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Midwifery PhD

  • Full-time: 3 to 4 years
  • Part-time: Up to 8 years
  • Start date: October 2022
  • UK fees: To be confirmed
  • International fees: To be confirmed

Research overview

Our research has a truly international outlook and wide-ranging impacts on society, the economy, health and welfare, culture, public policy and the environment.

The School of Health Sciences commands a reputation for world-leading research and education, 96% of the School’s research was ranked as internationally excellent or world leading (REF 2021), with Times Higher Education ranking us joint 4th for research quality. The QS World University Rankings (2022) ranked the SoHS 25th in the world for nursing and 4th in the UK.

A PhD in midwifery allows you to extend your body of knowledge about nursing as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study.

Our research is carried out in collaboration with clinical partners, global research centres and healthcare organisations. We have a dedicated Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare that works with our research groups and healthcare partners to provide methodological input, evidence synthesis and training.

We welcome all applications that strengthen the work of our research groups. Prior to submitting an application, please identify and contact a relevant supervisor. Full details of our PGR supervisors can be found here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/healthsciences/postgraduate/research-supervisors.aspx

Applications are welcomed from enthusiastic, talented and highly motivated individuals with a passion for research and for using research to make a difference.

Subject variations:

  • A PhD in Physiotherapy allows you to extend your body of knowledge about an area of physiotherapy and rehabilitation sciences as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study.
  • A PhD in Nursing Studies allows you to extend your body of knowledge about the subject as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study.
  • A PhD in Health Sciences allows you to extend your body of knowledge about an area of healthcare as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study.

For informal enquiries please contact the Director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Fiona Moffatt.

Course content

Our Midwifery PhD will give you specialist training in the theory and practical techniques you'll need. Plus how to review your findings and write a paper on your project.

You will focus on an original and independent research project, with supervision and support from our research experts. Skills you'll learn include:

  • Knowledge and research skills
  • Personal effectiveness skills
  • Research governance skills
  • Knowledge exchange skills

All modules are optional and bespoke to you. Modules will be chosen based on your discussions with academics.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

For informal enquiries please contact the Director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Fiona Moffatt .

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice .

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your personal budget, including any running costs for your project such as printing or equipment, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies or more specific titles.

The school contributes to some costs relating to conference/course attendance and some research consumables. The full cost of your course will vary depending on the nature of your research project, for example there may be additional costs for projects which require specific equipment or travel and you’ll need to have sourced funds for this. 

For UK students, there are numerous funding opportunities from:

  • National Institute of Health Research (NIHR)
  • Government research councils (such as the Economic and Social Research Council or Medical Research Council )
  • Healthcare charities or foundations

Many of our international students seek funding support from governmental agencies or academic institutions. Find out more about our international scholarships .

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

The School of Health Sciences offers an extensive research seminar programme open to staff and students. In addition, we run regular doctoral events that are accessible to part-time students or those studying or working off campus.

The University and school also provide a wide range of funding opportunities for research networking activities, conference attendance and internships.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Graduate centres

Our graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates.

Each space has areas for:

  • socialising
  • computer work
  • kitchen facilities

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

  • academic and disability support
  • childcare services
  • counselling service
  • faith support
  • financial support
  • mental health and wellbeing support
  • visa and immigration advice
  • welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

  • international students
  • black and minority ethnic students
  • students who identify as women
  • students with disabilities
  • LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

phd in midwifery uk

Where you will learn

Medical school – queen's medical centre.

Our Medical School is based in Queen’s Medical Centre, one of the UK’s largest hospitals.

There are dedicated clinical skills facilities including a dissection suite and teaching laboratories for medicine and healthcare students.

The hospital is located opposite  University Park Campus  and connected by a footbridge for easy access. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

University Park Campus

University Park Campus  covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Recent graduates have gone on to work for:

  • NHS trusts (such as clinical specialists, advanced practitioners, modern matrons)
  • Universities (such as lecturers and senior academics, lecturer practitioners, clinical academics and researchers)
  • Private practices

100% of postgraduates from the School of Health Sciences secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology.

PhD student profile image of Josephine NwaAmaka Bardi

Related courses

Health studies phd, nursing studies phd, physiotherapy phd, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

  • 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
  • 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
  • 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 01 August 2023 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

The University of Manchester

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Midwifery 4yr

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PhD Midwifery (4 years) / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

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Programme description

This postgraduate research programme in midwifery gives you the opportunity to work with internationally renowned scholars engaged in innovative research that will make a difference in people's lives and in health and social care.

We particularly welcome students from all health and social care disciplines who have an interest in exploring related subject areas.

4-year PhD (full time and full time distance learning options only)

This is a four year PhD programme for students who:

  • have not previously studied research methods
  • have studied research methods but not in the UK
  • have limited English language skills
  • have not completed a master's degree.

In this programme, the first year is a foundation year designed to prepare you for the following PhD programme.

This will include completing taught research methods units from our MRes in Health & Social Care , developing a research proposal with your supervision team and English language tuition (if English is not your first language).

We also offer a standard three year PhD programme (as well as MPhil ) for students who do not require the foundation year.

Special features

Training and development

All of our postgraduate researchers attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Researcher Development team . The programme provides key transferable skills and equips our postgraduate researchers with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy. The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Coursework and assessment

Students must submit work at specific stages, review their progress, identify their learning and development needs, and meet with their supervisors throughout their course. Some meetings and evaluations are informal, while others are formal and documented.

4-year PhD  

In order to complete the foundation year and progress to year 2 all students must pass 4 MRes units with a mark of 50% or higher. Students will also write a proposal of about 2,000-2,500 words that will provide a platform for an end of year 1 meeting with supervisors and advisor; this is not formally assessed. Students will also be expected to complete English language tuition as required.

You will submit a continuation report at the end of 23 months. This will summarise your knowledge and skills in your topic of study and your ability to apply this to produce a robust research plan to complete your study. It is examined by two external examiners by a viva examination, and must be passed to progress to Year 3.

At the end of Year 3, you will submit a progress report via eProg for assessment by the supervisors and postgraduate research tutor. At the end of Year 4, the PhD thesis will be examined by an internal and external examiner.

Scholarships and bursaries

Funded programmes and projects are promoted throughout the year. Funding is available through UK Research Councils, charities and industry. We also have other internal awards and scholarships for the most outstanding applicants from within the UK and overseas.

What our students say

The wider facilities of the University are of an excellent standard, with one of the best library collections and resources in Europe.

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Professional Doctorate in Midwifery DMid

Course detail, entry requirements.

  • Study & career progression

A doctorate in Midwifery allows you to delve deep into why we do the things we do as midwives, with a focus on understanding the pragmatic and professional issues within midwifery.

Studying for a professional doctorate with us will allow you time to explore the questions you want to ask that are relevant to your service, to your mums and babies.

At the College of Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare we have a wide range of expertise in research and the education of nurses.

While at the Richard Wells Research Centre , we conduct primary research, undertake guideline development and review and, through its work as an internationally accredited centre for evidence-based practice, carry out comprehensive systematic reviews.

Our particular areas of expertise are:

  • patient safety and infection
  • mental health
  • midwifery and family health
  • learning disability
  • healthcare management and service improvement.

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Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Professional Doctorate in Midwifery with us?

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What our students say…

A strong supervisory team, who were critical yet building, together with ample support from administrative staff got me through this rewarding journey - combined with an overall a sense of camaraderie with fellow doctoral students.

Infographic with the text, 'Turn your career into a doctorate'

You will study two core modules (such as Research Methods for Professional Practice and Research Analysis and Data in the Professions) which prepare you to improve your research skills; as well as studying subject-specific modules to support your research within healthcare (e.g. Understanding Complexity in Healthcare and Evidence Synthesis in Healthcare Research). 

The modules are designed to be applicable to your professional practice, and you will be encouraged to apply their learning within your workplace. Many of our current students have research topics directly related to their professional roles and are collecting data within their workplace.

After taking modules during the first two years of the professional doctorate you will move into an independent research phase, where you will collect your data, analyse and write up your study.

Apart from the resources found in the Richard Wells Research Centre, the College also has a partnership with the NIHR ARC NWL based at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Trust and works closely with Trusts in the local area to support the education and continuing education of local nurses. The College also has a Simulation Centre  a cutting-edge facility that allows high fidelity patient simulations.

  • Year 3 & 4

Compulsory modules

Research methods in professional practice.

The aim of this module is to enable you to develop your theoretical, methodological and research skills to enhance your ability to conduct rigorous research and reach to sound analytical conclusions, which can form the basis for the development of effective service delivery in professional organisations.

Evidence Synthesis In Healthcare Research

The module aims to enable you to:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the purpose of evidence synthesis and the methods used to synthesise evidence from research and other sources

• Develop the knowledge and critical skills required to undertake a scoping review that addresses a clinical/ practice/ service question and identify potential research gaps.

Understanding Complexity in Healthcare Research

The purpose of this module is to provide you with an understanding of the specific issues that arise in researching within the healthcare context. You will utilise a range of exploratory tools which will support you to refine your research and ensure feasibility.

Research Analysis and Data in the Professions

The aim of this module is to enable you to develop your understanding of analysis in both quantitative and qualitative research skills, to enhance your ability to conduct rigorous research, analyse data and reach sound analytical conclusions, which can form the basis for the development of effective service delivery in professional organisations.

Navigating the Research Approval Process: Governance, Ethics and Methodology

The purpose of this module is to provide you with a critical understanding of the complex ethical and governance issues associated with conducting research in healthcare disciplines and systems.

Leading and Connecting Healthcare Research to Practice

The purpose of this module is to provide you with an understanding and the practical skills to lead research within healthcare practice. The module will enable you to develop skills in leadership, negotiating with colleagues, managing your supervisor and understanding your own development as a researcher.

You will carry out an original piece of research and present your work as a 40,000 word thesis. You will work independently with the supervision of your principal and secondary supervisor.

  • Requirements: UK
  • Requirements: International

You must be classified as an EU (or UK) student before starting the course.

You will normally need:

  • a good first degree (first or upper second class) or equivalent in a relevant field
  • a Master’s Degree with Merit or Distinction or equivalent professional experience

In addition, you need to have at least two years' relevant professional experience, endorsed by relevant membership of a professional body or institute. Your research needs to be in an area which falls within the University's research domain to enable the University to appoint relevant supervisors.

You may also enter via non-traditional routes, by demonstrating Masters-equivalent experience and learning. 

  • a minimum IELTS score (International English Language Testing System) of 6.5 (with no element under 6.0) or equivalent. Visit our English language requirements page  for information on other English language tests we accept. You are exempt from this requirement if you have a previous degree obtained in the UK.

Supervisors

Dr claire anderson.

Claire Anderson

Julie Jones

Julie Jones

Professor Heather Loveday

Professor Heather Loveday

Professor Kay Mafuba

Professor Kay Mafuba

Professor Rowan Myron

Associate Professor Rowan Myron

Dr Salim Vohra

Dr Salim Vohra

Study & career progression

A midwife scanning a patient

Students who complete a doctorate in Midwifery have a number of pathways they can follow in their postdoctoral career.

Many students choose to continue with their research and choose to apply for postdoctoral research positions. It is also popular to return to midwifery and bring your research expertise to your next post.

A third pathway some choose is to move into education, using their research expertise and practical experience to inspire and educate the next generation of midwives.

How to apply

  • How to apply: UK
  • How to apply: International

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You can apply online at any time by following the link below.

Our application form will ask you for some information about:

  • what you want to study
  • your previous qualifications or experience
  • your references 
  • how we can contact you.

Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you. Contact us free on:

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Next steps after making your application.

We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.

In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an  open day  or join a campus tour .

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Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.

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Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on [email protected].

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* Modern universities  - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

** The National Student Survey 2022 and 2023 -   Based on an average of all 27 questions. Excludes specialist institutions.

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PhD Midwifery

About the course.

A University of Hertfordshire research degree is an internationally recognised degree signifying high levels of achievement in research. It develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills which are honed over an extended period, depending on the level of the award. You would undertake a substantial, original research project for the duration of the degree, under the supervision and guidance of two or more academic members of staff. Your supervisory team provides guidance both in the selection of a research topic and in the conduct of the research. You are also supported by attendance at postgraduate seminar series to develop subject specific knowledge and research skills relevant to your field of research. The degree is assessed solely on the basis of the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis which must be "defended" in a viva. During the course of the degree, you would be given opportunities to present your work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.

What’s next for my career?

  • An internationally recognised research qualification
  • Developing advanced subject expertise at postgraduate level
  • Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience
  • Employers are looking for high calibre graduates with advanced skills who can demonstrate independence through research

Course fees

  • Research degree fees for UK and EU students
  • Research degree fees for international students

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HR Excellence in Research

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  • History PhD
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Nursing PhD | Midwifery PhD

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The University of Brighton offers interdisciplinary study across a range of allied health and healthcare practice areas.

Programmes are focused on practical wisdom with research students playing an important role in exploring, developing and improving clinical practice. There are opportunities to engage with a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives.

We offer PhD study in both full and part-time modes and welcome students with significant professional experience, who are able to use and share the career skills they have developed, as well as those who have recently completed first degrees and wish to take advantage of their academic momentum.

Nursing PhD

Our postgraduate students in nursing work across diverse practice settings and engage new theoretical perspectives with a view to enhancing practice in a number of areas - including community-based, mental health, paediatric and social care-related -  in statutory, NHS and/or third sector services.

Our research embraces a diverse range of qualitative, quantitative and participatory methods and includes use of the arts, participatory and new methodologies with projects often drawing on personal professional or experiential perspectives. You will be contributing throughout your studies to a research portfolio that has major impact on understanding the experiences of health, illness, the meaning of care and people’s involvement in this and the provision and the systems that support it.

Midwifery PhD

Midwifery and maternity care are open to a wide variety of research questions and designs.

Staff and PhD students offer a community of learning which allows pertinent issues in maternity and midwifery to be explored. As such the area fosters research into specific clinical practice and effects of patterns of care, the midwife/family relationship, midwifery practice, and historical perspectives. Research may be qualitative or quantitative approaches, or explore mixed methods.

Graduates with a PhD in nursing or in midwifery from the University of Brighton proceed to employment in various organisations including NIHR, NHS, university lecturer posts and consultancy, as well as further research.

Apply to 'Health SCIENCES' in the applicant portal

Key information

As a Nursing PhD or Midwifery PhD student at the University of Brighton, you will benefit from:

  • a supervisory team comprising 2-3 members of academic staff. Depending on your research specialism you may also have an additional supervisor from another school, another research institution, or an external partner from government or industry
  • opportunities to present and discuss your own work with other researchers in seminars organised by research centres, groups and the university schools.
  • desk space and access to a desktop PC
  • access to a range of electronic resources via the university’s Online Library, as well as to the physical book and journal collections housed within the Aldrich Library and other campus libraries. 

Academic environment

PhD students in Nursing and in Midwifery take an active role in a range of intellectual and social activities within the university. All postgraduate students are integrated into Centres of Research and Enterprise Excellence (COREs) or Research and Enterprise Groups (REGs). These provide you with a community of like-minded scholars and practitioners and give opportunities to present ‘work in progress’ and network with other researchers.

We provide PhD students with opportunities to work across and gain context from the spectrum of Health Sciences. We believe that this interdisciplinary focus provides our students with an appreciation of real-world problems, and ensures that they are highly employable.

PhD students are provided with a forum for discussion of research activities, for sharing expertise in methods and research approaches and to offer support to all those undertaking or wishing to undertake research in the broad areas of nursing and midwifery. We support all members associated with the area in their research activities, help colleagues with conference presentation preparation, with research planning and publication activities as well as grant applications.

We have links with clinicians and other academics at the University of Brighton and also invite doctoral students to attend the discussion areas. The profile of the area includes midwives, nurses, physiotherapists, podiatrists, occupational therapists and sports scientists.

We also collaborate with staff from other parts of the university, for example, Brighton and Sussex Medical School and with departments in other universities together with clinicians and managers locally.

The Brighton Doctoral College offer a training programme for postgraduate researchers, covering research methods and transferable (including employability) skills. Attendance at appropriate modules within this programme is encouraged, as is contribution to the Schools’ various seminar series. Academic and technical staff also provide more subject-specific training.

Expert supervision for a Nursing PhD is offered, for example, in the nature and meaning of care across a number of contexts spanning acute, primary and community as well as secondary care and across a diverse range of health and long term or illness conditions. This includes contributions to new interventions, digital and technological applications, lifeworld-led care perspectives and new understandings of peoples’ experiences.

We have particular strengths in phenomenology and lifeworld research, action research, ethnography and grounded theory and application of new theory relevant to care and well-being. Our research spans the range of age groups; we are undertaking distinctive research in children, critical care, e-technologies and health, inequalities, as well as growing older and living well in older age, gender and old age, and exploring well-being potential within a wide range of illness and long-term conditions. We are also interested in learning in practice, practice development and caring workforce issues.

Our expert supervision for a Midwifery PhD will allow projects to develop on any aspects of midwifery and maternity care, including: public health in maternity, women’s experiences of care, exercise in pregnancy, the midwifery workforce and historical approaches to a range of questions in midwifery.

Meet our supervisors

Dr heather baid.

Heather is interested in supervising PhD, MSc and MRes students researching topics related to critical care clinical practice, the sustainability of healthcare and the use of simulation within healthcare education.

She has experience planning and conducting her own research, as well as supervising research students, in a variety of different qualitative and quantitative methods such as constructivist grounded theory, cross-sectional survey, qualitative descriptive analysis, case study, evaluation and mixed methods approaches within the research design.

Dr Chris Cocking

I am interested in supervising people with an interest in social psychology, crowd behaviour, or collective action. I am currently interested in public intervention in emergencies/mass casualty incidents (a concept known as 'zero-responders') and public behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic, and its implications for emergency planning and response. Therefore, I would be especially interested in supervising emergency responders and other public health professionals who wish to do PG research. 

I am also interested in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and the broader area of collective resilience in response to general adversity. I would be keen to work with health professionals interested in postgraduate research in any of these areas.  

Dr Theo Fotis

I supervise students doing research in Digital Health, Coproduction of science and technology in the community, Privacy and Cybersecurity in Healthcare, Technology Assessment, consumer health technologies (IoT, wearables, Sensors, apps), user-technology relations, User-led Innovation.

I'm happy to work with prospective PhD students to develop research proposals.

Dr Tania Staras

I am very interested in supervising PhD studies exploring any aspect of histories of healthcare.  My specific expertise is in midwifery and nursing histories, but I am happy to support projects exploring any healthcare profession.  I have expertise in using both written sources and oral histories.  I would also be interested in supporting any histories of women’s reproductive health, particularly exploring aspects of twentieth century care, policy and the media.  More broadly I would be pleased to support studies using qualitative approaches to explore contemporary aspects of maternity/ midwifery/ women’s health.

Dr Laetitia Zeeman

Supervision support can be provided to PhD students who are interested in queer theory, poststructuralism, the application of critical social theory, new materialism, intersectionality and feminist theory in health-related research. Focus areas include LGBTQ+ health and healthcare, health inequalities, resilience, trans health and mental health promotion with the aim to achieve greater health equity. PhD students she has supervised to completion have worked on studies employing critical social theories, new materialism and qualitative creative methods. She has examined PhD/Professional Doctorate studies in the UK and further afield.  

Current PhD students 

  • H Howitt, Mike Phillips, Esther Omotola Ayoola, Amy Middleton, Aile Trumm 

Former PhD students

  • Kim Brown, Tracey Harding, Adam Kincel, Jens Schneider

For further supervisory staff including cross-disciplinary options, please visit research staff on our research website .

Making an  application

You will apply to the University of Brighton through our online application portal. When you do, you will require a research proposal, references, a personal statement and a record of your education.

You will be asked whether you have discussed your research proposal and your suitability for doctoral study with a member of the University of Brighton staff. We recommend that all applications are made with the collaboration of at least one potential supervisor. Approaches to potential supervisors can be made directly through the details available online. If you are unsure, please do contact the Doctoral College for advice.

Please visit our How to apply for a PhD page for detailed information.

Sign in to our online application portal to begin.

Fees and funding

 Funding

Undertaking research study will require university fees as well as support for your research activities and plans for subsistence during full or part-time study.

Funding sources include self-funding, funding by an employer or industrial partners; there are competitive funding opportunities available in most disciplines through, for example, our own university studentships or national (UK) research councils. International students may have options from either their home-based research funding organisations or may be eligible for some UK funds.

Learn more about the funding opportunities available to you.

Tuition fees academic year 2023–24

Standard fees are listed below, but may vary depending on subject area. Some subject areas may charge bench fees/consumables; this will be decided as part of any offer made. Fees for UK and international/EU students on full-time and part-time courses are likely to incur a small inflation rise each year of a research programme.

Contact Brighton Doctoral College

To contact the Doctoral College at the University of Brighton we request an email in the first instance. Please visit our contact the Brighton Doctoral College page .

For supervisory contact, please see individual profile pages.

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A girl stood in front of a film camera with two people in the background

Midwifery MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards mphil and phd degrees in midwifery..

Research at Worcester has grown significantly in the last 10 years as the University itself has expanded. As a research student you will join a vibrant student community in our Research School and become part of our dynamic research environment.

Three Counties School of Nursing and Midwifery

The Three Counties School of Nursing and Midwifery has a strong mix of academics with a high degree of professional and personal experience, enabling you to get the most out of your programme. Our staff have expertise in Clinical Midwifery Skills, supervision of midwives and governance issues, support of students within a diverse care settings, normality, high risk situations, and regulation.

Entry requirements

Entry qualifications.

First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

  • Research or professional experience which has resulted in appropriate evidence of achievement
  • Postgraduate Masters Degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed programme of study
  • First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or equivalent award in an appropriate discipline
  • Research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of achievement

International applicants

International applicants will be required to demonstrate that they have the appropriate level of written and spoken English.

For MPhil/PhD this is an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in every component.

Programme structure

Phd year by year.

After receiving your application, we try to establish if we have the necessary expertise to supervise your project and we begin to form a supervisory team for you. This will normally consist of a Director of Studies (DoS), who will be your lead supervisor, and at least one other supervisor, who will offer you additional support and guidance throughout your studies. If, following a successful interview, you are offered a place as a full-time student, your programme of study will look something like this: 

You will have submitted a draft research outline with your application. In your first year, you will be working towards submitting a more complete research proposal. You will be aided in your research by meeting with your supervisory team to discuss your progress. You will also be supported through your first year by engaging with a series of three modules as part of our Researcher Development Programme:

  • RSDP4001: Developing as a Researcher
  • RSDP4005: Approaches to Research
  • RSDP4004: Planning Your Research Project

At the end of each year, beginning with your first year, you will reflect on and formally review your progress with your supervisory team and MPhil/PhD Course Leader. We call this annual meeting an Annual Progress Review (APR).

Second year

In your second year, you will be collecting data and working on your research project under the supervision of your supervisors through regular meetings. You may at this point have research papers ready to publish and you may wish to attend conferences to present your research to other experts in your field. You will be able to apply to our Research Student Support Scheme for some funding for this purpose. Students normally undergo Transfer from MPhil to PhD towards the end of their second year. This will be part of your Annual Progress Review for this year.

Third and fourth year

In your third and fourth year, you will be writing up your thesis and preparing for your viva voce examination. This is an oral exam with two examiners and a chair. You can also request that your supervisor be present at the exam. The exam will take place after you have submitted your final thesis. After the exam, it is not unusual for the examiners to ask that some amendments be made to your thesis before the final award is confirmed and you will have additional time to do this. It is possible to complete the course in three years, but we have found that the majority of students do take four years to complete the course. At the end of each year of your registration, you will go through an Annual Progress Review.

Access to the University of Worcester’s virtual resources and its state-of-the-art library facilities. The Midwifery team at Worcester have an excellent range of resources available to support your learning and your research project. The School of Nursing and Midwifery has a state-of-the-art clinical skills and simulation centre that is staffed by three dedicated clinical skills technicians. Simulation suites include: hospital, therapy and home environments that are designed to mimic real life settings so that students can practice in realistic healthcare surroundings. The simulation suites are fitted with video recording equipment which is controlled from a central control room.

Programme specification

For comprehensive details on the aims and intended learning outcomes of the course, and the means by which these are achieved through learning, teaching and assessment, please download the latest programme specification document for the MPhil or PhD .

Part time students follow the same structure as full-time students but normally complete the PhD over a period of five to six years. Part-time students take two modules in each of their first two years, and will normally Transfer to PhD in their fourth year.

Research areas

Benefit from a professional and challenging relationship with your supervisory team, drawn from experienced academics working at the forefront of their disciplines.

Supervision areas

Supervisors.

Please click on the name of the supervisor to follow a link to their webpage and find out more about their research interests and potential areas of PhD supervision. We recommend contacting a potential supervisor with your research outline before submitting a formal application, please read our guidelines for writing your research outline first.

Dr Tina Dennis   Expertise: Midwifery philosophy and practice; Professional advocacy. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Dr Lucy Hope   Expertise in peer support for breastfeeding, interested in discovering more about personal experiences during the childbearing continuum. Experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and application to real life maternity care setting.

Dr Ros Weston    Expertise: Narrative Inquiry; Phenomenography; Stories and Storytelling in HEI; Action Research; Midwifery practice: Remote and Rural, Infant Feeding; Inter-professional Learning; Qualitative Methods 

All students engage with our Researcher Development Programme (RDP). The RDP aims to develop and enhance the skills, both generic and specific, that you will need to complete your research degree but also to become an effective researcher. The RDP is organised around thematic clusters, consisting of modules, and workshops, delivered face-to-face by subject specialists from across the University and the dedicated Researcher Development Team, or online through our virtual learning environment.

As part of the RDP, you will complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods (PG Cert). All students must complete the PG Cert in order to progress on their MPhil/PhD Programme. The PG Cert is strongly focused on developing your programme of research, starting from establishing your development needs, and preparing you for the planning and subsequent delivery of your programme of research.

Full-time students will complete the PG Cert in 12 months and part-time students in 24 months.

Fees and funding

How to apply, additional information.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to submit a research outline. We recommend preparing your research outline before beginning your online application. Some guidance on preparing your research outline is available  here.

If your research involves working with vulnerable adults and/or children then you may be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS check. There will be a small charge for this. For more information please contact [email protected] .

We are committed to making reasonable adjustment. If you require an alternative format for making your application due to a disability, please contact us to discuss your needs on 01905 542182 or  [email protected] .

Information about application and interview deadlines

Please make your application via our online application form. If you have any questions, please contact the Research School on 01905 542182 or  [email protected]

Before you submit a full application , please contact Dr Kerry Gaskin ( [email protected] ) to discuss your research project and the availability of appropriate supervision.

January start

September start

Get in touch

Research school, school of nursing and midwifery - similar courses, advanced clinical practice msc/advanced clinical practitioner apprenticeship (acpa) programme msc.

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This shorted Midwifery MSc programme enables Registered Nurses (Adult) to complete a shortened curriculum leading to registration as an NMC registered midwife.

Nursing MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards Nursing MPhil and Nursing PhD degrees.

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This short Independent and Supplementary Prescribing course for healthcare professionals will give you the knowledge and skills to improve patients’ experiences by enabling timely access to treatment and medication.

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Oxford Brookes University

Nursing and Midwifery

MPhil or PhD

Find a course

Start dates.

January 2024 / September 2024

Application deadline

Please allow at least four months between submitting your application and your expected start date, especially if you are an international student arranging a visa.

Headington (Marston Road site)

Course length

Full time: 2 - 3 years

Part time: 3 - 4 years

Oxford School of Nursing and Midwifery

Funding status

Self-funded

OSN+M Research

Contact [email protected]

A research degree with the Oxford School of Nursing and Midwifery allows you to develop your research knowledge and skills to advance Nursing and Midwifery theory and practice. This will contribute to internationally recognised research supported by research active staff and a vibrant, cross-discipline research student community.

The School offers high quality research facilities that can be accessed by both part-time and full-time students. All research students become part of the University's Graduate College, which runs a comprehensive programme of training sessions and workshops to give you the opportunity to acquire both research and transferable skills to advance your career. We complement this with research methodology courses, seminars featuring eminent academics, and the opportunity to present work at the Annual Faculty Research Student Symposium.

We also offer a Professional Doctorate in Nursing (DNurs) and a  Professional Doctorate in Midwifery (DMid)

A nurse standing outside of the JR Hospital

Research expertise

At the Oxford School of Nursing and Midwifery, we aspire to bring together eminent figures in healthcare research through our research. We strive to nurture the next generation of researchers.

The majority of our research is accredited as ‘world-leading’. Meanwhile, our unique partnership across research groups, centres and clinical partners allows us to create the best possible opportunities for our researchers.

Institutes and Centres

  • Oxford Institute of Applied Health Research
  • Centre for Nursing, Midwifery, Health and Social Care Research
  • Children and Families
  • Maternity and Childbirth (OxMater)
  • Supportive Cancer Care and Long-Term Conditions
  • Teaching and Learning Projects
  • Workforce Development

Degree routes

All students enrol as probationer research students. During the first year you will formally register your research proposal for one of the below routes. 

If you undertake an MPhil you will:

  • critically investigate and evaluate an approved topic
  • demonstrate understanding of research methods appropriate to the chosen field
  • Present and defend a substantial thesis by viva.

Length of study : Full-time: 2 years. Part-time: 3 years.

Entry requirement : The minimum entry requirement for an MPhil degree, or an MPhil with the intention of transferring to a PhD, is a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree or equivalent qualification.

Applications are also welcomed from those holding qualifications other than the above and will be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the work proposed. You will be required to provide the names of two academic referees.

MPhil with the possibility of transfer to a PhD

A candidate registered initially for an MPhil may be able to transfer to a PhD, and has to complete a transfer process within the Faculty, once sufficient progress has been made on the work to provide on the evidence of the development to PhD.

This is normally after 18 months of full-time study or 24-26 months of part-time study). Transfer comprises three main elements:

  • a 1000 word transfer report which should be sent to the relevant Postgraduate Research Tutor and the supervisory team
  • an oral presentation and/or interview
  • an additional piece of work as indicated by the Faculty, Department/School or supervisory team.

Length of study : Full-time: 3 years. Part-time: 4 years.

PhD (direct entry)

If you undertake a PhD you will:

  • critically investigate and evaluate an approved topic, resulting in an independent and original contribution to the field
  • present and defend a substantial thesis by viva.

Entry requirement : The normal entry requirement for the degree of PhD is a master’s degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed research and which has included research training and a research project.

In exceptional cases, applicants who have a good honours degree (or equivalent) may apply for direct registration to PhD if they have appropriate research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of accomplishment.

How to apply

Entry requirements.

All students must be able to meet the University’s requirements for a research degree, which is to be able to devote a minimum of 35 hours per week (full-time) or 15 hours per week (part-time) to the programme of research.

The minimum entry requirement for the degree of MPhil, or MPhil with transfer to PhD, is a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree or equivalent qualification.

The normal entry requirement for a PhD is a Masters degree, or exceptionally a good honours degree/equivalent.

English language requirements

Our requirement is IELTS: 6.5-7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking), depending on the subject. Please note that an IELTS certificate must be current; they are only valid for 2 years from issue. For further information about the test visit the IELTS website . Please note that we are unable to accept TOEFL qualifications.

However, there may be some exceptions. See UK Government visa information for more detail on the information.

English requirements for visas

If you need a student visa to enter the UK you will need to meet the UK Visas and Immigration minimum language requirements as well as the University's requirements. Find out more about English language requirements .

Application process

  • If you have a research proposal in mind, explore our research groups and supervisory staff webpages, to identify the relevant research group/s for your research.
  • Check the fees information on the university website. Oxford Brookes Alumni may be entitled to a discount on course fees.
  • Email your CV and an outline of your area of interest to  [email protected] . Give a brief explanation of how your studies will be funded.
  • Once we have the initial information we will liaise with you as necessary and pass the information to the relevant Postgraduate Tutor/s, who will advise whether an application can be progressed. If this is possible we will invite you to submit an application through the university system. 

Tuition fees

Fees quoted are for the first year only. If you are studying a course that lasts longer than one year, your fees will increase each year.

For International fees the following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

Home fees are set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and are released approximately five months before the start of each academic year.

If you have any questions about fees, get in touch with the Research Degrees Team at  [email protected] .

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

  • For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
  • For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy  page

Compulsory costs

Optional costs, funding your studies, financial support and scholarships.

Featured funding opportunities available for this course.

All financial support and scholarships

View all funding opportunities for this course

Related courses

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Cookie statement

  • School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery
  • Nursing and Midwifery

Nursing and Midwifery MPhil and PhD opportunities

We have an excellent track record in supporting postgraduate researchers from around the world. Our research degrees involve independent study, supervised by leading academic staff. You will gain a range of high-level transferable skills that will be a valuable asset whatever your career.

Nursing student examining a happy patient

Research excellence

Sheffield is one of the world's leading research universities. Our work received a top-10 ranking for Research Power in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise.

The School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery has an excellent track record in supporting postgraduate researchers from around the world. Our research degrees involve independent study, supervised by leading academic staff. You will gain a range of high-level transferable skills that will be a valuable asset whatever your career.

Our research is grouped in three areas:

  • Child and Family Health and Wellbeing
  • Enhancing the lives of older people and their families
  • Palliative and End of Life Care

Important points to consider

  • Have you identified any  potential supervisors ?
  • Do you have a well-defined area of interest you wish to address, and are you able to describe your project plans?
  • Have you considered funding for the duration of your studies?

We accept applications to study for a PhD throughout the year but strongly encourage students to register for the autumn Semester (October) in order to benefit from all the activities available at that time. A second point of registration is available in early March. Please refer to our interests and areas of expertise via our staff pages for information on how we might support your research.

If you would like to find out about studying with us, please contact us by emailing:  [email protected]  

Programme Leader:  Ray Wilkinson

Email:  [email protected]

Admissions Support:  Kathryn Sharpe

Email:  [email protected]

Related information

How to apply

Fees and funding

Find a supervisor

Scholarships

Our research

Search for PhD opportunities at Sheffield and be part of our world-leading research.

King's College London

Midwifery research with option of joint phd with hku or nus mphil/phd, key information.

The Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care at King's is a world-leading centre for applied and allied healthcare, clinical research and education. Our focus is on training the healthcare leaders and researchers of the future, with a strong commitment to providing postgraduate programmes of the highest quality. The faculty offers research programmes at MPhil and PhD level. In preparing students to become knowledgeable and competent researchers, supervision is provided by academic staff with expertise in a wide range of research and clinical areas.

The Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care is regarded as a centre of excellence for nursing and midwifery, achieving high scores in research and teaching quality assessments. The first MPhil/PhD students enrolled in the late 1970s and since then the faculty has expanded steadily its range of high quality graduate education programmes to meet the needs of increasingly well-educated healthcare professionals who wish to continue their education to support and develop their careers.

The purpose of our research is to improve the quality of services and outcomes for patients through studies concerned with individual clinical needs, service delivery and organisation and the wider social and policy context of care, nationally and internationally. Our research work is underpinned by cross cutting principles: engagement with patient and user perspectives, commitment to conceptual and methodological innovation, attention to the policy relevance and practical application of our findings through interventions.

The faculty is an integral partner within King’s Health Partners (KHP) and contributes to the interdisciplinary research centres in supporting and delivering high quality research.

Our results in the latest REF (Research Excellence Framework, the UK’s system for assessing research quality in universities) highlighted the combined strength and impact of applied health research at King’s. Of the 89 submissions made by UK universities to the REF’s Unit of Assessment 3 (UoA3), King’s was 1st for overall research rated 4* (the highest possible mark), 1 st for number of research outputs being rated 3* or 4* with 206.87 papers awarded these ratings, 1st for impact rated 4* with 86.4% of impact case studies rated 4*, and 1st for Grade Point Average and Power.

Our research activity is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Research Councils and a range of charities. We host a range of nationally competitive fellowships from PhD studentship to post-doctoral level.

PhD Research Projects

PhD projects in the Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care become available all year round. Please visit our postgraduate research page , where you can browse through the current opportunities. The faculty is especially interested in receiving applications from students across the globe, who are planning their doctoral research projects in fields that will contribute to the faculty’s research groups, enhance the research culture and align with the faculty’s research strategy.

Joint PhDs - Benefits of collaboration

The Joint PhD is an innovative integrated programme that offers unique opportunities for the very best PhD supervision in an international context. The programme offered provides candidates with the opportunity to divide their PhD study between three prestigious universities (King’s, the University of Hong Kong and the National University of Singapore), enjoying full supervision at both. While supervisions and regular graduate seminars enable students to construct a theoretical, historical and systematic framework for their research, the Joint PhD also organizes international colloquia and workshops at which students can present and discuss their work with peers and academic staff across the institutions involved. The programme builds on an extensive network of existing institutional links, joint teaching experience and collaborative graduate programmes between King’s and our partner universities.

Find out more about our faculty supervisors and research projects . 

  • How to apply
  • Fees or Funding

UK Tuition Fees 2023/24

Full time tuition fees:

£7,500 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

£7,500 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with University of Hong Kong)

£7,500 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with the National University of Singapore)

Part time tuition fees: £3,750 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

International Tuition Fees 2023/24

£28,260 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

£28,260 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with University of Hong Kong)

£28,260 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with the National University of Singapore)

Part time tuition fees: £14,130 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

UK Tuition Fees 2024/25

£7,950 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

£7,950 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with University of Hong Kong)

£7,950 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with the National University of Singapore)

Part time tuition fees: £3,975 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

International Tuition Fees 2024/25

£30,240 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

£30,240 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with University of Hong Kong)

£30,240 per year (MPhil/PhD, Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care Research with the National University of Singapore)

Part time tuition fees: £15,120 per year (MPhil/PhD, Midwifery Research)

These tuition fees may be subject to additional increases in subsequent years of study, in line with King's terms and conditions.

  • Study environment

Base campus

waterloo-banner

Waterloo Campus

Waterloo campus is home of the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery and facilities for other faculties

The Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care offers a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. In the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) 2015, results for the Faculty indicated that student experience was positive about all aspects of supervision, skills and development, infrastructure, intellectual climate, and knowledge of roles and responsibilities within the Faculty. Research students are allocated a supervisory team led by an experienced principal supervisor. The team meet regularly with the student for supervision and review of progress. Progress is also reviewed formally by the Faculty Postgraduate Research Students Committee at set points in the academic year. Supervisors provide advice on training needs and career development. Student representatives for full-time and part-time students play an important role in communicating student feedback about learning experiences and the support infrastructure to inform ongoing programme development. Research students have a study suite in the James Clerk Maxwell Building and access to Graduate Lounges on the different campuses.

Students on the MPhil/PhD programme are immersed in the academic culture and are encouraged to engage in a wide range of learning opportunities. Students will normally undertake two core research methods modules: Advanced quantitative research methods offers an in-depth study of quantitative research methods including epidemiological studies and randomised controlled trials, and Advanced qualitative research methods offers an in-depth study of different qualitative methods and their relationship to epistemological theory. Students can also access doctoral training courses organised by King's Graduate School and the ESRC training centre where places permit, and all students are encouraged to become actively involved in research seminars and fora. Research students are encouraged to present their doctoral research at conferences and a School competition fund exists to support this.

Support for Postgraduate Research Students within the Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care

  • A model of three-supervisors has been introduced to improve students’ support and access to clinical and methodological expertise. Where appropriate and required, MPhil/PhD students within the Faculty will be provided with a team of three supervisors.
  • Research methods training modules offered by the Faculty itself include Advanced Quantitative Research Methods; Advanced Qualitative Research Methods; Evidence Based Decision Making in Healthcare; Research Methods and Statistics; and Epidemiology.
  • Our own Nightingale-Saunders Clinical Trials & Epidemiology Unit offers an advanced level of expertise on quantitative topics of which students can avail.
  • In addition, our MPhil/PhD students have access to a wide range of supplementary courses and activities, including workshops, symposia and funding offered by Centre of Doctoral Studies, the Health Sciences Doctoral Training Centre (HSDTC) and the London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS DTP).
  • The Faculty also runs three Journal Clubs (for Nursing & Midwifery, Mental Health and the Cecily Saunders Institute of Palliative Care respectively) and students have an opportunity to participate in fortnightly research seminar programmes delivered by one of the research divisions. Students’ active involvement in developing the range of activities and their delivery is strongly encouraged.

Meet our students and learn more about the great work they are doing.

  • Entry requirements

For more information regarding our courses please contact us using the details below

phd in midwifery uk

Centre for Doctoral Studies

phd in midwifery uk

Funding & Scholarships for PhD students

The Centre for Doctoral Studies helps secure funding for students...

phd in midwifery uk

Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care

Improving the care of patients and those important to them.

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Course type

Qualification, university name, postgraduate midwifery.

59 degrees at 37 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

About Postgraduate Midwifery

A midwife provides support and care during pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period. They help people make informed choices and are the lead professional for all women with uncomplicated pregnancies.

Postgraduate midwifery students will become experts in antenatal and postnatal care, as well as the childbirth process. It will prepare you for work in hospitals, birthing centres and in people’s homes.

There are almost 40 universities offering around 60 postgraduate courses in midwifery across the UK, ranging from postgraduate certificates and diplomas to master’s in advanced practice, as well as doctoral research programmes.

What to expect

You’ll usually need an undergraduate degree to study a postgraduate certificate, postgraduate diploma or master's degree in midwifery. If that degree is not in a related health care subject, you’ll need to demonstrate a strong interest in the area, along with lots of relevant practical experience.

If your degree is in nursing, you can take a fast-track pre-registration midwifery programme rather than a postgraduate course. It lasts 80 weeks, and you graduate with a degree in midwifery. There is no need to take an additional postgraduate qualification if you already hold a midwifery degree.

After qualifying and gaining a midwifery role, you'll have Continuing Professional Development (CPD) meetings where you discuss future career goals and keep your skills and knowledge up to date.

It’s worth remembering that while it’s an incredibly rewarding career, midwives have a lot of responsibility. The role can be mentally and physically challenging as you'll be on your feet a lot and involved in difficult situations such as bereavement and abuse.

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  • Course title (Z-A)
  • Price: high - low
  • Price: low - high

MSc Advanced Clinical Practice (Midwifery)

Middlesex university.

Our Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) degree will enable you as an experienced practitioner working at an advanced level to meet the Read more...

  • 3 years Part time degree: £2,520 per year (UK)

Midwifery Studies MSc

Bangor university.

Underpinned by the latest development in women’s health, midwifery and maternity care, this exciting new programme will be of interest to Read more...

  • 3 years Part time degree

Professional Doctorate in Midwifery

Oxford brookes university.

The Professional Doctorate in Midwifery (DMid) is a part-time doctoral programme designed to enable midwives to undertake doctoral level Read more...

  • 5 years Online/Distance degree: £4,100 per year (UK)

Midwifery MSc

University of bedfordshire.

You will work within the six domains of the NMC Standards of proficiency for midwives (2019), that confer eligibility to register with Read more...

  • 2 years Full time degree: £9,350 per year (UK)

Midwifery MSc (Shortened programme)

University of worcester.

What makes Midwifery MSc (Shortened programme) at the University of Worcester special* This exciting new programme has been developed to Read more...

  • 2 years Full time degree: £9,250 per year (UK)

Midwifery with Registered Midwife MMid

Kingston university.

This three-year masters course has been designed for graduates who would like to gain the knowledge, skills and values necessary to Read more...

  • 3 years Full time degree: £9,250 per year (UK)

Midwifery MSc (Hons)

University of bradford.

The government has outlined new funding for nursing, midwifery and other allied health professions courses. From September 2020, UK/EU Read more...

Midwifery PhD

University of nottingham.

Our research has a truly international outlook and wide-ranging impacts on society, the economy, health and welfare, culture, public Read more...

  • 3 years Full time degree: £5,100 per year (UK)
  • 8 years Part time degree

MSc Midwifery (Shortened)

University of plymouth.

This programme provides Registered Adult Nurses, who already have a relevant degree, with the opportunity to study Midwifery at Masters is Read more...

MSc (Pre Registration) Midwifery 3 Years

University of salford.

Midwives offer care and support to pregnant women, birthing people, their partners, and their families. They provide care throughout the Read more...

PG Diploma Midwifery

London south bank university.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery aims to Develop midwives who meet the Standards of proficiency for midwives (NMC 2019) and Read more...

PG Cert Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals

University of wolverhampton.

The course takes place over three semesters leading to 60 level 7 credits and a Post Graduate Certificate Award in Non-Medical Prescribing Read more...

  • 1 year Part time degree

Midwifery (Shortened) MSc

University of central lancashire.

Our MSc Midwifery short course for Registered Nurses is an intensive programme designed to develop your abilities as a professional Read more...

  • 20 months Full time degree: £9,000 per year (UK)

MSc Midwifery

Edge hill university.

Are you a qualified nurse seeking dual registration as a midwife Do you have a minimum of one year’s practice in adult nursing Do you want Read more...

  • 20 months Full time degree: £9,250 per year (UK)

University of West London

Our PhD in Midwifery allows you to delve deep into the theory and research of why we do the things we do as midwives. Studying for a PhD Read more...

  • 4 years Full time degree: £3,995 per year (UK)
  • 6 years Part time degree: £2,000 per year (UK)

Northumbria University, Newcastle

This is a pre-registration course Are you a compassionate person who wants to ensure women have a safe and life-enhancing experience Read more...

University of Brighton

Midwifery and maternity care are open to a wide variety of research questions and designs. Staff and PhD students offer a community of Read more...

  • 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
  • 7 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Teesside University, Middlesbrough

This course is suitable for registered midwives who have successfully completed the PgDip midwifery course at level 7. This course is Read more...

  • 1 year Full time degree: £1,965 per year (UK)
  • 1 year Part time degree: £1,965 per year (UK)

Enhanced Professional Midwifery Practice, MSc / PGDip / PGCert

Swansea university.

Enhance your midwifery knowledge, clinical reasoning, and decision-making skills with our work-based Master’s degree in Enhanced Read more...

  • 3 years Online/Distance degree: £2,950 per year (UK)

Enhanced Midwifery Care MSc

City, university of london.

Are you a qualified midwife looking to learn about the latest developments in midwifery, and to contribute to original research that Read more...

  • 1 year Full time degree: £11,800 per year (UK)
  • 2 years Part time degree: £6,250 per year (UK)

1-20 of 59 courses

Course type:

  • Distance learning

Qualification:

Universities:.

  • University of Bolton
  • University of Stirling
  • King's College London, University of London
  • Edinburgh Napier University
  • Ulster University
  • Birmingham City University
  • University of Sunderland
  • Keele University
  • University of Cumbria
  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • University of Manchester
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • Robert Gordon University
  • Queen's University Belfast
  • University of Sheffield
  • University of the West of Scotland
  • University of Derby

Related Subjects:

Newborn baby feet

POSTGRADUATE TAUGHT SUBJECT AREA 

About Midwifery

Midwifery has many facets as the Lancet series 2014 states - A frequent view is that midwifery is about assisting childbirth. It is, but it is also much more than that. As defined in the series, midwifery is the “skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate care for childbearing women, newborn infants and families across the continuum throughout pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, birth postpartum, and the early weeks of life.” including family planning and the provision of reproductive health services. (Lancet 2014). The core modules of the MSc Midwifery pathway are underpinned by the work of the Lancet series. This MSc pathway is specifically designed for qualified midwives, who have already experienced studying midwifery at an undergraduate level.

Midwifery tutorial

Why Study Midwifery?

The role of the midwife in promoting normal, physiological birth is the main focus of this course and Bangor University is the only university in Wales with UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) accreditation. At Bangor the MSc Midwifery Studies students will develop their in-depth knowledge and understanding of key elements of a midwife's role including:

  • The public health role of the midwife
  • How physiological childbirth can be promoted and maximised within contemporary maternity services.
  • How the childbirth experience can be optimised for all women and their families.
  • Research approaches within health and social care.

Students will develop a critical understanding of the midwife’s role in the improvement of health and well being and the skills needed to optimise the childbirth experience. Students will further develop their skills in working with and for women and communities to optimise the childbirth experience, promote and protect equality, diversity and the rights of individuals. Those progressing to the full MSc Midwifery Studies will also learn how to generate and interpret relevant research evidence and apply it in practice.

Midwifery Courses

Find out about the course options in this subject area. 

Careers Opportunities as a Midwife

In addition to equipping any midwife with additional knowledge and skills that would enhance his or her autonomy within practice, this programme will equip midwives with the necessary knowledge and skills required to seek employment opportunities at a senior level, for example: as a consultant midwife, practice development and leadership roles.

Midwifery students training on a dummy

Meet our Staff

You can enjoy teaching of a high standard delivered by true experts in their field. Take a look at our staff profiles to find out more.

Bangor University Main Arts building

Research Opportunities

The academics involved with this MSc are actively involved in research and have extensive links with external bodies, which are fully utilised in ensuring that the modules are relevant to the modern work and research environment graduates will enter. They are also all experienced Midwives who still have active links to the local Health Board ensuring that modern clinical practice is embedded within the programme.

You may also be interested in these related subject areas.

Laboratory setting

Health Sciences

Students in the lab conducting class tests

Medical Education

Students in a training session

Medical Sciences

Visualisation of a brain

Neuroscience

Sport Science study on person undertaking exercise

Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences

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COMMENTS

  1. PhD/MPhil Maternal and Child Health/Midwifery

    SHPS Doctoral Enquiries. +44 (0) 20 7040 5972. [email protected]. The PhD/MPhil in Maternal Health, Midwifery or Child Health gives you the chance to conduct original, high quality research to benefit the healthcare and wellbeing of women, infants and children.

  2. PhD Midwifery

    A PhD in Midwifery allows you to delve deep into the theory and research of why we do the things we do as midwives. ... We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday - Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on [email protected]. Email us about a course or studying at UWL To apply for one of our research courses, click the green 'apply ...

  3. Midwifery PhD 2024

    The QS World University Rankings (2022) ranked the SoHS 25th in the world for nursing and 4th in the UK. A PhD in midwifery allows you to extend your body of knowledge about nursing as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study.

  4. PhD Degrees in Midwifery

    University of West London. (3.7) Our PhD in Midwifery allows you to delve deep into the theory and research of why we do the things we do as midwives. Studying for a PhD Read more... 4 years Full time degree: £3,995 per year (UK) 6 years Part time degree: £2,000 per year (UK) Apply now Visit website Request info. Compare.

  5. PhD Midwifery (4 years)

    For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows: PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000. International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500. PhD (full-time distance learning)

  6. 25 PhD programmes in Midwifery

    21,744 EUR / year. 3 years. This Nursing and Midwifery PhD programme from the University of Huddersfield allows you to explore and pursue a research project built around a substantial piece of work, which has to show evidence of original contribution to knowledge. Ph.D. / Full-time, Part-time / On Campus.

  7. PhD Midwifery (4 years)

    4-year PhD (full time and full time distance learning options only) This is a four year PhD programme for students who: have not previously studied research methods. have studied research methods but not in the UK. have limited English language skills. have not completed a master's degree. In this programme, the first year is a foundation year ...

  8. PhD programmes in Midwifery in England, United Kingdom

    The PhD in Midwifery (4 years) programme at The University of Manchester enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Midwifery. Ph.D. / Full-time / On Campus The University of Manchester Manchester, England, United Kingdom

  9. Professional doctorate in midwifery

    A doctorate in Midwifery allows you to delve deep into why we do the things we do as midwives, with a focus on understanding the pragmatic and professional issues within midwifery. Studying for a professional doctorate with us will allow you time to explore the questions you want to ask that are relevant to your service, to your mums and babies ...

  10. PhD

    About the course. A University of Hertfordshire research degree is an internationally recognised degree signifying high levels of achievement in research. It develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills which are honed over an extended period, depending on the level of the award.

  11. 13 Ph.Ds in Midwifery in United Kingdom

    The PhD in Midwifery (4 years) programme at The University of Manchester enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Midwifery. Ph.D. / Full-time / On Campus. The University of ManchesterManchester, England, United Kingdom. Ranked top 0.5%. Add to compare.

  12. Nursing PhD

    Academic environment. PhD students in Nursing and in Midwifery take an active role in a range of intellectual and social activities within the university. All postgraduate students are integrated into Centres of Research and Enterprise Excellence (COREs) or Research and Enterprise Groups (REGs). These provide you with a community of like-minded ...

  13. Nursing & Midwifery (NAM-PHD)

    Student Experience. The School of Nursing and Midwifery provides a vibrant environment for postgraduate research training. There are currently 60 students undertaking a wide-range of social science and health research projects who work closely with academic staff across the school.

  14. Midwifery MPhil/PhD

    For more information please contact [email protected]. We are committed to making reasonable adjustment. If you require an alternative format for making your application due to a disability, please contact us to discuss your needs on 01905 542182 or [email protected]. Information about application and interview deadlines. MPhil; PhD

  15. Professional Doctorate in Midwifery

    The Professional Doctorate in Midwifery (DMid) is a part-time doctoral programme that will enable you to study whilst continuing in your current midwifery role. The programme aims to nurture independent, critically reflective and competent researchers who are equipped to lead and develop Midwifery research, either independently or as part of a team.

  16. MPhil or PhD in Nursing and Midwifery at Oxford Brookes University

    A research degree with the Oxford School of Nursing and Midwifery allows you to develop your research knowledge and skills to advance Nursing and Midwifery theory and practice. This will contribute to internationally recognised research supported by research active staff and a vibrant, cross-discipline research student community. The School offers high quality research facilities that can be ...

  17. Nursing and Midwifery MPhil and PhD opportunities

    We have an excellent track record in supporting postgraduate researchers from around the world. Our research degrees involve independent study, supervised by leading academic staff. You will gain a range of high-level transferable skills that will be a valuable asset whatever your career.

  18. PhDs in Midwifery

    Studying a PhD in Midwifery is an exciting and rewarding journey. You will have the opportunity to explore various aspects of midwifery, from antenatal care to postnatal support, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Your research may focus on improving maternal and infant health outcomes, developing evidence-based ...

  19. Midwifery Research with option of joint PhD with HKU or NUS

    The Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care is regarded as a centre of excellence for nursing and midwifery, achieving high scores in research and teaching quality assessments. The first MPhil/PhD students enrolled in the late 1970s and since then the faculty has expanded steadily its range of high quality graduate ...

  20. midwifery PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

    Applications are invited for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) PhD scholarships in Health and Social Care, aligned to the departments of Nursing and Midwifery and Allied Health Professions, commencing 1st October 2024. Read more. Supervisor: Dr SB Bhanbhro. 15 May 2024 PhD Research Project Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide ...

  21. Midwifery Postgraduate Degree Courses in UK

    London South Bank University. (4.1) The Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery aims to Develop midwives who meet the Standards of proficiency for midwives (NMC 2019) and Read more... 2 years Full time degree: £9,250 per year (UK) Apply now Visit website Request info. Compare.

  22. 18 Ph.Ds in Midwifery

    31,477 EUR / year. 3 years. The PhD in Midwifery programme at The University of Manchester enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Midwifery. Ph.D. / Full-time, Part-time / Online, On Campus. The University of Manchester Manchester, England, United Kingdom. Ranked top 0.5%.

  23. Midwifery

    As defined in the series, midwifery is the "skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate care for childbearing women, newborn infants and families across the continuum throughout pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, birth postpartum, and the early weeks of life." including family planning and the provision of reproductive health services. (Lancet 2014).

  24. Queen's transformative research profiled at Balmoral Show

    Search our Research Find a PhD. International. International Students overview. Applying to Queen's; English Language Requirements; ... Lecturer from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, said: "Balmoral Show is a brilliant opportunity to get out and engage with the community, showing them the technology the School of Nursing and Midwifery ...