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

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Many aspiring healthcare professionals face uncertainty about how to meet the educational requirements to become a nurse midwife in Florida. With over 21% workforce growth projected by 2030, rising birth rates, and an aging population are fueling strong demand for skilled, licensed midwives across the state.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines Florida’s 2025 midwife education and licensing steps. It provides clear guidance to help readers navigate the process and begin a rewarding career with confidence.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Florida

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus is the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife in Florida.
Applicants need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), registered nursing license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and materials like references, a personal statement, and BLS certification.
Programs include advanced coursework and clinical experience caring for at least 50 women in each phase of pregnancy, plus additional labor observations.

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

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

In Florida, the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife is an MSN with a concentration in midwifery. This degree ensures the clinical and academic preparation necessary to meet the demands of modern maternal and newborn care.

Below are the key components of this degree requirement:

Completion of a BSN Program: Applicants must first obtain a BSN from an accredited institution.
Midwifery-Focused MSN Program: The MSN must include coursework in women's health, prenatal care, postpartum care, and newborn assessment.
Supervised Clinical Training: More than half of the required clinical hours must be completed under the supervision of certified nurse-midwives or certified midwives.
Advanced Health Sciences Curriculum: Students must complete courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and advanced health assessment.
Certification Eligibility: Graduates must qualify to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to become certified nurse midwives.
Licensure Preparation: Completion of an accredited MSN program and certification is required for CNM licensure in Florida.
Readiness for Collaborative Practice: Programs prepare nurse midwives to work within physician agreements and evolving care models.

For those interested in exploring related career prospects, information on top paying nursing jobs can provide further insight into the field’s potential.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Florida is guided by academic, professional, and regulatory standards designed to prepare candidates for advanced clinical practice. Below are the primary admission requirements:

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN is required for entry into graduate programs. However, for registered nurses without a BSN, RN to MSN programs offer a streamlined pathway to earn a graduate degree. Certification eligibility requires completion of a master’s or doctoral program in nurse-midwifery by accredited bodies.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of approximately 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required, with emphasis on nursing and science coursework.
RN License: A current, valid, and unrestricted RN license from any U.S. jurisdiction is mandatory at the time of application.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three letters from academic instructors or clinical supervisors are typically requested to evaluate clinical skill and academic readiness.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of professional nursing experience, preferably in labor and delivery or women’s health, is commonly required.
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification: Proof of current BLS certification from an in-person course approved by a recognized organization (e.g., AHA or Red Cross) is necessary.
Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of college-level courses in English, math, and medical terminology is generally required. Anatomy and physiology may also be mandated by some programs.
International Students: Must demonstrate equivalent nursing education, hold a valid RN license, prove English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS), and complete any required credential evaluations.
Florida-Specific Requirements: Applicants must provide proof of malpractice insurance or qualify for an exemption. Those pursuing direct-entry midwifery must pass the NARM exam and be at least 21 years old.
Additional Documentation: Programs may require a personal statement, full application forms, application fees, and participation in an admissions interview.

These comprehensive requirements help ensure that nurse midwife candidates in Florida are well-prepared for the clinical, academic, and regulatory demands of advanced practice. To provide further context about the profession’s demographics, the image below highlights the average age of nurse midwives in the United States.

42 years old is the average age of nurse midwives.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Florida?

Nurse midwife programs in Florida deliver a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for advanced clinical roles, legal compliance, and culturally competent care. Below are the core courses typically included in Florida nurse midwife programs:

Advanced Health Assessment: Builds skills in physical, psychosocial, and diagnostic evaluations for women and newborns, supporting safe clinical decision-making.
Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology: Provides foundational knowledge of the female reproductive system, vital for understanding pregnancy and labor processes.
Applied Pharmacology: Covers medication use and safety during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, including monitoring maternal and neonatal responses.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Offers in-depth training in prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care with a focus on physiological birth.
Gynecology and Women’s Health: Addresses common gynecologic issues, cancer screening, and preventive care throughout a woman’s lifespan.
Obstetric Complications: Prepares students to manage emergencies such as preeclampsia, hemorrhage, and preterm labor in coordination with care teams.
Neonatal Pediatrics and Neonatology: Teaches assessment, stabilization, and follow-up care for healthy and at-risk newborns.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Encourages critical thinking and integration of current research into clinical midwifery care.
Childbirth Education and Community Care: Emphasizes patient education, cultural competency, and community outreach in Florida’s diverse populations.
Nutrition During Pregnancy and Lactation: Focuses on dietary counseling to promote maternal wellness and infant development.
Breastfeeding Support: Equips students to assist families with breastfeeding challenges and encourage long-term lactation success.
Medical and Legal Aspects of Midwifery: Reviews Florida laws, licensing rules, and ethical standards for midwifery practice.
Family Planning: Covers contraceptive options, fertility awareness, and reproductive counseling to support patient autonomy.
Basic Nursing and Healthcare Skills: Reinforces essential procedures, infection control, and patient safety in clinical settings.

These components not only align with national midwifery competencies but also address Florida’s specific regulatory requirements, preparing graduates for both licensure and certification. For those wondering how long does it take to become a family nurse practitioner, integrating such comprehensive coursework is essential to meeting the professional standards and scope of practice expected in Florida’s dynamic healthcare environment.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Florida include comprehensive clinical training designed to meet both educational and licensure standards. While no set minimum clinical hours is mandated, students must meet specific case-based benchmarks to ensure competence across the full scope of midwifery care.

Below are the key components of clinical training:

Minimum Case Requirements: Students must provide direct care to at least 50 women during each of the prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum periods, and observe an additional 25 labor and delivery cases.
Diverse Clinical Settings: Training occurs in hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and community health facilities. Some programs also include supervised home birth experiences.
Core Skill Development: Clinical training includes prenatal assessments, labor management (including emergencies), postpartum recovery, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic care.
Supervised Preceptorship: Experienced nurse midwives or physicians serve as preceptors, overseeing clinical tasks and offering real-time feedback and evaluation.
Licensure Compliance: All clinical training must align with Florida Board of Nursing standards and be completed within an accredited nurse midwife program.
Emerging Training Trends: Some programs incorporate telehealth and simulation technologies to supplement hands-on experience and address clinical site limitations.

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

The journey to becoming a CNM in Florida typically takes seven to eight years. This includes undergraduate education, clinical training, national certification, and state-specific licensure requirements.

Below are the major steps and estimated timelines:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: A BSN typically requires four years of full-time study and provides the foundational training needed for RN licensure.
RN Licensure: After earning a BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN. Exam scheduling and state processing may add several months to the timeline.
Graduate Midwifery Program: Earning an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus takes 2 to 3 years. Florida requires completion of an ACME-accredited program and a pre-licensure course approved by the state.
National Certification Exam: Graduates must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to earn CNM credentials.
Florida State Licensure: Candidates must submit certification and clinical hour documentation to the Florida Department of Health. Processing may take several months, especially due to background check rules effective July 2025.

Altogether, this multi-phase process equips CNMs with the clinical expertise and legal credentials required for advanced practice in Florida. The chart below illustrates which companies most commonly employ certified nurse midwives, offering insight into potential career destinations after licensure.

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

The cost of attending nurse midwife school in Florida varies based on program type, institution, and residency status. University-based MSN and DNP nurse-midwifery programs generally range from $30,000 to $45,000 in total tuition. For instance, Frontier Nursing University’s online MSN program costs approximately $38,775 for 55 credits. Public universities in Florida offer reduced tuition rates for in-state students, averaging around $17,789 per year, while out-of-state students may pay up to $30,782 annually.

Additional costs can increase the total investment by $2,000 to $4,000. Students should budget for application and enrollment fees, clinical and technology charges, and materials. Textbooks and course resources typically total $1,000 to $2,000 throughout the program, while clinical supplies may cost $300 to $1,000. Post-graduation expenses include licensure and certification fees, with the American Midwifery Certification Board exam costing about $500 and Florida state licensure fees ranging from $200 to $400.

How do mentorship and professional networking opportunities support career advancement for nurse midwives in Florida?

Mentorship programs and targeted networking provide direct access to experienced practitioners, enhancing insight into advanced clinical practices and leadership roles. Establishing professional relationships through alumni networks, conferences, and specialized associations can guide students in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and emerging trends in midwifery care. Collaborations with established professionals also facilitate awareness of innovative educational pathways, such as those offered by the top nurse practitioner programs in Florida, thereby enriching practical skills and positioning graduates for competitive career opportunities.

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

Nurse midwife students in Florida can access a range of financial aid options that help reduce the financial burden of graduate education. Below are the key financial aid opportunities available in Florida:

Federal Student Loans: Graduate students may borrow through Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, which offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options.
Federal Pell Grants: While not common for graduate programs, some post-baccalaureate midwifery pathways may qualify for these need-based awards of up to $7,495 annually.
Federal Work-Study: Eligible students can earn $4,000–$8,000 per year through part-time healthcare-related jobs, gaining income and professional experience.
State and Institutional Scholarships: Organizations such as the Florida Nurses Foundation and local nursing associations offer scholarships specifically for Florida-based nursing and midwifery students.
HRSA Loan Repayment Programs: The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) offers federal loan repayment for nurse midwives who work in federally designated shortage areas post-graduation.
Employer Tuition Assistance: Many Florida healthcare employers provide tuition reimbursement or scholarships to support employees pursuing CNM degrees.

These funding options not only make midwifery education more accessible but also help students align their financial planning with future employment goals. The image below highlights the practice settings where certified nurse midwives most commonly prefer to work.

85% do certified nurse midwives are more likely to work in private companies than in education.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Florida?

Accredited nurse midwifery programs in Florida prepare students for national certification, state licensure, and advanced practice in women’s health. Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Florida:

University of Florida – DNP Nurse Midwifery Track: Offers a BSN-to-DNP pathway with advanced clinical partnerships across Florida. The program focuses on leadership, research, and evidence-based midwifery care.
University of Miami – MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: Known for strong ties to South Florida health systems, this program provides expert faculty mentorship and cutting-edge clinical training in women’s health.
Florida Atlantic University – MSN Nurse Midwifery Concentration: Offers online flexibility for working nurses. The ACME-accredited program emphasizes accessible, personalized education for aspiring midwives.
Jacksonville University – MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: Provides dual certification in nurse-midwifery and women’s health, expanding graduates’ career versatility in hospital and outpatient settings.
University of South Florida – MSN with Nurse Midwifery Option: Features a wide clinical placement network and strong NCLEX-RN pass rates. Graduates benefit from robust training aligned with Florida’s growing maternal health needs.

As demand grows, those exploring accredited nurse midwifery programs in Florida should also consider future career prospects, including expanded roles and emerging specialties. For insight into the jobs you can get with doctorate in nursing, understanding these evolving opportunities is key to long-term success.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Florida?

For CNMs in Florida, advanced degrees are essential for expanding clinical scope, pursuing leadership opportunities, and contributing to healthcare innovation. These programs prepare CNMs to meet the growing demands of maternal care and healthcare delivery systems, aligning closely with the positive nurse practitioner career outlook projected across the state and nationwide.

Below are the advanced degrees that support CNM career advancement in Florida:

Doctor of Nursing Practice: This terminal practice-focused degree equips CNMs with advanced clinical, leadership, and systems-thinking skills. DNP-prepared CNMs often serve as clinical directors or independent APRNs leading quality initiatives.
PhD in Nursing: Designed for academic and research careers, the PhD prepares CNMs to lead studies, influence maternal health policy, and teach at the university level, advancing midwifery through scholarly work.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Midwifery or Women’s Health: These certificates allow APRNs to specialize or add certification, enhancing clinical versatility and supporting expanded roles in women’s health and interprofessional teams.
Leadership and Administrative Graduate Credentials: Advanced degrees in nursing leadership or administration prepare CNMs for roles such as department manager or nursing director, with responsibilities in team oversight, budgeting, and strategic planning.

These advanced educational pathways not only expand professional roles but also reflect the evolving demographics of the CNM workforce. The chart below illustrates the average age of certified nurse midwives, offering insight into career longevity and when many pursue higher degrees.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Florida?

Accreditation plays a vital role in ensuring that nurse midwife programs in Florida meet national standards for education, clinical training, and certification eligibility. Below are the key organizations involved in accrediting or regulating nurse midwife programs in Florida:

Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): ACME is the only accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the U.S. It evaluates curricula, faculty qualifications, and clinical training to ensure national consistency.
U.S. Department of Education: Officially recognizes ACME as the sole authority for accrediting nurse midwifery education, giving its standards national weight.
American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB): Requires graduation from an ACME-accredited program to be eligible for the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) exam—a requirement for licensure in Florida.
Florida Board of Nursing: Oversees advanced practice licensure and supports CNM applicants who meet national certification and ACME-accredited education requirements.
Accredited Academic Institutions: Schools such as the University of Florida, Florida Atlantic University, and the University of Miami offer ACME-accredited nurse midwife programs.
Professional Organizations: Bodies like the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) support accreditation standards and provide continuing education and advocacy.

What do nurse midwives in Florida say about their careers?

Working as a nurse midwife in Florida has given me the chance to support women from many cultures and backgrounds. Every day is different, and I love the connection I build with families. The work is meaningful, and I feel proud to be part of their birth stories. – Marisol
Florida’s healthcare system gives nurse midwives room to grow. I work in both clinics and hospital settings, and I’ve been able to specialize in high-risk pregnancies. The support from my colleagues and the gratitude from patients remind me why I chose this path. – Tyrese
Being a nurse midwife in Florida is both challenging and fulfilling. I care for women in big cities and rural towns, which has strengthened my skills and compassion. This career lets me make a real difference, and that’s what keeps me going every day. – Hailey

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Florida without a nursing degree. CNMs must first obtain RN licensure by completing an accredited nursing program. Only then can they pursue graduate-level midwifery education. While non-nurse midwives exist, they follow different certification paths and are not recognized as CNMs under Florida nursing regulations.

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

In Florida, a nurse midwife is a registered nurse with graduate training in midwifery and national certification. CNMs offer full-scope care in clinical and hospital settings. In contrast, Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are non-nurses who attend home births and lack prescriptive authority. CNMs have broader clinical roles and are more integrated into formal healthcare systems.

Is a midwife in Florida higher than an RN?

No, a midwife is not higher than an RN in Florida, but represents an advanced practice specialization. CNMs are RNs with graduate-level midwifery training. While CNMs typically earn more and have prescriptive authority, both roles serve essential but distinct functions within the healthcare system, governed by the Florida Board of Nursing.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Florida hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Florida is academically and clinically demanding. It requires RN licensure, graduate-level midwifery education, and passing the national certification exam. Florida also mandates state licensure and background checks. Despite the rigor, motivated candidates can navigate this structured path successfully and enjoy meaningful careers supporting women’s health across diverse care settings.

References:

Florida Department of Health. (n.d.). Licensing. Retrieved from Florida Department of Health
Frontier Nursing University. (n.d.). Admissions criteria: Master of science in nursing. Retrieved from Frontier University
International Institute for Health Care Professionals. (n.d.). Midwifery program. Retrieved from IIHCP
MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). Nurse midwife programs in Florida – Learn to become a CNM in FL. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
Midwives Association of Florida. (n.d.). Become a licensed midwife. Retrieved from Midwives Association of Florida
RegisteredNursing.org. (n.d.). How to become a certified nurse midwife (CNM)? Retrieved from Registered Nursing
University of Cincinnati Online. (n.d.). MSN nurse-midwifery admissions information. Retrieved from UC Online
University of Florida Health. (n.d.). Certified nurse-midwife. Retrieved from UF Health
University of North Florida. (n.d.). UNF: Admission information. Retrieved from UNF
Florida School of Traditional Midwifery. (n.d.). Prerequisites. Retrieved from Midwifery School