What are the differences between Certificate and Bachelor of Science Programs?
The Certificate program
is the foundation, based on MANA Core Competencies of what
is needed to become a CPM and to be licensed in most states.
For those who already have a degree in a different field, or who
do not seek an academic degree, this program is appropriate. For those
who seek an undergraduate degree, an a Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
(BSM), that may be used in further education, increased employment
opportunities, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with being a
college graduate.
Is the program self-paced?
No. This is a highly structured college-level academic program. There
are deadlines, start and end dates for each course. You are required to
be online five out of every seven days. There are assignments and
online quizzes each week. However, you are not required to be online
during a certain time of day.
Are the courses flexible?
Yes. As long as you meet set deadlines, you can do course work when it
fits your schedule: after work, when the baby is sleeping, whatever
time of day works best for you.
Is the course work graded?
Yes, your grade is based on your attendance and participation in the
online classroom, assignments, papers,and learning activities, as well
as upon quizzes and tests. Grades are A-F. You must successfully
pass one course before you move on to the next. For more information
about grading see the catalog. In your clinical education your preceptor gives you regular evaluations, and it is pass/fail.
Can I become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) through your program?
No. After our accreditation is complete, some programs may accept some
credits towards your CNM. However Aviva Institute is a Direct-Entry
program designed for the CPM credential. Please see this page on the differences between CNMs and CPMs.
Will I become a CPM or Licensed Midwife on graduation?
No, you will be prepared for taking the NARM or State licensing exams, but separate agencies award those credentials.
How long does it take to complete?
The Certificate Program takes about three years, including
prerequisites, with about another year for a Bachelor’s. This may
vary for those who have credits to transfer in, and your clinical
placement. Sometimes it takes longer than three years to attend
enough out-of-hospital births to meet the clinical guidelines for
graduation. In some cases, the pace of matriculation can be
accelerated, e.g., for advanced placement, or if a student takes more
than twelve credits per term.
What is the longest a student can take to complete the program?
We prefer that a student stay in the same group throughout the entire
three years. However, things come up that may lead a student to take
time off, e.g., to have a baby, to travel to a clinical site,
family issues, etc. Students have five years from the date of the
last course taken for their courses to be counted towards completion.
However, if students drop out of school entirely, they must reapply and
pay the new, presumably higher tuition rate. When space is
limited, priority is given to cohort groups.
What are the differences between Certificate, and Bachelor of Science Programs?