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Application Process

Application to the Lactation Consultation Program

Those who are interested in the Lactation Consultation Program are encouraged to tour Birthingway and observe a class. Please contact us for an appointment. An information packet, including an application, may also be sent upon request at no charge. The official Student Handbook and Catalog is available for $15.00, or it can be accessed here. All enrolled students receive the catalog free of charge at matriculation.

Admission to the Lactation Consultation Program is by application. The application and non-refundable $50 application fee are due at the college or postmarked no later than the application deadline of December 1. The College recommends that the applying student keep a copy of their application. Late applications will only be considered for admission if space is available after all other applicants have been considered.

The completed application includes:

  • The completed Application for Admission to the Lactation Consultation Program.
  • Response to application essay questions.
  • Two written letters of recommendation (from people not related to the applicant) sent directly to the college from the references. Fax or e-mail is acceptable provided a mailed copy follows with an original signature.
  • Copy of high school diploma, GED or other equivalency certificate, or high school transcript.
  • Official college transcripts from every college attended.
  • Any outstanding Birthingway account balance must be paid in full.
  • $50 Application fee

Applications are screened for completeness. Applicants will be contacted when all information has been received or if more information is needed.

Download the application here (101KB PDF).

Application Evaluation
Currently, a small committee consisting of Birthingway staff evaluates each ALC Program Application. As the program grows, students or previous students will also be involved in the decision-making process.

In evaluating applications, the following factors will be considered:

  • Completeness and clarity of the application
  • Responses to the essay questions on the application, including correct spelling, grammar and conventions
  • Time available to study, to be available for clinicals, etc.
  • Previous life experience which would contribute to the sensitivity and insight a good lactation consultant needs, and which demonstrate initiative, independence, perseverance, and leadership
  • Previous experience as a birth educator, health care provider, breastfeeding peer counselor
  • Previous study in lactation education, including attendance at conferences, workshops, meetings, reading breastfeeding-related books and journals
  • Feedback from instructors regarding any coursework taken at Birthingway prior to or during the application process.

The selection decision is made in early January. Students will be notified by letter once decision is final.

Birthingway College of Midwifery strives to foster an environment of diversity and acceptance. The College does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnic identity, national origin, religion, age, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. Concerns regarding this policy can be addressed to the Title IX coordinator, J. Reid, 12113 SE Foster Rd., Portland, OR 97266, 503-760-3131, or by contacting the Office of Civil Rights at 400 Maryland, SW, Washington D.C. 20202-1100, 1-800-421-3481.

 

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