Applications are being invited for a new direct-entry midwifery programme. The three-year pilot diploma is offered under the auspices of the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies in TCD, in conjunction with the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, and Our Lady of Lourdes' Hospital, Drogheda, Co Louth.

Previously, if you wanted to train as a midwife, you would first have had to complete a general nursing qualification and then do a postgraduate qualification in midwifery. This new programme is being offered on a one-off basis - there be an intake this June and no further intake until the programme has been completed and evaluated.

Applicants should be at least 17 years of age on June 1st, 2000. Minimum educational requirements are C3 in two higher-level papers and D3 in four ordinary-level papers in the Leaving Cert in the following subjects - English, a language other than English (not foundation-level Irish), maths (not foundation level), a lab science subject (biology, physics, chemistry, physics and chemistry [joint] or agricultural science), and two other subjects (which may include a language and a lab science subject not already included). Mature applicants, who may not meet the minimum educational requirements, are also welcome to apply (you must be at least 23 years of age on January 1st, 2000).

There are 20 first-year places. A non-means-tested maintenance grant of £2,800 will paid for the first two years of the programme. Third-year students will be salaried during their clinical placement (a minimum of 30 weeks) and will receive a grant, pro rata, for the remainder of the year. There are also meal, uniform and book allowances.

For an application form, write to the Admissions Office, West Theatre, TCD, Dublin 2. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is Mar 3rd.