Lecture room and nursery share a life for infant Luck: dual existence revealed
Rostock University's Dual Midwifery Program Prepares Future Professionals
University Medicine Rostock is playing a significant role in the dual degree midwifery program by partnering with practice facilities to provide students with practical training essential to their studies. This integrated approach combines university coursework with workplace learning, preparing competent midwives for professional practice upon graduation.
The university's midwifery program, which began in the winter semester 2020/21, involves both academic education and practical experience at cooperating healthcare institutions. While the exact names of partner facilities are not detailed, the structure of the program implies a close collaboration between the university and regional health care providers to facilitate student placements and practical learning experiences.
One of the students benefiting from this program is Anke Kinowski, who is currently studying midwifery at Rostock University. At 40 years old, Kinowski brings a unique perspective to her studies, having previously worked as a pedagogue with young adults. Her interest in midwifery was inspired by her own birth experiences, and she now finds herself part of the first cohort to acquire the fulfilling profession of midwifery through a degree program.
Kinowski's job involves six weeks at the university and six weeks in practice, a structure she finds particularly beneficial. She has gained valuable experience in premature infant care, postpartum care, and the spectrum of gynecological stations through regular shifts between lectures and practice, including at the Dietrich-Bonhoeffer Clinic in Neubrandenburg.
Upon completing her Bachelor's degree in 2027, Kinowski would welcome the opportunity to continue working at the Neustrelitz hospital. She is exploring a new career path in midwifery science and looks forward to a profession with an enormous range, where she can work in a hospital, a practice, or even freelance.
Kinowski is not alone in her studies. She is part of a cohort that includes women of all ages, from recent high school graduates to those choosing midwifery as a second career. One of her colleagues at the Neustrelitz hospital will graduate simultaneously with her.
The scientific component of Kinowski's midwifery studies is high, which she considers an advantage, such as in evaluating studies. This emphasis on research is evident in the success of Rostock University's program, with an alumnus already part of the 13-member midwifery team that's making waves with the first midwife-led delivery room in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
For Kinowski, the future looks bright. With her resilience and dedication, she is well-prepared to make a significant impact in the field of midwifery. Midwives offer prenatal care, childbirth preparation, assistance during delivery, and advice on infant care, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery. They provide support to women from pregnancy to the end of breastfeeding, making a crucial difference in the lives of many families. Kinowski has no reason to fear the future, as she embarks on this rewarding and fulfilling career path.
[1] University Medicine Rostock, Dual Degree Midwifery Programme: [Link to official website]
- Rostock University's midwifery program, which focuses on both academic and practical aspects, also incorporates elements of health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, mental-health, and nutrition to prepare comprehensive healthcare professionals.
- As midwifery is no longer just about delivering babies, students like Anke Kinowski are also exposed to career-development opportunities, broadening their horizons in areas such as education-and-self-development and parenting.
- Rostock University's midwifery program is not limited to traditional students; it encourages and welcomes individuals from various backgrounds, including men, who may be interested in mens-health and midwifery.
- Despite the demanding nature of the midwifery science curriculum, students like Kinowski find it enriching, enabling them to critically evaluate scientific studies and contribute to the field with their own research and findings.
- Post-graduation, Kinowski, as an engaged and competent midwife, will continue to provide vital services, offering a range of care from prenatal to postpartum, including essential advice on breastfeeding, mental-health support, and more, making a significant difference in the lives of families in her community.
