Kennedy‑King College announced that it will admit its inaugural cohort of students into Illinois' first degree program for midwifery this spring, marking a new chapter for the South Side institution. The program, scheduled to begin in the spring of 2027, will be the first of its kind in the state, offering a dedicated pathway to become a certified midwife.
The curriculum combines traditional classroom instruction with hands‑on training in a high‑technology simulation laboratory. Students will spend time mastering obstetric procedures and emergency scenarios using advanced mannequins and digital interfaces that replicate real‑world conditions. This laboratory component is designed to give learners a controlled environment in which to develop clinical skills before transitioning to patient care settings.
Beyond the simulation lab, the program requires participants to be on call around the clock for clinical experience. The 24‑hour on‑call structure ensures that students gain exposure to a continuous range of birthing situations, working directly with patients under supervision. This blend of simulated practice and real‑time clinical responsibility is intended to prepare graduates for the demands of modern midwifery practice.
Kennedy‑King College, situated on Chicago's South Side, highlighted the initiative as a response to growing demand for qualified midwives in the region. By establishing the state's first dedicated midwifery degree, the college aims to expand the local health workforce and provide new educational opportunities for residents. The inaugural class will be the first group of Illinois students to earn a midwifery degree through this integrated academic and clinical model.