To produce graduates who will demonstrate mastery of theoretically and sophisticated subject matter through a body of scholarly applied work in the form of a thesis, which will form the basis of scholarly journal articles and national and international conference presentations. The work will respond to societal needs, address practice from multiple perspectives positioned within a wider framework of academic and applied research. This qualification prepares learners for doctoral level study.

On completion of the Master of Midwifery programme the student will:
1. Apply advanced knowledge and understandings of theoretical and practice issues in midwifery on which to assess and manage clinical situations, develop creative and innovative approaches to midwifery practice, and
manage change and uncertainty in midwifery.
2. Develop midwifery knowledge and practice through research and scholarly inquiry.
3. Apply the skills of critique and analysis enabling effective problem solving, development of evidence based practice guidelines, safe and effective care which improves outcomes for women and their babies, critique of major theoretical positions pertaining to midwifery, and an appreciation of the impact of broad health policy and directions on midwifery and maternity care.
4. Complete (to internationally recognised standards) a piece of original research or scholarship, which includes higher order skills in analysis and critical evaluation.
5. Apply advanced communication skills and the ability to work in partnership with women.
6. Use critical reflection and self-knowledge as tools for continuing critique and enhancement of own clinical practice.
7. Model professional and personal development.
8) Apply knowledge and skill to:provide guidance and support for midwifery colleagues, take a leadership role in the midwifery profession, develop professional networks both at local, national and international levels, act as a change agent in the provision of midwifery services including involvement in the development of health policy, maintain a midwifery focus within a collaborative and interdisciplinary context, and identify clinical or professional issues requiring investigation and research.

Graduates of this programme may be able to pathway into doctoral studies.

Selection will be made on the basis of the following criteria - registered midwife, Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery with B grade average, or equivalent. Master of Midwifery (by portfolio, 180 credits) Consideration for direct entry into the 180 credit thesis programme pathway will require presentation of a portfolio which demonstrates academic and personal skills appropriate for enrolment in a 180 credit Masters programme. These include: Eligibility for cross crediting of postgraduate level courses completed elsewhere Portfolio of publications Completion of 60 credits of postgraduate study or its equivalent 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 student language requirements
The same entry criteria apply to international students. New Zealand registered midwives for whom English is a second language are admitted using the Midwifery Council of New Zealand requirements i.e. to have an IELTS score of 7.5. International midwifery students who are not registered in New Zealand will require an IELTS (or equivalent) overall band score of 6.5 in writing and reading and not less than 7.0 in speaking and listening with no individual score less than 6.0.