HISTORY IS IN THE MAKING!
 
In March 2010 Bastyr University and Seattle Midwifery School--two schools with a combined 60-year history of educating childbirth professionals--merged.  By joining forces we are able to increase access and services to students enrolling in the midwifery program and the Simkin Center for Allied Birth Vocations.  But now there's more!
 
The nation's first regionally accredited, articulated direct-entry Master of Science degree in Midwifery is now available through Bastyr University's Department of Midwifery!
 
"We are extremely pleased to be able to offer the Master of Science in Midwifery degree. Bastyr's solid curriculum, abundant clinical training and history of excellence in natural medicine will ensure that graduates are highly trained maternity care providers," says Timothy Callahan, PhD, senior vice president and provost at Bastyr University.
 
The degree, which replaces Bastyr's current Certificate in Naturopathic Midwifery program, was recently approved by regional accrediting body the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).  The master's program (with an option for undergraduate entry) will be offered through the University's newly formed Department of Midwifery.  The three-year (11 quarters) degree program will make use of state-of-the-art technologies and a network of clinical training sites around the globe. The program also qualifies graduates to become state (or provincially) licensed and nationally certified by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM).
 
"We recognize that midwifery students want options in their educational choices and we are proud to offer this opportunity for those who seek it. This new degree offering reflects Bastyr University's and Seattle Midwifery School's diligence in crafting a high-quality graduate education while honoring a direct-entry pathway for midwifery students," said Mary Yglesia former director of Seattle Midwifery School and now program supervisor of the newly formed Bastyr's Department of Midwifery. 
 
What is a direct-entry, articulated degree? Students may enter this program without midwifery or nursing experience or an undergraduate degree and upon completion will earn either a Master of Science in Midwifery or a combined Bachelor/Master of Science degree, depending on their previous education. Click here to learn more.
 
ABOUT BASTYR UNIVERSITY
Bastyr University, located north of Seattle, Washington, is an accredited institution, internationally recognized as a pioneer in natural medicine. Bastyr is the largest university for natural health arts and sciences in the U.S., combining a multidisciplinary curriculum with leading-edge research and clinical training to educate future leaders in fields such as naturopathic medicine, acupuncture and Oriental medicine, and whole food nutrition. For additional information about Bastyr University and its teaching clinic, Bastyr Center for Natural Health, visit www.bastyr.edu or www.bastyrcenter.org.