Thinking of Becoming a Nurse Midwife?
Certified Nurse Midwives earn an average of $114,210 per year with 12% projected job growth. CNMs provide holistic prenatal, birth, and women's health care with AMCB certification, practicing in hospitals, birth centers, and homes across all 50 states.
What Does a Certified Nurse Midwife Do?
Pregnancy & Birth
- Prenatal care & checkups
- Labor & delivery support
Postpartum & Newborn
- Postpartum & newborn care
- Birth center & hospital practice
Women's Health
- Gynecological/reproductive health
- Women's wellness exams
Is This Career Right for You?
You Might Thrive If You...
- Are passionate about women's health and childbirth
- Want a holistic approach to healthcare
- Enjoy building long-term patient relationships
- Are comfortable with both routine and emergency situations
- Value patient autonomy in healthcare decisions
Things to Consider
- Graduate education required (MSN/DNP)
- Must be RN first
- Unpredictable hours (babies arrive anytime)
- Emotional intensity of pregnancy complications
- Varying scope of practice by state
How to Become a Certified Nurse Midwife
Earn BSN and RN License
Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse.
Gain Women's Health or L&D Experience
Work in labor and delivery, postpartum, or women's health settings to build essential clinical skills.
Complete ACME-Accredited Graduate Program
Earn an MSN or DNP from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education.
Pass AMCB Certification Exam
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam to earn your CNM credential.
Obtain State APRN License
Apply for advanced practice licensure as a CNM through your state board of nursing.
Salary & Career Outlook
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Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you are just starting your research or ready to apply, we have the resources to guide you through every step of your CNM career journey.