Midwife career guide
Midwives provide care, advice and clinical support throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Midwife do?
Midwives provide care, advice and clinical support throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
- Hospitals
- Birth centres
- Community clinics
- Patients’ homes
- NHS hospitals
- Community healthcare services
- Private hospitals
- Birth centres
How to become a Midwife
Midwifery requires completion of an approved degree or degree apprenticeship followed by professional registration.
Degree or Degree Apprenticeship in Midwifery
Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is required.
- University
- Degree apprenticeship
Skills and progression for Midwife
- Empathy
- Communication
- Clinical judgement
- Leadership
- Decision making
- Senior Midwife
- Specialist Midwife
- Consultant Midwife
- Maternity Manager
- Director of Midwifery
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering