Abstract Οverview:
There is great emphasis within the midwifery profession on developing research aware and proficient practitioners. For example, the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has a key aim to build research capacity and embed research-mindedness throughout the professions (RCM 2020) The professional doctorate program is one pathway available to support people in the development of research knowledge and skills as it provides midwives with the opportunity to study while continuing in their current midwifery role.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aims to examines key factors influencing engagement with PD programs, including motivations, perceived value, barriers to participation, and their impact on professional practice.

Method:
A two-phase mixed methods approach was employed. First, online and in-person interviews were conducted with educators from PD programs at five UK universities to explore curriculum development, pedagogical approaches, and challenges. Insights from these interviews, along with a literature review, informed the creation of a structured quantitative tool assessing the perceptions of nurses, midwives, and educators regarding PD programs. The quantitative phase involved distributing this tool to a broader population to collect statistically significant data on experiences and perspectives. By integrating qualitative and quantitative analysis, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of PD programs in midwifery education.

Results:
Findings emphasize the need for flexible sustainable learning structures, institutional support, and clear career progression pathways to encourage midwives to pursue doctoral education. Educators highlighted the significance of research-informed practice and leadership training within PD curricula.

Conclusion:
This study offers valuable insights into the perceptions of nurses, midwives, and educators regarding PD programs. The findings provide essential information on the implications for policy, curriculum development, and institutional support mechanisms to enhance midwifery engagement in PD programs. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term career trajectories of PD graduates and the broader impact of doctoral education on midwifery care.