Difference Between Basic Midwifery and Post-Basic Midwifery Programmes

Midwifery is the profession dedicated to supporting women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Midwives ensure safe deliveries, provide essential maternal care, and reduce the risks associated with childbirth. Their expertise helps both mothers and newborns receive the best possible care, making midwifery an important part of the healthcare system.
For those interested in becoming midwives, there are two levels of training: Basic Midwifery and Post-Basic Midwifery. While both programs focus on midwifery, they are designed for different stages of a nurse’s career.
We will take a closer look at both programs, breaking down their eligibility, duration, career prospects, and more. Stay with us as we clarify these terms and help you understand which path might be right for you.
What is the Basic Midwifery Program?
The Basic Midwifery Program is the first step for anyone who wants to become a midwife. It is designed to train students in the skills needed to care for pregnant women, assist during childbirth, and provide postnatal care for mothers and newborns. The goal of this program is to prepare students to work as professional midwives in hospitals, maternity clinics, and community healthcare centers.
This program is open to secondary school graduates who have at least five credits in O’ Level exams (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB) and passed the JAMB UTME with the required cut-off marks. The required subjects usually include English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Unlike advanced nursing programs, no prior nursing experience is needed; you can apply straight after secondary school if you meet the requirements.
The Basic Midwifery Program typically lasts three years. During this time, students undergo both classroom learning and practical training in hospitals and maternity centers. Students in this program are taught the fundamentals of midwifery, including:-
- How to care for pregnant women throughout their pregnancy.
- How to handle normal deliveries and recognize complications.
- How to take care of newborn babies and provide postnatal care for mothers.
- Basic medical procedures, such as administering medications and monitoring vital signs.
- The importance of community health and educating women on safe pregnancy practices.
Practical training is a huge part of the program, allowing students to gain experience by working with experienced midwives in hospitals and maternity clinics.
After completing the program, graduates must sit for the licensing exam conducted by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Once they pass, they become Registered Midwives (RM), allowing them to practice legally as professional midwives in Nigeria.
This certification opens doors to various job opportunities, including working in hospitals, maternity clinics, and rural health centers, where they can help ensure safe pregnancies and childbirths.
What is the Post-Basic Midwifery Program?
The Post-Basic Midwifery Program is an advanced training program for nurses who want to specialize in midwifery. Unlike the Basic Midwifery Program, this one is not for beginners—it is meant for trained nurses who want to gain expertise in maternal and newborn care. The program focuses on more advanced midwifery skills, preparing students to handle complex childbirth cases and high-risk pregnancies.
To apply for this program, you must already be a Registered Nurse (RN). Since applicants already have a background in general nursing, this program is designed to build on their existing skills rather than start from scratch.
The Post-Basic Midwifery Program is shorter than the Basic Midwifery Program, usually lasting one year. However, the training is intense, with a strong focus on hands-on experience in hospitals and maternity centers. Students in this program receive specialized training in:-
- Managing high-risk pregnancies and handling complications during childbirth.
- Advanced newborn care, including premature and critical newborn management.
- Emergency obstetric procedures, such as assisting in cesarean sections.
- Counseling and educating pregnant women on proper maternal care.
- Using advanced medical equipment in labor and delivery wards.
After completing the program, graduates must take a specialized licensing exam conducted by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Once they pass, they receive a Post-Basic Midwifery Certificate, which allows them to work as specialist midwives in hospitals, maternity clinics, and other healthcare settings.
What are the Key Differences Between Basic and Post-Basic Midwifery?
Many people confuse Basic Midwifery and Post-Basic Midwifery, but they are different in several ways. Below, we will break down the key differences so you can easily understand how they compare:-
- Basic Midwifery is for fresh candidates who have completed their secondary education. On the other hand, Post-Basic Midwifery is only for trained nurses.
- Basic Midwifery takes three years to complete. Post-Basic Midwifery is a shorter program, lasting one year.
- Basic Midwifery is an entry-level program, meaning students learn the fundamentals of midwifery from the ground up. Post-Basic Midwifery is more advanced because students already have nursing experience.
- Graduates of Basic Midwifery become Registered Midwives (RM) after passing the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) exam.
- Those who complete Post-Basic Midwifery gain specialized midwifery skills and have access to higher job positions and better salaries. Some may even become midwifery educators or pursue further studies, such as a BSc or MSc in Nursing.
From the explanation above, Basic Midwifery is for those who are just starting their journey in midwifery, while Post-Basic Midwifery is for trained nurses who have already gained experience and want to advance in the field.
If you are choosing between the two, it all comes down to your current qualifications and level of expertise. If you are new to midwifery, the Basic Midwifery program is your starting point. But if you are already a Registered Nurse (RN) and want to specialize, the Post-Basic Midwifery program will take you further in your career.
Do you now understand the difference? If you still have questions, feel free to ask in the comments. We’d be happy to help.