The curriculum is divided

into six sections...

...each with specific objectives...

...received as a whole...

...may be submitted

in any order.

Section 1

introduces the student to the terminology requisite to an in-depth study of midwifery. Enrollees find dozens of ‘new’ words among the 425 listed. (150 definitions required; many add hundreds more to their data base.) Completion of this section will familiarize the student with related obstetric and medical terminology, increase comprehension, facilitate research skills, and improve reading speed of technical data. Assignments from a terminology textbook or a college level terminology course are also required.

Section 2

is designed to familiarize the student with available resources, encourage careful note-taking and documentation, emphasize the importance of critical reading and comparison of information, and increase awareness of available reading material and its value for expectant parents. Requirements are met by keeping a detailed reading record, writing an abstract, completing 8 evaluation forms, writing 2 critiques, 1 textbook overview, and evaluating conference tapes and videos.

Section 3

is the supplemental studies section. Among the choices are documentation of a degree or certification in a related discipline, college level anatomy/physiology classes attending a Midwifery Skills Lab or completion of a designated Intensive Study Module.

Section 4

is designed to increase technical knowledge. Careful reading and comparison of material from two required texts is emphasized as the student is encouraged to challenge ‘facts’ or opinions and reference other sources.

Section 5

requires 50 files for research; 15 Research Files (not ‘papers’) must be submitted. An audit of other files is conducted by telephone. In addition to enhancing research skills, and greatly increasing knowledge in specific areas, this section will help illuminate areas of weakness and special interest for each student. The student will also learn to create a compendium of information on any topic which can later be used to provide material for articles or information sheets.

Section 6

is a more eclectic section: 185 assignments, including worksheets, diagrams and projects. This section is designed to fill in the gaps, increase comprehension of difficult concepts, review important points, solidify knowledge, identify specific problems inherent to the practice of midwifery and recognition of the needs of the childbearing community. Work in this section will also provoke consideration of related issues and their relevance to a midwifery practice, encourage community service, and the promotion of midwifery (public relations). Basic business practices are covered. The curriculum also provides ideas for enhancing working relationships with clients and peers. Section 6 assignments encourage aggressive investigation of resources and inspire further study in areas of interest. A curriculum vitae or résumé must also be submitted (we include detailed instructions). Before graduation each student must pass the Midwifery Scholastic Achievement Test, a proctored test written by our graduates, an oral exam, an online terminology exam and a topical exam based on the student's specialties. The final requirement is to review and prepare for the Advanced Midwifery Studies Certification Exam by completing a personal assessment checklist.