The commitment of French midwifery teachers to doctoral studies: A qualitative study based on experience feedback

In 2014, nine percent of French midwifery teachers were enrolled in doctoral studies or already had a doctoral degree, although they are only required to have a Master's degree. Doctoral studies last at least three years and require high intellectual work. This study aimed to evaluate the motivational sources underlying the commitment of French midwifery teachers to their doctoral studies, and to identify the factors involved in managing their doctoral studies, family life, and professional life.

The study has a qualitative design. In 2021, fifteen midwifery teachers enrolled in doctoral studies participated in the study and were interviewed. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Analysis of data revealed a wide range of motivational sources of French midwifery teachers. Interviews showed that French midwifery teachers hoped to gain recognition as a medical profession by contributing to research to improve the quality of care for women and newborns. French midwifery teachers were successful in managing their doctoral studies, family life, and professional life. They showed resilience in the face of the various obstacles they encountered during their doctoral studies, in particular, the lack of funding for their studies and the lack of recognition of their doctoral work.

The study highlights the commitment of French midwifery teachers to their doctoral studies and to developing midwifery research. However, they lack the time, resources, and funding for their doctoral work.