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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

California faces a significant shortage of qualified nurse midwives, impacting maternal care quality and accessibility. Currently, only about 2.5 nurse midwives serve every 10,000 women of reproductive age in the state, highlighting a critical gap. Pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in California offers strong job security and competitive salaries, driven by rising demand for specialized maternal health professionals.

This article outlines the essential educational and certification requirements for becoming a nurse midwife in California for 2025.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in California

Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and secure a registered nursing licensure in California as a prerequisite to advanced midwifery education.
Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), which typically takes 2 to 3 years.
Pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and apply for state certification to practice legally in California.

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

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

The minimum degree requirement for nurse midwives in California is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This degree is essential for preparing candidates to meet the clinical and theoretical demands of the profession. Through the MSN program, students acquire advanced knowledge in areas such as reproductive health, labor and delivery, and newborn care, which are critical for competent practice.

The curriculum blends rigorous coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training, ensuring graduates develop the skills necessary for effective patient care. This comprehensive preparation supports nurse midwives in delivering high-quality, evidence-based services across diverse healthcare environments.

Nurse midwife education requirements in California include successful completion of the MSN as a prerequisite to sit for the national certification exam by AMCB. Passing this exam is mandatory to obtain licensure as a CNM in the state. The MSN programs recognized by California’s Board of Registered Nursing emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies, reflecting the state’s commitment to maternal and newborn health.

As a result, graduates are well-equipped to address complex maternal care needs, contributing to the growing workforce of over 1,000 nurse midwives in California. This career path is also among the highest paying careers in nursing, making the MSN degree a valuable investment for aspiring professionals.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in California demands a rigorous set of qualifications, ensuring candidates possess the necessary academic, clinical, and regulatory credentials. These criteria reflect the state’s commitment to maintaining high standards in nurse midwifery education and practice.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a BSN or a related field from a regionally accredited institution. Some programs accept RNs with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree if supported by a relevant experience portfolio.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is generally required; applicants with a GPA as low as 2.8 may be considered if they demonstrate substantial healthcare experience.
Nursing License Requirements: Candidates must possess a current, active, and unencumbered California RN license at the time of application.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of registered nursing experience is typically mandated; alternative healthcare roles may be considered if RN experience is insufficient.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three professional letters from academic or clinical supervisors are required to evaluate readiness for advanced study.
Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of undergraduate courses such as statistics, health assessment, and physical sciences with satisfactory grades is necessary.
English Proficiency for International Students: Non-native English speakers must submit proof of English proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, regardless of citizenship status.
Program Accreditation Verification: The nursing program must be accredited by ACEN, CNEA, or CCNE and comply with the California Board of Registered Nursing’s educational standards.
Clinical Recency: Applicants who completed their nurse-midwifery program over a year ago must provide evidence of recent clinical practice.
Application Fees and Documentation: Submission of a completed application, required eligibility documents, and a $500 nurse-midwife certification fee to the California Board of Registered Nursing is mandatory.
California-Specific Requirements: The Board may require remediation if educational content does not meet state standards; licensed midwives (non-nurse) must complete a three-year accredited program and pass the NARM exam.

How many students enrolled in nurse midwifery programs?

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in California?

Programs offering the nurse midwife curriculum in California include a range of essential courses designed to develop clinical expertise and prepare students for state licensure. These courses emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, tailored to meet California’s regulatory standards and diverse patient needs.

Advanced Health Assessment: Focuses on comprehensive physical and psychosocial evaluation of women across all ages, establishing a foundation for accurate diagnosis and clinical decision-making in midwifery practice.
Reproductive Physiology and Embryology: Covers the anatomy, physiology, genetics, and fetal development critical to understanding normal and abnormal reproductive processes within midwifery care.
Pharmacology for Midwives: Teaches principles of safe medication use, including prescribing and managing drug interactions during pregnancy and lactation to ensure maternal and newborn safety.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Addresses prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal care management, equipping students to provide evidence-based care in varied clinical settings.
Gynecology and Family Planning: Encompasses diagnosis and treatment of common gynecological conditions, contraception, and family planning to support comprehensive reproductive health services.
Nutrition in Maternal and Child Health: Examines nutritional requirements and interventions impacting pregnancy outcomes and early childhood development, emphasizing maternal and infant well-being.
Laboratory and Diagnostic Procedures: Provides skills in ordering, performing, and interpreting relevant tests, ensuring safe and effective clinical decision-making.
Psychosocial, Emotional, and Cultural Aspects of Care: Explores factors influencing maternal and child health, preparing students to deliver culturally sensitive care to California’s diverse populations.
Human Sexuality and Counseling: Prepares students to address sexual health education and counseling, enhancing communication and support for women and families.
Breastfeeding and Maternal/Infant Bonding: Focuses on lactation support and education, promoting healthy bonding as part of holistic postnatal care.
Principles of Preventive and Community Health: Covers strategies for health promotion and illness prevention at individual and population levels within community settings.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Develops critical appraisal skills and application of current research to clinical practice, fostering continuous professional growth and high standards of care.

These courses required for nurse midwifery programs California ensure graduates are clinically competent and ready to meet the unique needs of the state’s population. For those interested in expanding their healthcare career options, exploring the family nurse practitioner career outlook may provide valuable insights into related advanced practice roles.

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

California, the state with the highest employment level for nurse midwives in the U.S., requires students to complete between 600 and 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training—surpassing the national minimum established by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). This intensive requirement reflects the state’s commitment to preparing CNMs for a wide range of maternity care responsibilities.

Students gain experience in diverse clinical environments, including hospital labor and delivery units, high-risk obstetrics settings, birthing centers focused on physiologic births, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and occasionally home birth practices. This broad exposure equips future midwives with the skills needed to provide both routine and complex maternity care across different populations.

Throughout their training, students develop core competencies such as prenatal risk assessment, labor and delivery management, postpartum and lactation support, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic care, including contraception and disease prevention. Programs also emphasize collaboration with other health professionals, cultural responsiveness, and patient advocacy as essential components of modern midwifery.

Clinical training is supervised by licensed preceptors—certified nurse midwives, physicians, or other qualified practitioners—who evaluate performance and verify competencies. California's Board of Registered Nursing ensures all preceptors meet strict qualifications. One graduate shared how the intensity and variety of her rotations, from fast-paced hospital wards to community clinics, helped her grow into a confident and adaptable clinician. Her experience reflects the depth and rigor of California’s training standards.

The chart below shows which states have the highest employment levels for nurse midwives, with California leading the nation.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in California begins with earning a BSN, a program that typically requires four years of full-time study. Upon completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their RN license in California, which is mandatory before applying to graduate-level nurse midwifery programs. This RN licensure serves as a foundational credential for further advanced education and clinical training.

Following RN licensure, candidates pursue a graduate program in nurse-midwifery, which can either be an MSN or a DNP. These programs usually take an additional two to three years of full-time study and incorporate at least 1,000 direct patient care clinical hours in various perinatal and primary care settings within California. The program must be accredited by the ACME or approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), ensuring compliance with state and national educational standards.

After completing the graduate program, candidates are required to pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Only with this certification can they apply for CNM licensure through the California BRN, which includes submitting documentation and paying a certification fee.

State-specific factors such as clinical hour requirements, the need for educational equivalency verification, and potential licensing processing delays may extend the timeline, but typically the entire process from BSN to CNM licensure takes between six and eight years.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in California varies significantly depending on the type of institution and degree pursued. At public universities within the University of California system, such as UCSF, tuition for the traditional two-year master’s program was approximately $65,000 for in-state students. However, with the transition to a three-year Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, tuition and fees have increased substantially to about $152,000.

Private and out-of-state online programs, including options like Frontier Nursing University, generally charge between $38,000 and $75,000 for master’s degrees, with per-credit costs ranging from $500 to $2,000 depending on the institution. These figures reflect typical tuition ranges for accredited nurse midwifery programs in California and do not include additional expenses.

Additional costs beyond tuition can add several thousand dollars to the overall investment. Students should budget for mandatory fees such as application, enrollment, technology, and graduation fees, which at some private institutions like Frontier Nursing University can total over $1,000.

Textbooks and course materials typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000 annually, while clinical supplies—including scrubs and equipment—may require an investment of $300 to $800. Clinical and lab fees can also apply, with some programs charging several hundred dollars for facility and lab use. Licensure and certification costs after graduation, including the national certification exam and state licensure fees, may add an additional $800 to $1,500.

California public nurse-midwifery programs generally offer lower tuition rates for residents, though graduate-level programs often have smaller differences between in-state and out-of-state tuition compared to undergraduate rates. Prospective students should verify residency requirements and tuition policies with each program.

For those interested in the broader scope of nursing specialties, resources on becoming a womens health nurse practitioner provide valuable insights into related educational pathways. Overall, budgeting carefully for both tuition and associated costs is essential when considering the nurse midwife program cost in California. However, considering the salary potential can provide valuable context when deciding whether to invest in a nurse midwifery program. Since California is the highest-paying state for this profession, as shown in the chart below, the investment in education may be well worth it.

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

Nurse midwife students in California benefit from an array of financial aid options designed to ease the cost of graduate education. These include federal and state programs, scholarships, loan repayment opportunities, and work-study positions tailored to support those committed to healthcare in underserved communities.

Federal Grants (Pell Grant): Provides up to $7,495 annually to eligible graduate students based on financial need, requiring no repayment.
Federal Direct Loans: Includes up to $20,500 in unsubsidized loans yearly plus Graduate PLUS Loans covering additional costs, with flexible repayment plans after graduation.
State Grants (Song-Brown Program): Supports institutions training nurse midwives, often resulting in scholarships or tuition reductions for students serving underserved areas.
Scholarships (NHSC Scholarship Program): Offers full tuition, fees, books, and living stipends in exchange for service in Health Professional Shortage Areas.
Loan Repayment Programs: Provide substantial debt relief—up to $50,000 or more—for CNMs working in underserved California communities.
Work-Study and Graduate Assistantships: Offer part-time employment or stipends linked to research, teaching, or clinical support roles.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from California who graduated from a local program, she reflected on how navigating these financial avenues was both challenging and empowering. “The process felt overwhelming at first, especially balancing applications for scholarships and loan programs,” she shared.

Yet, the support she secured through state grants and the NHSC Scholarship made a decisive difference, allowing her to focus on clinical training without constant financial stress. Her experience underscores the importance of persistence and early planning to maximize aid opportunities available specifically to California’s nurse midwife students.

How do nurse midwives address maternal health disparities in California?

Nurse midwives in California are pivotal in reducing maternal health disparities by delivering culturally sensitive care and tailored community outreach in underserved areas. Their practice often includes innovative approaches such as telehealth consultations and collaborative efforts with public health agencies, which enhance access and continuity of care. These professionals design care plans that address the specific social, economic, and geographic challenges affecting diverse populations. For professionals exploring broader advanced practice roles, reviewing the top nurse practitioner programs in California can provide additional insights into comprehensive strategies that complement nurse midwifery practice.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in California?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in California is critical for students aiming to become CNMs. Accreditation ensures the program meets strict educational standards necessary for certification and licensure, which directly affects career prospects and the ability to serve diverse communities effectively.

University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) – Nurse Midwifery Specialty: UCSF offers a hybrid BSN Entry to DNP pathway with conditional approval from ACME. The program combines in-person and online coursework with extensive clinical rotations in the Bay Area, focusing on care for diverse populations, including Spanish-speaking patients.
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) – Nurse Midwifery Program: This ACME-accredited program is tailored for working nurses in Southern California and is recognized for strong clinical partnerships with local hospitals. Its comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for advanced practice and leadership roles in midwifery.
San Diego State University (SDSU) – Nurse Midwifery Program: SDSU emphasizes interdisciplinary education and hands-on clinical training. The program is noted for its expert faculty and commitment to improving maternal outcomes in underserved communities.
Loma Linda University – Nurse Midwifery Program: Offering both MSN and DNP options, this ACME-accredited program integrates a holistic approach to care with faith-based values. It provides robust clinical experiences across Southern California.
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) – Nurse Midwifery Program: Known for its flexible curriculum accommodating working professionals, CSULB emphasizes community-based care. Its strong reputation in nursing education and connections with local health systems offer students diverse clinical opportunities.

Graduates from these top accredited nurse midwife programs in California are eligible to sit for the AMCB exam, an essential credential. Given California’s shortage of certified nurse midwives, completing an accredited program is vital to meet the growing demand and pursue some of the highest paying careers with a doctorate in nursing through advanced midwifery roles.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in California?

Advanced degrees play a critical role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in California, enabling them to assume leadership, educational, and research positions. These qualifications not only fulfill licensure requirements but also enhance professional expertise.

MSN Nurse-Midwifery Focus: This foundational degree is essential for CNM licensure in California and prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice. It is recognized by the California Board of Registered Nursing as meeting state requirements.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: The DNP offers advanced clinical, leadership, and administrative training. CNMs with a DNP often take on roles such as midwifery service directors or lead quality improvement initiatives in healthcare settings.
PhD in Nursing: Focused on research and academic leadership, a PhD enables CNMs to engage in university teaching, policy advocacy, and nursing research that advances midwifery practice.
Post-Master's Certificates: These certificates allow CNMs to specialize further, such as in women’s health or family nurse practitioner roles, broadening clinical and educational career options.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in California?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) serves as the sole accrediting organization for nurse midwife programs in the United States recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation is essential for programs offering graduate-level nurse-midwifery education and ensures adherence to national standards of excellence.

ACME accreditation is a critical factor for students considering the nurse midwife program cost in California, as it guarantees the program’s quality and eligibility for national certification. Programs accredited by ACME, such as those at institutions like the University of California, San Francisco, prepare students to take the national certification exam administered by AMCB.

This certification is mandatory to become a CNM and practice legally both in California and nationwide. The rigorous standards maintained by ACME safeguard the educational integrity of nurse midwife programs, ensuring that graduates possess the competencies necessary for competent clinical practice.

Understanding the tuition for nurse midwife schools in California involves recognizing the value embedded in ACME accreditation, which supports graduates’ eligibility for state licensure and certification requirements.

The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) complements ACME’s role by providing state-specific approval and licensure, but it is ACME that upholds the national educational benchmark. Aspiring nurse midwives benefit from enrolling in ACME-accredited programs to meet both educational and certification standards.

For those exploring various nursing pathways, reviewing different nursing levels can provide a broader context for where nurse-midwifery fits within the healthcare education spectrum.

How many ACME-accredited midwifery programs are in the U.S. in 2024?

What do nurse midwives in California say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Samuel Merritt University truly set the stage for a rewarding career in California. The curriculum was rigorous and deeply connected to the unique needs of our diverse communities. Starting my teaching journey at a local school has allowed me to share my passion for maternal health while inspiring the next generation of nurse midwives. The vibrant culture and forward-thinking healthcare environment in California provide endless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. I am grateful to contribute to such a dynamic field that values both innovation and compassion. Danielle
After finishing my studies at California State University, Fresno, I embraced the challenge of becoming a nurse midwife educator in a local school. This role has allowed me to shape future practitioners while continuously expanding my own knowledge and skills. California’s commitment to healthcare equity and its rich multicultural landscape create a profound sense of purpose in my work, especially when I see how our efforts positively impact families from all walks of life. The balance of professional development and community engagement here is unmatched, making every day deeply fulfilling. Jill
Graduating from the University of San Francisco’s nurse midwifery program opened doors to unique opportunities that blend clinical practice with community outreach. Living and working in California means I encounter a wide range of health challenges and cultural perspectives, which keeps my work both stimulating and meaningful. The state’s dedication to holistic care and innovation has helped me advance my career while fostering personal growth. Being able to support families through such an important life event in this beautiful and diverse environment fills me with pride and joy. Leila

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in California without a nursing degree. To pursue certification as a nurse midwife, you must first be a registered nurse. This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

After becoming an RN, you must earn a graduate degree in nurse midwifery from a program accredited by ACME. This advanced degree prepares you for clinical practice and the national certification exam.

California law also requires nurse midwives to have a license to practice nursing and certification from AMCB. While there are direct-entry midwives in California, they are not nurse midwives and have different licensing requirements.

In summary, a nursing degree is essential for becoming a certified nurse midwife in California. Without it, you cannot qualify for certification or licensing as a nurse midwife in the state.

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

In California and globally, the primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in education, scope of practice, and licensure. A nurse midwife, formally known as a certified nurse midwife, is a registered nurse with advanced graduate-level education in midwifery. CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can offer a broad range of services, including prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and general gynecological services. They can also prescribe medications and work in hospitals or clinics.

In contrast, a midwife without nursing credentials, often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or direct-entry midwife, typically completes specialized midwifery training focused on out-of-hospital births, such as home or birthing center deliveries.

These midwives may have more limited legal recognition and scope depending on the state or country, often focusing solely on pregnancy and birth care without broader medical responsibilities. California recognizes CNMs legally with wider practice rights, while non-nurse midwives face more regulatory restrictions.

Is a midwife in California higher than an RN?

In California, the professional hierarchy between a midwife and a registered nurse depends largely on their scope of practice, education, and certification rather than a simple rank order. CNMs are APRNs who have completed graduate-level education and are certified by AMCB.

They possess prescriptive authority and can provide a wide range of healthcare services, including prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. According to the California Board of Registered Nursing, as of 2023, there are over 100,000 licensed RNs in the state, while the California Medical Board reports approximately 1,000 licensed midwives, including CNMs and direct-entry midwives.

While RNs provide essential nursing care across various settings, CNMs have a specialized, autonomous role centered on childbirth and women’s health. Their advanced training and certification generally place them higher in the clinical hierarchy than RNs.

However, direct-entry midwives, who are licensed but not nurses, have a more limited scope and do not outrank RNs. The distinction is therefore nuanced and context-dependent, with CNMs recognized as higher-level providers compared to standard RNs in California healthcare systems.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in California hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in California can be challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires advanced education, including earning an MSN or a DNP with a specialization in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. These programs are rigorous, combining classroom instruction with extensive clinical training to develop both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills.

After completing the educational requirements, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. California also requires nurse midwives to obtain state licensure as both a registered nurse and a nurse-midwife, which involves meeting specific regulatory standards.

The journey demands strong commitment, time, and financial resources. However, for those passionate about maternal and newborn care, the challenges are balanced by the rewarding nature of the profession and its growing demand in California’s healthcare system.

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