SWTC Midwifery Program Nondiscrimination Policy

Is This Program for You?

Do you have a committed interest in the Midwifery Model of Care? Are you tolerant of different lifestyles, values, beliefs, and cultures? Are you a self-confident, independent, and self-directed learner? You may find a career in Midwifery rewarding.

See the Midwifery Program Handbook and the SWTC Student Handbook.

Students entering the Midwife program should:

• Be respectful of different lifestyles, values, beliefs, and cultures.
• Be able to maintain confidentiality.
• Have a committed interest in prenatal and reproductive care using the Midwifery Model of Care.
• Have effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be able to perform delegated tasks.
• Be able to effectively delegate to others.
• Have efficient writing skills.
• Have good reading and comprehension skills.
• Be in good physical and emotional health.
• Be flexible, adaptable, and enjoy working with people.
• Be self-confident, independent, and a self-directed learner.
• Meet Wisconsin Caregiver Law requirements.

Program Basics

• Associate degree, requiring a minimum of two years to complete
• Some online classes available
• Financial aid available to students who qualify
• May take some courses immediately upon program acceptance
• Students must achieve a C or better in each course of the program curriculum to be eligible to progress
• CPM to ASM Pathway available for the already Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)
• Virtual access available for students who do not reside locally
• Program has a January start
• Completion of all Midwife program clinical work needs to be accomplished within 5 years of original program registration
• See details of enrollment and clinical course requirements found in the enrollment agreement

Delineation between clinical time and clinical site employment

While enrolled in and attending the midwife program there must remain a clear distinction between the student and employee roles; and to that end:

• Students may not be employed or utilized at their assigned clinical sites as administrative staff. This does not include training/mentorship in business aspects of practice.
• Students may not complete clinical coursework while working in an employee status, whether in a midwifery practice, a clinic, hospital or other facility.
• Students may not receive/accept remuneration in exchange for work performed at their assigned clinical site.

Delineation between role as student and role as employee in any birth-related profession

While enrolled in and attending the midwife program there must remain a clear distinction between the student and employee roles; and to that end:

• Students may only work in any birth-related or healthcare-related capacity providing direct patient/client care within a practice, clinic or facility which has a minimum $1 million / $3 million liability coverage.

Program Description:

The SWTC Direct Entry Midwifery Program is a two-year associate degree program designed to equip aspiring midwives with the skills and knowledge necessary for certification and licensure in Wisconsin. This program focuses on providing comprehensive, hands-on holistic care throughout the childbearing years, with a particular emphasis on low-risk pregnancy assessment and appropriate referral practices. Throughout the program, students will develop essential competencies in various aspects of pregnancy assessment, including nutritional evaluation, overall health monitoring, risk assessment, fetal growth and development monitoring, lactation techniques, initial newborn care, and evaluating family support and child transition while identifying available community resources.

The goal of the program is to prepare graduates for the Certified Professional Midwife Credential (CPM) examination, achieved through a combination of academic education and practical experience gained during the program, focused on the perinatal period, labor, birth and postpartum in an out-of-hospital setting.

To ensure a well-rounded education, students will participate in virtual face-to-face academic classes, on-campus skills training held once per semester, and clinical internships under the guidance of NARM and SWTC-recognized preceptors. This multifaceted approach ensures that students receive both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience essential for their future roles as competent and compassionate midwives.

Courses:

The midwifery curriculum at SWTC adopts a competency-based approach to instruction and assessment, carefully designed by our experienced faculty. Through this approach, students gain a clear understanding of the required competencies and the expected demonstration of knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to succeed in each unit of study and ultimately become proficient entry-level midwives.

Throughout the academic and clinical program, students engage in ongoing competency-based instruction and assessment. In addition to fulfilling a minimum number of clinical hours and hands-on skill experience, students are provided with comprehensive learning plans, activities, and measurement criteria for each course. They are also equipped with performance assessment tools specific to each subject.

The midwifery program is designed with a recommended two-year timeframe. However, the actual duration may vary based on factors such as students' preferences for clinical course mapping, transferred credits, full or part-time enrollment options, availability, and volume of clinical sites.

At our institution, we are committed to providing a robust and supportive learning environment that nurtures the development of competent and confident midwives. Our competency-based curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of entry-level midwifery practice.

Please go to the Curriculum and Costs tab of the Midwife Program website and click the hyperlink for each course to see a brief description and any pre- or co-requisites. www.swtc.edu/academics/programs/health-occupations/midwife#curriculum-costs

Midwifery Theory Classes

Schedule:

The Direct Entry Midwife Associate degree (ASM) program typically requires a minimum of 2 years to complete; however, it's worth noting that many students opt for a slightly longer timeframe, taking around 2.5 to 3 years to finish the program. For added flexibility, students are allowed up to 5 years to complete all program requirements. For those who qualify, financial aid is available to support their educational journey.

Unlike most Southwest Tech programs, the Direct Entry Midwife program offers a unique January start, commonly referred to as the Spring Semester start. Upon program acceptance, students may have the opportunity to begin some courses early. The program primarily features face-to-face zoom virtual courses, ensuring direct interaction with instructors and peers.

• Classes typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST), with a convenient one-hour break for lunch.
• During the first semester of core courses, classes are conducted virtually via Zoom on two days per week.
• In subsequent semesters, students have the option to schedule classes on a single day, resulting in one virtual class day per week.
• Our instructors conduct classes virtually, creating a collaborative learning environment that allows seamless interaction between students and instructors, regardless of their physical locations. It simulates the experience of being in a face-to-face classroom, fostering effective communication and engagement.
• Virtual students are expected to be actively present and logged in during all scheduled class times. Just like in a physical classroom, we encourage virtual students to eliminate distractions and treat class time with the same level of focus and participation as if they were physically present. This ensures a meaningful and productive learning experience for all students, regardless of their mode of access to the program.
• Clinical classes are done at preceptorship sites under the guidance of the SWTC-qualified preceptor who is in constant contact with the student's assigned Clinical Site Coordinator (CSC).
• The students meet with the Clinical Faculty member of the course throughout the semester to review clinical progress.
• Lab classes require on-campus time for test out to assess skills attainment.
• All general education courses have an online option.

Required Travel

As part of the program, all students are required to attend in-person classes on the Southwest Tech campus in Fennimore, Wisconsin, for three to five class days during specific semesters. For added convenience, the spring semester labs also offer an option for summer lab classes.

Prior to the start of each semester, students will receive information regarding the specific on-campus travel dates. These dates are typically scheduled in October for the Fall semester, in May for the Spring semester, and in June for the Summer semester. This on-campus time is crucial as it provides opportunities for reviewing and testing essential skills, along with engaging in other important activities related to the program.

The on-campus requirement ensures that students receive hands-on training, practice, and assessments to further enhance their learning experience and prepare them for a successful career in the field. Students are responsible for travel and lodging expenses.

Clinical Training

Clinical experiences in the Direct Entry Midwife Program are carefully structured to align with the academic theory coursework, creating a seamless progression of learning. To demonstrate proficiency in linking theory to practice, students are required to exhibit competency in all NARM skills, MANA core competencies, and linked MEAC competencies.

Timely completion of each clinical course is expected, with a recognition that academic coursework and clinical work are closely interconnected. Before proceeding to the next clinical course, students must successfully finish and receive a grade for the current course.

Clinical placements are exclusively arranged with NARM-approved preceptors with the support of the Clinical Site Coordinator (CSC). The CSC works one on one with their assigned students to support in clinical placement, clinical accountability, and preceptor support.

The preceptor must also hold recognition in their jurisdiction of practice. Furthermore, the jurisdiction in which the preceptor operates must legally recognize the CPM credential for midwifery practice or have entrance as an educational clinical site via the Department of Education.

For comprehensive information on the clinical training aspect of the Direct Entry Midwife Program, students can refer to the NARM and Southwest Tech Midwife Program Clinical Requirements document.

This document covers all relevant details related to the clinical training component, guiding students through their practical training journey in the program. See details of enrollment and clinical course requirements found in the enrollment agreement

Clinical Course Requirements:

It's essential to highlight that each clinical course within the program is associated with specific credit hours, competencies, and clinical experiences. This division allows students to request financial aid for each clinical course individually, making the financial process more manageable.

To progress from one clinical course to the next, students must meet several criteria. First, they are required to achieve a minimum grade of 78% in core midwifery courses. Additionally, their preceptors must approve their demonstrated competencies and skills through evaluations. Students must successfully complete all time and experience requirements for the current clinical course. Lastly, a site visit with the Clinical site coordinator and preceptor is necessary to ensure comprehensive assessment and coordination. By adhering to these guidelines, students can smoothly advance through the clinical component of the program, staying on track for their successful journey toward becoming competent and qualified midwives.

Clinical Course Progression:

Graduation Requirements

To be eligible for graduation from the Midwifery Program at Southwest Tech, students must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Complete all mandatory courses specified in the program curriculum.
2. Students must satisfactorily complete the required curriculum and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above. In some programs, students must complete every course with no lower than a "C" grade to meet graduation requirements. (refer to Midwifery Program Handbook )
3. Maintain a minimum GPA of 78% to demonstrate academic proficiency.
4. Satisfy the required number of supervised clinical hours, lab hours, and hands-on experience, in accordance with CPM (Certified Professional Midwife) requirements based on Wisconsin Act 292, NARM (North American Registry of Midwives) Skills, and MANA (Midwives Alliance of North America) Core Competencies.
5. Adhere to any additional program-specific requirements as outlined by Southwest Wisconsin Technical College.

Please note that the Southwest Technical College Direct Entry Midwife program is tailored to fulfill the licensing requirements for Certified Professional Midwives (CPM) in Wisconsin. It does not cover the specific licensure requirements of other states.

The clinical experiences must span at least two (2) years and encompass a total of clinical placement and lab hours. While prior learning credit and transfer credit for clinical experiences may be considered, they do not apply to transfer credit for academic coursework.

To progress in the program, students are required to achieve a minimum average of 78% on all tests and a cumulative average of 78% on all assignments. Additionally, a final grade of at least 78% (equivalent to a 'C' grade) is mandatory for each program course to successfully graduate. If a student has been granted prior learning credit or transfer credit, they must still complete at least 25% of the program's core courses and pass them with a minimum of 78% or 'C' grade.

Completion of the entire program must be accomplished within 5 years from the original program registration date. By adhering to these graduation requirements, students can successfully complete the Direct Entry Midwife program and move forward in their careers as skilled and qualified midwives.

The start date of enrollment and the minimum and maximum timeframes for completion

Upon enrollment, the program advisor has each student complete their preferred/goal start and preferred/goal end date and then adds the 5-year deadline on the enrollment agreement. Enrollment Agreement

Clinical Training

The Midwifery Program at SWTC is committed to assisting the student in achieving student success in academic and College Obligations as seen on the Preceptor-Student Contract which is sent to the preceptor and student to sign prior to the start of each clinical course.

The College agrees to:

• Provide guidelines for clinical study expectations to the preceptor and the student.
• Provide materials and guidelines for the evaluation of the student.
• Provide individual supervision on a regular basis (not to be less than once per semester).
• Meet with the preceptor and student for a clinical site visit at least once per semester either virtually or in person to evaluate the progress of the student.
• To meet by phone or other means more often as necessary.
• Assume final responsibility for grading of the student.
• Treat all information received pertaining to the records of the preceptor in a confidential manner.
• Maintain student/instructor academic liability insurance during preceptor affiliation.
• Evaluate clinical placement site for future placements.

Preceptor/Clinical Site Placement Responsibilities:

In the Introduction to Midwife Clinic, students will engage in several important tasks to secure a qualified preceptor for their clinical training. They will begin by writing an introductory letter and arranging potential preceptor interviews. Additionally, students will complete a student questionnaire to aid in finding the most suitable preceptor for their needs.

The Clinical Site Coordinator (CSC) will provide valuable assistance throughout the process of securing a vetted clinical site and a preceptor and/or utilize the roster of registered preceptors to match students with appropriate clinical placements.

Every effort is made to place students in clinical sites near their place of residence. While most students will drive a maximum of 3 hours to reach their clinical site, there may be instances where temporary relocation is necessary for a more diverse practice experience or due to limited local placement opportunities. The SWTC CSCs work diligently to minimize any personal and financial strain during the students' clinical courses.

Registered SWTC Preceptors:

To become preceptors in compliance with SWTC and MEAC standards, all preceptors must register with the SWTC midwifery program and complete the required steps:

1. Successfully complete the preceptor training available on the website or sent by the assigned CSC.
2. Submit necessary documents through the unique Typhon account provided, including an updated curriculum vitae, CPM certificate, NARM preceptor approval letter, current copies of BLS and NRP certification, and a copy of the state license (if applicable).
3. Sign and submit the Safety Form, Preceptor Equipment and Resources form, and Preceptor Handbook Affidavit directly to the CSC.
4. Upon completion of the SWTC preceptor training and submission of the required documents, preceptors will receive a certificate of completion. The preceptor, along with the CSC, will then schedule a one-on-one onboarding meeting and establish the student-preceptor contract, ensuring a smooth and successful clinical training experience.

The process for preceptor evaluation, training, and approval can be found on the "Become a SWTC Preceptor" tab below.

Administrative Fees and Tuition

Tuition and fees are established according to state statutes and Wisconsin Technical College System guidelines and may change from year to year. Students must pay all required fees according to Southwest Tech policies. The College's tuition and fees can be viewed through the following link: www.swtc.edu/student-resources/financial-resources/tuition-fees

The Payment and Refund Schedule

The Refund Policy, including the refund schedule, can be accessed through the following link: www.swtc.edu/student-resources/financial-resources/student-refunds

The Student's Obligations, Financial and Otherwise

Estimated tuition can be found on the program page, under the Curriculum & Costs tab. Additional costs that students will incur include the following items:

• Textbooks: estimated at approximately $5,000 for the full 68 credits in the program
• Charger Tech 360 program: $300 per semester
• Travel costs: travel costs depend on where the student resides. Some students estimate that they spend approximately $2,000 - $6,500 on travel costs throughout the program.
• Additional requirements needed at the end of the first semester: Cost of Doula Course, NRP, BLS, Physical Exam and Vaccine Information, Background Check, Childbirth Education Course.
• Approximate cost between $1,000 - $2,000, depending on whether the student has prior learning experience and has access to the required documents.

Additional details about the curriculum and costs can be accessed through the Curriculum & Costs tab below.

Release Certification Test Results

The student’s permission to release certification test results to the school for the purposes of compiling student achievement data for compliance with MEAC standards. Students provide permission to release certification test results to the school for the purposes of compiling student achievement data through their signature on the enrollment agreement. Enrollment Agreement

What is a Midwife?

Midwives Are Trained Professionals

Midwives are the traditional care providers for mothers and infants. Midwives are trained professionals with expertise and skills in supporting women to maintain healthy pregnancies and have optimal births and recoveries during the postpartum period. Midwives provide women with individualized care uniquely suited to their physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs. Midwifery is a woman-centered empowering model of maternity care that is utilized in all of the countries of the world with the best maternal and infant outcomes such as The Netherlands, United Kingdom and Canada.

Midwives in the United States

There are approximately 15,000 practicing midwives in the United States. Midwives may practice in private homes, clinics, birth centers, and hospitals. In most countries, midwives are primary health care providers and the central pillar in maternity care and women's health care. However, slightly more than 10% of births in the U.S. are attended by midwives. Countries that utilize midwives as primary health care providers are also those countries in which mothers and infants fare best. The United States continues to rank behind most of the developed world in terms of infant and maternal mortality.

Midwives Foster Relationships with Women

Midwives value communication and developing a trusting, working relationship with the women and families they serve. In the course of developing that relationship, midwives provide personalized and thorough care at many levels: preconception, pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, and beyond. Many midwives provide primary health care, gynecological care, and care of the normal newborn. In addition to being trained to conduct comprehensive physical exams and order laboratory, screening and other diagnostic tests, midwives provide extensive health care education and counseling, as well as engage in shared decision-making with their clients and patients.

What is a CPM (Certified Professional Midwife)?

A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is a knowledgeable, skilled and independent midwifery practitioner who has met the standards for certification set by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). CPM is the only international credential that requires knowledge about and experience in out-of-hospital birth.

How do CPMs practice?

CPMs are trained and credentialed to offer expert care and support to women and their babies for pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. CPMs practice as autonomous health professionals working within a network of relationships with other maternity care professionals who can provide consultation and collaboration when needed.

The Midwives Model of Care is based on the fact that pregnancy and birth are normal life events and includes:

• monitoring the physical, psychological and social well-being of the mother throughout the childbearing cycle;
• providing the mother with individualized education, counseling and prenatal care,
• continuous hands-on assistance during labor and delivery and postpartum support;
• minimizing technological interventions; and
• identifying and referring women who require obstetrical attention.

The application of this model has been proven to reduce the incidence of birth injury, trauma and cesarean section.

Development of the Credential The CPM credential was developed by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) in collaboration with the Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA), Education Accreditation Council (MEAC), Citizens for Midwifery (CfM) and diverse stakeholders from across the US. The credential issued by NARM is nationally accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) which is the accrediting arm of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA). NCCA accredits many health professions.

Are CPMs legal?

Thirty-six states now recognize direct-entry midwives in statute, 35 through CPM licensure or equivalent. Before the advent of the CPM credential in 1994, individual states that licensed midwives each had their own requirements and standards. Since the availability of the CPM credential, the trend has been to use the CPM as the basis for state licensure. The credential also establishes a national standard for quality assurance within the profession.

Completion of this certification does not necessarily convey legality which is determined by state and territorial governments.

How do I obtain fulfill the clinical requirement for this program?

• Clinical courses are designed to meet both NARM requirements and MANA core competencies.
• Every effort is made to place students with preceptors within their home region. The program maintains a list of potential preceptors in a number of states, with a focus on Wisconsin, Indiana and Minnesota. Students from other states may be asked to assist in identifying appropriate clinical preceptors in their local region; if none are available, students may be asked to travel and/or temporarily relocate to obtain clinical experience. (See information for Out of State Students)
• Potential preceptors must be NARM registered and approved by the Midwifery Program. Please read the Preceptor handbook for more information regarding the SWTC Midwifery Program.
• Clinical placement may be up to three hours from a student's home.
• Preceptors will inform students of expected clinical hours and days and the student will be expected to match the preceptor's schedule.
• Students are expected to be on call 24/7 throughout the program, including summers. Absences will only be permitted on a very limited basis.
• Students are responsible for all costs associated with clinicals including transportation, housing, gas, food etc.

What equipment is needed to start the Program?

• Computer or tablet with webcam and hard drive or portable drive
• Stable internet access (preferably via Ethernet)
• Scanner or photo-to-pdf application

What midwifery supplies am I going to need to purchase for the first semester?

• Sterile and non-sterile gloves- non-latex and powder free
• Stethoscope (of good quality)
• Blood Pressure Cuff
• Otoscope/Ophthalmoscope

Cost of Attendance (COA) 24-25

Cost of Attendance (COA) is a total of all the usual expenses of being a student. The COA sets the maximum amount of financial aid a student can receive.

Based on Wisconsin Residents.

Approximate school costs are for a full-time (12 credit) student over a semester span of 17 weeks.

Fees are legislated by the Wisconsin Technical College System Board.

These costs are estimates and are subject to change without notice.

All incoming students, including the CPM to ASM students must read and understand the Direct Entry Midwifery Program Student Handbook .

Admission and Program Requirements

• Submit Application
• To make sure your classes are the right fit, we consider any previous college credit you've earned, Accuplacer or ACT scores, high school GPA, or an assessment at your registration session. Submit High School Transcripts, College Transcripts, and Test Scores to: Southwest Tech, Attn: Admissions, 1800 Bronson Blvd, Fennimore, WI 53809
• Submit High School Transcripts, College Transcripts, and Test Scores to: Southwest Tech (email admissions@swtc.edu, or mail to Attn: Admissions, 1800 Bronson Blvd, Fennimore, WI 53809)
• Submit a Professional letter of recommendation to: Southwest Tech (email admissions@swtc.edu, or mail to Attn: Admissions, 1800 Bronson Blvd, Fennimore, WI 53809)
• Complete the Background Information Disclosure form on MySWTC.
• Submit a current CPR/BLS for the Healthcare Provider certificate (must include hands-on component and be approved by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or Canadian Red Cross).
• Submit a current Neonatal Resuscitation (AAP-approved; must include hands-on component).
• Submit evidence of a completed Doula Workshop Certificate.
• Attend a pre-admissions meeting with the Program Director: Set up a meeting with Vanessa
• After applying and submitting transcripts, work with your advisor to begin or continue your student success plan to talk about your career interests and goals, develop a plan for paying for college, learn about various funding options, create an academic map, and discuss supports and services. Schedule an admissions meeting with the Program Advisor: Set up a meeting with Beth.
• Admissions Preference Policy

  Priority for program acceptance will be given in this order:

  1. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College District Residents (permanent address is in one of Southwest Tech’s 30 school districts the College serves) Southwest Tech District Information
     • January 1 for the following fall semester
     • May 1 for the following spring semester
     • October 1 for the following summer semester
  2. After the dates specified in (1) for District Residents, Non-District State Residents have priority equal to District Residents.
  3. Out-of-State Residents will be admitted after District and Non-District State Residents, as spaces remain available.

Health Requirements listed below need to be submitted before beginning the semester, and to be placed at a clinical site

• Physical Examination Form
• TB skin testing form
• Immunization Fact Sheet
• Complete the Background Information Disclosure form on MySWTC.

NOTE: Students are responsible for all associated costs.

Although it is not required but highly recommended that the following be completed before beginning the first semester of core midwifery classes or required by the end of the first-semester in ‘Introduction to Midwife Clinic’. Getting a “head start” supports the student in successfully completing this course

• A series of a minimum of 6 hours of childbirth education classes for out of hospital birth.
• A series of a minimum of 6 hours of childbirth education classes for in hospital births
• A minimum of 5 observed births in any capacity.
• Securing a NARM preceptor and a clinical site. All preceptors must register and complete the SWTC preceptor training

Applied Pharmacology (10-510-153) and Nutrition (10-510-140) online courses are now being offered for the Fall semester. Incoming students may opt to take these classes prior to starting the Direct Entry Midwife program.

Helpful Academic Background

• Previous college-level coursework in the life sciences

Program Fees

• This program is eligible for Financial Aid.
• Estimated cost for each semester can be found under the Curriculum tab. Please note that costs are approximate and are based on the current academic year.
• Please discuss additional fee questions with the program advisor or instructor.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of the program, students are expected to be able to:

1. Acquire a foundation of theoretical knowledge, clinical assessment, critical thinking skills, and shared decision making
   Criteria:
   • Use critical thinking to evaluate clinical findings
   • Optimize intuition as authoritative knowledge
   • Demonstrate effective communication and written skills
   • Apply care principles, support and information regarding reproductive health
2. Create the plan of care for the woman in the childbearing year
   Criteria:
   • Demonstrate an integrated understanding of the whole picture
   • Use conscious analysis of the challenges and goals in creating the plan of care
   • Identify with the woman the goals and challenges of her care
   • Maximize the teaching and learning process to maintain health and nutrition of clients served
   • Construct clinical decisions to assure positive outcomes for mother and newborn
   • Summarize how to incorporate high quality, culturally relevant, and holistic midwifery care in a variety of settings
3. Demonstrate holistic, competent care for women and families during the childbearing year
   Criteria:
   • Function within the Midwives Model of Care
   • Uphold professional standards for the Certified Professional Midwife
   • Assume responsibility for collaboration with other team members and healthcare professionals
   • Anticipate the need for referral to local and regional resources and services available to families in community
   • Demonstrate assessment skills of preconception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and newborn
   • Perform assistance with the natural birthing process as indicated
   • Facilitate continuity of care within the context of the midwife setting

Completion Rates

*Median Completion Rate: 33%

**Median percent still enrolled or ever completed: 53%

Retention Rates

NARM Certification Exam Pass Rates

Report date

06/29/2020

Latest qualifying date

12/31/2019

Graduate Placement Rates

Report date

06/29/2020

Latest qualifying date

12/31/2019

Licensure Information

The Midwife program is designed to lead to a license for Wisconsin Certified Professional Midwife. More licensure information can be found on the Program Accreditations and Licensure page.

A midwife is a trained health professional who helps healthy childbearing women during labor, delivery, and after the birth of their babies, and provides care for newborns in the first six weeks of life. Midwives may also provide reproductive healthcare for non-pregnant clients. They deliver babies and handle medical emergencies or complications that occur during labor and during the postpartum period of the childbearing cycle. Licensed Midwives deliver babies at birthing centers or at home, and are considered to be the experts in community, out-of-hospital birth.

What Does a Certified Professional Midwife Do?

Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) practice in a variety settings, but usually in birth centers and homes. They are certified by the North American Registry of Midwives and must meet specific educational criteria before taking an exam to gain the CPM credential. Each state has its own regulations of CPMs, but most require certification for licensure.

Certified Professional Midwives (CPM) focus on providing care for the healthy pregnant client during the childbearing cycle, as well as healthy newborn infants. Their wide-ranging work includes monitoring the physical, psychological and social well-being of the expectant client throughout the pregnancy, birth and after the baby is born.

Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) provide a variety of care, the details of which can depend on where they work. However, their job duties typically include but are not limited to:

• Providing care during pregnancy
• Providing support during labor and childbirth
• Providing care and support during the postpartum period of the childbearing cycle
• Educating parents about what to expect when raising a child
• Providing a detailed education on best practices for good nutrition and exercise

Job Growth

Certified professional midwives (CPM) are in high demand. The number of births in the United States continues to grow, as does the percentage of those opting to birth outside the hospital. Those who work in midwifery provide an essential service to expectant mothers. Graduates of the SWTC Direct Entry Midwife program meet all requirements to sit for their national certifying examination, and go on to work in clinics, birth centers, and independent midwifery practices. They work in both rural and urban settings.

More information on career opportunities as a midwife can be found at the links below:

• Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA)
• National Association of Certified Professional Midwives (NACPM)
• North American Registry of Midwives (NARM)

Southwest Tech's Career Connections Center offers Services to assist students looking for job placement.

Credit for Prior Learning

Experience Pays! You've Been There... You've Done That... Let's See If You Can Get Credit For It!

Credit for prior learning gives you opportunities to earn credit for college-level knowledge that you have already acquired. This may be the result of work or volunteer experiences, certifications, apprenticeships, military training, extensive self-instruction, or professional development. Credit for Prior Learning affords you the opportunity to accelerate the completion of your educational goals.

For more information on Credit for Prior Learning see our Credit for Prior Learning page.

At any time, you may Request Credit for Prior Learning.

Direct Entry Midwife Courses that may have Credit for Prior Learning options:

Course #	Course Title	Challenge Exam (Demonstration)	Challenge Exam (Standard)	CLEP	Credential	Portfolio
10-510-140	Nutrition
	Instructor approval required
10-510-148	Midwife Clinic Lab I
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-152	Midwife Clinic Lab II
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-155	Introduction to Midwifery Practice
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-156	Midwife Science Lab
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-157	Physical Exam for the Midwife
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-158	Introduction to Midwife Clinic
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-159	Midwife Clinic 1
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-160	Antepartum Theory
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-161	Antepartum Lab
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-162	Midwife Clinic 2
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-163	Midwife Clinic 3
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-164	Intrapartum
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-165	Postpartum
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-166	Neonate
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-167	Midwife Clinic 4
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-168	Midwife Clinic 5
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-169	Midwife Clinic 6
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-510-170	Midwife Clinic 7
	Current Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification
10-801-136	English Composition 1
	CLEP Test - College Composition
10-801-196	Oral/Interpersonal Communication
10-804-123	Math with Business Applications
10-809-172	Introduction to Diversity Studies
10-809-198	Introduction to Psychology
	CLEP Test - Introduction to Psychology

The Midwifery program is accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC).
Accreditation status can be found on the MEAC Accreditation Status webpage.

Professional Disclosure

The Direct Entry Midwife program at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College incorporates the rules and regulations for Wisconsin Licensed Midwives (LM). The program does not teach to any other state requirements/rules. The program is a pathway towards the Certified Professional Midwife credential but does not guarantee licensure to any state. Students are responsible for understanding their state licensing requirements and identifying the state rules and regulations per state on the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). See the link below for the legal status for each of direct entry midwives.

https://pushformidwives.org/feelingpushy/

Students that move between states while studying at SWTC must inform the clinical site coordinator and program director prior to relocation with a minimum of fourteen days in advance in order to receive assistance in understanding the rules, laws and regulations of the state.

Become a SWTC Preceptor

On behalf of Southwest Tech (SWTC) we appreciate your dedication and service as a preceptor. Your unwavering commitment, time, and expertise play a pivotal role in shaping the future generation of midwives and advancing the profession.

Your esteemed position as a preceptor at Southwest Tech fills us with excitement as we anticipate the invaluable hands-on skills training and transformative experiences that our students will gain under your mentorship. Your guidance holds the potential to significantly contribute to their growth as outstanding midwives. We deeply acknowledge that precepting entails substantial effort and additional responsibilities, and we truly value your contributions in propelling the field of midwifery forward.

To ensure a clear understanding of the program's clinical requisites and expectations, we kindly direct you to the comprehensive Preceptor Handbook.

Becoming a Certified SWTC Preceptor: A Step-by-Step Journey

1. Be employed in a State where CPMs are officially recognized.
2. Maintain currency with both CPM and State licenses.
3. Hold NARM registration as a preceptor.
4. Successfully complete the preceptor training, accessible at: https://forms.office.com/r/27EfT9HXtY
5. Upon completion of the training, please email swarwick@swtc.edu, including the name of the student you intend to precept, along with the Signed Safety Form, Signed Equipment and Resources Form for Preceptor and Signed Preceptor Handbook Affidavit.
6. Once completed, a clinical site coordinator will send a link to access the Typhon account.
7. The preceptor will add to their unique Typhon account the following essential documents:
   • a. An updated curriculum vitae
   • b. CPM certificate
   • c. NARM preceptor approval letter
   • d. Current copies of BLS and NRP certification
   • e. Copy of state license (if applicable)
   
   

   *Our clinical site coordinators are available to assist the preceptor with Typhon if needed.

Upon the successful completion of the SWTC preceptor training and the submission of the required documents:

1. The preceptor will receive a certificate of completion.
2. An onboarding meeting will be scheduled by the assigned student's Clinical Site Coordinator. This vital interaction will encompass a detailed discussion of program intricacies and the issuance of the student-preceptor contract. It is important to note that students may commence their clinical activities solely once all updated documents are in place and consistently uphold compliance with SWTC's rigorous preceptor standards.

Benefits of Becoming a SWTC-recognized Preceptor

Midwife Clinical Faculty Preceptor Trainings:

Dynamic Midwife Clinical Faculty Preceptor Training page on our online learning platform, Schoology. This portal provides access to diverse training, encompassing Typhon tutorials and engaging lectures that delve into topics such as diversity in midwifery, the intricacies of breech birth, and other pertinent subjects. Moreover, Preceptors are encouraged to participate in program-wide meetings held twice per semester, featuring nationally recognized guest speakers who offer up-to-date workshops focused on perinatal health and midwifery knowledge. Upon completion of evaluations, preceptors can attain a Certificate of Attendance. Detailed login information is shared during the onboarding process.

Participation in Academic and Clinical Faculty Planning Meetings:

Your active participation in Academic and Clinical Faculty planning meetings each semester is a testament to your role and responsibility as esteemed clinical faculty/preceptors. These gatherings serve as a forum for preceptors, faculty members, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions pertaining to curriculum development, execution, and evaluation. Your input influences student admissions criteria, program resources, facility enhancements, and service delivery, thereby fostering an environment conducive to student success. Registered preceptors are extended invitations each semester, an opportunity to meaningfully contribute to student education within the SWTC program.

Program Advisory Committee Involvement:

The doors of the program advisory committee are open to both preceptors and community members. This committee, convening annually, focuses on program evaluation, data analysis, and community feedback to ensure program excellence and advancement. Should you express interest in becoming a committee member or guest, please do not hesitate to reach out to vcaldari@swtc.edu.

Exploring Additional Contributions:

Should you wish to further enrich our program, we invite you to consider contributing as a paid guest speaker during program-wide meetings. To embark on this exciting endeavor, kindly submit the proposed course topic and outline to vcaldari@swtc.edu.

At Southwest Tech, we hold preceptors in the highest esteem and recognize their pivotal roles in shaping the future of midwifery. Our dedicated team is resolute in supporting both students and preceptors by providing tools, direct assistance, and unwavering support in your impactful role as a preceptor.