Skip to content
NHS Education for Scotland NMAHP Development Framework

Becoming a midwife

If you are looking to start a career in midwifery, visit the NHS Scotland Careers site Midwifery page.

To become a midwife in Scotland, you must complete a Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) approved programme of education. 

In Scotland, three universities offer NMC approved Midwifery degree programmes. To find a specific programme use the search function on My World of work.

This route typically takes 3 years of full-time study.

Entry requirements: 

  • Robert Gordon University / Edinburgh Napier University
    4 Highers (minimum BBBC) including English and Biology or Human Biology. 
  • University of the West of Scotland
    4 Highers (AABB) including English and Biology or Human Biology. 
  • National 5
    Grade C in Maths or Applications of Maths. 

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL):

  • If you have prior qualifications or experience, your chosen university may consider this through APL. Contact the university for more details. 

This route is available to existing healthcare support workers or individuals who do not meet direct entry requirements for the degree programme.

Entry Requirements: 

  • 2 SQA Highers or SCQF Level 6 equivalent. 

The Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Healthcare Practice is a recognised entry route for Midwifery degree programmes, provided you meet additional national qualifications required by the university. 

Some NHS Boards offer the HNC route to existing maternity support workers and maternity care assistants. For more information, contact your employer or local practice education team.  

You can also search My World of Work for further details.

This route is for individuals who already have an undergraduate degree in any subject. The course typically takes 3 years to complete.

Postgraduate degree programmes are available at Master’s-level route at SCQF level 11 for pre-registration midwifery.

For more information search My World of Work.

This route is for qualified midwives who wish to return to practice. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has specific requirements for readmission to the register. You can find detailed information on this process on the NMC website – Readmission requirements. 

Please note: Return to Practice is designed for individuals that have previously held an NMC registration in the United Kingdom. If you have studied midwifery outside the UK and have never held an NMC registration you must follow the process outlined by the NMC for internationally trained professionals. Visit the NMC’s Trained outside the UK page.