Midwifery

The course serves as an introduction and orientation in midwifery studies and the understanding of its specific curricular, organizational and content-related aspects. It should support the students in the self-organization of the individual learning process, in particular clarify the formal framework conditions for examinations and performance certificates and practical minimum requirements. The main focus is on the development of competencies in the field of university and digital learning, in particular the use of the e-learning platforms Moodle, Mahara and the university portal.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: Participation not graded

The course serves as an introduction to the subject of research and science and scientific work. The focus is on the distinguishing features and distinguishing features of science, the concept of evidence-based and its differentiation between the various levels of evidence. The following are dealt with in detail: literature research in libraries and databases, information and knowledge management, methods of processing results, structure, structure and basic rules of scientific work, presentation techniques and the art of giving lectures and discussing them based on arguments.

Lecture, discussion, group work, practical exercises, self-study

Final exam: Written examination

The course aims to consolidate and deepen English language skills both in terms of understanding English technical texts and communicating with clients and their relatives in English.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, e-learning

Final exam: Written or oral exam

The basic concepts of human anatomy are taught in the course. This includes an introduction to the use of medical terminology and the structure and structure of the human body from the cell to the differentiation into its organ systems: cell, tissue, body structure and musculoskeletal system (active + passive), cardiovascular system, respiratory tract, blood, Immune system, lymphatic organs, digestive tract, kidneys and lower urinary tract, genital organs, endocrine system, nervous system, sensory organs (eyes, ears, skin).

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: In writing or orally

The aim of the course is to familiarize students with the essential basics of the physiology of the human organism. The choice of topics is based on the possible issues of the midwifery profession. In particular, these are the metabolism of breathing and acid-base balance, hormones, the vital functions and the functioning of the central organ systems (kidneys, liver, blood, digestion, excretion, heat and cold regulation, pain physiology, etc.).

Lecture and self-study

Final exam: Written or oral exam

The course deals with the basics of hygiene, its basic terms and areas of responsibility, such as the measures of infection prophylaxis and infection control. An initial overview of the most important types of pathogens, their typical transmission routes and mechanisms of action is given. The focus here is in particular on the importance of the hygienic behavior of medical specialists in the intra- and extramural area, or compliance with hygiene measures and hygiene concepts (hygiene plan). In exercises, for example, hygienic and surgical hand disinfection, the correct handling of sterile and non-sterile protective gloves, protective clothing and sterile goods are trained. Further course contents are the principles of sterilization, disinfection and pest control, as well as basic terms of epidemiology from a public health perspective.

Lecture, discussion, self-study, exercises

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course serves to impart knowledge of the anatomical and physiological processes of human development from the germ cell to the birth of a mature unborn child on the due date and their anatomical, hormonal and functional requirements. Another focus is the structure and functioning of the placenta as the central metabolic organ of the child during pregnancy.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course serves to impart basic knowledge about physiological pregnancy. The students acquire the basic knowledge of pregnancy development (duration of pregnancy, signs of pregnancy, calculation of the due date, etc.), the mechanisms of action of pregnancy hormones and their effects on genital and extragenital physical and psychological changes. Another focus is on the diagnostic procedures for determining the child's growth (symphysis-fundus distance measurement) and the introduction to the manual position determination of the unborn child by means of Leopold's handles.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course is at the beginning of the midwifery course and prepares the students for their practical learning phases. The students gain role clarity for their first practical application. In the theoretical part, you will gain a thematic overview of, among other things, the nursing aspects, activities in the midwifery care process, measures for self-protection and patient safety. In the practical part (skills training in exercises in small groups), nursing and medical skills are practiced on models, on medical devices and in role play.

Lecture, self-study, group work, exercises in the skills lab

Final exam: Oral-practical

The course serves as an introduction to important theoretical models of communication and the teaching of methods and tools for professional communication. It is intended to support the students in reflecting on their own communication behavior and in classifying their personal communication patterns in the communication models presented. The main focus is on learning how to conduct positive and constructive discussions and communication, as well as creating a good team atmosphere (team building) within the class.

Lecture, discussion, group work, exercises

Continuous assessment: Active participation

The course spans the time from birth to postnatal adaptation processes in the newborn, the developmental processes in the early and late newborn period, to an outlook on the entire period of infancy. The focus is on the diverse midwifery tasks affecting the newborn immediately after the birth (e.g. the initial examination) and in the first days of life in the clinic and in the postnatal period at home, including the necessary documentation. This includes in particular routine examinations and controls of viability and prosperity, the administration of prophylaxis and the implementation of NG screening. One focus is on supporting the bonding processes and concludes with comprehensive education, guidance and advice for parents. Through skills training, the theoretical content is deepened and consolidated in exercises.

Lecture, discussion, group work, exercises

Final exam

In this course, the basic knowledge of the physiology of the puerperium processes is developed and evidence-based measures for looking after a woman who has recently given birth are analyzed and practiced. The roles and tasks of the midwife, their specific competencies and midwifery services in childbed are discussed as well as the care concepts and models in childbed.

Lecture, discussion, self-study, exercises in the skills lab

Final exam

The teaching content includes physical aspects such as the anatomy of the female breast, the physiology of lactation, hormonal influences and the child's and mother's breastfeeding reflexes on the one hand and dealing with the ingredients of breast milk and formula food on the other.

Further focal points are breastfeeding management, the child's waking and sleeping behavior, breastfeeding and satiety signs, the child's sucking mechanism, breastfeeding positions and attachment techniques with the aim of supporting the establishment of exclusive breastfeeding.

The knowledge acquired is deepened in exercises in the skills lab.

Written or oral-practical as part of a cumulative module examination

Final exam

The course covers the historical arc of midwifery from antiquity to the present. The central content is the development of midwifery in Central Europe, the development of traditional, indigenous midwifery and the history of midwifery in the Anglican area. The main focus of the course is on the historical positions of midwives in a women's political and social context. The course serves to understand the midwifery profession from its history and to gain perspectives for one's own midwifery identity.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: presentation

This course is an introduction to Austrian legislation and health law at national and EU level. Further focal points are relevant gestures that can be effective in the support and advice of clients. Legal facts in the context of midwifery activities are presented and their formal and substantive location in the Austrian legislative process and legal system is explained. 

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course aims to deal with the roles, tasks, concerns and values ​​of the midwifery profession on a national and international level. The students deal with the professional organizations and their anchoring in the respective health system.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: Presentation or thesis paper

The course offers a comprehensive introduction to the effects of positive and negative stress and helps students to differentiate temporary stress from burnout and analyzes and discusses self-care and self-efficacy in a sociocultural context. The aim of the course is to provide students with a repertoire of strategies that will support them to work as individuals and at the same time raise awareness of social values. The course offers students the opportunity to experience for themselves which activities promote individual self-care and how they can use them to maintain health.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: Active participation

The practical learning phase 1 enables the students to combine theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competences required for the practice of the profession under supervision. It serves to get to know clinical organizational structures, to reflect on processes, procedures and content of clinical midwifery work as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment

The practice accompanying seminar 1 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases. In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning systematically supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, skills are practiced, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theory-based.

Lecture, reflection and discussion (plenum, small groups, guided self-study), distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: Documentation of the minimum requirements, support processes, case analyses, writing of practical experiences

The course deals with the concept and concept of health on different levels and from different perspectives. The students deal in particular with the dimensions and concepts of health promotion and prevention and their connectivity and transferability in midwifery work.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: In writing or orally (e.g. presentation)

The course serves to convey sociological, psychological and educational concepts and theories with the aim of providing the students with explanatory models for individual and socially effective health phenomena. The respective content orientation is based on the midwife's area of ​​activity and contributes to the theoretical foundation of her work.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: In writing or orally

Part 1 of the course series serves to deal with complex topics of family constellation or interaction that go beyond the direct counseling competence and responsibility of midwives. Specialized initiatives, advice and assistance are presented, which can be consulted or referred to by a midwife providing support or advice if necessary and in the sense of case management. In lectures, experts will pass on technical information, in group work and through reflection, personal access and dealing with the above-mentioned situations will be developed and thus your own understanding of your role will be strengthened.

The course is continued in the 5th semester.

Lecture, discussion, small groups

Continuous assessment: Aktive Teilnahme

The content of the course is the introduction and imparting of basic skills in the areas of health science, most frequently used quantitative and qualitative research approaches (RCT, cohort studies, case studies, action research, phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory, etc.) as well as the associated options for sampling, methods of data collection and - analysis (including an introduction to statistics), each with sample studies from the department.

Lecture, discussion, group work, practical exercises, self-study

Final exam: Final examination in writing

The course serves to impart basic knowledge about pathological (diseased) processes in the human organism and their central terms such as health, illness, mortality, morbidity, lethality, pathogenesis. The epidemiological aspects of occupational-specific diseases, their symptoms, genesis and disease progression are dealt with. In particular, these are: pathological changes in cells and tissue, inflammation, disorders of vital functions, tumor theory; pathological changes in the cardiovascular system, the fluid balance and the blood formation system; pathological changes in the digestive organs and digestion, respiratory organs of breath, urinary and urinary organs and endocrine glands. Knowledge of selected diagnostic procedures and the interpretation of the findings obtained with these procedures round off the course.

Vortrag, Selbststudium

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course deals with general and specific microbiology, infection theory and epidemiology. The basic terms and areas of responsibility of infection hygiene, measures to prevent infection and fight against infection are dealt with. The students develop an overview of the most important infectious diseases during pregnancy, childbirth, the puerperium and the newborn period (pathogens, path of infection, favorable and inhibitory transmission factors, clinical picture, symptoms, prophylaxis, therapies) and their respective pathogenic relevance. In addition, the processes that lead to immunization through disease or vaccination are explained, the various vaccination methods are discussed and the Austrian vaccination plan is presented.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

This course is about psychosexual development, and educational work (midwives in kindergarten and school), sex education and counseling for young people and adults are developed for each stage of development. Contraception / family planning, sexually transmitted diseases and changes in sexuality during pregnancy and after childbirth are discussed. Furthermore, initiatives that make pregnancies worldwide safer and advocate for sexual rights are just as much an issue as sexual disorders, sexual abuse and violence in obstetrics. Further contents are the subjects of abortion, anonymous birth, adoption and baby hatch.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Final exam: Written (seminar paper)

The content of the course is to impart knowledge about procedures of assisted reproduction in the case of an unfulfilled desire to have children and prenatal diagnostics. In addition to the subject-specific knowledge of indications, procedures, implementation and interpretation of findings, the students deal with the legal regulations in Austria and selected other countries, the psychological aspects of involuntary childlessness and the experience of pregnancy when using prenatal diagnostic examinations.

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course serves to deal with ethics and morals in connection with medical, especially obstetric issues. The basics and basic terms of ethics and moral philosophy are presented and discussed using examples from everyday midwives' work. The aim is to develop a professional position on ethical or moral dilemmas with the help of theoretical concepts on ethics and morals.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: Active participation

The integrated course serves to impart skills in carrying out preventive examinations in physiological pregnancy. On the basis of the Austrian mother-child pass, the following priorities are set: The creation of the initial anamnesis (obstetric-gynecological, medical personal anamnesis, family anamnesis and psychosocial anamnesis. The collection of risk factors according to the mother-child passport using the screening methods, especially the interpretation of laboratory diagnostics. Exercises on external examination methods, especially the determination of the intrauterine position of the child and the collection of vital signs and the external examination of the pregnant woman, including pelvic diagnostics and taking vaginal smears. With the help of scientific sources, evidence-based recommendations on pregnancy symptoms are searched for, read and knowledge about them is shared through presentations using the media. The necessary skills are trained in exercises in the skills lab and the implementation of a full preventive medical examination is practiced.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Final exam: Final exam in writing or orally

The course provides up-to-date basic nutritional knowledge. The basis for this is the Austrian food pyramid for pregnant and breastfeeding women, including the respective information about the composition and nutritional-physiological effects of the food groups. The students deal with evidence-based measures to alleviate pregnancy symptoms that can be alleviated by a healthy diet (e.g. cravings, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, gestational diabetes). Furthermore, the students get an overview of formula food for the not breastfed or double-fed child and the nutritional-physiologically optimal approach when introducing complementary foods.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Final exam: Written

In this course, central competencies for evidence-based management, accompaniment, care and monitoring of all phases of a physiological birth are conveyed. The students develop the theoretical fundamentals of the processes and the mechanical interplay of the factors promoting birth and learn the practical skills required for supervision on the model in the skills lab. The theoretical content and practical exercises are intended to enable students to accompany physiological births individually, to promote the physiological process and to justify possible interventions based on evidence, with the aim of enabling the mother-to-be and her companions to have a self-determined birth experience.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Final exam

The course serves as an introduction to fetal heart rate monitoring before and during delivery. The subject is intermittent auscultation as well as the cardiotocogram (CTG), its indications and limitations. The students develop a basic knowledge of the norms of the fetal heart rate pattern and initial knowledge about their deviations. The main focus is on the interpretation of the CTG according to the currently valid standards, the measures to positively influence a CTG or the vitality of the unborn child and the development of skills for the proper, complete, written documentation of the birth process.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Final exam

The course serves as a practice-oriented introduction and to frequently occurring deviating (irregular) obstetric processes. Using case studies, basic medical knowledge for recognizing irregularities and emergency situations is imparted. By linking the case studies with techniques for conducting conversations and professional interaction, role-plays are intended to promote the ability to network thinking, acting quickly and empathic behavior in a practical way. The course aims to strengthen the learner's behavior in challenging situations in the practical field and to further develop the self-competencies of empathy, role clarity, self-care and the ability to separate.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises (role play)

Continuous assessment

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 2 enables the students to further combine theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for the practice of the profession under supervision. It serves to get to know clinical organizational structures, to reflect on processes, procedures and content of clinical midwifery work as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment

The practice accompanying seminar 2 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases. In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning systematically supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theory-based.

Reflection and discussion in small groups and in guided self-study, distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: documentation of the requirements, support processes, Case studies, writing of practical experiences

Practical training 2 aims to gradually acquire, deepen and expand professional skills. In particular, the practice of skills and practical competencies in the protected framework of the third learning location (skills lab, sim lab, learning workshop) prepares the students for the respective practical learning phases of the current training semester and ensures that relevant skills and practical competencies are learned professionally and based on guidelines will.

This is further deepened within the framework of individual practical support by university lecturers and evaluated, reflected on and continuously improved in terms of quality assurance in concrete professional situations.

Practical training in the skills lab, practical support in the practical field

(demonstration, exercises, observation, reflection)

Continuous assessment: Active participation and/or practical report (if practical training is not possible in the practical field)

The course offers an introduction to concerns, topics and methods of feminist women* and gender research and establishes the link between women* health and midwifery work. The students deal with perspectives and results of women's health research as well as strategies and concepts of gender-equitable health promotion, prevention and health care. This is deepened by expert lectures from selected initiatives and offers on topics of women's health.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: In writing or orally

The course serves to deepen the knowledge of methods, topics and questions of midwifery science. The focus is on deepening scientific methodological knowledge, learning and practicing a detailed scientific, database-based literature search and applying the knowledge to design a scientific work in compliance with the rules of scientific work.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, e-learning

Final exam: Written final examination

The course deals with academic reading and evaluation of texts. Approaches and systematics for the critical examination of particularly scientific texts (reading methods, text analysis) are developed with the aim of being able to make statements about their quality criteria (e.g. relevance, validity, reliability, consistency, suitability for answering research questions, etc.).

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

This course serves to deepen the English technical vocabulary and the application of the English technical language in text and language. English-language research literature and scientific articles are systematically searched, analyzed, evaluated and discussed in English.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

The course serves to impart medical knowledge on gynecological phenomena, diseases and therapeutic measures in all ages. In particular, knowledge is imparted about hormonal and menstrual processes, malformations and diseases of the primary and secondary genital organs, venereal diseases, tumor diseases and secondary diseases in connection with pregnancies and births. Further focal points are indications and contents of gynecological preventive examinations and screenings, procedures for obtaining gynecological examination material and basic knowledge of the interpretation of findings.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral Examination

The course serves to impart comprehensive specialist knowledge for the examination, monitoring and control of healthy, endangered and sick newborns and premature babies. Based on the physiology, the adaptation processes from intrauterine to extrauterine life and its disorders are developed. In particular, the following deviations and clinical pictures (genesis, early detection, symptoms and therapy options) are deepened: malformations, birth injuries, congenital neurological, genetic and chromosomal deviations, metabolic and hormonal disorders, organ malformations and functional or maturity-related disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Other focal points are the initial care of the child in the case of known or acutely diagnosed deviations and diseases, the postnatal care of premature babies and children at risk and the care, support and involvement of parental caregivers in necessary interventions.

Lecture, discussion, self-study, exercises

Final exam: verbally or in writing

This course serves to impart pharmacological basics (groups of active substances, effects, indications, areas of application, special features) and in-depth knowledge of special pharmacology in obstetrics. The focus is on the most important or most frequently prescribed medication (groups), their effects, side effects, dosage and dosage forms. Furthermore, those medications are examined in more detail that the midwife administers with and without a doctor's prescription as part of their professional practice.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

This learning unit serves to impart basic knowledge about the physiology and pathology of birth pain as well as the possibilities of pain relief in obstetrics. Effects and side effects, indications and contraindications of psychotropic drugs, antispasmodics and analgesics are presented as well as various forms of local and conduction anesthesia, general anesthesia and short anesthesia. 

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

Part 1 of the "Obstetric Complications" series of courses provides specialist knowledge of obstetric complications, risks and emergencies that usually require close medical monitoring and treatment. These include, for example, hypertensive diseases, metabolic diseases and previous internal diseases during pregnancy, threatened premature birth, premature rupture of the bladder, infections, missed deadlines, transfer, induction, vaginal operative births, shoulder dystocia, umbilical cord prolapse, placental abruption disorders, bleeding, procedure for higher-grade. Birth injuries, etc. The course continues in the 4th semester.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

Part 1 of the course series "Pathological courses in obstetrics" deals with the development of knowledge about the most important pathological processes and complications during pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium. In addition to imparting theory, relevant skills are practiced in practical exercises in the skills lab, which are used in diagnosis, therapy or prevention of pathological processes. In addition, the students gain an insight into aspects of pre-, peri- and post-operative care and monitoring of endangered and sick mothers and newborns and practice the necessary measures. The course will continue in the 4th semester.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Final exam: written, oral or oral-practica

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 3 enables the students to combine theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice under supervision. It serves to get to know clinical organizational structures, to reflect on processes, procedures and content of clinical midwifery work as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and progressive assumption of midwifery activities, each adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

They are able to control their own learning process, to define learning needs and learning goals, to reflect and document their learning and practical experiences and to classify their experiences in the field of practice.

They are able to control their own learning process, to define learning needs and learning goals, to reflect and document their learning and practical experiences and to classify their experiences in the field of practice.

Continuous assessment: The students are able to meet the organizational and content-related requirements of the internship in an area-specific manner and to take part in the care of clients and patients and their relatives according to their level of training under supervision.

Practical training 3 aims to gradually acquire, deepen and expand professional skills. In particular, the practice of skills and practical competencies in the protected framework of the third learning location (skills lab, sim lab, learning workshop) prepares the students for the respective practical learning phases of the current training semester and ensures that relevant skills and practical competencies are learned professionally and based on guidelines will.

Lecture, guided practical training, practical support in the practical field

(demonstration, exercises, observation, reflection)

Continuous assessment: Active participation

The practice accompanying seminar 3 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through the pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases. In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning systematically supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theory-based.

Reflection and discussion in small groups and in guided self-study, distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: Documentation of the minimum requirements, support processes, case analyses, writing of practical experiences.

In the course, the specialist knowledge of pregnancy-related questions, topics and content is deepened on an evidence-based basis and skills for conducting interviews and carrying out professional counseling during pregnancy are taught. In particular, the contents of the legally prescribed pregnancy counseling by midwives in Austria are conveyed as part of the mother-child passport examinations ("midwife talk").

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study

Continuous assessment: Written or oral examination

The course gives an insight into the history, development and the different concepts and formats of childbirth preparation. It is taught how a course is structured, which technical content and organizational aspects should be taken into account and which methodical-didactical procedures can be used. In addition, group dynamic processes are discussed and physical exercises are practiced in groups.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Continuous assessment

This course teaches organizational, business, insurance law and quality assurance basics for freelance midwifery with a focus on out-of-hospital births. Particular attention is paid to the framework of the personal responsibility of midwives and the correct action in borderline cases. The multi-professional cooperation in the event of risks or the occurrence of complications or emergencies is clarified and the responsibilities and competencies of other professional groups in the healthcare system are discussed.

Lecture, self-study, group work

Continuous assessment

In the course, the students learn to work on case studies from practice. The “Hands on Brain” learning method (Gritsch, Hauss, Wallner, 2018, a modification of the PBL, stands for a practical teaching method in which theory-practice transfer takes place using case studies. In small group work, case studies are methodically structured, learning questions are created, a comprehensive literature search is carried out, differential diagnoses are made, guidelines for action are drawn up and presented at a student congress.

Lecture, discussion, group work, presentation

Continuous assessment: presentation

The identification of the child's failure to thrive due to a lack of milk production, the therapy of the lack of milk, the reproduction, production and storage of breast milk is a focus of the course. Furthermore, the symptoms of painful and/or sore nipples and the lactating breast including the treatment are presented. In the exercise, breastfeeding-friendly feeding methods and breastfeeding aids are tried out and the mechanics of breast pumps are tested. In accordance with the ILCA guidelines, breastfeeding interruption and cessation are taught. The processing of case studies using clinical reasoning sharpens the view of complex situations, e.g. children with cleft lip and palate, with Down syndrome and premature babies, etc. Algorithms of action for breastfeeding immediately after birth are developed for these children.
The special features of breastfeeding multiple births, women with insulin-dependent diabetes and women with nicotine, alcohol and substance abuse are discussed.

Lecture, self-study, presentations, exercises

Final exam: Final written or oral exam

The course imparts a theoretical foundation and a wide range of practical exercises and instructions on exercise during pregnancy, in early and late confinement, through to the conception and implementation of a postnatal course. The focus is on strengthening and health of the female pelvic floor.

Lecture, distance learning, exercises

Final exam: written or oral-practical

This course serves to acquire advisory skills on relevant topics for life with a newborn and infant in the first year of life or until the end of the breastfeeding period. In addition to aspects of lifestyle and health promotion, developmental psychological aspects and transcultural norms in dealing with the child are analyzed and other areas relevant to midwifery work are discussed.

Lecture, discussion, self-study,

Continuous assessment: participation

This event serves to acquire medical-pedatric knowledge of the physical, neurological and motor development as well as the developmental psychology of small children. The genesis, symptoms and treatment of typical diseases in infancy are dealt with, as well as measures to promote and strengthen the health of infants. Other content includes accident prevention in the home, emergency measures and vaccination recommendations for newborns, infants and small children.

Lecture, self study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

Part 2 of the "Obstetric Complications" course series deals with further topics on obstetric complications, risks and emergencies that require medical monitoring or treatment. In particular, these are hypertensive diseases, metabolic diseases and internal pre-existing conditions during pregnancy, imminent premature birth, premature rupture of membranes, infections, amniotic infection syndrome, missed term, transmission, induction, vaginal operative births, shoulder dystocia, umbilical cord prolapse, placental detachment disorders, bleeding, severe birth injuries, etc.

Lecture, self-study

Final exam: Written or oral examination

Part 2 of the course series "Pathological Courses in Obstetrics" expands knowledge of the most important pathological processes and complications during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. In addition to teaching theory, relevant skills that are used in the diagnosis, therapy or prevention of pathological courses are practiced in practical exercises in the skills lab. The students deal in depth with the interpretation of pathological fetal heart rate patterns and practice the evidence-based interventions that can be derived from them.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, exercises

Final exam: Written or oral final exam

The course builds on the course on obstetric complications 1 + 2 and pathological processes 1 + 2 and serves to systematize courses of action or to deal with guideline-based algorithms. Another focus is on documentation and communication with the women concerned or parents in emergencies and in the obstetric emergency team.

Lecture, discussion

Final exam: Final examination in writing

The course serves to impart basic knowledge of fetal sonography with the aim of establishing a basic understanding of the functionality, indications, terminology, implementation and interpretation of ultrasound images in fetal sonography. The students get an insight into sonography as a diagnostic instrument and deepen it in a training unit on ultrasound devices on the model in the Sim-Lab.

Lecture, self-study, exercise

Continuous assessment: Participated ungraded

The course serves as an introduction to important theoretical models on conflicts and their causes as well as teaching methods and tools for professional conflict management. It should support the students to reflect on their own conflict behavior and to classify their personal communication patterns in the presented conflict schemes. The main focus is on acquiring the basis for a de-escalating attitude in conflicts as well as skills and strategies for a positive reaction in conflict situations.

Lecture, discussion, group work, role play, exercises

Continuous assessment: Active participation

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 4 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 4 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment

Practical training 4 aims to gradually acquire, deepen and expand professional skills. In particular, the practice of skills and practical competencies in the protected framework of the third learning location (skills lab, sim lab, learning workshop) prepares the students for the respective practical learning phases of the current training semester and ensures that relevant skills and practical competencies are learned professionally and based on guidelines will.

Lecture, guided practical training in the skills lab and practical field,
(demonstration, exercises, observation, reflection)

Continuous assessment: Active participation and/or graded practical report (if practical training is not possible in the practical field)

The practice accompanying seminar 4 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases.

In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning that is systematically and individually supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theoretically.

Reflection and discussion (plenum, small groups, guided self-study), distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: Documentation of the minimum requirements, support processes, case analyses, writing of practical experiences

In the course, in-depth knowledge of the Austrian Midwifery Act is imparted, with the aim of comprehensively understanding and classifying the practice of the midwifery profession in Austria against this background. Another focus is on the understanding of liability law aspects in connection with claims in obstetrics. 

In particular, the basics of civil and criminal liability of health professions, midwives and doctors and the basics of the preparation of expert opinions by doctors and midwives are dealt with and the resulting consequences for midwifery in Austria are discussed.

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Final exam: in writing or orally

This course serves to develop the basics relevant for midwives on topics of organizational and operational management (accounting and taxation in relation to freelance midwifery work, general contract with the Austrian Health Insurance Fund, liability and legal protection insurance, administration software for the profession).

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Continuous assessment: participation

The course deals with terms and basic ideas of quality management. The focus is on topics that are relevant for midwives in larger health care facilities as well as those for future freelance work. In addition to these basics, the course spans a range of content from quality planning to the development of mission statements and evaluation to quality assurance and conveys methods and tools for their operational implementation.

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Continuous assessment: participation

Part 2 of the series of courses serves to deal with complex topics of family constellation or interaction that go beyond the direct counseling competence and responsibility of midwives. Specialized initiatives, advice and help are presented, which can be consulted or referred to by a caring or advisory midwife if necessary and in the sense of case management. In lectures, experts will pass on technical information, in group work and through reflection, personal access and dealing with the above-mentioned situations will be developed and thus your own understanding of your role will be strengthened.

Lecture, discussion, self-study

Continuous assessment: Active participation

The course serves the planning, conception and preparation of the bachelor thesis. Central aspects of the research process are deepened. The students deal with formulating the topic, research question, literature research, defining the methodology, creating a schedule and finally write a detailed exposé in preparation for the bachelor thesis.

Lecture, discussion, group work, self-study, presentation

Module exam: Written: Writing the Bachelor's thesis

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 5 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice with the aim of increasing independence under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and progressive assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

The practical learning phase 5b consists of a self-chosen practical assignment, which the students (with the support of the practical coordinator) look for and agree on independently. You can choose from all areas of midwifery work in Germany or abroad. As part of the course, it is recommended that one of the two elective internships (practical learning phase 5b or 6b) take place as an internship in the non-clinical area in order to deepen the specific professional skills of the non-clinical or freelance midwife.

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 5b enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice based on their interests and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

The practice accompanying seminar 2 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases.

In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning systematically supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theory-based.

Reflection and discussion (plenum, small groups, guided self-study), distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: Documentation of the minimum requirements, support processes, case analyses, writing of practical experiences

The practical training is aimed at gradually acquiring, deepening and expanding professional skills. In particular, the practice of skills and practical competencies in the protected framework of the third learning location (skills lab, sim lab, learning workshop) prepares the students for the respective practical learning phases of the current training semester and ensures that relevant skills and practical competencies are learned professionally and based on guidelines will.

Lecture, guided practical training in the skills lab and sim lab
(demonstration, exercises, observation, reflection)

Continuous assessment: Active participation

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 5 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice with the aim of increasing independence under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and progressive assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

The course serves to deal with current social, professional, economic and ethical challenges under which midwives work in Austria. The aim is to be able to carry out a complete self-positioning as a future midwife when dealing with topics such as violence in obstetrics, personnel restriction, empowerment of women, etc.

Lecture, discussion, group work, presentation, self-study

Continuous assessment: Written or oral

The course serves to reflect and deepen scientific knowledge in the process of writing a bachelor thesis. The students deepen the substantive examination of their research topic, reflect discursively on the process steps, discuss them in the plenum and create a scientific poster to accompany the bachelor thesis.

Lecture, reflection, discussion, self-study, presentation

Final exam: Written: Writing the Bachelor's thesis

The Bachelor's examination serves as conclusive proof of the competences to be achieved for the practice of the profession as a midwife.

Lecture, discussion, small groups, self-study, presentation

Final exam: Bachelor examination: examination discussion for the bachelor thesis and case analysis

Building on the practical learning phase that has already been completed, learning phase 6 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice with the aim of progressive independence under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

Building on the practical learning phase that has already been completed, learning phase 6 enables the students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice with the aim of progressive independence under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final assessment.

The practical learning phase 6b consists of a self-selected practical assignment, which the students (under the guidance of the practical coordinator) look for and agree on independently. You can choose from all areas of midwifery work in Germany or abroad. As part of the course, it is recommended that one of the two elective internships (practical learning phase 5b or 6b) take place as an internship in the non-clinical area in order to deepen the specific professional skills of the non-clinical or freelance midwife.

Building on the practical learning phases that have already been completed, learning phase 6b enables students to further link their theoretical knowledge with practice based on their interests and to practice the skills and competencies required for professional practice under supervision. It provides in-depth knowledge of job-specific organizational structures, reflection on processes, procedures and content of midwifery work, as well as the guided development of job-specific skills and roles of a midwife.

Targeted practical guidance; Guided and supervised application and assumption of midwifery activities in the professional field, adapted to the level of training.

Continuous assessment: Ongoing reflection with professionals from the professional field and final feedback.

The practice accompanying seminar 6 serves to ensure the theory-practice transfer through pedagogical support of the students during the practical learning phases.

In the plenary session, in small groups and in distance learning systematically supervised by teachers, the practical learning phases are prepared and followed up, learning goals are defined, practical experiences are reflected and concrete case studies and support processes are analyzed systematically and theory-based.

Reflection and discussion (plenum, small groups, guided self-study), distance learning

Continuous assessment: Practice report: Submission of the complete documentation of the minimum requirements, support processes, case analyses, writing of practical experiences

The practical training is aimed at gradually acquiring, deepening and expanding professional skills. In particular, the practice of skills and practical competencies in the protected framework of the third learning location (skills lab, sim lab, learning workshop) prepares the students for the respective practical learning phases of the current training semester and ensures that relevant skills and practical competencies are learned professionally and based on guidelines will.

This is further deepened within the framework of individual practical support by university lecturers and evaluated, reflected on and continuously improved in terms of quality assurance in concrete professional situations.

Lecture, guided practical training in the skills lab and practical field
(demonstration, exercises, observation, reflection)

Continuous assessment: Practical or oral-practical exam