Introduction to Midwifery unit (CNA624)

Online

Introduction

This unit introduces you to the roles and scope of midwifery practice. The philosophy of Woman-Centred Care is explored through a Primary Health Care framework. Opportunities to examine models of care that integrate choice, continuity, and control for the woman surrounding the birthing experience are provided. You will build on your knowledge of human bioscience and behavioural sciences to develop an understanding of the psychological, anatomical, physiological and social aspects of pregnancy and fetal development. You will also develop skills to support the pregnant woman and her family during her childbearing experience. This unit is one of six units that make up the Graduate Diploma of Midwifery and contribute knowledge, skills and attributes required for competent beginning-level midwifery practice. By the completion of the course, you will be required to demonstrate your acquisition of the current NMBA Midwife Standards for Practice (2018).  

Summary

Unit name	Introduction to Midwifery
Unit code	CNA624
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Health School of Nursing
Discipline	Nursing
Coordinator	Nicki Watts
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Postgraduate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Online	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Integrate and synthesise midwifery theories to critically analyse normal progress in pregnancy, justify assessments and care, and identify early deviations requiring escalation or referral.
• Critically examine pregnancy as a significant developmental life event across diverse social and cultural contexts and evaluate the implications for woman-centred and culturally safe inclusive care.
• Analyse and justify the midwife’s scope, ethical and legal responsibilities and accountability.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
060303	$592.00	$592.00	not applicable	$3,178.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Concurrent Prerequisites

CNA689 Foundations of Midwifery Practice

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	Online webinar (tutorials and drop-in sessions) - 1 hour, 12 times per study period.   Independent Learning - 10 hours per week.
Assessment	Professional Identity Statement (20%)|Antenatal Interview simulation (40%)|Professional Development Session (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be provided by your Unit Coordinator.
Recommended	Recommended Readings will be provided by your Unit Coordinator via the Reading List link in MyLO, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.