Academic experts’ perspectives on strategic benefits, challenges, and development of professional doctorates in midwifery within a small-state context

Abstract

Professional doctorates (PDs) provide an advanced pathway for midwives to integrate clinical expertise, research, and leadership. While well established in countries such as the United Kingdom, their relevance and feasibility within smallstate higher education systems remain underexplored. This study examined midwifery academics’ perceptions of the benefits, challenges, and contextual considerations associated with developing a Professional Doctorate in Midwifery in Malta. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a purposive sample of midwifery academics involved in curriculum development and leadership within a Maltese tertiary institution. Data were collected using a 41-item structured questionnaire informed by a literature review and interviews with UK professional doctorate leaders. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Friedman’s test. Participants strongly supported the introduction of a PD, highlighting its potential to enhance research capacity, strengthen midwifery leadership, and foster integration between academic and clinical practice. Key challenges included limited supervisory expertise, resource constraints, and the need for flexible programme delivery. Comparisons with established UK models demonstrated broad alignment while identifying context-specific concerns related to sustainability within a small higher education system. Professional doctorates have significant potential to advance midwifery scholarship, leadership, and workforce sustainability. The study proposes a framework of Seven Essential Domains for Professional Doctorate Education to guide the strategic design and implementation of PD programmes that strengthen research capacity and support woman-centred, evidence-informed care.