Master of Midwifery
Choose this intensive programme if you want to pursue independent research and scholarship. This internationally recognised programme has a strong focus on research and theory. You can also build on your Postgraduate Diploma with another year to achieve the degree.
Domestic
July
About the programme
Already practising as a registered midwife but want to develop advanced skills through independent research and scholarship?
This internationally-recognised programme has a strong research focus and builds on the knowledge and skills gained during the Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery through the provision of more demanding and intensive study.
During this programme, you will benefit from the support and advice from experienced lecturers and make use of our extensive networks to increase your career prospects. You'll need to attend two Thesis Schools each year; these are online so you can attend from wherever you are studying. The Thesis Schools are an opportunity for you to present your progress to lecturers and your peers in the programme, to seek feedback and contribute to the discussions about the work of others, a fertile ground for great ideas!
Studying part-time
We know part-time study isn't always possible so we offer a part-time study option for this programme - talk to us about what will suit you best!
International
July
About the programme
Already practising as a registered midwife but want to develop advanced skills through independent research and scholarship?
This internationally-recognised programme has a strong research focus and builds on the knowledge and skills gained during the Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery through the provision of more demanding and intensive study.
During this programme, you will benefit from the support and advice from experienced lecturers and make use of our extensive networks to increase your career prospects. You'll need to attend two Thesis Schools each year; these are online so you can attend from wherever you are studying. The Thesis Schools are an opportunity for you to present your progress to lecturers and your peers in the programme, to seek feedback and contribute to the discussions about the work of others, a fertile ground for great ideas!
Studying part-time
We know part-time study isn't always possible so we offer a part-time study option for this programme - talk to us about what will suit you best!
What You Study
Thesis or dissertation
There are two options for completing this programme.
You can complete a 120 credit midwifery thesis or in some instances a 60 credit midwifery dissertation.
The thesis option enables you to complete a piece of original research based on higher order skills of analysis and critical evaluation.
Both pathways also require the completion of two compulsory prerequisite courses: Knowledge and Theory in Midwifery, and Research Methods in Midwifery.
Further study options
Opportunities for further research and enrolment in PhD programmes are available elsewhere in New Zealand and overseas.
Midwifery organisations
- The New Zealand College of Midwives (NZCOM) is the professional organisation and recognised 'voice' for midwives and student midwives in New Zealand. It represents more than 2800 members: NZ College of Midwives.
- Ngā Maia o Aotearoa me to Wai Pounamu (Ngā Maia) is the national organisation representing Māori birthing. The kaupapa of Ngā Maia focuses on Māmā, Pēpi and Whānau and promoting Matauranga Māori in pregnancy and childbirth: Ngā Maia.
- The International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) supports, represents and works to strengthen professional associations of midwives on a global basis. At present ICM have more than 90 member associations in more than 70 countries. The ICM works with midwives and midwifery associations globally to secure women's right and access to midwifery care before, during and after childbirth: International Confederation of Midwives.
- The Midwifery Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) is the regulatory body for New Zealand midwives. It is responsible for the health and safety of women and babies during the childbirth process by providing mechanisms to ensure that midwives are competent and fit to practise midwifery: Midwifery Council NZ.
Workload
Your workload
Each course requires working through online resources and participating in online discussions. There will be additional reading and preparation of assessments. Individual pathways and hours will vary but across each semester it is reasonable to plan approximately ten hours per week, per course.
You'll also need to attend two Thesis Schools each year; these are online so you can attend from wherever you are studying.
The Thesis Schools are an opportunity for you to present your progress to lecturers and your peers in the programme, to seek feedback and contribute to the discussions about the work of others, a fertile ground for great ideas!
Entry
Entry requirements
- You must be a registered midwife and hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery with a B grade average, OR equivalent.
- Consideration for direct entry into the 180-credit Master's programme will require presentation of a portfolio which demonstrates appropriate academic and personal skills. These include:
- Completion of 60 credits of postgraduate study (or equivalent)
- Eligibility for cross-crediting of postgraduate level courses completed elsewhere
- Portfolio of publications
- Presentation of a comprehensive and well-structured research proposal
- Completed research projects or ongoing involvement in collaborative research projects which demonstrate understanding and facility with research processes
- Midwifery experience which could include an extensive practice history including project work undertaken during self- or institutional employment.
- International students will be individually assessed to ensure they meet the entry requirements. Click here for your country's equivalent entry criteria.
For New Zealand registered midwives:
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- Overall Academic IELTS 7.5 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
For International midwifery students who are not registered in New Zealand:
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- Overall Academic IELTS 6.5 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years)
- Speaking band >/=7.0
- Listening band >/=7.0
- No individual band less than 6.0, OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
- Overall Academic IELTS 6.5 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years)
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Fees
Domestic fees
International fees
Multi-year fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied.
Studylink
Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink.
Some support may be available for domestic part-time students.
Apply at the same time as you apply for your course (you can withdraw your application anytime).
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
The international tuition fee does not include your Student Levy. This will be calculated when you enrol with us.
Click below to find out more about the Student Levy costs and services provided.
Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.
Application
Chat with us before applying
You are encouraged to consult at an early stage with the Postgraduate Coordinator Suzanne Miller (suzanne.miller@op.ac.nz) and can enrol in your programme at any time following this consultation.
