Course Brochure

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The Graduate Diploma in Childbirth Education is designed as a part-time, two year, distance learning course that will equip childbirth educators to work competently and effectively in this field. The Course meets the standards of the Australian National Training Authority, and can be articulated into other post graduate qualifications. It is open to candidates from anywhere in Australia and overseas.

Course aims

In establishing this Graduate Diploma, Birth International has two aims:

1. To provide a comprehensive, training program that will equip graduates to meet minimum skills and competencies in the field of childbirth education.
2. To make training accessible in all parts of the country, through the provision of a distance learning package, in a part time format to facilitate its completion by those in employment either within the home or outside.

Learning outcomes

Childbirth educators awarded this Graduate Diploma will have demonstrable skills in:

• The development of clear educational objectives for their teaching.
• Basing their information on current and scientifically valid research.
• Planning childbirth education programs to meet client needs.
• Teaching all of the subjects in a comprehensive pre-natal class program, with at least three appropriate and different presentation methods for each topic.
• Effective group management.
• Incorporating the principles of adult learning into their program.
• The application of the concept of informed choice and skills in active listening and problem solving.

Entry requirements

Normal entry

Successful completion of a qualification of Advanced Diploma in a relevant field of health science or its equivalent (e.g. Diploma of Teaching) or professional registration (or similar recognition) in an established health profession (e.g. midwifery, nursing, physiotherapy, chiropractic, occupational therapy, medicine).

Special Entry

Completion of the NSW Higher School Certificate or its equivalent,

plus five years of work experience in a related area (e.g. counselling for the Australian Breastfeeding Association, active membership of a community childbirth group)

plus evidence of an ability to write written reports and analyse complex material (demonstrated by completion of the Maternity Care and Introductory Program Planning units of the Self Study Program of the Graduate Diploma Course)

plus appraisal of supporting materials by the Curriculum Advisory Committee for the Course.

Course Co-ordinator