How to Become a Midwife: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

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The financial prospects for nurse midwives are strong, with salaries ranging from $87,320 to $177,530. Beyond the financial rewards, midwives play a critical role in providing compassionate and empowering care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. However, understanding the educational and licensing prerequisites can be challenging for those considering this impactful career path. This article aims to simplify the process, providing a comprehensive guide to the pathways to becoming a midwife, outlining educational options, certification procedures, and career opportunities.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Midwife

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are the most recognized. CNMs, who constitute the majority of practicing midwives in the US (approximately 6,960 in 2023), are advanced practice registered nurses with master's degrees, offering the broadest scope of practice and recognized in all 50 states. This makes them a very stable and well-defined career path.
Education and licensure are rigorous but rewarding. Becoming a midwife requires a significant time investment, typically 6-8 years for CNMs, including a master's degree and national certification, but the average annual salary of $131,570 reflects the value of this expertise. Understanding state-specific licensure is also critical.
Online programs offer flexibility. While clinical training must be in person, online MSN programs provide valuable flexibility for aspiring midwives, allowing them to balance education with other commitments. However, it is important to check for accreditation to ensure that the program is recognized.
Job growth is promising. The projected 7% job growth for nurse midwives from 2023 to 2033, translating to an estimated 500 new jobs, indicates a strong demand for these professionals, especially in outpatient care centers, which are the top paying industry, with an average salary of $164,080.
Diverse career settings and responsibilities. Midwives work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing comprehensive care to women, from prenatal to postpartum. This includes not only childbirth, but also gynecological care, and patient education.

What is a midwife?
How to Become a Midwife for 2025?
What are the licensure requirements to become a midwife?
How long does it take to become a midwife?
Are there online midwife programs?
What are the responsibilities of a midwife?
How much can I make as a midwife?
Where can I work as a midwife?
How can advanced education and bridging programs enhance midwifery careers?
How can advanced certifications and bridging programs enhance midwifery career trajectories?
How can fast track RN to BSN programs enhance midwifery career advancement?
What should I consider when choosing a midwifery education program?
What are the continuing professional development opportunities for midwives?
How can online RN to BSN programs facilitate my transition to midwifery?
What are the top-paying industries for midwives?
What career paths are available for midwives?
What is the job market for midwives?
Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Midwife

What is a midwife?

Midwives are essential healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They focus on patient-centered care, empowering women to make informed decisions about their bodies and their babies. Their role extends beyond delivery, encompassing prenatal education, newborn care, and even gynecological services. This holistic approach emphasizes natural childbirth and supports women's autonomy throughout the reproductive process.

Types of Midwives

The midwifery profession in the US includes several distinct roles, each with varying levels of education, certification, and scope of practice.

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs). These are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with a master's degree in nurse-midwifery and national certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). CNMs have the broadest scope of practice and are recognized in all 50 states.
Certified Midwives (CMs). Similar to CNMs, CMs hold a master's degree in midwifery and AMCB certification, but they are not required to have a nursing background. State recognition for CMs varies.
Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs). CPMs focus on out-of-hospital births and are certified by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). Their scope of practice and state regulations differ significantly.
Lay/Traditional/Direct-Entry Midwives. This category includes midwives with varying levels of training, often acquired through apprenticeships. Their legal status and scope of practice are highly variable, with potential risks due to the lack of standardized training.

Currently, there are approximately 6,960 nurse midwives practicing in the US, indicating a growing but still specialized profession.

How many nurse midwives are there in the US?

How to Become a Midwife for 2025?

Becoming a midwife involves distinct educational pathways, depending on the desired certification and scope of practice. Understanding these paths is crucial for aspiring professionals to make informed decisions about their career trajectory.

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)

The most common path to midwifery involves graduate education from an accredited nurse-midwifery program. The steps involved are:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year undergraduate degree is the foundational requirement.
Graduate Education (MSN or DNP): A two-to-three-year Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program focuses primarily on advanced clinical practice. A three-to-four-year Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program emphasizes both clinical expertise and leadership skills, including systems-level thinking, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. This answers the question, "What is an MSN?" by contrasting it with the DNP.
National Certification: Passing the AMCB national certification exam.

Certified Midwife (CM)

For those without a nursing background, becoming a CM offers an alternative route. This also involves a master's degree in midwifery and AMCB certification. It's essential to research state-specific requirements, as CM licensure is not available in all states. The steps are:

Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in any field is required.
Master's Degree in Midwifery: A two-to-three-year graduate program.
National Certification: Passing the AMCB national certification exam.

Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)

CPMs focus on out-of-hospital births and require certification from the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). Their educational pathways vary, often involving apprenticeships and clinical experience. The steps are:

Varied Educational Background: Educational requirements differ, often involving self-study and apprenticeships.
Clinical Experience: Accumulating required clinical experience.
National Certification: Passing the NARM national certification exam.

Lay/Traditional/Direct-Entry Midwives

This path involves highly variable training and legal recognition. Due to the lack of standardized education and potential risks, this pathway is strongly discouraged. No steps are listed here, as this path is not recommended.

These educational pathways provide the necessary foundation for understanding the licensure requirements, which differ significantly across states and certification types.

What are the licensure requirements to become a midwife?

Licensure is essential for ensuring safe and competent midwifery practice. While national certifications establish professional standards, state licenses grant legal permission to practice. These requirements vary significantly, emphasizing the importance of thorough research for each aspiring midwife.

Licensure Requirements for Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs)

CNMs, often holding some of the most sought-after certifications that pay well, must meet rigorous licensure standards. These include:

Master's Degree in Nurse-Midwifery: Graduation from an accredited program is mandatory.
National Certification: Passing the AMCB national certification exam demonstrates competency.
State Licensure as an APRN: CNMs must obtain licensure as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in their state of practice.
Maintaining Licensure: This involves fulfilling continuing education requirements for both APRN licensure and AMCB certification, as mandated by state boards of nursing.

Licensure Requirements for Certified Midwives (CMs)

CM licensure is not available in all states, and requirements vary considerably where it is offered.

Master's Degree in Midwifery: Graduation from an accredited program is essential.
National Certification: Passing the AMCB national certification exam is typically required.
State-Specific Requirements: These vary, but often include AMCB certification and state applications.
Maintaining Licensure: This involves continuing education and AMCB recertification, as well as adherence to state-specific regulations.

Licensure Requirements for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs)

CPMs face varying levels of regulation across states.

National Certification: Passing the NARM certification exam is required.
State Regulation: This may involve licensure, registration, or permitting, depending on the state.
Maintaining Licensure/Certification: NARM recertification and adherence to state regulations are necessary.

Lay/Traditional/Direct-Entry Midwives

This path lacks standardized licensure requirements.

No Standardized Licensure: Legal recognition and requirements vary widely.
Potential Legal Risks: Practicing without proper licensure can pose significant legal risks.

Navigating these licensure requirements is a crucial step in establishing a successful midwifery career. The variations across states highlight the need for careful research and planning.

How long does it take to become a midwife?

The timeframe to become a midwife varies significantly depending on the chosen path, reflecting the different educational and experiential requirements.

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). Typically requires six to eight years: four years for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), followed by two to three years for a master's degree in nurse-midwifery. National certification and state licensure processes add to this timeline.
Certified Midwife (CM). Generally, it takes two to three years to complete a master's degree in midwifery after obtaining a bachelor's degree. National certification and state licensure processes add to the overall timeline.
Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). The timeframe varies considerably due to diverse educational and experiential pathways. NARM certification requires specific clinical experience and educational modules, which can range from several months to years. State regulatory processes also contribute to the overall timeline.
Lay/Traditional/Direct-Entry Midwife. Timeframes are highly variable and unregulated, often involving apprenticeships or self-study. Due to the lack of standardized education and legal recognition, this path is not recommended.

The time commitment reflects the rigorous training needed to provide safe and effective midwifery care, with CNM and CM paths offering the most clearly defined timelines.

Are there online midwife programs?

Online midwifery programs offer a flexible alternative for aspiring midwives, primarily at the master's level for those seeking CNM or CM certification. These programs typically combine online coursework with required in-person clinical experiences. Students should expect a blend of asynchronous learning, such as recorded lectures and readings, and potential synchronous learning, including live online sessions and discussions. Prerequisites vary depending on the program and certification type, often requiring a bachelor's degree and specific prerequisite courses.

When considering online programs, a common question is, "How much is nursing school?" Costs vary widely, ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 or more for a master's degree, with program length typically spanning two to three years. It is crucial to ensure that any online program is accredited by the ACEN, CCNE, or ACME, as accreditation is essential for national certification and state licensure. These programs offer a valuable option for those needing to balance education with existing commitments, provided they are accredited.

What are the responsibilities of a midwife?

The responsibilities of a midwife encompass a wide range of care, varying based on their certification and scope of practice. However, all midwives share a commitment to providing safe, patient-centered care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Responsibilities of a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)

CNMs provide comprehensive care, often in hospital, birth center, or clinic settings.

Prenatal Care: Conducting physical exams, health assessments, and providing education.
Labor and Delivery: Managing labor and delivery, including monitoring fetal and maternal well-being.
Postpartum Care: Providing newborn care, breastfeeding support, and postpartum assessments.
Gynecological Care: Offering family planning, well-woman exams, and treatment of common gynecological conditions.
Medication Prescription: Prescribing medications, as authorized by state regulations.
Collaboration: Working with other healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians and pediatricians.

Responsibilities of a Certified Midwife (CM)

CMs offer similar care to CNMs, often focusing on natural childbirth.

Prenatal, Labor, and Postpartum Care: Providing comprehensive care throughout the perinatal period.
Gynecological Care: Offering similar services to CNMs.
Collaboration: Working with other healthcare professionals, as needed.

Responsibilities of a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)

CPMs primarily focus on out-of-hospital births, such as home births and birth center deliveries.

Prenatal, Labor, and Postpartum Care: Providing care in out-of-hospital settings.
Education and Support: Offering education and support to women and their families.
Scope of Practice: Working within the scope defined by state regulations.
Collaboration: Collaborating with other healthcare professionals when needed.

Essential Skills for All Midwives

Regardless of certification, certain skills are crucial for all midwives.

Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Building trust and rapport with patients and families.
Clinical Competence: Providing safe and effective care.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Managing complex situations.
Emotional Resilience: Coping with the demands of childbirth.
Cultural Sensitivity: Providing respectful care.
Advocacy: Empowering women and promoting their autonomy.
Organizational Skills: Maintaining detailed records and managing schedules.

Even in programs advertised as easiest nurse midwife programs online, these responsibilities are made clear, and compliance issues are addressed to ensure that graduates are well prepared for the demands of the job. These are the skills that will make a midwife successful.

How much can I make as a midwife?

A career in midwifery offers not just the profound reward of supporting women through one of life's most transformative experiences, but also significant financial stability. Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), whose advanced training and broad scope of practice position them as leaders in women's healthcare, earn an average annual salary of $131,570 in 2023, with potential earnings ranging from $87,320 to $177,530. This reflects the value placed on their expertise and the critical role they play in ensuring positive birth outcomes. Certified Midwives (CMs), with similar training, generally earn comparable figures, while Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), who champion natural childbirth in out-of-hospital settings, have a wider salary range. It is important to note that due to the lack of standardized training and regulation, there is little reliable salary data for lay/traditional/direct-entry midwives.

Where can I work as a midwife?

Midwives have the opportunity to practice in a variety of settings, each offering unique experiences and patient populations. The choice of work environment can significantly impact a midwife's daily responsibilities and career trajectory.

Working in Physician's Offices. Many midwives collaborate with obstetricians and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care. In 2023, approximately 3,490 nurse midwives worked in physician's offices, with an average annual salary of $127,550.
Hospitals: Fast-Paced and Collaborative. Hospitals offer a dynamic environment where midwives manage labor and delivery, provide postpartum care, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. In 2023, around 1,640 nurse midwives were employed in hospitals, earning an average annual salary of $135,900.
Outpatient Care Centers: Comprehensive Care. These centers provide a range of services, including prenatal care, childbirth education, and well-woman exams. Outpatient care centers are the top paying industry for nurse midwives.
Birth Centers: A Home-Like Setting. Birth centers offer a more comfortable, home-like setting for labor and delivery, emphasizing natural childbirth and patient autonomy.
Home Birth Practices: Personalized Care. Some midwives establish private practices focused on home births, providing personalized care to women who prefer to give birth in their own homes.
Teaching Future Midwives. Some midwives work in educational settings, teaching and training future generations of midwives.

The diversity of work settings allows midwives to tailor their careers to their specific interests and professional goals.

How can advanced education and bridging programs enhance midwifery careers?

For experienced professionals seeking further specialization or a transition into leadership roles, advanced education and dedicated bridging programs provide a strategic advantage. These programs help midwives advance from an associate degree to master's-level competencies, boosting clinical decision-making and administrative skills without interrupting their current roles. For instance, programs like ADN to FNP enable nurses to integrate advanced practice frameworks into midwifery, enhancing both job performance and marketability. Such pathways are particularly beneficial when aiming for roles that demand a balance of clinical expertise and advanced healthcare management.

How can advanced certifications and bridging programs enhance midwifery career trajectories?

Midwives seeking to expand their professional scope can benefit from advanced certifications and bridging programs that integrate clinical practice with leadership development. These targeted programs not only reinforce core midwifery skills but also equip professionals with the competencies necessary for higher-level decision-making and administrative roles. For example, enrolling in accelerated NP programs online can provide a structured pathway to acquire advanced patient care and management skills. Such initiatives streamline career advancement by aligning midwifery experience with the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

How can fast track RN to BSN programs enhance midwifery career advancement?

Accelerated education pathways can expedite the transition for registered nurses aspiring to specialize in midwifery. Fast track programs, such as the fast track RN to BSN, streamline course content and clinical requirements, enabling professionals to quickly obtain the necessary academic qualifications for advanced midwifery education. This approach not only minimizes the time to degree completion but also aligns with the evolving demand for highly skilled midwives in diverse healthcare settings.

What should I consider when choosing a midwifery education program?

When evaluating midwifery training options, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum quality, clinical placement opportunities, and alignment with state licensure requirements. Assess faculty expertise, student support services, and the overall financial investment relative to long-term career outcomes. For non-nurse candidates seeking an alternative pathway, direct entry MSN programs may offer a streamlined route without compromising educational standards.

What are the continuing professional development opportunities for midwives?

Midwives can extend their expertise through targeted continuing education and interdisciplinary certification programs. Advanced workshops, online courses, and specialized trainings enable midwives to stay current with evolving clinical practices, enhance leadership skills, and refine patient care techniques. For instance, integrating mental health competencies into midwifery can expand services and improve comprehensive care, with some professionals opting to pursue related credentials through affordable online pathways such as cheap psychiatric NP. These opportunities not only foster clinical excellence but also support career longevity and versatility in diverse healthcare settings.

How can online RN to BSN programs facilitate my transition to midwifery?

Online RN to BSN programs offer a streamlined pathway for registered nurses aiming to specialize in midwifery by integrating advanced clinical and leadership coursework with flexible online learning. These programs often emphasize critical areas such as perinatal care, patient management, and healthcare coordination, which are pivotal for a successful transition into midwifery practice. By providing a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application, they enable busy professionals to enhance their competencies without compromising their current work commitments. For detailed insights into the program structure and ease of transition, explore our guide What is the easiest online RN to BSN program?

What are the top-paying industries for midwives?

For midwives aiming to maximize their earning potential, certain industries stand out. Outpatient care centers, for instance, offer the highest average salaries, at $164,080 annually, reflecting the specialized care provided in these settings. General medical and surgical hospitals also offer competitive salaries, averaging $135,900, due to the demanding nature of hospital-based midwifery. Local government positions, excluding schools and hospitals, provide another lucrative option, with an average salary of $132,190. Offices of physicians and colleges, universities, and professional schools follow, with average salaries of $127,550 and $121,260, respectively. These figures highlight the diverse opportunities available to midwives and the potential for significant financial rewards in specific industries.

What career paths are available for midwives?

Midwifery offers a range of career paths that allow professionals to advance their income and occupation. These paths often involve specialization, leadership roles, or further education, enabling midwives to expand their impact and expertise.

Advanced Clinical Specialization. Midwives can specialize in areas such as high-risk pregnancy, adolescent care, or menopausal management, enhancing their clinical skills and attracting higher-paying positions.
Leadership and Management Roles. With experience, midwives can move into leadership positions, such as managing a midwifery practice, directing a birth center, or overseeing a hospital's midwifery services.
Education and Research. Midwives can pursue careers in academia, teaching future generations of midwives or conducting research to advance midwifery practice.
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). Expanding their credentials by pursuing a WHNP certification opens doors to a wider scope of practice, including primary care for women. Many midwives find that WHNP online programs offer a flexible way to achieve this advanced credential, which can lead to increased earning potential and career advancement.
Consulting and Advocacy. Experienced midwives can work as consultants, advising healthcare organizations or advocating for policy changes to improve women's health.

These career paths demonstrate the diverse opportunities available to midwives, allowing them to tailor their professional growth to their individual interests and aspirations.

What is the job market for midwives?

The job market for midwives is promising, driven by a growing demand for patient-centered, holistic maternity care. The projected 7% job growth for nurse midwives from 2023 to 2033, and the creation of an estimated 500 new jobs, signals a positive outlook. To further enhance their employability and career prospects, midwives can consider pursuing advanced credentials. For example, an MSN MBA dual degree program can make midwives more attractive to employers seeking professionals with both clinical expertise and business acumen, particularly in administrative or leadership roles within healthcare organizations. The increasing recognition of midwives' valuable contributions to women's health ensures a stable and expanding job market for qualified professionals.

What is the job outlook for nurse midwives?

Here's What Midwives Have to Say About Becoming a Midwife

The path to becoming a CNM was challenging, requiring years of dedicated study and clinical practice. However, the reward of supporting women through childbirth is immeasurable. Each delivery is a unique and powerful experience, and I feel privileged to be a part of it. The blend of clinical expertise and emotional connection makes this career incredibly fulfilling. Susan
Transitioning from a hospital nurse to a CPM was one of the best decisions I've made. The focus on natural childbirth and out-of-hospital settings aligns perfectly with my values. I appreciate the ability to provide individualized care and build meaningful connections with families in their most vulnerable moments. The connection with the family is amazing. Kendra
The financial stability of a CNM career has allowed me to achieve personal and professional goals I never thought possible. The average salary is competitive, and the job market is strong. Beyond the financial benefits, the sense of purpose I find in my work is priceless. This career is a great choice. Emily

Key Findings

The projected 7% job growth for nurse midwives from 2023 to 2033, and the estimated creation of 500 new jobs, signals a robust and expanding job market, addressing the career stability concerns of aspiring professionals.
With approximately 6,960 nurse midwives practicing in the US as of 2023, the profession, while specialized, demonstrates a significant presence and growing demand for qualified professionals.
The average annual salary for nurse midwives in the US is $131,570, with a range from $87,320 to $177,530, highlighting the potential for substantial financial rewards and alleviating concerns about income stability.
Physician offices employ the largest number of nurse midwives, at 3,490, with an average salary of $127,550, demonstrating the prevalence of collaborative practice settings and offering a clear career path for those seeking stability.
General medical and surgical hospitals, employing 1,640 nurse midwives and offering an average salary of $135,900, present a dynamic and collaborative work environment, appealing to those seeking a fast-paced career.
Outpatient care centers offer the highest average salary for nurse midwives, at $164,080, underscoring the potential for high earning potential in specialized care settings and indicating a lucrative career pathway.

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Midwife

What does a midwife do?

A midwife provides comprehensive care to women throughout their pregnancy, during labor, and in the postpartum period. They focus on promoting natural childbirth and empowering women to make informed decisions about their bodies and their babies. Beyond delivery, midwives offer prenatal education, newborn care, and some may provide gynecological services, creating a holistic approach to women's reproductive health.

What are the duties of a midwife?

The duties of a midwife are diverse and encompass all stages of the perinatal period. They conduct thorough prenatal checkups, manage labor and delivery, and provide essential postpartum care. Midwives play a vital role in educating women about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care. They diligently monitor the health of both mother and baby, ensuring a safe and healthy outcome. Some midwives, particularly Certified Nurse-Midwives, have the authority to prescribe medications as needed. They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians and pediatricians, to provide comprehensive care.

Why is it called the midwife?

The term "midwife" originates from the Old English word "midwif," which literally translates to "with woman." This name reflects the midwife's fundamental role in being present and providing support to women during the transformative experience of childbirth. It emphasizes the close relationship between the midwife and the woman they are assisting.

What are the different settings where midwives work?

Midwives practice in a variety of settings, each offering unique experiences and patient populations. These include traditional hospital settings, where midwives manage labor and delivery and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Birth centers offer a more home-like environment, emphasizing natural childbirth and patient autonomy. Some midwives establish private practices or provide personalized care through home birth services. Additionally, midwives may work in physician's offices, providing prenatal and postpartum care, or in educational institutions, training future generations of midwives.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. Retrieved March 31, 2024, from BLS.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023 - 29-1161 nurse midwives. Retrieved March 31, 2024, from BLS.
Mayo Clinic. (2025). Nurse midwife. Retrieved March 31, 2024, from Mayo Clinic.
O*NET OnLine. (2025). Nurse midwives 29-1161.00. Retrieved March 31, 2024, from O*NET OnLine.
ZipRecruiter. (2025). Certified professional midwife salary. Retrieved March 31, 2024, from ZipRecruiter.