing high-quality applications for their chosen routes.
The Academic Research Skills unit introduces learners to the foundational principles, techniques, and ethical considerations that underpin effective academic research. It supports the development of essential skills for planning, conducting, and evaluating research within a range of subject areas, preparing learners for success in higher education and professional inquiry.
The support on my course was brilliant – I could contact my tutor at any time to get help which made it much faster to work through the units required.
– Elizabeth Ackroyd
The first step on your journey
Access to HE Diploma
Undertake an Access to Higher Education Diploma to qualify for university.
University Degree
Get on to your degree. Study at university towards an undergraduate of your choice.
Job of your dreams!
Become qualified! After completing your university degree you are qualified to work.
Who is this Access to Midwifery Diploma for?
This Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery is for anyone who has a calling to support women, babies and families through pregnancy, childbirth and beyond – yet does not hold the formal qualifications that universities require for a Midwifery degree.
It’s perfect for adult learners returning to education after some time away, people seeking a career change, or those who’ve always aspired to follow a caring, professional role in maternal health but need a strong foundation first.
If you’re looking for a flexible learning route that fits around your life commitments, while building confident academic skills and subject-knowledge, this diploma gives you everything you need. You’ll gain the understanding, the confidence and the preparation to apply to Midwifery degree programmes and take your first step into one of the most rewarding healthcare professions.
Entry requirements
In order to study for this course, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a UK resident and have been for the last 3 years
- Have access to the internet and Microsoft Word or similar
Studying with us
How it works
A comprehensive approach to online study for your Access to HE Diploma
Online Access
Study online using your very own login details.
Personal Tutor
Get access to a personal tutor, dedicated to helping you achieve.
Fast Marking
We offer some of the quickest marking turnaround in the UK.
In-depth lessons
All the lessons and materials are provided on your course.
First Class Support
Speak to our outstanding support staff over the phone or online.
Flexible Study
Login and study any time you like – perfect around other commitments.
University Approved
Our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Midwifery is fully recognised by UK universities as a valid route into degree-level Midwifery programmes. It has been developed in line with the academic standards, subject requirements, and professional expectations set by higher education institutions and regulatory bodies, ensuring your qualification will be accepted by admissions teams.
This diploma is regulated by the QAA (Quality Assurance Agency), and accredited through an Access Validating Agency, so you can be confident it meets the rigour and breadth universities demand. When you complete the course, you’ll have fulfilled many of the entry criteria needed for Midwifery degrees – especially in key areas such as biology, anatomy and physiology, healthcare studies, and academic skills.
By taking this Diploma, you are choosing a qualification that is trusted, relevant, and respected – offering you every opportunity to progress onto a Midwifery degree course at a UK university such as:
University of Liverpool
University of Brighton
University of York
University of Birmingham
University of Manchester
University of West London
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start this Access Diploma?
You can enrol and start this course at any time – enrolments are fully flexible and you have the option to enrol whenever it suits you.
What are the entry requirements?
There are no specific entry requirements for this Diploma. The program is designed to prepare you for university and includes numerous sections which prepare you for higher education but students do not require any specific qualifications on entry to the Diploma.
You will need to be a UK residency to study with us but can reside outside of the UK while studying.
Do I get UCAS points?
Yes you do!
Access to Higher Education Diplomas give students up to 144 UCAS points – the exact points achieved would depend on the grade obtained on each of the 60 credits. The full 144 UCAS points is equivalent to achieving 3 A’s at A Level. You can find out more about the UCAS tariff points using the Tariff Calculator.
How long does it take to pass?
On average, an Access to Higher Education Diploma takes 600 hours of study in total. This equates to around 1 day of learning per week to complete the Diploma in 1 year. All students on our courses have a 2 year enrolment length which gives plenty of time to work through the assignments and complete your Diploma.
Can I pass faster?
Yes you can. Our Access to HE Diplomas allow you to work at your own pace once enrolled and you can submit your assignments as quickly as you like once you are enrolled.
How do you get assessed?
All assessments on this Diploma are done through Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) and there are no exams. Assignments can be completed as soon as you are ready and submitted to your tutor. Once each of these has been signed off, the Diploma is complete.
Assignments on the course include written coursework, research tasks as well as a project which requires planning and completion. Each assignment has a limited number of attempts when you are completing work and full feedback is given by your tutor.
All about Midwifery
What does a Midwife do?
Midwives are specialist healthcare professionals who support women, babies, and families throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. They play a vital role in ensuring safe, positive experiences for mothers and newborns, combining expert clinical knowledge with compassionate care. Typical responsibilities include:
- Supporting pregnancy and antenatal care – Monitoring the health of mother and baby, carrying out regular check-ups, and offering advice on nutrition, lifestyle, and wellbeing.
- Assisting during labour and birth – Providing reassurance, clinical expertise, and hands-on support throughout the birthing process, whether in hospitals, birthing centres, or at home.
- Postnatal care – Helping mothers recover after birth, supporting breastfeeding, and monitoring newborn health in the first weeks of life.
- Guiding and educating families – Offering emotional support, advice, and information to empower parents in caring for their baby.
- Collaborating with healthcare teams – Working alongside doctors, nurses, and other health professionals to ensure safe and effective maternity care.
Midwifery is both a challenging and deeply rewarding profession, centred on care, advocacy, and empowerment. Midwives are there at one of the most important moments in people’s lives, making a lasting impact on families and communities.
Why become a Midwife?
Choosing to become a midwife is a deeply rewarding career path that allows you to support women, babies, and families during one of life’s most important journeys. Here are some key reasons to consider midwifery:
- Make a Lasting Difference – Midwives provide essential care, guidance, and reassurance during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period, leaving a lasting impact on families.
- High Demand & Job Security – With midwives needed across the NHS and private healthcare, the profession offers strong job stability and excellent career opportunities.
- Varied & Meaningful Work – No two days are the same; midwives work in hospitals, birthing centres, and community settings, supporting women in diverse situations.
- Opportunities to Specialise – As your career develops, you can focus on areas such as high-risk pregnancy care, neonatal care, public health, or leadership roles.
- Continuous Growth & Learning – Midwifery is an ever-evolving profession with opportunities for further training, advanced practice, and academic development.
If you’re passionate about women’s health, family care, and making a genuine difference, midwifery could be the perfect career for you.
Speak to our advisors
Unsure on how to get started and need some advice? Our helpful course advisors are here to help!
Talk to an expert on the right Access course for you, how it all works and what you need to do to get enrolled and on your way to your dream career.
Contact an advisor