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

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Becoming a nurse midwife in Alaska offers a rewarding path for those passionate about women’s health and rural care. With its vast landscapes and remote communities, the state presents unique opportunities and challenges for certified nurse midwives (CNMs), who often provide comprehensive care across large service areas.

Alaska’s midwives are especially valued in underserved regions, where they support childbirth, prenatal care, and primary health services. In this guide, you'll learn about the education, licensing, and clinical experience required to become a nurse midwife in Alaska.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Alaska

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gain at least one year of clinical experience before applying to a nurse midwifery graduate program.
Complete an accredited CNM program, which typically takes 2-3 years, focusing on maternal and newborn care specific to Alaska’s healthcare needs.
Pass the national certification exam and obtain Alaska state licensure; the state expects a growing demand with a 15% job growth rate through 2030.

What is the minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in Alaska?
What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alaska?
What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Alaska?
What are the clinical training requirements for nurse midwife programs in Alaska?
How long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife in Alaska?
How much does it cost to attend nurse midwife school in Alaska?
What financial aid options are available for nurse midwife students in Alaska?
What is the career outlook for nurse midwives in Alaska?
What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Alaska?
Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Alaska?
What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Alaska?
Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Alaska

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

The minimum education requirement for nurse midwives in Alaska is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This graduate degree is essential because it equips candidates with the advanced clinical and theoretical knowledge needed to provide comprehensive care to women and newborns. Through this program, aspiring nurse midwives develop skills to manage prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care effectively.

The focus on evidence-based practices ensures that graduates can deliver care that is safe, timely, and tailored to the unique needs of Alaskan communities, particularly those in remote areas. This specialized training also prepares nurse midwives to respond confidently to emergency situations, which is critical given the challenges of healthcare access in Alaska.

Meeting Alaska nurse midwife degree requirements also means being prepared to collaborate within interdisciplinary healthcare teams, promoting holistic and culturally sensitive care. The MSN with midwifery specialization emphasizes continuous learning and professional development, a necessity for maintaining clinical competence and delivering high-quality care.

For those considering career growth, it’s helpful to note that nurse midwives in Alaska must also engage in ongoing education to stay current with best practices. Individuals interested in exploring their options might find it useful to learn more about the highest paying nursing career options, which can provide insight into how a nurse midwife role fits within the broader nursing profession.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Alaska requires meeting several specific academic and professional criteria. These qualifications ensure candidates are well-prepared for the demands of nurse midwifery in the state.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must have a baccalaureate or graduate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program approved by CCNE or ACEN.
Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for undergraduate and graduate coursework; graduate GPA can substitute if at least three graduate core courses have grades of 3.0 or higher.
Required Coursework: Completion of a research methods course and a statistics course with at least a grade of C (2.00) is mandatory.
RN License Requirement: An active, unencumbered RN license valid specifically in Alaska must be held before starting clinical coursework.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time clinical experience as a registered nurse is required prior to beginning clinical work.
Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require recommendation letters from academic or professional sources to support the application.
Personal Statement and Interview: Submission of a written essay is typical, and candidates may be invited to a phone or in-person interview.
Resume or CV: A current resume or curriculum vitae detailing educational and professional history is commonly requested.
International Student Requirements: Credentials must be evaluated for equivalency and English proficiency demonstrated through TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Transfer Credits: Up to 30 credits may be accepted from prior nursing education, especially for RN to MSN pathways.
Unique Alaska Requirements: The RN license must be Alaska-specific, and some programs require proof of completion for direct-entry midwifery routes.

Although there are many requirements to become a CNM, the chart below indicates a strong demand for certified nurse midwives due to the high mortality rate in the U.S among those 40 and older.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Alaska?

Nurse midwife programs in Alaska include a focused curriculum designed to develop the essential skills and knowledge needed for advanced practice in women’s health and newborn care. The nurse midwifery curriculum in Alaska emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on clinical experience tailored to the state’s unique healthcare environment.

Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessments of women across all ages, enabling students to identify critical findings for safe midwifery care.
Advanced Reproductive Health: Focuses on women's reproductive systems, including menstrual disorders, contraception, and preconception care, preparing students to manage complex reproductive health needs.
Pharmacology for Women and Pregnancy: Covers principles of medication management specific to pregnancy and lactation, ensuring safe prescribing practices within midwifery scope.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Provides in-depth training on prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care, equipping students to handle both normal and high-risk pregnancies effectively.
Integrated Midwifery Care of Women: Emphasizes holistic care throughout a woman’s lifespan, combining clinical practice with academic learning for readiness in independent midwifery roles.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Explores disease processes in women and newborns, enhancing diagnostic and management skills for various conditions encountered in practice.
Research Methods for Advanced Practice Nurses: Introduces research design and evidence appraisal to promote application of best practices in clinical decision-making.
Biostatistics and Data Analysis: Teaches statistical tools for interpreting research data, supporting evidence-based approaches in patient care.
Health Care Ethics and Legal Issues: Addresses ethical and legal aspects specific to midwifery in Alaska, ensuring compliance with state regulations and professional standards.
Clinical Practicum/Internship: Requires at least 500 hours of supervised clinical experience in Alaskan healthcare settings, such as Alaska Regional Hospital, providing real-world application of skills.

Completing these nurse midwife program courses Alaska-wide ensures graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse health needs of Alaskan communities. For those interested in expanding leadership skills alongside clinical expertise, understanding charge nurse requirements can provide valuable career advancement opportunities.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Alaska require a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours, typically completed over at least one academic year. These hours are spread across various healthcare settings such as hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and remote or tribal health facilities. This variety ensures students gain firsthand experience managing a wide range of birth scenarios and patient needs, including those unique to Alaska’s rural and Alaska Native populations.

Students must demonstrate proficiency in core competencies such as prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, newborn assessments, and routine gynecologic care. All training is supervised by licensed nurse midwives, certified midwives, or physicians who are credentialed to ensure safety and effectiveness. Alaska follows national training standards, and although it does not impose extra state-specific clinical hour requirements, students must meet all expectations of their ACME-accredited programs.

One Alaska-based nurse midwife shared that her clinical training was both challenging and deeply rewarding. “Rotating through remote clinics made the 500 hours feel intense,” she said. “But the exposure to underserved communities and cultural diversity gave me perspective I wouldn’t have gained elsewhere.” Her preceptors played a vital role, offering both supervision and encouragement. “They didn’t just guide me—they held me accountable and helped me grow into a confident provider.”

clinical hour requirement for clinical nurse leader certification

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Alaska begins with earning a BSN, which typically takes about four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, you must obtain an active Alaska RN license. Unlike many states, Alaska does not participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact, so maintaining a current state-specific RN license is essential throughout your education and training.

Once licensed, gaining at least one year of clinical experience as an RN is usually required before applying to graduate nurse-midwifery programs. These programs, accredited by ACME, lead to an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Graduate studies typically last 2 to 3 years and must include a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical practice to satisfy Alaska’s regulatory requirements.

After graduating, passing the national nurse midwife certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) is mandatory to apply for advanced practice licensure in Alaska. The state’s specific clinical hour requirements and the non-compact RN licensing process can add extra time, potentially causing licensing delays.

Overall, expect the full pathway—from starting a BSN to becoming a fully licensed certified nurse midwife—to take approximately 7 to 8 years in Alaska, with some variation due to state-specific factors and application processing times.

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

The nurse midwife program cost in Alaska varies depending on whether you attend a public or private institution and if you qualify as an in-state resident. Typical tuition for accredited programs ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 for traditional and bridge MSN CNM programs, with online options slightly lower at $35,000 to $65,000.

At the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), in-state graduate tuition is about $6,768 per semester, while out-of-state students pay around $20,352 per semester. Over a 2–3 year program, this translates to approximately $27,000–$40,000 for residents and $80,000–$120,000 for non-residents, making UAA one of the more affordable public choices for Alaska residents.

Students should also budget for additional expenses beyond tuition when considering Alaska nurse midwife tuition and fees. Mandatory university fees can range from $500 to $2,000 annually, with textbooks and course materials typically costing between $1,000 and $2,500 for the entire program.

Clinical supplies, including uniforms and medical equipment, may add $300 to $1,000, while background checks, immunizations, and drug screenings often cost $100 to $500. Licensure examination and certification fees after graduation can total $500 to $1,000. Travel and lodging for clinical rotations in remote areas of Alaska can also contribute significantly to overall costs.

Prospective students should note the significant tuition difference between in-state and out-of-state rates at public universities in Alaska, with in-state tuition generally about one-third the cost of out-of-state. Private and online programs may offer flat rates regardless of residency.

For those exploring educational pathways, understanding the detailed structure of costs and requirements is essential to planning a successful career. For more information on related credentials and pathways, you can visit resources on nurse practitioner requirements.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Alaska includes a range of federal, state, and private options designed to ease the cost of graduate nursing education. Securing a combination of loans, scholarships, and incentive programs can significantly reduce financial burdens while encouraging service in underserved areas.

Federal Student Loans: Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans cover tuition and living expenses, with repayment deferred during at least half-time enrollment.
State Loan Repayment Programs (SHARP-3): Offers up to $20,000 in loan repayment or incentive payments for nurse midwives committing to three years in shortage areas.
Scholarships: The ACNM Foundation and Indian Health Service provide competitive awards to support tuition and living costs, especially for Native students.
Work-Study Opportunities: Part-time employment through federal or institutional programs offers income and clinical experience.
Service Payback Incentives: Many programs require practicing in rural or medically underserved communities to qualify for aid or forgiveness.

I spoke with a nurse midwife from Alaska who graduated from a local program and shared how navigating financial aid was both challenging and rewarding. She recalled feeling overwhelmed applying for multiple scholarships and the SHARP-3 program but noted that the loan repayment incentive was a decisive factor in choosing to work in a rural clinic.

“Knowing there was support tailored for nurse midwives in Alaska made it possible to focus on my studies without constant financial stress,” she said. Her experience highlights how combining several aid sources and committing to community service can open doors for aspiring midwives in the state.

The chart below shows the distribution of certified nurse midwives across different industries:

What is the career outlook for nurse midwives in Alaska?

Current workforce analyses indicate a growing demand for nurse midwives in Alaska, driven by a persistent need for maternal and primary care in remote and underserved regions. Data suggests that employment opportunities are expanding as healthcare facilities increase their investments in community-based care models and regional hospitals seek providers with advanced clinical skills. Regional initiatives to enhance access to maternity services and culturally sensitive care offer CNMs potential for both clinical and leadership roles. Additionally, exploring complementary certifications—such as how to become a nurse practitioner in Alaska—can provide further avenues for career diversification and advancement.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Alaska?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Alaska is critical for students aiming to become CNMs. Accreditation not only ensures eligibility for the national certification exam but also provides the solid clinical training needed to meet Alaska nurse midwife school requirements and succeed in the state’s healthcare environment.

Limited In-State Options: University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Partnership Pathways: Though Alaska lacks a fully in-state ACME-accredited program, UAA collaborates with out-of-state accredited schools to offer clinical placements and support. This partnership allows students to gain valuable experience within Alaska’s healthcare system while working toward certification.
Frontier Nursing University – Nurse Midwifery Program (Distance Option): An ACME-accredited program known for its online coursework and flexible schedule. Alaska-based students can complete didactic learning remotely and arrange clinical rotations locally, making it easier to balance education with community ties.
Georgetown University – Nurse Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid Option): Offering a blend of online courses and on-campus intensives, Georgetown’s program allows Alaskan students to organize local preceptorships. The program is respected nationally for its academic rigor and comprehensive training.
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing – Nurse Midwifery Program (Distance-Friendly): Vanderbilt provides mostly online coursework with clinical training options in Alaska. Its innovative curriculum and strong graduate outcomes make it a solid choice for students wanting to stay connected to their communities.
Bethel’s Yuut Elitnaurviat – Rural Preceptorship Collaborations: While not a degree-granting program, Yuut Elitnaurviat partners with accredited universities to offer rural clinical preceptorships. This hands-on experience in Alaska Native health settings is highly valued and enhances graduates’ employment prospects.

Students should verify program accreditation and consider local clinical opportunities to meet Alaska nurse midwife school requirements effectively. For those looking into the requirements to become an obstetrics nurse, exploring accredited nurse midwifery programs in Alaska offers a strategic path to certification and a rewarding career.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Alaska?

Advanced degrees play a key role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Alaska. These programs prepare CNMs to take on leadership, education, and specialized clinical roles that meet the state’s unique healthcare needs.

Master of Science in Nursing: This degree supports advancement into clinical leadership, women’s health program coordination, and specialized midwifery practice across Alaska’s diverse communities.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: The highest clinical degree, enabling CNMs to lead healthcare initiatives, manage programs, and influence policy with a focus on underserved and rural populations.
Post-Graduate Certificates: These certificates allow CNMs to diversify their expertise by adding specialties like Family Nurse Practitioner or Nursing Education, opening dual roles in clinical practice and academia.
Leadership and Education Roles: Advanced training qualifies CNMs to serve as program directors, clinical preceptors, or faculty, addressing workforce needs and mentoring future providers in Alaska.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Alaska?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole accrediting body recognized for nurse midwife programs in Alaska. Its accreditation is essential for programs that prepare candidates for licensure and certification as Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) in the state.

ACME accreditation ensures programs meet strict educational and clinical standards, such as a minimum of one academic year and 500 hours of supervised clinical practice. This rigorous evaluation guarantees that graduates are qualified to sit for the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Alaska state law requires all prospective CNMs to complete an ACME-accredited program, making this accreditation a critical factor when considering nurse midwife program tuition in Alaska.

Since Alaska lacks campus-based ACME-accredited programs, students often enroll in reputable online programs designed to meet state requirements, including those offered by Georgetown University and the University of Cincinnati.

Understanding the cost of becoming a nurse midwife in Alaska involves recognizing the importance of selecting an accredited program. Programs without ACME accreditation will not qualify graduates for licensure, potentially wasting time and resources. Prospective students should also consider related educational pathways, such as the types of nursing degrees that can lead to midwifery. Ensuring enrollment in an ACME-accredited program aligns both educational quality and licensure eligibility, crucial for a successful career as a nurse midwife in Alaska.

What do nurse midwives in Alaska say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Alaska Anchorage opened doors I never imagined. The curriculum was tailored to address the unique health needs of Alaskan communities, which made my education incredibly relevant and practical. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share this specialized knowledge and passion with a new generation of caregivers. I love how every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, especially working closely with Indigenous populations. It’s deeply rewarding to see students grow into confident professionals ready to serve rural areas. Chame
Choosing to pursue my nurse midwife certification through Alaska Pacific University was one of the best decisions for my career and personal growth. The program emphasized community health and cultural sensitivity, which is vital in Alaska’s diverse environment. Teaching in a local school gave me a platform to inspire others to embrace the rewarding, albeit demanding, nature of midwifery here. The harsh climate and remote locations present challenges, but they also offer unique opportunities to make a real difference in maternal care. This career path has taught me resilience and the importance of compassionate care. Fern
Finishing my nurse midwifery training at the Ilisagvik College in Barrow gave me a profound connection to Alaska’s Arctic communities. This experience enriched my understanding of the cultural and environmental factors that influence health care delivery here. Beginning to teach locally has been a gratifying way to contribute to the well-being of young people while advancing my professional skills. The steady career growth and job stability in Alaska’s health sector have been reassuring, and I’m proud to play a part in improving health outcomes in such a unique setting. Lilian

Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Alaska

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Alaska without first obtaining a nursing degree. Certification as a nurse midwife requires that candidates be licensed RNs before pursuing advanced education in midwifery. This means you must complete a nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and hold an active RN license in Alaska.

After becoming an RN, you must enroll in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the ACME. These programs typically confer a master's or doctoral degree and prepare students for national certification through the AMCB.

However, Alaska does allow other types of midwives, such as licensed midwives, who may not require a nursing degree but have different scopes of practice and licensing requirements. If your goal is to practice as a nurse midwife specifically, a nursing degree is mandatory in Alaska.

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

In Alaska and globally, the primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their training, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, often called a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level education in midwifery. CNMs are nationally certified and licensed to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as general women’s health services. They are authorized to work in hospitals, birthing centers, and homes.

In contrast, a midwife without a nursing background may be trained through direct-entry programs or apprenticeships and is often licensed as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or equivalent, depending on the region. These midwives specialize primarily in pregnancy and childbirth care but may have a more limited scope compared to nurse midwives. In Alaska, CNMs are recognized healthcare providers with broader clinical authority, while non-nurse midwives typically focus on out-of-hospital births and may have more restrictions regarding medical interventions.

Is a midwife in Alaska higher than an RN?

In Alaska, the roles of midwives and RNs differ significantly in scope, education, and legal recognition, making direct comparisons of “higher” status complex. Midwives in Alaska, specifically CNMs and CMs, are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized graduate-level education in midwifery, enabling them to provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care independently.

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), CNMs must complete a master’s or doctoral degree and pass national certification, placing them at a higher clinical practice level than typical RNs, who generally hold associate or bachelor’s degrees and provide broader nursing care under supervision.

Midwives earn a median annual wage of approximately $134,439, compared to $138,729. Moreover, midwives in Alaska have prescriptive authority and can manage low-risk pregnancies independently, distinguishing their professional standing. Therefore, while RNs and midwives serve complementary healthcare roles, midwives usually hold higher clinical authority and autonomy within Alaska’s healthcare system.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Alaska hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Alaska can be challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires meeting strict educational and licensing standards. First, you must earn an RN license, usually by completing a BSN and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Next, you need to complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs typically take two to three years and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice.

After graduation, you must pass the AMCB exam to become a CNM. Finally, you must obtain state licensure to practice in Alaska, which involves meeting continuing education requirements. While the pathway is demanding, the structured steps and support systems in place make it manageable for motivated individuals. The career offers rewarding opportunities, particularly in a state like Alaska, where access to maternal healthcare is vital.