Extension of Midwifery HDip placements brings new opportunities for DkIT Students in Cavan and Monaghan
The Higher Diploma in Midwifery at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is an 18-month, full-time postgraduate programme designed for Registered General Nurses who wish to become midwives. The programme equips midwifery students with the specialist knowledge and hands-on skills needed to provide safe, compassionate care as professional midwives.
Funded by the HSE, the programme is delivered in partnership with Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. This year, however is unique, as for the first time the partnership now extends to Cavan Monaghan General Hospital, where two Higher Diploma midwifery students from DkIT will complete the majority of their clinical placements. This is an exciting time for DkIT and Cavan Monaghan General Hospital who extend their student cohort from undergraduate to postgraduate midwifery students.
For Chloe Donaghy from Monaghan and Rebecca Smith from Cavan, the programme offers the perfect opportunity to transition their nursing careers toward a lifelong passion.
“Having this course as an entry route to midwifery is so beneficial. It’s only 18 months, and you can carry through a lot of your general nursing skills,” said Chloe. “Although it’s a completely new aspect of healthcare for me, it isn’t like starting entirely afresh.”
A graduate of ATU Letterkenny in September 2024, Chloe was working in the Gynaecology Unit when she discovered her interest in women’s health and the wonders of helping to bring new life in to the world.
“Working closely with obstetric doctors and student midwives during placements gave me great insight into the world of midwifery,” she explained. “My maternity placement during general nursing confirmed my passion — it’s such a beautiful profession where you build relationships with families during one of the most special times in their lives.”
Her background in nursing has given her invaluable experience — from medication management to supporting families through difficult moments. The empathy, communication, and kindness she developed as a nurse continue to serve her well in midwifery training.
Rebecca’s path took her from Coventry University in the UK, where she graduated in 2017, to a variety of clinical roles. She initially worked in Trauma and Orthopaedics at the University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire before returning home to Cavan in 2019. There, she cared for surgical, gynaecological, and medical patients in Cavan General Hospital, later moving into a Practice Nurse role in general practice.
“I always planned to do midwifery after general nursing, but life took over for a while,” said Rebecca. “Now feels like the right time.”
As a mother of two, Rebecca especially appreciates the structure of the DkIT programme — being able to maintain her basic nursing salary throughout the course and complete placements locally in Cavan, allowing her to have a vital work-life balance.
Both students agree that their prior nursing experience gives them a strong foundation in their new careers. Their clinical skills, teamwork, and ability to support patients during emotional and physical transitions all translate naturally into midwifery.
“Go for it — it’s a great opportunity and such a rewarding course,” said Rebecca.
Chloe added,
“The application process isn’t too difficult, and the support from lecturers and year leads is fantastic. You spend most of your time on the wards, which really helps you build confidence and learn new skills.”
Having made the move from general nursing, both women are committed to continuing in midwifery long-term — supporting women and families through one of life’s most amazing experiences.
The Higher Diploma in Midwifery runs every September for 18 months in DkIT. Applications will open at Easter 2026 for the next intake.
