To help overcome a drastic shortage of nurses and midwives across Australia, Charles Sturt University (CSU) has introduced two new education programs.

In two firsts for NSW, the University is offering a double degree in nursing and midwifery and a midwifery refresher program in association with the Greater Murray Area Health Service.

“Many universities offer courses that will prepare new graduates to work in these professions, but it is still not enough to solve the workforce shortages,” according to CSU midwifery course coordinator Pam Shackleton.

“CSU is very proactive and committed to nursing and midwifery, especially in regional areas,” she said.

“In turn, we invite hospitals to join us, by providing sites for the nurses and midwives to gain their clinical experience.”

The four year Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Midwifery degree, to be offered from next year, allows the study of nursing and midwifery in one program, with students becoming a registered nurse and certified midwife on graduation.

CSU consulted extensively with health agencies to determine ways the nursing and midwifery shortages could be alleviated.

Many hospitals across NSW and the ACT have supported the program by expressing interest in providing clinical experience for the students, Mrs Shackleton said.

In a move to help midwives re-enter the workforce, CSU and the Greater Murray Area Health Service are now offering a refresher program through Wagga Wagga Base Hospital to reintroduce midwives to clinical practice and update their knowledge about contemporary midwifery issues.

For further information about the double degree, which is open to school leavers and mature age students, please contact Mrs Shackleton on telephone (02) 6933 2746.

For information regarding the midwifery refresher program contact Mrs Shackleton, Mrs Joy Dickinson on telephone (02) 6938 6365 or Mrs Dianne Zalitis (02) 6938 6441.