How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Alabama - Midwife Schooling Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Alabama faces a growing shortage of certified nurse midwives, affecting the quality of maternal care in rural and underserved communities. With fewer than 20% of births attended by midwives, the demand for holistic, personalized childbirth support continues to rise, creating strong career opportunities with competitive salaries and long-term job stability.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines Alabama’s 2025 education and certification steps. It offers clear guidance to help readers start a fulfilling midwifery career.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Alabama

• To become a nurse midwife in Alabama, candidates must earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus.
• Admission to these programs requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an active registered nursing license, a minimum GPA, and supporting documents such as recommendation letters and test scores.
• The programs include advanced courses in women’s health and require completing over 720 supervised clinical hours.

Table of Contents

1. What is the minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in Alabama?
2. What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alabama?
3. What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Alabama?
4. What are the clinical training requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alabama?
5. How long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife in Alabama?
6. How much does it cost to attend nurse midwife school in Alabama?
7. What financial aid options are available for nurse midwife students in Alabama?
8. What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Alabama?
9. Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Alabama?
10. What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Alabama?
11. Can nurse midwives transition into nurse practitioner roles in Alabama?
12. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Alabama

What is the minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in Alabama?

In Alabama, becoming a nurse midwife requires advanced education to ensure safe and specialized care for women and newborns. The minimum degree needed is an MSN with a focus on midwifery.

Below are the key aspects of this degree requirement:

• Advanced Nursing Foundation: The MSN builds on core nursing principles and expands knowledge in women’s health, reproductive care, and obstetric management.
• Specialized Midwifery Training: Students gain expertise in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care through rigorous coursework and clinical rotations.
• Certification Eligibility: Completion of an MSN with a midwifery focus allows graduates to sit for the AMCB exam.
• Hands-On Clinical Experience: The program emphasizes real-world learning through supervised clinical practice in hospitals and birthing centers.
• Leadership and Research Skills: MSN programs often include training in evidence-based practice, healthcare leadership, and patient advocacy.

For those considering this career path, it's important to recognize the role of advanced education in opening doors to rewarding and impactful nursing roles, including some of the highest paying nursing careers. Pursuing the MSN in midwifery is a significant step toward becoming a skilled provider who can make a meaningful difference in Alabama’s healthcare landscape.

What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alabama?

Meeting the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alabama is essential for advancing your nursing career. These criteria ensure that candidates possess the academic foundation, clinical experience, and professional qualifications needed for advanced practice.

Below are the key admission requirements:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a BSN from a regionally accredited institution with CCNE or CNEA accreditation.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required. Applicants with a GPA below 3.2 must provide GRE or GMAT scores meeting program standards.
• Registered Nursing License: A current and unencumbered RN license valid in Alabama or the state of clinical practice is mandatory.
• Clinical Experience: Many programs prefer or require prior clinical nursing experience, though specific requirements vary.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, three letters from academic or professional sources are needed to support the applicant’s readiness for advanced practice.
• Graduate Exam Scores: GRE or GMAT scores are required if GPA requirements are not met, with limited exceptions for candidates holding graduate degrees.
• International Students: Proof of English proficiency and evaluated transcripts are required, with no test waivers available.
• Unique Alabama Requirements: Applicants must be at least 21, have legal U.S. presence, and secure collaborative practice approval with an OB/GYN.

Meeting these admission requirements is just the first step; successful candidates also highlight their core strengths and relevant experience. The chart below shows the top skills nurse midwives often include on their resumes.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Alabama?

The nurse midwife program curriculum in Alabama is structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. These courses are designed to develop the critical thinking, diagnostic skills, and holistic care approach needed for advanced nursing and midwifery roles.

Below are the key courses commonly included in Alabama nurse midwife programs:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Focuses on complex physiological changes and disease processes, enabling students to identify and manage pregnancy-related and general health conditions.
• Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning: Develops detailed patient assessment abilities and diagnostic reasoning skills necessary for women’s health and prenatal care.
• Advanced Pharmacology for Childbearing Women: Provides knowledge of safe medication use and prescribing practices for pregnancy, labor, and postpartum stages.
• Reproductive and Women's Health: Covers reproductive health from adolescence through menopause, including contraception and gynecological management.
• Labor, Birth, and Newborn Care: Offers extensive training in managing normal and high-risk labor, delivery, and newborn care, forming the foundation of midwifery.
• Integrated Midwifery Care Across the Lifespan: Emphasizes comprehensive, family-centered care for women throughout various life stages, including preventive and chronic condition management.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research Methods: Equips students to evaluate research findings and apply them to clinical decision-making for improved patient outcomes.
• Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues: Reviews ethical dilemmas and state-specific legal requirements that guide safe and professional midwifery practice.
• Population Health and Health Policy: Examines maternal and infant health disparities, with a focus on policies affecting rural and underserved communities.
• Interprofessional Leadership and Financial Considerations: Develops leadership skills, collaborative strategies, and financial awareness needed for effective healthcare management.

Clinical practicums, requiring over 1,000 hours in diverse settings such as women’s hospitals and community clinics, complement these courses by providing hands-on experience with a wide range of patients and challenges. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are fully prepared for certification and autonomous practice.

For those wondering what do I need to start working as charge nurse, gaining practical experience in clinical settings is key to success.

What are the clinical training requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alabama?

Clinical training for nurse midwife programs in Alabama is structured to ensure competency across the full spectrum of midwifery care. Students must complete a minimum of 720 supervised clinical hours, meeting both state and national accreditation standards. These hours are distributed among various healthcare settings to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

Below are the key components of clinical training:

• Hospital-Based Training: Students gain experience in labor and delivery units, including managing normal and high-risk births, as well as handling emergency scenarios.
• Birthing Center Experience: Training in birthing centers emphasizes natural, low-intervention births and personalized patient-centered care.
• OB/GYN Clinic Rotations: Students receive hands-on exposure to prenatal care, postpartum recovery, gynecologic services, and family planning.
• Newborn and Well-Woman Care: Clinical hours include performing newborn assessments and providing routine well-woman exams to support holistic women’s health.
• Supervision by Preceptors: Certified nurse midwives and OB/GYN physicians closely oversee and evaluate students to build clinical confidence and decision-making skills.
• Collaborative Practice Training: Emphasis is placed on teamwork and consultation, aligning with Alabama’s requirement for nurse midwives to practice under collaborative agreements with physicians.

The image below illustrates how much of the midwifery workforce is composed of CNMs, highlighting their central role in maternal healthcare.

How long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife in Alabama?

The process of becoming a CNM in Alabama requires several stages of education, licensing, and certification. While timelines vary based on individual pace and program selection, the journey generally spans six to eight years from start to finish.

Below are the primary steps and estimated timeframes:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Completing a BSN program typically requires four years of full-time study. This forms the foundation for nursing practice and eligibility for RN licensure.
• RN Licensure: After earning a BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain Alabama RN licensure. This process may add several months due to exam scheduling and state processing.
• Graduate Midwifery Program: An MSN or DNP with a midwifery focus takes approximately two to three years. These programs combine advanced coursework with clinical training.
• National Certification Exam: Graduates must pass the AMCB exam to achieve CNM certification.
• State Recognition and Collaboration: CNMs must apply for recognition through the Alabama Board of Nursing and establish a collaborative practice agreement with a physician, which may extend the overall timeline.

How much does it cost to attend nurse midwife school in Alabama?

The cost of attending a nurse midwife program in Alabama varies depending on the institution, residency status, and program format. Tuition for these programs generally ranges from $17,789 for in-state students to $30,782 for out-of-state students, with per-credit costs typically falling between $500 and $700.

Total program expenses for MSN or DNP pathways usually range from $20,000 to $42,000 at public universities, while private or out-of-state options may exceed $57,000.

Beyond tuition, students should consider additional costs associated with nurse midwifery education. Program and university fees can add $500 to $2,000 per year, while textbooks and learning materials may cost $600 to $1,200 annually. Clinical-related expenses, such as uniforms, stethoscopes, and other supplies, generally range from $200 to $600. Travel or temporary housing may be necessary for clinical rotations, particularly for online students.

Applicants should also account for fees related to applications, licensure, and certification, which typically total between $500 and $1,000. For those interested in exploring career outlooks and opportunities in this field, resources such as the womens health nurse practitioner career outlook provide valuable insight into related professions and prospects.

What financial aid options are available for nurse midwife students in Alabama?

Pursuing a nurse midwife degree in Alabama can be financially demanding, but multiple aid programs are available to ease the burden. Below are the primary financial aid options for nurse midwife students in Alabama:

• Federal Student Loans: Students can apply for Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans, which offer low interest rates and manageable repayment plans.
• Federal Work-Study: This need-based program provides part-time employment opportunities, allowing students to earn income while gaining valuable healthcare experience.
• State Grants and Scholarships: Although limited, Alabama offers nursing-focused scholarships for students pursuing advanced practice roles, subject to availability and eligibility requirements.
• Advanced Practice Nursing Loan Repayment Program: Provides up to $15,000 in loan repayment for graduates who commit to serving 18 months in critical-need areas.
• Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program: A federal initiative that repays up to 85% of student loans for nurses who work two years in health professional shortage facilities.
• Institutional Scholarships and Assistantships: Universities such as the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) award scholarships and assistantships based on academic performance and clinical excellence.

Understanding these financial aid options can help students plan for the cost of education, especially when weighed against the earning potential of nurse midwives. The image below highlights average nurse midwife salaries, offering insight into the return on investment for this career path.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Alabama?

Selecting an accredited nurse midwifery program in Alabama is essential for ensuring quality education and meeting certification requirements. Accreditation confirms that the curriculum meets national standards and prepares graduates for advanced maternal and reproductive healthcare roles. 

Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools serving Alabama:

• University of Alabama at Birmingham – MSN Nurse Midwifery Pathway: UAB offers Alabama’s only campus-based nurse-midwifery program, reinstated in 2022. It emphasizes local maternal health needs through clinical partnerships and experienced faculty.
• Frontier Nursing University – Online MSN with Alabama Clinicals: Based in Kentucky, this fully accredited program offers online coursework with clinical placements throughout Alabama. It is suited for working nurses seeking flexible schedules.
• Vanderbilt University – Hybrid MSN Nurse Midwifery: Vanderbilt combines online classes with in-person clinical rotations across Alabama. The program is well-known for strong academic support and robust clinical placement networks.
• Emory University – Hybrid MSN Nurse Midwifery: Emory’s program offers a blend of online coursework and Alabama-based clinical training, recognized for its innovative curriculum and expert mentorship.
• Georgetown University – Online MSN Nurse Midwifery: Georgetown provides rigorous online courses paired with local clinical opportunities. It has national recognition for its leadership in midwifery education.

For those pursuing advanced roles in midwifery, understanding the landscape of accredited nurse midwifery programs in Alabama is essential. This knowledge not only prepares you for certification but also positions you to contribute meaningfully to improving health outcomes. If you’re interested in exploring the highest paying jobs with a doctorate in nursing, nurse midwifery offers a promising path with excellent career prospects.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Alabama?

Advanced degrees provide CNMs in Alabama with strategic opportunities to enhance clinical expertise, assume leadership positions, and influence healthcare outcomes. Below are the key advanced degrees that support career advancement for CNMs in Alabama:

• MSN in Nurse-Midwifery: This foundational graduate degree integrates advanced clinical practice with leadership and research training, preparing CNMs for certification and roles such as lead midwife or clinical coordinator.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: The DNP is the highest degree for clinical practice, equipping CNMs with expertise in healthcare systems, policy development, and clinical leadership for managing complex cases and multidisciplinary teams.
• Post-Master’s DNP: Designed for MSN-prepared CNMs, this program sharpens executive leadership and quality improvement skills, enabling roles like director of midwifery services or chief nursing officer.
• MSN in Health Systems Leadership: This degree focuses on organizational leadership, preparing CNMs to oversee health programs, manage teams, and influence policy within hospitals and public health organizations.
• Academic and Research Pathways (PhD or DNP): These degrees open doors to teaching, research, and clinical education roles, allowing CNMs to shape the future of midwifery through evidence-based practice and innovation.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Alabama?

Accreditation is a critical consideration when selecting a nurse midwife program in Alabama, as it ensures the program meets national quality standards and adequately prepares students for certification and licensure. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education, or ACME, is the primary accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the U.S., including those in Alabama. ACME’s recognition by the U.S. Department of Education affirms its authority and credibility. Additionally, AMCB requires graduates to complete ACME-accredited programs to be eligible for national certification.

In Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers an MSN Nurse Midwifery Pathway that holds ACME accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to academic and clinical excellence. The Alabama Board of Nursing works in alignment with national accreditation standards to ensure that graduates are prepared for state licensure.

Furthermore, professional organizations such as the American College of Nurse-Midwives offer resources and set professional standards that support and uphold the value of accredited nurse midwife education.

To better understand the various educational paths and credentials, consider reviewing resources on nursing degrees key differences.

Can nurse midwives transition into nurse practitioner roles in Alabama?

Some nurse midwives pursue additional advanced practice roles by transitioning into nurse practitioner pathways to broaden their clinical scope and leadership potential. This role expansion offers access to enhanced clinical opportunities and diversified settings, thereby further strengthening patient care delivery. Candidates interested in this transition should assess the overlapping competencies and educational prerequisites that facilitate a seamless shift into nurse practitioner roles. For a comprehensive overview of related academic programs, consider reviewing our guide on the top nurse practitioner programs in Alabama.

What do nurse midwives in Alabama say about their careers?

• Working as a nurse midwife in Alabama has given me a strong sense of purpose. I enjoy building trust with families and guiding them through safe, healthy births. The need for skilled midwives here is real, and I feel my work truly makes a difference every day. – Maria
• Alabama’s mix of rural and urban communities allows me to use all my clinical skills as a nurse midwife. I’ve gained valuable experience supporting mothers with different needs and backgrounds. The collaborative healthcare teams here make me feel supported and appreciated in every aspect of my work. – Anthony
• Becoming a nurse midwife in Alabama gave me both career stability and the chance to create meaningful connections with patients. Seeing mothers and babies thrive because of the care I provide is incredibly rewarding. I’m proud to work in a profession that values compassion and expertise. – Sophia

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Alabama

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Alabama?

No, becoming a CNM in Alabama requires a nursing degree. Candidates must first obtain an RN license, typically through a BSN. Only then can they pursue accredited graduate programs in nurse-midwifery and pass the national certification exam to practice as a licensed CNM in Alabama.

What is the difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife in Alabama?

A CNM is a registered nurse with advanced graduate-level training and national certification, allowing them to provide comprehensive maternal and newborn care, including prescribing medications. A midwife without nursing credentials, such as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM), focuses on out-of-hospital births and has a narrower scope of practice. CNMs hold broader clinical authority in Alabama.

Is a midwife in Alabama higher than an RN?

A midwife is not higher than a registered nurse but is considered an advanced specialist. CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses with graduate-level training in reproductive health and childbirth. While their role is specialized and salaries are typically higher, they are not ranked above RNs in Alabama’s nursing hierarchy but function in distinct capacities.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Alabama hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Alabama is challenging due to extensive education and clinical requirements. Candidates must earn RN licensure, complete a graduate nurse-midwifery program, and pass the AMCB exam. The rigorous coursework, clinical training, and ongoing certification demand significant dedication. However, the rewarding career in maternal and infant care makes the effort worthwhile.

References:

• Alabama Board of Nursing. (n.d.). Advanced practice loans – Alabama Board of Nursing. Retrieved from Alabama Board of Nursing
• Alabama Birth Center. (n.d.). CNM vs CPM. Retrieved from Alabama Birth Center
• American College of Nurse Midwives. (n.d.). Become a midwife. Retrieved from Midwife.org
• Midwife Schooling. (n.d.). How to become a nurse midwife in Alabama 2025 | CNM guide. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
• Nursing Education. (n.d.). Certified nurse-midwife (CNM) career guide. Retrieved from NursingEducation
• RegisteredNursing.org. (n.d.). 2025 best MSN and RN-to-MSN programs in Alabama. Retrieved from Registered Nursing
• RNtoMSN.com. (n.d.). MSN Alabama | Find nursing master’s programs | RNtoMSN. Retrieved from RNtoMSN
• South Alabama University. (n.d.). Clinical nurse leader | College of Nursing. Retrieved from South Alabama
• University of Alabama. (n.d.). Nursing, MSN. Retrieved from University of Alabama
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