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

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With Idaho experiencing a 15% growth in demand for midwifery services over the past five years, pursuing this career offers both stability and meaningful impact. Nurse midwives play a vital role in supporting maternal and newborn health, especially in rural communities. However, many aspiring healthcare professionals in the state face uncertainty about the exact steps required to become a nurse midwife.

This article, therefore, details the current educational and licensing requirements to help you navigate your way to a career in midwifery. Prepared by career planning experts, it will guide you through accredited programs, certification processes, and state-specific regulations.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Idaho

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gain a registered nursing license in Idaho to start your journey toward becoming a nurse midwife.
Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)to meet state certification requirements.
Pass the national certification exam from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and apply for Idaho state licensure to practice independently.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in Idaho, you must earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse midwifery. This degree is essential because it equips you with advanced clinical skills and a deep understanding of women’s health, pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.

The curriculum includes critical subjects such as advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based midwifery practice. These components ensure you are prepared to handle the complex responsibilities required of nurse midwives in Idaho’s unique healthcare environment. Gaining an MSN with this specialization is not just a formality; it is the foundation that supports your ability to provide high-quality maternal care in the state.

Idaho nurse midwife degree requirements also reflect the state’s healthcare needs, especially in rural areas with limited access to providers. The MSN training prepares you to meet these challenges, helping you serve communities that depend heavily on skilled midwives. Moreover, nurse midwives in Idaho benefit from competitive salaries, highlighting the value of this advanced education.

If you are exploring career options, consider reviewing the rankings of the best specialty career choices for nurses to see how nurse midwifery stands out as a rewarding path. This degree sets the stage for a meaningful and impactful career dedicated to improving maternal and newborn health in Idaho.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Idaho demands strong academic credentials and clinical experience. Prepare to meet these key requirements to position yourself as a competitive candidate.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from an accredited school is typically required; some programs may consider applicants with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) if they have significant clinical experience.
Registered Nurse License: You must hold a current, unencumbered Idaho RN license at application and maintain it throughout the program.
Graduate Program Enrollment: Admission is limited to master’s or doctoral nurse-midwifery programs accredited by the ACME.
Minimum GPA: Most programs require a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; more competitive programs may expect higher.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three professional or academic references are necessary, ideally from those who know your clinical skills and academic potential.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of recent full-time nursing experience, preferably in labor and delivery or women’s health, is highly preferred.
Personal Statement or Resume: Submit a detailed resume and a personal statement that clearly expresses your motivation and understanding of the nurse-midwife role.
Entrance Exams: Some programs may request GRE or nursing-specific test scores, though this requirement is decreasing.
Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, statistics, and human development with a grade of “C” or better is required.
International Student Requirements: Proof of English proficiency via TOEFL or IELTS and credential evaluation of nursing degrees to U.S. standards are mandatory for international applicants.
Idaho-Specific Licensing: Applicants must verify eligibility for Idaho RN and APRN licensure, with official transcripts sent directly to the Idaho Board of Nursing as part of the application process.

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Idaho demands strong academic credentials and clinical experience. Prepare to meet these key requirements to position yourself as a competitive candidate.

Which industry pays nurse midwives the highest?

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Idaho?

To succeed in nurse midwife programs in Idaho, students engage in a focused curriculum designed to build clinical expertise and meet state-specific standards. Each course plays a vital role in preparing you for real-world challenges and the responsibilities of midwifery practice.

Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches you to conduct thorough physical, psychosocial, and cultural evaluations of women at all life stages, helping identify both normal and abnormal clinical findings.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers contraception, fertility, and gynecological care, ensuring you can provide comprehensive reproductive health services from adolescence to menopause.
Pharmacology for Midwives: Focuses on medication safety and prescribing practices relevant to maternal, neonatal, and women’s health to promote safe pharmaceutical care.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Prepares you to manage antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care, including recognizing complications during childbirth.
Primary Care for Women: Emphasizes holistic prevention, health promotion, and management of common acute and chronic conditions in women.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Equips you to critically evaluate and apply research findings to clinical decisions, advancing your practice with the best available evidence.
Pathophysiology: Explores disease processes affecting women and newborns, supporting sound clinical judgment and collaborative care.
Professional Issues and Ethics in Midwifery: Addresses ethical considerations, scope of practice, interprofessional collaboration, and Idaho-specific legal requirements.
Clinical Practicum/Internships: Provides supervised hands-on experience in Idaho healthcare settings, integrating classroom learning with practical skills.

These core courses reflect the nurse midwife course requirements in Idaho, ensuring graduates are prepared to provide skilled, respectful care and fulfill licensing standards. For a deeper understanding of the profession’s scope, explore what does a certified nurse midwife do.

The chart below highlights the top-paying industries for nurse midwives.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Idaho require students to complete a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours, though many programs encourage significantly more to deepen students' expertise and confidence.

Clinical experiences take place across a variety of healthcare environments—including hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and community health sites—ensuring students gain a well-rounded understanding of maternal and newborn care. This broad exposure prepares graduates to address both routine and complex cases throughout the childbearing cycle.

During training, students develop essential clinical competencies such as prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic services. These hands-on skills are built under the guidance of experienced preceptors—typically certified nurse midwives or OB/GYN physicians—who supervise, mentor, and evaluate student performance. Their support ensures that each student meets professional benchmarks and is prepared for independent, high-quality clinical practice.

To obtain licensure in Idaho, candidates must graduate from an ACME-accredited program, complete all required clinical training, and pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Since July 2024, Idaho has granted full independent practice authority to CNMs, further underscoring the importance of rigorous clinical education and comprehensive training in preparation for autonomous patient care.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Idaho starts with earning a BSN, which typically takes about four years of full-time study. This foundational degree includes essential coursework in nursing, science, and general education. After completing your BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your registered nurse (RN) license in Idaho. The time it takes to schedule and pass this exam can vary, sometimes adding several months to your timeline.

Once you hold an active Idaho RN license, the next step is enrolling in an accredited graduate-level nurse midwifery program, such as an MSN or a DNP with a nurse-midwifery focus. These programs usually require two to three years of study, combining classroom instruction with clinical practicum hours. Idaho’s diverse healthcare settings make it possible to complete clinical placements locally, and unlike some states, Idaho does not require physician supervision for nurse midwives, which can streamline practical training.

After graduating from your advanced program, you must pass the AMCB national exam to become certified. Following this, you apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the Idaho Board of Nursing. While the licensing process is straightforward, expect potential delays from background checks and documentation review. Idaho’s independent practice status for nurse midwives also grants prescriptive authority once all requirements are met, allowing you to practice and manage medications autonomously.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in Idaho depends largely on whether you choose a public or private institution, as well as the degree path, such as MSN or DNP programs. Typical tuition ranges for accredited nurse midwifery programs in Idaho and nearby states show public university MSN programs costing between $45,000 to $65,000 in total tuition, while private institutions usually range from $65,000 to $85,000.

DNP nurse-midwifery programs, which are more extensive, generally run from $75,000 to $120,000 overall. Idaho students often enroll in programs offered through hybrid or distance formats by neighboring states, where in-state tuition reciprocity might apply, helping to reduce costs for residents.

Beyond tuition, students should plan for additional expenses essential to their education. These include program and university fees ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per year, textbooks and course materials costing between $1,500 and $3,000, and clinical supplies such as stethoscopes and liability insurance that can add another $500 to $1,500.

Licensure fees also contribute to the total cost: Idaho charges a $98.25 APRN licensure fee, including fingerprinting, with a renewal fee of $70, plus a $500 certification exam fee required for practice. Being aware of these costs upfront ensures a better financial plan for your journey into nurse midwifery.

In-state versus out-of-state tuition rates can make a significant difference, especially at public universities like Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where residents pay about $713 per credit and non-residents pay $926 per credit for the DNP nurse-midwifery program.

While Idaho currently lacks a dedicated in-state CNM program accredited by ACME, exploring regional options and understanding the requirements to become an advanced practice registered nurse can help you navigate your educational path effectively. Remember, total costs including tuition and required expenses can range from $50,000 to well over $120,000, so thorough preparation is key to achieving your professional goals.

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

Financing your nurse midwife education in Idaho can feel overwhelming, but a variety of targeted aid programs are designed to lighten the load. From federal loans to state-specific scholarships and work-study opportunities, these resources support your journey toward becoming a CNM.

Federal Pell Grant: Provides need-based aid up to $7,495 annually, sometimes available for post-baccalaureate nursing students.
Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans: Offer flexible borrowing options with reasonable interest rates to cover tuition and living costs.
Federal Work-Study: Enables part-time employment to earn funds while gaining valuable experience.
Idaho Nursing Scholarships: Include need- and merit-based awards, particularly for veterans and those with veteran relatives.
Loan Repayment Programs: Forgive loans in exchange for service in underserved Idaho communities.
Professional and Employer Scholarships: Provided by nursing organizations and local healthcare employers to support advanced education.

A nurse midwife from Idaho who graduated locally shared how navigating these options was both challenging and empowering. “The Idaho Nursing Fund Scholarship was crucial for me,” she recalled, “but applying early and combining it with federal loans and work-study made the difference.”

She emphasized that persistence in meeting deadlines and understanding each program’s requirements helped her avoid unnecessary debt and focus on her studies. Her experience highlights how blending multiple aid sources can turn financial uncertainty into a manageable step on the path to becoming a nurse midwife.

The chart below highlights the top employers of nurse midwives, offering insight into where graduates are most likely to build their careers.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Idaho?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Idaho is essential for those aiming to become certified nurse midwives. Accreditation not only ensures high educational standards but also allows graduates to sit for national certification and obtain state licensure, setting a strong foundation for a rewarding career in advanced maternity care.

Idaho State University – MSN Nurse-Midwifery Track: This program offers a comprehensive MSN with nurse-midwifery emphasis and strong clinical partnerships across Idaho, giving students valuable hands-on experience. Graduates are well-prepared for AMCB certification and advanced clinical practice, though verifying current accreditation is recommended.
Frontier Nursing University – Distance Nurse-Midwifery Program (Serving Idaho): Known for its flexibility, Frontier’s ACME-accredited online CNM program serves Idaho students by combining remote coursework with local clinical placements. It offers over 750 clinical practicum hours and an option to pursue a DNP.
Boise State University – DNP Nurse Midwifery Option: Boise State’s DNP program integrates leadership training, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills, ideal for nurses seeking terminal degrees and leadership roles. The nurse midwifery option provides rigorous preparation for advanced practice.
Mercy In Action College of Midwifery – Bachelor of Science in Midwifery: This MEAC-accredited program focuses on community-based and distance learning, leading to CPM eligibility. It supports rural and underserved populations in Idaho, offering a unique pathway distinct from CNM certification.
University of Utah – Nurse Midwifery Program (Regional Option for Idaho Residents): Although outside Idaho, this ACME-accredited CNM program is popular among Idaho students due to its strong clinical ties with Idaho healthcare providers and accessible clinical placements closer to home.

For those considering advanced degrees, exploring the best careers with a doctorate in nursing can provide insight into future opportunities. Selecting from these top accredited nurse midwifery programs in Idaho ensures you are positioned for success in this vital healthcare field.

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

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Idaho?

Advanced degrees open many doors for CNMs in Idaho, enabling them to step into leadership, education, and specialized roles. These programs provide the skills and credentials needed to excel beyond basic practice.

MSN Nurse Midwifery Track: This is the essential degree for starting CNM practice in Idaho, offering advanced clinical training and leadership preparation. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam required for licensure as an APRN.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: A practice-focused doctorate that equips CNMs for top-level clinical leadership, quality improvement, and policy roles. DNP holders often become directors, chief nursing officers, or clinical educators.
PhD in Nursing: Designed for those pursuing research, academic faculty roles, or policy analysis. It prepares CNMs to lead research projects and influence public health strategies.
Post-Master’s or Post-Doctoral Certificates: These certificates provide subspecialty expertise in areas like women’s health or informatics, expanding career options to educator or program director roles.
Leadership and Policy Training: Integrated coursework in these areas supports advancement into healthcare administration, regulatory positions, and public health leadership within Idaho’s healthcare system.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Idaho?

Accreditation ensures that nurse midwife programs meet high standards of education and clinical practice, which is essential for safe and effective midwifery care. In Idaho, the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands as the primary accrediting body recognized nationwide for nurse-midwifery programs.

ACME is the only organization accredited by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit nurse midwife programs across the United States. This distinction means that programs accredited by ACME adhere to rigorous educational criteria, preparing students thoroughly for the demands of midwifery practice.

For those considering the cost of nurse midwifery programs in Idaho or looking into Idaho nurse midwife tuition and fees, choosing an ACME-accredited program is a wise investment in a credential that holds national recognition. Graduates from these programs are eligible to take the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), a key step toward becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and practicing professionally in Idaho.

Since Idaho does not currently offer campus-based nurse-midwifery programs, aspiring CNMs typically enroll in ACME-accredited online programs from reputable institutions nationwide. This flexibility allows students to pursue their education without relocating, a significant advantage for many.

If you want to explore your options and understand the various educational pathways, including different types of nursing degrees and levels, visit different types of RN. Proper accreditation not only impacts licensure eligibility but also ensures that your training meets the professional standards required to provide high-quality care throughout your midwifery career.

What do nurse midwives in Idaho say about their career?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Boise State University was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in Idaho’s healthcare community. The close-knit environment and the state’s commitment to maternal health allowed me to thrive both academically and personally. Starting my teaching career at a local school has been incredibly rewarding as I get to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives while staying connected to the unique needs of Idaho families. The opportunity to live and work in such a beautiful and supportive state truly enhances my passion for this profession. Jamie
After finishing my studies at the University of Idaho, I embraced the challenge of beginning my teaching career in a local school, where I could share my knowledge and experiences with aspiring nurse midwives. Idaho’s diverse rural communities present unique healthcare challenges that have enriched my professional growth and understanding of culturally sensitive care. I cherish the chance to contribute positively to young people’s education and well-being in a way that feels meaningful and impactful. Teaching here has deepened my commitment to advancing midwifery in a state that values both tradition and innovation. Lizette
Pursuing my nurse midwifery degree at Northwest Nazarene University opened doors to incredible professional development opportunities within Idaho’s healthcare system. The balance between work and personal life is unmatched here, allowing me to engage deeply with local communities and support families throughout their birthing journeys. Idaho’s natural environment and close community ties have been a source of inspiration and resilience in my career. This path has not only expanded my skills but also strengthened my dedication to improving maternal health outcomes statewide. Keona

How Can Nurse Midwives Broaden Their Clinical Expertise in Idaho?

Expanding clinical expertise through additional certifications and interdisciplinary training can enhance a nurse midwife’s scope of practice in Idaho. By pursuing focused qualifications that complement midwifery, professionals can address broader aspects of women’s health and primary care while strengthening collaborative care models. For example, integrating nurse practitioner roles may provide advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities that prove valuable across diverse healthcare settings. For insights into such complementary educational pathways, consider exploring the top nurse practitioner programs in Idaho.

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Idaho

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife (CNM) in Idaho without a nursing degree. To enter the profession of nurse midwifery, you must first be a registered nurse (RN). This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After obtaining your RN license, you must pursue a graduate-level midwifery education, typically a master’s or doctoral degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).

Idaho recognizes only CNMs who meet national certification standards. These standards include both nursing and midwifery education. Without a nursing background, you cannot apply for certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), which is required for legal practice as a nurse midwife in Idaho.

However, Idaho allows certified professional midwives (CPMs) to practice under different regulations. CPMs do not require a nursing degree but follow a separate certification process focused on out-of-hospital births. This path is distinct from nurse midwifery and has different scopes of practice and legal recognition.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, also known as a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate-level education in midwifery and is nationally certified. CNMs are licensed to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including prenatal, labor, postpartum care, and general women’s health services such as family planning and gynecological exams. In Idaho, nurse midwives must be licensed as registered nurses and then obtain CNM certification, allowing them to practice in hospitals, clinics, and home births.

Midwives who are not nurses, often referred to as Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) or traditional midwives, typically receive training through apprenticeships or specialized midwifery programs rather than nursing school. Their certification and scope of practice vary by state and country. Globally, many midwives focus primarily on childbirth and prenatal care without the broader medical training that nurse midwives receive. In Idaho, CPMs have a more limited scope and are usually restricted to out-of-hospital births.

Is a midwife in Idaho higher than an RN?

In Idaho, a midwife is not generally considered “higher” than an RN in terms of scope of practice or professional hierarchy, as their roles and qualifications differ significantly. Registered nurses complete accredited nursing programs and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure, enabling them to work in diverse healthcare settings. In contrast, midwives in Idaho can be CPMs or CNMs. CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized graduate training in midwifery, often regarded as having a higher level of clinical education than RNs.

According to the Idaho Board of Nursing and the Midwifery Licensing Board, CNMs have prescriptive authority and can manage more complex pregnancies and deliveries, whereas CPMs focus on out-of-hospital births with more limited medical scope. As of 2023, Idaho had fewer than 50 licensed midwives but over 20,000 RNs, reflecting the broader base of nursing professionals. Thus, while a CNM holds advanced credentials beyond an RN, a midwife's status depends on certification type rather than a simple rank comparison.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Idaho hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Idaho is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing program, gaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited institution. Idaho has specific licensing requirements that include passing the national certification exam for nurse midwives and applying for state licensure.

The academic workload is demanding, blending advanced nursing knowledge with specialized midwifery skills. Clinical training is extensive to ensure proficiency in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Time management and commitment are essential to meet these rigorous standards.

While the pathway involves multiple steps and strict regulatory standards, Idaho supports prospective nurse midwives through clear guidelines and available educational programs. Those who persevere can expect a rewarding career with strong demand in the state’s healthcare system.

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