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

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To become a certified nurse midwife in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to complete an accredited graduate program, pass a national certification exam, and meet state licensure requirements. Pennsylvania recognizes both CNMs and certified midwives, with over 590 actively licensed as of 2025.

This guide will walk you through each step of the process, from nursing education to state certification. Whether you're a nurse looking to specialize or just starting out, you'll find the information you need to plan your career in midwifery with clarity.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Arkansas

Get your RN license first by completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX exam, which is a must before moving toward midwifery.
Earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME); Arkansas has several options nearby for this advanced training.
After graduation, pass the national certification exam through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), then apply for state licensure to practice legally in Arkansas.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in Arkansas, the minimum education for nurse midwife in Arkansas is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) focused on nurse-midwifery. This degree is crucial because it provides not just theoretical knowledge but also hands-on clinical training in key areas like antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care, as well as newborn and women’s primary care.

The program equips students with the skills to handle gynecology and reproductive health, preparing them well for real-world situations. Having this specialized training ensures that nurse midwives are ready to meet the unique healthcare needs of women and infants across the state.

Meeting the Arkansas nurse midwife degree requirements means you’re set to take the national certification exam offered by AMCB, which is a must for licensure. This MSN degree builds a strong foundation, blending evidence-based practice with extensive clinical experience, so graduates can confidently provide safe and effective care. It’s a demanding pathway, but it’s also rewarding, especially considering that nurse midwives play a vital role in the healthcare system.

If you’re curious about career options in nursing, exploring the best specialty career choices for nurses is a great place to start.

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

To get into a nurse midwife program in Arkansas, you’ll need to check off a few important boxes. These requirements make sure you’re ready for the challenges of advanced midwifery.

Minimum Degree Requirement: You must have a BSN from an accredited school before applying.
Registered Nurse License: A current, valid RN license in Arkansas or eligibility for one is required.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect at least a 2.5 overall GPA, with some focusing on stronger grades in nursing courses.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually, two or three references that highlight your clinical skills and readiness for graduate study are needed.
Clinical Experience: One to two years of recent nursing work, especially related to maternal or women’s health, is often preferred.
Personal Statement: You’ll typically write about your motivation for midwifery, relevant experiences, and career goals.
Interview: Some programs invite applicants for interviews to assess personal qualities and commitment.
International Students: Must provide English proficiency test scores and have foreign transcripts evaluated.
Arkansas-Specific Requirements: Proof of AMCB certification and possibly a collaborative practice agreement with a physician if you want prescriptive authority.

3195 students were enrolled in certified nurse midwife programs in 2021.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Arkansas?

If you’re diving into the nurse midwife program curriculum in Arkansas, you’ll find it’s packed with courses tailored to develop solid clinical skills and a deep understanding of women’s health. Each course is designed to prepare you for real-world challenges and the unique healthcare needs across Arkansas.

Advanced Health Assessment: Learn to perform thorough physical and psychosocial evaluations for women, infants, and families, essential for spotting key health issues in clinical settings.
Reproductive Health and Gynecologic Care: Covers managing women’s reproductive health throughout their lives, including contraception and routine care, so you can provide well-rounded, preventive services.
Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Focuses on safe medication use in women’s health, pregnancy, and newborns, ensuring you understand the drugs you'll prescribe as a nurse midwife in Arkansas.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Offers detailed knowledge of pregnancy stages, labor, and newborn adaptation, preparing you for both normal and high-risk cases.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Teaches how to critically evaluate research and apply the best evidence in your care, keeping you current with healthcare advances.
Primary Care of Women: Prepares you to handle health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic condition management, especially important for Arkansas' diverse and rural populations.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Gives insight into diseases affecting women and newborns, helping you interpret lab data and work with other healthcare pros.
Leadership and Systems Improvement: Develops skills in healthcare quality improvement and teamwork, vital for addressing Arkansas-specific healthcare gaps.
Clinical Practicum/Residency: Provides hands-on experience in hospitals and clinics across Arkansas, building your confidence and connections in local healthcare.

These Arkansas nurse midwifery course requirements ensure you’re well equipped to meet the state’s healthcare demands. If you’re curious about how many years to become a family nurse practitioner, that info can help you plan your education timeline effectively.

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

To become a nurse midwife in Arkansas, students must complete more than 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training. These hours are spread across various healthcare settings, ensuring exposure to a wide range of patient care experiences. Most clinical rotations occur in hospitals, particularly in labor and delivery units, maternity wards, and newborn nurseries.

Additional placements include birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and family practice clinics—each offering unique insights into different models of maternal and women’s healthcare.

During these clinical rotations, students build essential midwifery skills. They learn to deliver comprehensive prenatal care, manage labor and birth, and provide postpartum support. Training also includes newborn assessments, family planning, gynecologic exams, and primary care for women. This well-rounded experience prepares students to meet the complex needs of women across the lifespan while aligning with national certification standards.

All training is overseen by experienced preceptors, such as certified nurse midwives or OB/GYN physicians, who evaluate students' progress and support their development. Arkansas also requires nurse midwives attending births to have a collaborative agreement with a consulting physician. This structure not only ensures quality and safety in clinical education but also prepares students to work confidently within interdisciplinary care teams.

The image below illustrates the average tenure of CNMs, providing insight into long-term career stability in the profession.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Arkansas usually starts with earning a BSN degree, which takes about four years of full-time study. After that, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to get your RN license. While Arkansas doesn’t require a specific amount of RN experience before moving on, most folks gain some hands-on clinical work as an RN to build their skills before applying to graduate programs.

Next up is graduate-level education in nurse midwifery, typically an MSN or a DNP with a midwifery focus. These programs usually last between two and three years, depending on whether you’re studying full- or part-time.

Arkansas is actually launching its own two-year certified nurse midwifery program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences starting in 2026, which should make things easier for future students. During grad school, you’ll complete advanced coursework and hundreds of supervised clinical hours as required by accreditation standards.

Once you finish your graduate degree, the next step is passing the national certification exam from the American Midwifery Certification Board. After that, you apply for licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, a process that can take a few weeks, depending on how busy they are and whether background checks slow things down.

Recent laws have improved practice conditions for CNMs in Arkansas, but the overall timeline—from starting your BSN to becoming a licensed CNM—still usually runs between six and eight years.

The chart below highlights the types of companies and organizations that commonly employ nurse midwives.

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

If you’re wondering about how much does it cost to become a certified nurse midwife in Arkansas, most of the options are through public universities like the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). For the 2024-2025 year, in-state students pay around $510 per credit hour, while non-residents are charged about $888 per credit hour.

Since these programs typically require 40 to 60 credit hours, you’re looking at roughly $20,400 to $30,600 for residents and $35,520 to $53,280 for out-of-state students. Private schools, although less common in Arkansas for nurse midwifery, usually have higher tuition that can range from $65,000 to $85,000 overall.

The cost of certified nurse midwife school Arkansas also includes other essential expenses beyond tuition. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 in university fees, plus $1,000 to $2,000 for textbooks and learning materials. Clinical supplies like scrubs and stethoscopes usually add another $300 to $700, while mandatory background checks and immunizations can cost $100 to $300. After graduation, licensure and certification fees, including the $500 American Midwifery Certification Board exam, typically add up to $600 to $700.

Arkansas offers a nice in-state tuition discount for residents and even extends these rates to some neighboring states, which can make a big difference in the overall price tag. If you want to get a better idea about the timeline and program details, checking out how long does it take to become a nurse practitioner can be a helpful resource as well. Keep in mind these figures don’t cover living costs or transportation, but they give a good snapshot of what you might expect when budgeting for nurse midwife school in Arkansas.

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

Paying for nurse midwife school in Arkansas doesn’t have to be overwhelming thanks to several helpful financial aid options. From federal programs to state-specific scholarships and loan repayment plans, there’s a mix of support designed to ease the burden. Here are the main types of aid nurse midwife students can tap into:

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants that don’t require repayment, offering up to $7,495 yearly for eligible students in certain nurse midwife programs.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Federal loans allowing graduate nursing students to borrow up to $20,500 annually, with repayment required but no need-based eligibility.
Arkansas Nurses Foundation Scholarships: Scholarships like the Dorothea Funk, aimed at Arkansas RNs advancing their practice, especially those focused on community health nursing.
Faith A. Fields Scholarship: Provides up to $10,000 per year for full-time study with a work-back requirement in Arkansas healthcare settings.
Loan Repayment Programs: Incentives for graduates working in rural or underserved Arkansas areas that help pay down educational debt in exchange for service.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs for students with financial need, offering between $4,000 and $8,000 annually to cover expenses.

I spoke with a nurse midwife from Arkansas who graduated from a local program, and she shared how navigating these financial options was both challenging and rewarding. “Applying for scholarships was a bit of a puzzle—I had to carefully track deadlines and eligibility, especially for state-specific awards,” she said.

The loan repayment programs were a game-changer for her, offering peace of mind about managing debt while committing to work in rural areas. She appreciated how these supports made her journey feel less daunting, allowing her to focus more on learning and less on finances.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Arkansas?

Picking the right accredited nurse midwifery program in Arkansas is a big deal if you want to become a CNM. Only graduates from programs with the proper accreditation get to sit for national certification and state APRN licensure, so it’s worth knowing your options. Plus, with the demand for CNMs growing in Arkansas, choosing a quality program means you’re set up for success in both education and patient care.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences – Nurse Midwifery Specialty Track: This program stands out with its strong clinical ties to top hospitals and women’s health clinics across Arkansas. It offers hands-on experience in both city and rural settings, making it perfect if you want a well-rounded education.
Frontier Nursing University – Online Nurse Midwifery Program (Arkansas Residents Eligible): Although not Arkansas-based, Frontier’s ACME-accredited online program is popular here because of its flexible distance learning and the chance to complete clinical rotations locally. It’s known for solid completion and first-time AMCB exam pass rates.
Baylor University College of Nursing – Nurse Midwifery/DNP Program (Texas-based, Arkansas Clinical Sites Possible): Baylor offers an ACME-accredited program with a DNP track, welcoming Arkansas students and allowing clinical placements within the state. This path prepares you for advanced leadership and clinical roles.
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing – Nurse Midwifery MSN Program (Tennessee-based, Arkansas Clinical Options): Vanderbilt admits Arkansas students and supports clinical training in Arkansas, combining a nationally recognized curriculum with local clinical options. It’s known for expert faculty and excellent graduate outcomes.
Georgetown University – Online Nurse Midwifery MSN Program (Arkansas Clinical Placements): Georgetown’s online ACME-accredited program lets you study remotely while arranging clinical experiences at home. Its national reputation and strong alumni network add extra value for Arkansas students.

If you’re curious about how to find jobs with a doctorate in nursing, choosing one of these Arkansas nurse midwifery schools with ACME accreditation can really give you a leg up. These programs not only meet the standards needed for licensure but also offer solid support and excellent outcomes, helping you step confidently into your midwifery career.

There are 38 ACME-accredited CNM midwifery education programs in 2024.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Arkansas?

Getting an advanced degree can really open doors for Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) in Arkansas, helping them step into bigger roles and leadership positions. Here are some key options that can boost your career:

MSN in Nurse Midwifery: This is the basic advanced degree you need to become a CNM. It prepares you for clinical midwifery and lets you specialize in women’s health, education, or leadership roles, plus you become eligible for national certification and APRN licensure.
Dual Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) Programs: These programs let you earn two credentials, expanding your skills in women’s health and opening up chances to work in complex gynecological care or lead multidisciplinary health teams.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: The DNP is the highest clinical degree, perfect if you want top-level expertise or leadership roles like clinical director or faculty member. It focuses on leadership, health policy, and requires you to complete a scholarly project.
Post-Master’s Certificates and Specialized Training: Extra certificates in areas like administration or education can help you move into program management, quality improvement, or nurse education within Arkansas healthcare systems.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Arkansas?

When it comes to nurse midwife programs in Arkansas, the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands out as the key accrediting body. This national organization is the only one recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse-midwifery education, ensuring programs meet high standards.

ACME’s accreditation is essential because it guarantees that graduates from these programs can sit for the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Without this accreditation, graduates wouldn’t be eligible for licensure or practice as CNMs in Arkansas. ACME offers three types of accreditation depending on the program’s development stage: preaccreditation, initial accreditation, and continued accreditation.

Each type ensures programs maintain quality education, which directly impacts the competence of future CNMs. Even though Arkansas currently lacks an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program physically located in the state, students often enroll in programs nearby or online, with clinical placements arranged locally.

When considering the nurse midwife program tuition in Arkansas, it’s important to note that attending an ACME-accredited program is non-negotiable for certification. The cost of becoming a nurse midwife in Arkansas can vary widely depending on whether you choose an out-of-state or online program. However, investing in an accredited education is crucial for your career path.

For those curious about the differences between nursing degrees and levels, exploring resources like differences between nursing degrees can offer valuable insight into how nurse midwifery fits within the broader nursing landscape.

What do nurse midwives in Arkansas say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences was a transformative experience that deeply connected me to the local community. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share my knowledge and passion with aspiring nurse midwives, fostering a new generation dedicated to maternal care. Arkansas offers unique challenges, especially in rural healthcare access, but it also provides rewarding opportunities to make a tangible impact on families’ lives. The sense of professional growth here is tremendous, and I feel privileged to contribute to both education and community well-being. Cheska
Graduating from Arkansas Tech University’s nurse midwifery program gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in a rewarding and stable career. Teaching at a local school has been a fulfilling way to give back, nurturing the skills and confidence of future nurse midwives. I appreciate how Arkansas’s diverse population and natural environment shape a healthcare practice that is both challenging and rich with cultural significance. This career path has not only advanced my professional skills but also deepened my commitment to improving maternal health statewide. Tom
Pursuing nurse midwifery at Harding University opened doors I never expected, blending rigorous academics with community-focused learning. Beginning my teaching journey locally has amplified my passion for mentoring students and advocating for women's health in Arkansas. The unique rural and urban mix here presents both obstacles and opportunities that have strengthened my adaptability and clinical expertise. I am proud to be part of a profession where I can witness personal growth and positively influence the health outcomes of families in my state. Elle

What is the job outlook for nurse midwives in Arkansas?

Current healthcare trends in Arkansas indicate a steady increase in demand for nurse midwives, driven by a growing focus on comprehensive women’s health and family-centered care. Employers across hospitals, birthing centers, and community health settings are expanding midwifery roles, resulting in competitive compensation and diversified career opportunities. Furthermore, collaborative practice models involving interdisciplinary teams are increasingly valued, reinforcing the necessity for CNMs to maintain high clinical competencies. Interested professionals may explore opportunities in advanced clinical fields through the top nurse practitioner programs in Arkansas, which further complements the skill set required in evolving healthcare environments.

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Arkansas

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Arkansas without first obtaining a nursing degree. Arkansas requires nurse midwives to hold an active registered nurse license. This means you must complete a nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed nurse before pursuing midwifery certification.

After earning your nursing degree and licensure, you need to complete a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by the ACME. Upon graduation, you must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB.

This pathway ensures that midwives in Arkansas have a strong foundation in nursing care alongside specialized midwifery training. While some states allow direct-entry midwives without nursing degrees, Arkansas does not recognize this route for licensure or practice as a nurse midwife. Therefore, aspiring midwives in Arkansas should plan to first become registered nurses before advancing to nurse-midwifery education and certification.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide prenatal, birth, and postpartum care, but they differ significantly in education, scope of practice, and licensing, especially in Arkansas. A nurse midwife, also known as a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery, typically a master’s degree.

CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can prescribe medications, perform gynecological exams, and manage more complex medical situations. In Arkansas, CNMs must be licensed by the state nursing board and follow specific regulations.

In contrast, a midwife without nursing credentials may have training through direct-entry midwifery programs or apprenticeships and often focuses on low-intervention births, primarily outside hospitals. Their scope is generally more limited, and in Arkansas, non-nurse midwives do not have the same legal recognition or prescribing authority as CNMs. Globally, nurse midwives tend to have broader medical training and integration into healthcare systems, whereas midwives’ roles vary widely based on local laws and certification standards.

Is a midwife in Arkansas higher than an RN?

In Arkansas, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse in terms of general nursing hierarchy or licensure. Registered nurses are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed an accredited nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam, allowing them to work in a wide variety of healthcare settings. Midwives, specifically CNMs, are APRNs who have additional specialized education in midwifery.

According to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), CNMs must first be RNs before completing graduate-level midwifery training and obtaining certification. This means midwives hold a higher clinical credential within their specialty but are not “higher” in the general nursing hierarchy; rather, they represent a specialized role.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2023 that Arkansas employed approximately 1,200 nurse-midwives, nurse anesthetists, and nurse practitioners combined, highlighting the growing demand for such specialized roles in the state.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Arkansas hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Arkansas can be challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires meeting specific educational and licensing requirements set by the state. Candidates must first become registered nurses, typically by earning a BSN and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Afterward, aspiring nurse midwives need to complete a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by the ACME.

Following education, candidates must obtain national certification from the AMCB and then pursue state licensure to practice in Arkansas. The coursework and clinical training are rigorous, focusing on prenatal, labor, delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care. Balancing academic demands and clinical hours can be intense. Overall, the path requires commitment, time, and effort, but with the right resources and support, becoming a nurse midwife in Arkansas is a feasible and rewarding career goal.

References:

American Colleges of Nurse Midwives. (n.d.). ACNM Advocacy: Advancing the Practice of Midwifery. ACNM
Arkansas State University. (2025). Nursing: Master of Science in Nursing. ASU
Gamboa, A. (2024). Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Career Overview. NursingEducation
Guzzetti, J. (2025). Best Online MSN Programs in Arkansas. RegisteredNursing.org
Gyfted. (n.d.). Become a certified midwife in Arkansas. Gyfted
Harris, M. (2025). How to Become a Nurse-Midwife. NurseJournal
MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Arkansas. MidwifeSchooling.com
Nursing Colleges. (n.d.). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)- Education, Licensure & Salary. Nursing Colleges
YourSchoolMatch. (n.d.). How To Become A Certified Nurse Midwife. YourSchoolMatch.com
Zippia. (2025). Certified nurse midwife demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia