Midwifery

The Master of Science in Midwifery aims to address a societal need in Canada and abroad for midwives to play an increased role in leadership within health systems. It will also provide the option to develop discrete advanced clinical skills through elective courses. The program content derives from the major attributes of advanced midwife practitioners, including autonomy in practice, leadership, expertise, and research skills. Graduates will critically integrate new knowledge and skills and contribute to the international body of scholarship about the impact of quality midwifery care.

While the degree targets students from a single health profession, the curriculum reflects McMaster’s institutional strength in interdisciplinary learning to advance human and societal health and well-being. The program draws on scholarship from the fields of business and health management, social sciences, epidemiology, health services, and health policy, as well as building on the body of knowledge of midwifery. Students in the program receive a comprehensive and integrated education that will prepare them to apply new knowledge to lead innovation in the health system that addresses pressing and emerging challenges. The program provides students with the opportunity to participate in experiential learning, which will support their readiness to successfully apply new knowledge and skills in the work environment upon graduation. Learning activities throughout the program will support the development of skills and competencies that are directly applicable to job roles that graduates will assume. Students will undertake real-world projects that contribute to improvements in health care as part of the program. The degree will equip students not only with leadership skills that will prepare them for leadership roles in the workforce but also to be engaged and successful global citizens.

The program offers both a course-based and a thesis-based option for completing the degree and a choice between full-time or part-time studies. The program structure is designed to support the participation of international students and midwives who are working by offering a flexible and accessible learning schedule and a part-time option. The program delivery modes include a blended model of in-person and online formats.

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Midwifery, students will be able to:

Critically evaluate research methods and the validity of key assumptions and evidence,
Apply theoretical knowledge to plan, implement, and lead change within health care settings to transform systems and achieve results,
Apply concepts of social justice as a leader and promote equitable sexual and reproductive health care that meets community needs,
Advocate for and lead expansion of the role and contributions of midwives in health systems,
Communicate effectively as a leader using both written and oral communication strategies,
Apply knowledge to evaluate initiatives in a health care setting or conduct original research to advance scholarship within the field of midwifery, and
Demonstrate critical analysis and expertise in a focus area of midwifery leadership (e.g., advanced practice, professional leadership, midwifery education, midwifery research).

Enquiries
Tel: 905-525-9140 x 22860
Email: midwiferymasters@mcmaster.ca
Website: https://midwiferymasters.mcmaster.ca/

Faculty / Fall 2022

Liz Darling, Midwifery
Kate Demers, Midwifery
Rohan D’Souza, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Anne Malott, Midwifery
Helen McDonald, Midwifery
Patricia McNiven, Midwifery
Giulia Muraca, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Beth Murray-Davis, Midwifery
Kathi Wilson, Midwifery

Programs

Master

Midwifery, M.Sc.

Course Offerings

Midwifery Courses