The Midwifery curriculum is designed to educate and train young ladies to attend expectant mothers in all pregnancy phases, from prenatal to newborn care. This field has proven to open the door to share the gospel and the last-day message to expectant parents. It also is in harmony with the instructions given through the pen of inspiration. “The Bible speaks of women at childbirth being attended by women, and thus it ought always to be. Women should be educated and trained to act skillfully as midwives and physicians to their sex. This is the Lord’s plan.” The General Conference Bulletin , June 4, 1909.
The curriculum begins with the Childbirth Education/Doula course, designed to certify the student to serve as a Childbirth Educator and/or Doula. This comprehensive program will cover the aspects of pregnancy, labour, and postpartum. Topics covered will range from labour techniques and support to newborn care, postpartum adjustment, pregnancy nutrition and fitness, and much more. This course aims to prepare the student not only to teach but to design her own childbirth education classes and develop essential skills necessary to become a trained birth doula professional. Successful completion of this course is a prerequisite to the Certified Professional Midwifery (CPM) program.
The Midwifery course builds upon the foundation laid down in the CE/ Doula course. Areas of study will include Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care. The didactic skills will be followed with a clinical practicum under the supervision of approved CPMs and/or Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs). Upon completing this course, the student will be prepared to take the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) exam to become a Certified Professional Midwife.
Individuals desiring to major in this area must make a formal application to the Midwifery Ministry Department after completing their freshman year. To be admitted to the Midwifery Ministry Department major, the student must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, proficiency in written and spoken English, adequate competency in mathematical skills, and completed reading requirements. The student must also show emotional stability, physical health, responsible time management, spiritual maturity, adequate interpersonal skills, and a commitment to God and the midwifery ministry.