HRSA $3.25 Million Grant Expands Access to Midwifery Education at Bastyr University

In October 2026, Bastyr University’s Department of Midwifery announced that it has received a $3.25 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This new investment creates much-needed pathways into community-based maternal care. The funding provides scholarships to financially eligible students enrolled in Bastyr’s Master of Science in Midwifery program.

Midwifery students answer their calling thanks to HRSA grant-base scholarships

The grant award is part of HRSA’s Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students program, which provides funding to qualified institutions for health professions. In turn, the schools can award scholarships to students to eligible students. HRSA’s program is designed to strengthen the healthcare workforce and support students who are more likely to practice in medically vulnerable communities. At Bastyr, most students in the Master of Science in Midwifery program are expected to meet eligibility requirements for HRSA funded scholarships. University leaders anticipate the funding can help the program welcome larger student cohorts. “By reducing financial barriers to midwifery education, the HRSA grant helps eligible students pursue education and continue through graduation, bringing their skills and commitment to the families they serve,” said Bastyr University Midwifery Department Chair Dr. Paula Pelletier-Butler. “The HRSA grant strengthens Bastyr’s role in preparing community midwives and represents a meaningful investment in the profession. Its effects will extend beyond the classroom as graduates provide skilled, compassionate care during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period in communities where that care is needed.”

Preparing midwives for community-based care

The Bastyr University Master of Science in Midwifery prepares students to care for families from preconception through pregnancy, labor, and birth. The program also includes postpartum and newborn care. The three-year hybrid program combines classroom learning with clinical preceptorships. Graduates are eligible to take the board exam to become Certified Professional Midwives. They may also qualify for licensure, depending on the state where they practice. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice with the history and traditions of midwifery. Students study the scientific aspects of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. They gain knowledge and understanding of health policy, legal and ethical frameworks, and reproductive justice. Their studies include practical foundations of building a midwifery practice. The preparation helps graduates deliver safe and respectful care. It also helps midwives work within the larger systems that shape maternal and infant health.

Investment in midwifery education extends beyond the classroom

The cost of graduate education can shape who is able to enter and remain in the healthcare profession. By directing scholarships to eligible students, with demonstrated financial needs, the HRSA grant helps more students through an intensive academic and clinical program. In turn, more graduates are available to offer relationship-centered care in homes, birth centers and community birth settings. The ripple effect matters. Through this five-year award offers Bastyr has an opportunity to grow its pipeline of community midwives. The HRSA grant offers an opportunity to advance a healthier and more accessible future for maternal and infant care.

Become a midwife at Bastyr University

As a prospective student, you can explore program details, curriculum, prerequisites and career outcomes on the Bastyr University Midwifery page. For application resources, financial aid information, and ways to connect with an advisor, please visit Bastyr University Admissions.