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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Delaware faces a growing demand for qualified nurse midwives amid rising maternal health concerns. Currently, the state has fewer than 30 certified nurse midwives, despite a 15% increase in birth rates over the past decade. This means that choosing to become a nurse midwife in Delaware offers a stable career with competitive salaries and opportunities to provide comprehensive prenatal, birth, and postpartum care.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, will examine the schooling requirements for nurse midwives in Delaware. It will help you navigate the process and make informed decisions as you start your journey toward this rewarding profession.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Delaware

• Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and gain at least one year of clinical experience before applying to an accredited nurse midwifery graduate program.
• Complete a master's or doctoral degree in nurse-midwifery from a program recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education to meet Delaware licensure requirements.
• Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam and apply for state licensure, noting Delaware’s growing demand for midwives due to increasing maternal health focus.

Table of Contents

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

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

The minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in Delaware is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This degree ensures that candidates develop comprehensive clinical expertise necessary to manage the complexities of pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care, and primary women’s health.

The MSN curriculum typically includes at least 400 clinical hours, which provide hands-on experience in real-world settings. Such practical training is critical for building the skills required to assess and manage both normal and high-risk pregnancies, as well as newborn care in the first weeks of life. This focused preparation aligns with the state’s expectation that nurse midwives are equipped to provide high-quality, autonomous care to women throughout different stages of life.

Requiring an MSN with midwifery specialization reflects the evolving demands of healthcare and the growing recognition of nurse midwives as primary care providers. It also supports eligibility for national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board, a legal prerequisite for practice in Delaware.

While some may question whether alternative pathways could suffice, the emphasis on advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills in this degree underscores its value. Considering workforce trends, including projections for growth in nurse midwife roles, this educational foundation positions graduates well for a competitive job market.

For those evaluating career options, it is worth noting that nurse midwifery is recognized as one of the highest paying nursing jobs, reflecting the specialized skills and responsibilities involved.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Delaware requires a combination of academic achievement, clinical experience, and professional documentation. These criteria reflect both national standards and practical considerations, though some flexibility exists depending on the program.

• Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants generally must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution, although some programs may accept those who have completed prerequisite nursing courses.
• Registered Nurse (RN) License: A current RN license valid in the United States is mandatory to demonstrate foundational clinical competence.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is typically expected, signaling adequate academic preparation.
• Clinical Experience: Most programs prefer candidates with one to two years of nursing experience, but this is not always a strict requirement.
• Letters of Recommendation: Submission of three letters is common, attesting to the applicant’s academic ability, professional skills, and suitability for advanced practice.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Many programs require a personal or video essay to understand the candidate’s motivation and career goals.
• GRE Scores: Some schools request GRE General Test results, though waivers may be granted based on other qualifications.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae: A current CV or resume outlining education and relevant experience is usually required.
• International Student Requirements: Non-native English speakers must provide official TOEFL or IELTS scores from the last two years, meeting minimum standards.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted.
• Delaware-Specific Factors: While no unique prerequisites exist, accredited programs provide access to local clinical placements at facilities such as Christiana Hospital and The Birth Center.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Delaware?

Delaware nurse midwifery program curriculum encompasses a range of advanced courses designed to develop the clinical expertise and critical thinking necessary for effective care of women and newborns. These courses collectively address both the scientific and practical aspects of midwifery within the state’s regulatory context.

• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills in thorough physical and psychosocial evaluations of women throughout their lifespan, essential for identifying health issues early and guiding appropriate interventions.
• Advanced Pathophysiology: Provides an in-depth understanding of complex disease processes and human physiology, forming the foundation for accurate clinical decision-making in maternal and newborn care.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on medication management and safe prescribing practices specifically related to reproductive health, preparing students to meet Delaware’s prescriptive authority standards.
• Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers family planning, management of sexually transmitted infections, and preventive care, enabling nurse midwives to offer comprehensive, evidence-based guidance.
• Maternal and Newborn Care: Encompasses care during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum periods, including management of both normal and high-risk cases critical to clinical practice in Delaware.
• Primary Care of Women: Equips students to provide ongoing health promotion, chronic disease management, and screenings tailored to women’s unique health needs across their lifespan.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Trains students to critically evaluate current research and integrate it into patient care, supporting a commitment to quality improvement and up-to-date practices.
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Emphasizes strategies to reduce health disparities and promote wellness in community settings, reflecting Delaware’s public health priorities.
• Clinical Practicums: Offers supervised hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments, essential for meeting Delaware’s licensure clinical hour requirements and building confidence in real-world settings.
• Communication and Professional Role Development: Focuses on ethical practice, leadership, and collaborative skills necessary for effective teamwork and patient-centered care within Delaware’s healthcare system.

Since there are no nurse midwife programs physically located in Delaware, students often enroll in accredited online or hybrid programs that satisfy state licensing criteria.

If you are considering and evaluating other nursing specializations, you may want to check out how many years to become a family nurse practitioner. This can provide useful context when planning your career path and educational timeline. To further guide your decision, the chart below highlights the top-paying industries for nurse midwives.

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

Nurse midwife students in Delaware are required to complete a minimum of 400 clinical hours, though many programs exceed this baseline to ensure a more comprehensive training experience. Clinical hours are fulfilled across a wide range of settings, including hospital-based birthing centers, freestanding birth centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, home birth practices, and increasingly, telehealth platforms.

Exposure to this variety of environments prepares students to manage both routine and complex maternal-child health situations, including out-of-hospital births, which are permitted under Delaware law for certified nurse midwives.

Training emphasizes core competencies such as prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, newborn assessment, and gynecologic and primary care services. These experiences help develop essential clinical skills like risk assessment during pregnancy, emergency interventions during childbirth, and patient education after delivery. Preceptors—typically experienced CNMs or physicians—provide hands-on mentorship, real-time feedback, and formal evaluations to ensure students meet all competency standards before advancing.

Delaware’s regulatory requirements also shape the clinical experience. Students must hold an active Delaware RN license or a valid multi-state compact license to participate in local clinical placements. The state mandates child protection and mandatory reporting training as part of the licensure renewal process, emphasizing the broader ethical and legal responsibilities of midwifery practice.

One nurse midwife who trained in Delaware described the clinical rotations as both demanding and transformative, highlighting how each setting—particularly home births—required critical thinking and autonomy. She credited her preceptors for providing the support and oversight that helped her grow into a confident, well-rounded practitioner.

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

Becoming a CNM in Delaware involves several educational and licensing steps, each with its own timeline. The overall journey typically takes between 6.5 to 8 years, depending on your program choice, clinical placement availability, and licensure processing times.

Below is the timeline to CNM certification in Delaware:

• Earn a BSN: This undergraduate degree usually takes 4 years of full-time study at an accredited nursing school. It serves as the foundation for all advanced nursing practice.
• Obtain RN Licensure in Delaware: After passing the NCLEX-RN exam, applicants must submit transcripts, undergo a background check, and meet all Delaware Board of Nursing requirements. Processing can take a few weeks to several months.
• Complete a Graduate Program in Nurse Midwifery: Most students pursue an MSN (18–24 months) or a DNP (3–4 years), typically through an online ACME-accredited program. Clinical requirements range from 400 hours (MSN) to over 1,000 hours (DNP), and placement availability may impact completion time.
• Pass the AMCB Certification Exam: This national exam verifies clinical competence and educational completion. It is required to earn the CNM credential and is typically taken shortly after graduating.
• Apply for APRN Licensure in Delaware: Once certified, candidates must apply to the Delaware Board of Nursing for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse status. This final step includes submitting proof of national certification and current RN licensure.

Each phase of the process builds toward independent midwifery practice, and students should plan ahead to account for potential delays related to clinical placement or state licensing timelines.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in Delaware varies widely depending on whether the program is offered by a public or private institution, as well as the student’s residency status. For public universities, in-state students can expect to pay approximately $17,789 per year, totaling between $35,000 and $55,000 for the entire program, which typically lasts two to three years.

Out-of-state students face significantly higher tuition, ranging from about $60,000 to $90,000 for the full course of study. These differences highlight the importance of residency when considering tuition for nurse midwifery schools in Delaware, especially at public institutions.

Private universities and online programs tend to have higher overall costs, with tuition often falling between $55,000 and $120,000 for the complete nurse-midwifery program. Beyond tuition, students should also budget for mandatory additional expenses including university and program fees, which can range from $500 to $2,000 annually, textbooks and course materials costing $1,000 to $2,000 total, and clinical supplies and uniforms estimated between $300 and $800. These costs contribute to the comprehensive financial commitment required for nurse midwife education in Delaware.

After completing an accredited program, graduates must account for licensure and certification fees to practice professionally. The American Midwifery Certification Board exam fee typically ranges from $500 to $1,000, while the Delaware APRN licensure application fee is approximately $156 to $165.

For those exploring the pathway to becoming a certified nurse-midwife, understanding these expenses is essential. More details about the requirements and process can be found by reviewing advanced practice registered nurse how to become a nurse midwife.

How can nurse midwife graduates secure competitive job opportunities in Delaware?

Nurse midwife graduates can enhance their employment prospects by tapping into dedicated career services offered by educational institutions and professional associations. Establish connections through industry-specific job fairs, networking events, and mentorship programs that directly cater to advanced practice roles. Hospitals and community health organizations often collaborate with university career centers to offer placement assistance and targeted recruitment sessions. In addition, graduates should engage with online professional networks and state healthcare recruitment agencies to access niche job listings and career counseling tailored to the region’s market needs. For insights into adjacent opportunities and to benchmark career advancement strategies, refer to top nurse practitioner programs in Delaware.

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

Funding graduate education as a nurse midwife in Delaware involves navigating a mix of federal, state, and private financial aid options tailored to advanced nursing students. While federal loans and work-study programs provide foundational support, state-specific loan forgiveness and scholarship programs reflect Delaware’s commitment to retaining healthcare professionals locally.

• Federal Student Loans: Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans are accessible through FAFSA, serving as primary funding sources for many graduate nursing students.
• Delaware Nursing Incentive Program: Offers loan forgiveness for Delaware residents working in state-owned healthcare facilities, contingent on GPA and residency or employment criteria.
• Loan Repayment Programs: The Delaware Health Care Provider Loan Repayment Program provides up to $50,000 annually for service in underserved areas, with possible matching from hospitals.
• State and Private Scholarships: Various scholarships, including the Margaret A. Stafford Nursing Scholarship and Delaware Community Foundation awards, offer one-time or renewable aid based on residency and other factors.
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities on campus or affiliated sites supplement income, depending on FAFSA eligibility and institutional participation.

When discussing available options with a nurse midwife from Delaware who graduated locally, she emphasized the complexity of balancing applications and deadlines across multiple programs. “It wasn’t just about qualifying,” she noted, “but about timing everything so I could maximize aid without missing out.”

She found that state-specific loan forgiveness programs were especially valuable, but navigating eligibility requirements required persistence. Her experience underlines the importance of proactive engagement with school financial aid offices and state agencies to fully leverage the support designed for advanced practice nurses in Delaware.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Delaware?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program is crucial for those seeking to become CNMs in Delaware, as only graduates from programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) qualify for certification and state licensure. Since Delaware lacks in-state graduate midwifery programs, students must rely on online or out-of-state options that offer local clinical placements and flexibility to accommodate working professionals.

• Georgetown University – Online Nurse-Midwifery Program: This ACME-accredited program offers MSN and DNP degrees with a rigorous curriculum and a strong clinical network nationwide, enabling Delaware students to complete clinical rotations locally. It provides both part-time and full-time options and boasts a high first-time pass rate on the national certification exam.
• Frontier Nursing University – Distance Nurse-Midwifery Program: Known for pioneering distance education, Frontier’s program allows students to complete coursework online while arranging clinical experiences in their communities. It emphasizes care for rural and underserved populations with flexible MSN and DNP degree pathways.
• Thomas Jefferson University – Hybrid Nurse-Midwifery Program: Located in Pennsylvania but accessible to Delaware residents, this ACME-accredited program combines online courses with on-campus intensives. It maintains strong clinical partnerships across the mid-Atlantic region, facilitating diverse clinical placements.
• Bay Path University – Online MSN in Nurse-Midwifery: Offering a fully online ACME-accredited program, Bay Path focuses on leadership development and evidence-based practice. It is designed for working nurses and arranges clinical placements within Delaware.
• Bethel University – MSN Nurse-Midwifery Track: This online ACME-accredited program features competitive tuition and personalized mentorship, helping students secure clinical sites nearby. It is well-regarded for preparing practice-ready CNMs through supportive faculty guidance.

Delaware nurse midwife graduate schools are limited locally, so carefully selecting an accredited program is essential to meet certification requirements and gain relevant clinical experience. Prospective students may also explore resources on how to become an obstetrics nurse to better understand alternative career pathways related to nurse midwifery.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Delaware?

Advanced degrees are key to expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Delaware. These programs enhance clinical skills and open doors to leadership, education, and specialized practice roles.

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nurse Midwifery Track: This degree is the foundational requirement for CNMs, essential for national certification and state licensure. It prepares graduates for clinical roles in diverse settings such as hospitals and private practices.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Focused on clinical leadership and advanced practice, the DNP qualifies CNMs for high-level positions like healthcare administration and policy advocacy. Programs often demand extensive clinical hours to ensure readiness for system-wide impact.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for APRNs seeking specialization without a full degree, this certificate enables eligibility for CNM certification and supports transitions into midwifery from other advanced practice roles.
• Leadership, Education, or Specialty MSN Tracks: These options prepare CNMs for academic, educational, or management roles, reflecting the profession’s growing emphasis on training and organizational leadership.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Delaware?

Nurse midwife programs in Delaware must meet rigorous educational standards set by national accrediting bodies to ensure graduates are prepared for competent practice. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands as the sole national authority recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for accrediting these programs in the United States.

ACME accreditation signifies that a nurse midwife program adheres to strict criteria concerning curriculum quality, clinical training, and faculty expertise. This ensures that students receive comprehensive education aligned with current professional competencies required for entry-level practice. While Delaware lacks on-campus nurse-midwifery programs, residents can enroll in numerous ACME-accredited online options, which maintain these standards regardless of location.

Considering nurse midwife program tuition in Delaware, students should note that accredited programs often command higher tuition reflective of their quality and compliance with ACME standards. Prospective students must weigh the benefits of accreditation against costs and explore financial aid for nurse midwifery students in Delaware to manage expenses effectively.

It is important to recognize that ACME accreditation is not merely a formality; it directly impacts eligibility for national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), which Delaware requires for licensure. Although other certifications exist, such as those from the National Certification Corporation, the AMCB credential remains the standard for nurse-midwifery practice in Delaware.

For those seeking to understand the nuances and differences in nursing education paths, answers to questions like "Is there a difference between nursing degrees?" provide valuable insights that complement knowledge about accreditation and certification requirements.

Here's What Nurse Midwives in Delaware Have to Say About Their Careers

• Completing my nurse midwifery program at Wilmington University was a transformative experience that set the foundation for my career. Delaware’s supportive healthcare community and manageable size allowed me to build meaningful professional relationships early on. Starting my teaching career in a local school here has been incredibly fulfilling, as I get to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives with real-world knowledge and passion. The state's unique blend of urban and rural healthcare challenges keeps my work dynamic and rewarding. Jackie
• After finishing my nurse midwifery studies at Delaware State University, I found that practicing in Delaware offered unparalleled opportunities for personal growth. The close-knit communities make it possible to truly impact families’ lives, especially in underserved areas. I appreciate how the local culture values holistic and patient-centered care, which aligns deeply with my own philosophy. Being part of this environment has enhanced my leadership skills and encouraged me to pursue advanced certifications. Portia
• Graduating from the University of Delaware’s nurse midwifery program opened doors to a stable and advancing career path here in the state. Delaware’s healthcare system emphasizes continuous professional development, which has allowed me to expand my expertise and take on more complex cases. The chance to contribute positively to maternal health in a diverse population keeps me motivated every day. The challenges unique to Delaware, such as addressing disparities in urban and coastal communities, make my work both meaningful and impactful. Marcy

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Delaware

No, you cannot become a CNM in Delaware without a nursing degree. The state requires candidates to first obtain an RN license, which necessitates completing an accredited nursing program. Afterward, aspiring midwives must earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from a program accredited by the ACME.

Delaware follows the national standards set by the American Midwifery Certification Board, which mandates a nursing background before certification. Direct-entry midwifery, which does not require a nursing degree, is not recognized for licensure as a nurse midwife in Delaware. However, individuals interested in midwifery without a nursing degree may explore becoming certified professional midwives (CPMs), but this is a separate credential with different scope and recognition.

In summary, a nursing degree is an essential prerequisite to becoming a licensed nurse midwife in Delaware. This ensures a strong foundation in nursing practice alongside specialized midwifery training.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, but they differ significantly in training, scope, and certification. A CNM is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery, often including a master’s or doctoral degree, and holds national certification. CNMs are licensed healthcare providers able to prescribe medications, perform gynecological exams, and manage more complex medical situations. In Delaware, CNMs practice legally and often work in hospitals, birthing centers, or private practices under state regulations.

In contrast, a midwife without the nursing background—often called a direct-entry midwife—may receive training through apprenticeship or midwifery schools but does not have nursing credentials. Their scope is usually limited to low-risk pregnancies and home births, and their licensing varies widely by state and country. Globally, midwives without nursing qualifications play vital roles in underserved areas, but in the U.S., nurse midwives typically have broader medical authority and integration into the healthcare system.

Is a midwife in Delaware higher than a RN?

In Delaware, a midwife is not considered "higher" than an RN, as these roles have distinct scopes of practice and educational pathways rather than a strict hierarchy. Registered nurses typically hold an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing and are licensed to provide a broad range of healthcare services. In contrast, CNMs are APRNs who have completed graduate-level education in midwifery and are nationally certified.

According to the American Midwifery Certification Board, CNMs must first be licensed RNs before obtaining midwifery certification, indicating that midwifery is a specialized advanced practice within nursing rather than a higher status. The Delaware Board of Nursing regulates both professions, and CNMs have prescriptive authority and can provide prenatal, birth, and postpartum care independently, highlighting their advanced clinical role.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) shows that CNMs typically earn higher median wages than RNs due to this advanced training and specialization, but this reflects specialization rather than a hierarchical ranking.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Delaware hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Delaware is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires obtaining a registered nursing (RN) license, earning a graduate degree from an accredited nurse-midwifery program, and passing the national certification exam.

Delaware mandates that nurse midwives hold certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board and possess an active RN license. Applicants must complete a master's or doctoral degree in nurse-midwifery, which typically takes two to three years. Programs include rigorous coursework and clinical practice, demanding strong time management and commitment.

The state’s licensing process involves submitting proof of education, certification, and undergoing a background check. While competitive, support resources and accredited programs are accessible within and near Delaware.

Overall, the pathway requires significant effort but is clearly defined. Prospective nurse midwives who prepare academically and clinically can successfully meet Delaware’s requirements and enter this rewarding profession.

References:

• American College of Nurse-Midwives. (n.d.). ACNM Advocacy: Advancing the Practice of Midwifery. ACNM.
• American Midwifery Certification Board. (n.d.). Our mission: To protect and serve the public by leading the certification standards in midwifery. AMCB.
• Aspen University. (2022, November 29). Nurse Midwife Certification: The Complete Job Guide for 2023. Aspen.edu.
• Gamboa, A. (2024, December 18). Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Career Overview. Nursing Education.
• Gustafson, K. (2025, April 21). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)- Education, Licensure & Salary. Nursing Colleges.
• MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to Become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Delaware. midwifeschooling.com.
• Nurse Journal. (2023, October 16). Becoming a Nurse in Delaware + Requirements & Licensing. nursejournal.org.
• Nurse Midwifery. (n.d.). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife. nursemidwifery.org.