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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Hawaii is experiencing a critical shortage of qualified nurse midwives, leaving many families, especially in rural and outer island communities, with limited access to essential maternal healthcare. With certified nurse midwives attending only 18% of births statewide, which is below the recommended average, the need for skilled providers has never been more urgent.

To address this gap, this article—developed by career planning experts—details the 2025 education and certification pathway for becoming a nurse midwife in Hawaii. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance your nursing career, this guide offers clear, actionable steps to help you make a meaningful impact in the islands' healthcare system.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Hawaii

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus is the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife in Hawaii.
• Applicants need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a registered nursing license, clinical experience, and supporting materials like recommendations, a resume, and a personal statement.
• Programs include 700–1,000 supervised clinical hours and advanced coursework in prenatal, childbirth, postpartum, and women's health care.

Table of Contents

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

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

In Hawaii, the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife is an MSN with a specialization in midwifery. Below are the key components of this degree requirement:

• Completion of a BSN Program: Applicants must first earn a BSN from an accredited institution.
• Midwifery-Focused MSN Education: The MSN must include advanced coursework in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care, pharmacology, and women’s health.
• Supervised Clinical Experience: Students are required to complete hands-on clinical training to manage both routine and high-risk pregnancies.
• Development of Critical Thinking: The curriculum emphasizes decision-making, leadership, and problem-solving in clinical practice.
• Training in Culturally Competent Care: Programs prepare nurse midwives to meet the needs of Hawaii’s diverse and often underserved communities.
• Eligibility for National Certification: Graduates must qualify to take the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam.
• Preparation for State Licensure: Earning the MSN and certification meets Hawaii’s licensure requirements for CNMs.

Prospective students interested in pursuing this career path may also find it useful to explore data on the highest paying nursing career options to understand the financial prospects within this field.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Hawaii involves meeting academic, licensure, and clinical criteria that ensure applicants are well-prepared for advanced nursing practice. Below are the primary admission requirements:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN is required for traditional MSN programs. Applicants with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) may qualify through RN-to-MSN bridge pathways. All graduate programs must be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
• RN License: A current, unencumbered RN license is required to participate in clinical training within Hawaii’s healthcare settings.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 across prior college-level coursework and prerequisite subjects.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Applicants must complete courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics with a minimum grade of “C.”
• Standardized Testing: TEAS scores are often required for undergraduate entry into nursing bridge programs. Graduate programs may also request GRE scores, though this is becoming less common.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two to three letters from academic or clinical professionals are needed to evaluate the applicant’s qualifications and readiness for graduate study.
• Personal Statement and Resume: A written statement detailing professional goals and motivation for midwifery, along with a resume highlighting clinical experience, must be submitted.
• Clinical Experience: Experience in women’s health, labor and delivery, or obstetrics is strongly preferred and may be required by some programs.
• International Students: Must demonstrate English proficiency and have all academic credentials evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
• Unique Hawaii Requirements: Hawaii does not offer campus-based CNM programs. Most residents enroll in online ACME-accredited programs with in-state clinical placements. Some undergraduate nursing programs may prioritize Hawaii residents.

These requirements help ensure that candidates are fully prepared for the demands of midwifery education and practice. To better understand the professional landscape, see the image below showing the percentage of nurse midwives in Hawaii who work full-time versus part-time.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Hawaii?

Nurse midwife programs in Hawaii offer a curriculum that integrates advanced clinical training with a strong foundation in reproductive and maternal health. Below are the core courses commonly included in Hawaii nurse midwife programs:

• Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches in-depth physical and psychosocial evaluations across the female lifespan to support accurate clinical diagnosis.
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Covers drug safety, interactions, and prescribing practices, with a focus on women’s health and perinatal care.
• Reproductive and Sexual Health: Addresses contraception, infertility, STI care, and family planning, tailored to the cultural dynamics of Hawaii’s populations.
• Antepartum Care: Focuses on comprehensive prenatal management, including early detection of complications in normal and high-risk pregnancies.
• Intrapartum Care: Prepares students to manage labor and delivery, emphasizing physiological birth and interventions for common complications.
• Postpartum and Newborn Care: Provides training in maternal recovery, newborn assessments, lactation support, and family care transitions.
• Primary Care for Women: Equips students to manage acute and chronic health conditions in women, supporting continuity of care across the lifespan.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Builds skills in interpreting and applying research findings to ensure high-quality, data-driven clinical care.
• Clinical Practicum: Offers hands-on experience in Hawaii-based healthcare settings, reinforcing theoretical learning and fulfilling licensure requirements.

These courses, together with instruction in ethics, health policy, and culturally responsive care, prepare students for the national certification exam and effective practice as nurse midwives in Hawaii. For detailed certified nurse midwife requirements, prospective students can refer to certified nurse midwife requirements.

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

Hawaii nurse midwife programs require extensive clinical training to ensure graduates are prepared for independent, high-quality care. Students must complete between 700 and 1,000 supervised clinical hours in real-world healthcare settings.

Below are the key components of clinical training:

• Diverse Clinical Environments: Students rotate through hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and sometimes community health centers or private practices.
• Core Midwifery Skills: Training includes prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum recovery, newborn assessments, and gynecologic services.
• Supervised by Experienced Preceptors: Certified Nurse Midwives or OB/GYN physicians serve as preceptors, providing close oversight, feedback, and performance evaluation.
• Safety and Independence: Students must demonstrate competency in clinical procedures before practicing independently under supervision.
• Accreditation and Licensure: Programs must be ACME-accredited. Graduates must pass national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board and obtain APRN licensure with CNM designation in Hawaii.

To see where nurse midwives are most in demand, view the chart below highlighting the states with the highest employment of certified nurse midwives.

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

The process of becoming a CNM in Hawaii typically takes seven to eight years. This includes completing required education, national certification, and state licensure for advanced practice.

Below are the key steps and estimated timelines:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Earning a BSN takes about four years of full-time study and is a prerequisite for RN licensure in Hawaii.
• RN Licensure: Candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN and complete the Hawaii Board of Nursing’s application process, which may take several months.
• Graduate Midwifery Program: Completing an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus takes an additional 2 to 3 years. Programs must be ACME-accredited and include both didactic and clinical training.
• National Certification: After graduation, candidates must pass the AMCB exam to earn CNM status.
• Advanced Practice Licensure in Hawaii: CNMs must apply for APRN licensure, which includes prescriptive authority. Administrative steps may take several weeks to months to complete.

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

The cost of attending nurse midwife school in Hawaii is shaped primarily by online education, as the state currently does not offer any campus-based ACME-accredited nurse midwifery programs. Tuition for online MSN-level programs typically ranges from $500 to $700 per credit, with most requiring 40 to 60 credits, resulting in a total tuition estimate of $20,000 to $42,000. Students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus may pay between $32,500 and $56,000 due to increased credit requirements. 

In addition to tuition, students should budget for supplemental expenses. University fees—including technology, clinical labs, and distance learning charges typically total $1,000 to $3,000 annually. Textbooks and course materials may cost between $1,200 and $2,000, while clinical supplies like scrubs and stethoscopes range from $200 to $800. Other essential costs include travel for clinical rotations, health clearances ($200–$500), background checks ($50–$150), and certification and licensure fees up to $1,000. 

Prospective students should also review the womens health nurse practitioner requirements as part of their preparation for advanced nursing roles that include midwifery specialization.

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

Nurse midwife students in Hawaii can access a variety of financial aid options aimed at reducing education costs and encouraging service in underserved communities across the islands. Below are the main financial aid opportunities available in Hawaii:

• Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants of up to $7,495 annually for eligible students, with no repayment required.
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Allows borrowing up to $20,500 per year with interest accruing during enrollment.
• Graduate PLUS Loans: Offers additional borrowing up to the full cost of attendance, subject to credit approval.
• Federal Work-Study: Provides part-time employment opportunities, often in healthcare settings, with earnings ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 per year.
• Hawaii State Loan Repayment Program (HSLRP): Offers loan repayment to nurse midwives who commit to serving in health professional shortage areas within the state.
• National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Provides loan repayment or scholarships for midwives working in federally designated shortage areas, including rural Hawaii.
• State Healthcare Loan Incentives: Expands funding to attract advanced practice nurses to rural and neighbor island communities.
• University and Private Scholarships: Awards are based on merit, financial need, or service commitments, with opportunities from institutions and organizations such as the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Hawaii?

Hawaii does not currently offer a campus-based nurse midwifery program. However, residents can access several ACME-accredited online programs that allow them to complete clinical training locally. These programs meet national certification standards and support licensure in Hawaii, combining flexible learning with hands-on clinical experience.

Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools serving Hawaii:

• Frontier Nursing University - MSN or DNP in Nurse Midwifery: Offers online coursework with clinical rotations at Hawaii hospitals such as Kapiolani Medical Center. Known for supporting rural and underserved communities through community-focused training.
• Georgetown University - Online Nurse Midwifery/WHNP Dual Program: Combines nurse-midwifery with women’s health nurse practitioner training. The program supports Hawaii-based clinical placements and features expert faculty leadership.
• Baylor University - Online DNP Nurse Midwifery Track: Delivers a strong focus on leadership and evidence-based care. Students complete online coursework and arrange local clinicals with Hawaii healthcare partners.
• University of Cincinnati - Online MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: Designed for working nurses, this program includes asynchronous courses and Hawaii-based preceptorships. Known for high academic quality and student accessibility.
• Thomas Jefferson University - Online MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: Offers a collaborative learning model with clinical experiences in Hawaii. Emphasizes interdisciplinary care and strong clinical support systems.

Understanding the accredited nurse midwifery programs in Hawaii is vital for meeting clinical training requirements and advancing toward CNM certification. For those interested in career specifics and pathways, reviewing obstetrics nurse job requirements can provide valuable insights into the profession’s scope and opportunities.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Hawaii?

Advanced degrees offer CNMs in Hawaii the opportunity to expand clinical capabilities, assume leadership roles, and contribute to healthcare innovation. Below are the advanced degrees that support nursing career advancement in Hawaii:

• MSN Nurse Midwifery: This essential degree is required for CNM licensure in Hawaii and focuses on comprehensive care across prenatal, birth, and postpartum settings. MSN-trained CNMs often move into clinical coordinator or lead midwife positions.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest practice-based degree, the DNP prepares CNMs for executive roles in healthcare leadership, policy development, and quality improvement. DNP graduates frequently lead midwifery programs or healthcare initiatives.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for APRNs with prior graduate education, this certificate enables a transition into midwifery and enhances opportunities in clinical leadership and advanced practice.
• Dual-Focus CNM/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Degrees: These programs broaden practice areas, allowing CNMs to provide care across the reproductive lifespan—especially valuable in Hawaii’s diverse healthcare settings.
• Academic and Faculty Pathways (DNP or PhD): These degrees open doors to teaching, research, and academic leadership, allowing CNMs to shape future generations in maternal and reproductive health.

To better understand who’s leading the profession today, view the chart below that illustrates the age range of practicing nurse midwives.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Hawaii?

Accreditation is essential for students pursuing nurse midwifery in Hawaii, as it ensures programs meet national standards for education, clinical preparation, and certification eligibility. Below are the key organizations that accredit or oversee nurse midwife programs relevant to Hawaii:

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): ACME is the only accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the U.S., recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. It sets national standards for academic quality and clinical competency.
• U.S. Department of Education: Formally recognizes ACME as the official accreditor of nurse midwifery programs, confirming its legitimacy and authority.
• American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB): Requires graduation from an ACME-accredited program to sit for the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) exam, which is mandatory for licensure in Hawaii.
• Hawaii Board of Nursing: Oversees licensure for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including CNMs, and requires national certification from AMCB.
• Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC): Accredits programs for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), a separate pathway from CNMs, which is also recognized under Hawaii law.
• Out-of-State Academic Institutions: Hawaii does not currently host any in-state ACME-accredited programs. Students often enroll in accredited mainland or online programs and complete clinical rotations locally.

How do nurse midwife and nurse practitioner career paths differ in Hawaii?

Nurse midwives in Hawaii specialize in maternal and reproductive care, emphasizing hands-on clinical expertise and tailored care for families. In contrast, nurse practitioners provide a broader spectrum of primary care services across various specialties, which can include preventive care and chronic disease management. This differentiation in scope, certification, and role flexibility guides prospective healthcare providers in selecting the pathway that best aligns with their professional objectives. For a comparative review of educational pathways and program options, consider exploring the top nurse practitioner programs in Hawaii.

What do nurse midwives in Hawaii say about their careers?

• Being a nurse midwife in Hawaii has given me the chance to serve families in a way that honors both tradition and modern care. I love working with diverse communities and supporting women through their birthing journey with cultural sensitivity and respect. Leilani
• Hawaii offers a unique environment for nurse midwives. I feel supported by my colleagues and appreciated by my patients. The blend of rural outreach and hospital-based care helps me grow every day while staying grounded in our community values. Lino
• Practicing as a nurse midwife in Hawaii is incredibly fulfilling. I get to be part of intimate, life-changing moments and contribute to the health of our local families. The island setting brings both challenges and beauty to the work, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Anela

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

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

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife (CNM) in Hawaii without first obtaining a nursing degree. CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses who must complete accredited nursing programs, earn RN licensure, and pursue graduate-level midwifery education. Certification by the AMCB and state licensure are required. Non-nurse midwives follow separate pathways and are not recognized as CNMs.

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

A nurse midwife (CNM) in Hawaii is a registered nurse with graduate-level midwifery education and national certification. CNMs can prescribe medications and attend births in hospitals or clinics. In contrast, Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are non-nurses who typically serve home births. CNMs are more widely regulated and integrated into Hawaii’s healthcare system, with broader clinical responsibilities.

Is a midwife in Hawaii higher than an RN?

No, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse (RN) in Hawaii. Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are RNs with advanced training in maternal care. While CNMs earn more due to specialization, both roles are essential and regulated distinctly. Midwifery is viewed as a nursing specialization rather than a superior rank within Hawaii’s healthcare system.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Hawaii hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Hawaii is demanding due to limited in-state programs and rigorous requirements. Candidates must complete RN training, graduate midwifery education, and pass the national certification exam. Hawaii also requires APRN licensure with a midwifery focus. Despite challenges, growing demand and rewarding career prospects make this path achievable with commitment and preparation.

References:

• American College of Nurse Midwives. (n.d.). Become a midwife. Retrieved from Midwife.org
• Civil Beat. (2023, February). Midwives will soon need a license to practice in Hawaii. Many are pushing back. Retrieved from Civil Beat
• East Hawaii Midwife Service. (n.d.). FAQs. Retrieved from East Hawaii Midwife Service
• Hawaii Affiliate of the American College of Nurse Midwives. (n.d.). Find a Hawaii midwife. Retrieved from Hawaii Midwives
• Hawaii State Legislature. (n.d.). HB1194 HD1. Retrieved from Hawaii Legislature
• MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to become a nurse midwife in Hawaii | CNM programs guide. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
• Midwives Alliance of Hawaii. (n.d.). FAQ. Retrieved from Midwives Hawaii
• NurseJournal.org. (n.d.). Hawaii nursing requirements & licensing. Retrieved from Nurse Journal
• Pacific Birth Collective. (n.d.). Midwifery in Hawaii. Retrieved from Pacific Birth Collective
• U.S. Language Services. (n.d.). How to work in the U.S. as a foreign-educated midwife. Retrieved from US Language Services