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Doulas play a vital role as knowledgeable guides, offering both emotional and practical assistance throughout the entire childbirth process. Fanshawe's groundbreaking Doula Studies certificate program, Ontario's inaugural offering of its kind, employs an evidence-based and reproductive justice framework to equip graduates for fulfilling careers assisting families through all stages of reproduction.
Participants will acquire specialized expertise, practical abilities, and hands-on training to cultivate an ethical, culturally sensitive, and client-focused doula practice.
The curriculum starts with foundational studies in anatomy and physiology, alongside exploring the emotional, physical, and cultural dimensions of pregnancy and delivery necessary for guiding families through prenatal care, labor, newborn care, and bereavement situations. Additionally, students will learn essential business and entrepreneurial skills covering professional ethics, contractual agreements, marketing approaches, and financial planning.
The program features complimentary weekly community sessions for expecting and new parents. Under faculty supervision, these gatherings provide valuable opportunities for students to practice offering childbirth guidance, feeding advice, newborn care solutions, and other support services. As non-regulated healthcare providers, doulas specialize in advocacy, education, counseling, and coordination to deliver comprehensive physical, emotional, and informational support for diverse reproductive needs.
Spanning two 15-week terms, the Doula Studies program combines practical training with a research-backed curriculum that highlights the evolving responsibilities of doulas within intricate healthcare networks and diverse communities, preparing graduates for meaningful careers working alongside medical professionals.
OSSD with courses from the College (C), University (U),
University/College (M), or Open (O) stream
OR
Academic and Career Entrance Certificate (ACE)
OR
Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate (GED)
OR
Mature applicant with appropriate preparation
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English by one of the following methods: