Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
The Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery (BNS Midwifery) course is a three-year undergraduate nursing degree, which, while having its unique focus, shares common curriculum and goals with other programs in the healthcare field.
Overview of Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
The Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery course, also known as BNS Midwifery in Nepal is an ever-evolving curriculum that places significant emphasis on the thorough exploration of nursing principles and primary healthcare methodologies. This degree encompasses distinct areas within the medical sector and is highly esteemed for its capacity to train mid-level healthcare professionals.
The BNS Midwifery course focuses on various areas of specialization, encompassing a wide range of fields, including:
- Antenatal, Intrapartum, and Postnatal Care
- High-Risk Obstetrics
- Community Midwifery
- Global and International Health
- Advanced Midwifery Techniques
- Research and Development
- Education and Leadership
The BNS Midwifery course covers the fundamental concepts of nursing and is designed to give students a thorough grasp of the various aspects of the healthcare field. This program has been progressively emerging as a significant substitute for traditional undergraduate nursing courses like BSc Nursing and Staff Nursing.
The BNS Midwifery course encompasses a comprehensive exploration of nursing studies, encompassing both theoretical and practical elements. Prospective students must pass a rigorous written test and a hands-on assessment to complete the program successfully.
The BNS Midwifery course, was initially introduced in Nepal in 2016 AD, pioneered by Kathmandu University, specifically through its constituent institution, the Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences (KUSMS). Presently, there is a increasing availability of this program across various universities and educational institutions in Nepal.
The following is a compilation of academic institutions and universities in Nepal that provide the BNS Midwifery course:
- Tribhuvan University (TU)
- Kathmandu University (KU)
- National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS)
- Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS)
- BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS)
- Patan Academy of Health Sciences (PAHS)
The Bachelor of Midwifery Science course (BNS Midwifery) is thoughtfully designed to empower students to attain proficiency in the realms of medical healthcare and nursing. It equips them with the essential knowledge and competencies necessary for success in this industry.
General Information
The Bachelor of Midwifery Science program typically spans a duration of three years. However, it's important to note that the KU BNS Midwifery program extends to four years, representing an exception to the standard duration. The comprehensive framework and structure of this degree can be viewed through the tabular presentation provided below.
|
University |
Duration (in Years) |
Number of Colleges |
Number of Seats |
Credit Hours |
|
TU |
3 |
1 |
- |
- |
|
KU |
4 |
1 |
- |
- |
|
BPKIHS |
3 |
1 |
- |
- |
|
NAMS |
3 |
1 |
- |
- |
|
PAHS |
3 |
1 |
- |
- |
|
KAHS |
3 |
1 |
10 |
- |
The following chart presents a comparative analysis of the availability of Bachelor of Midwifery courses across different colleges and academic institutions in Nepal.
Based on the information presented in the chart, it can be inferred that the Bachelor of Midwifery Science program is offered in a consistent and balanced manner across various universities in Nepal.
Universities Offering Course Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
| Tribhuvan University |
| BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences |
Objectives of Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
The primary objectives of the Bachelor of Midwifery Science course include the following:
- Offer students a holistic and rigorous education and training program in the domains of nursing and midwifery, encompassing both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for them to attain proficiency as midwives.
- Cultivate clinical proficiency in students, enabling them to deliver secure and efficient care to pregnant women, infants, and their families.
- Impart to students the fundamental principles of women's health and equip them with the knowledge and skills to safeguard the welfare of women throughout the entire reproductive process.
- Nurture cultural sensitivity in students, equipping them to deliver care that respects the varied cultural, social, and economic contexts of the women and families they assist.
- Instill in students the significance of evidence-based practice, empowering them to make informed decisions and offer care founded on the most current research and optimal practices within the field of midwifery.
- Instruct students on the skills to recognize, evaluate, and address potential childbirth-related risks, ensuring the well-being and safety of both the mother and the infant.
- Highlight the significance of fostering interprofessional teamwork with healthcare colleagues such as obstetricians, pediatricians, nurses, and support personnel, promoting comprehensive and well-coordinated healthcare.
- Inculcate in students the value of a commitment to lifelong learning and ongoing education to remain up-to-date with developments in midwifery practice and the broader healthcare field.
The primary aims of these objectives are crafted to equip individuals who have completed a Bachelor of Midwifery Science course with the skills necessary to deliver excellent, secure, and patient-focused healthcare to pregnant women and their families. Simultaneously, they aim to contribute to the growth and enhancement of the midwifery profession.
Career and Scope of Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
A successful completion of Bachelor of Midwifery Science course can provide access to a broad spectrum of career prospects in the nursing and healthcare field. Graduates with a BMS degree have diverse opportunities and can explore various roles within the industry.
The typical career pathways and job positions for Bachelor of Midwifery graduates include the following:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)
- Researcher
- Clinical Co-Ordinator
- Maternal-Child Health Advocate
- Public Health Specialist
- Staff and Home Birth Midwife
- Lactation Consultant
- Maternity Unit Manager
- Quality Improvement Specialist
- Global Health Midwives
It's important to keep in mind that the availability of these positions may vary by location, and the specific qualifications and certifications needed can also differ based on regional and institutional requirements.
Eligibility Criteria of Bachelor of Nursing Science in Midwifery
In Nepal, the Bachelor of Midwifery Science course usually has specific entry requirements that prospective students need to fulfill. It's essential to acknowledge that the eligibility criteria may differ from one educational institution to another.
Prospective students seeking admission to the BNS Midwifery course are typically required to meet the following standardized minimum prerequisites:
- Applicants must have successfully completed the Proficiency Certificate Level or a Diploma in Nursing, achieving a minimum aggregate of 50% in total marks.
- Additionally, candidates are required to be registered with the Nepal Nursing Council.
Admission Requirements
Entrance Exam
- Prospective students are required to pass the entrance examination conducted by the respective universities.
- To successfully navigate the integrated admission process, candidates must secure a minimum of 50 percent marks.
Documents Required
Individuals who have been chosen for admission must provide the following original documents along with one photocopy of each to the relevant educational institution during the admission process.
- Certificate of qualification, transcript, and character certificate of 10+2 (or equivalent).
- SLC/SEE certificate or its equivalent.
- A copy of their citizenship card or passport.
- The admit card for the entrance examination.
- Any documents submitted for reservation purposes.
- A certificate of equivalence for students who possess certificates from foreign institutions.
Scholarship
In accordance with Rule 20 of the National Medical Education Rules, 2077, the allocation of scholarship seats at the undergraduate level for the Government of Nepal will be distributed as follows:
- 55 percent of the seats will be assigned through open competition.
- 45 percent of the seats will be distributed based on specific categories as indicated below:
- Female candidates: 33%
- Dalit candidates: 9%
- Aadibasi janajati candidates: 15%
- Khas Aryan candidates: 17%
- Madhesi candidates: 12%
- Tharu candidates: 4%
- Muslim candidates: 2%
- Candidates from the Backward community: 4%
- Disabled candidates: 2%
- Families of martyrs, families of disappeared persons, families of injured warriors, and conflict victims: 2%
