Article

Midwifery Study Guides for Access to HE Students

Last reviewed: September 2026

Plan your route from Access to HE to midwifery with guides to course choices, university requirements, UCAS applications, careers and funding.
Midwife

Becoming a midwife usually involves completing an NMC-approved university programme. If you need a Level 3 route before applying, an Access to Higher Education Diploma can help you prepare for the academic requirements of a midwifery degree.

Most Access to HE students apply while completing the Diploma. Start by reading the requirements for the universities you are considering, then use the guides below to plan your course, application and finances. University requirements and funding rules can change, so check the current official information before making decisions.

Plan your midwifery route

Access courseMidwifery courseSee the formal qualification, current units, online study arrangements and support. RequirementsMidwifery degree entry requirementsFind out what to compare when universities publish Access, GCSE and selection conditions. University choiceChoosing the right university and courseResearch approved courses, placements and the details that vary between universities. UCASThe midwifery UCAS application processPrepare your application while your Access qualification is still in progress. Career guideHow to become a midwife in the UKUnderstand registration, training, practice settings and career development. FundingFunding and financial support for midwifery coursesWork through Access fees, student finance, NHS support and placement costs.

What qualification does the Access route provide?

Academy Online Learning’s formal award is the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Science Professions). It is a QAA-recognised Level 3 qualification awarded through Skills and Education Group Access. “Access to Midwifery” describes the progression route, while the formal Diploma title is the one to use on applications and when contacting universities.

An Access Diploma can support an application, but it does not guarantee a university place or replace the NMC-approved degree and practice learning required for registration.