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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Nurse midwives in Indiana play a vital role in delivering comprehensive care to women, especially during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. Working in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, they combine medical expertise with a patient-centered approach to support reproductive and maternal health.

Indiana’s growing demand for women’s health services makes it a promising state for aspiring midwives, offering both rural and urban practice opportunities. With the right graduate education and licensure, nurse midwives in Indiana can enjoy a fulfilling and impactful career. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the education, licensing, and certification steps to become a nurse midwife in the state.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Indiana

Complete a graduate‑level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) to meet Indiana’s licensing requirements.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to become nationally certified and qualify for Indiana state licensure as a certified nurse midwife (CNM).
Stay aware that Indiana’s demand for nurse midwives is growing 14% faster than the national average, offering strong job security and competitive salaries exceeding $101,663 annually.

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

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

The minimum education required for nurse midwives in Indiana is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery, a credential that goes beyond traditional nursing knowledge. This degree equips registered nurses with a comprehensive understanding of advanced clinical skills, including reproductive healthcare management and newborn care, which are essential to confidently handle the complexities of midwifery.

The curriculum integrates rigorous coursework in physiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, combined with extensive supervised clinical hours. Such preparation ensures that nurse midwives graduate not just with theoretical knowledge, but with practical competence to provide primary care for women throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

Fulfilling the nurse midwife degree requirements Indiana demands fosters a professional who can navigate the multifaceted realities of maternal health with authority and compassion. The MSN specialization is more than a credential—it is a transformative process that shapes nurses into advanced practice registered nurses recognized statewide. This role is increasingly significant, as nurse midwives contribute to over 10% of births nationally, reflecting a shift in how healthcare systems value midwifery.

For those considering career paths in healthcare, the MSN with a midwifery focus stands out as both a critical academic milestone and a gateway to one of the highest paying nursing careers, highlighting its profound impact on both professional and patient outcomes.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Indiana demands more than academic credentials; it reflects a commitment to clinical excellence and cultural competence. The following qualifications reveal the multifaceted expectations placed on candidates.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a regionally accredited school is typically required, though some programs accept an associate’s degree in nursing, midwifery (from a MEAC-approved program), or related science fields.
Minimum GPA: Most programs insist on a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, underscoring consistent academic performance.
RN License: Applicants must hold a current, unencumbered RN license valid in Indiana at the time of application.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time professional nursing experience in labor and delivery or related OB/GYN settings is expected, with some flexibility for related roles like doula work.
Transcripts and Diplomas: Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended must be submitted, verifying degrees and dates conferred.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are usually required, ideally from a supervisor, a peer nurse, and an advanced practice nurse or faculty member, highlighting professional and academic credibility.
Personal Statement: A written statement articulating professional goals and reasons for pursuing nurse-midwifery demonstrates reflective motivation.
No GRE/MAT Requirement: Most Indiana programs do not require GRE or MAT scores, challenging the necessity of standardized testing in advanced nursing admissions.
International Student Requirements: Proof of English proficiency is mandatory, along with credential evaluation for foreign nursing qualifications to ensure U.S. equivalence.
Unique Indiana Requirements: Both CNM and Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) pathways are accepted, with CPMs required to provide certification and a diploma from a MEAC-approved program.
Other Considerations: Priority may be given to applicants experienced in caring for vulnerable or diverse populations, reflecting the state’s emphasis on culturally competent care.

The pie chart below shows the educational attainment of certified nurse midwives.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Indiana?

Delving into the nurse midwifery curriculum Indiana reveals a demanding yet rewarding academic journey that extends beyond basic clinical skills. Each course is carefully designed to build a comprehensive foundation, tailored to meet Indiana’s healthcare landscape and national certification standards.

Advanced Health and Physical Assessment: Fosters expertise in detailed health histories and physical exams, enabling accurate diagnosis and personalized care for women throughout their lives.
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology: Focuses on understanding complex bodily processes and disease mechanisms critical to managing pregnancy and women’s health challenges.
Advanced Pharmacology: Equips students with knowledge about safe medication use specific to reproductive health, pregnancy, labor, and newborn care, ensuring responsible prescribing practices.
Reproductive Healthcare Management: Addresses routine and complex issues like contraception and menopause, preparing midwives to handle diverse reproductive health needs effectively.
Intrapartum and Postpartum Care: Covers evidence-based strategies for labor, delivery, and postpartum support, emphasizing maternal and fetal monitoring and complication management.
Primary Care for Women: Develops skills to provide holistic primary care, including health promotion and management of chronic conditions common in women.
Newborn Management: Focuses on newborn assessment, stabilization of ill infants, and application of protocols to ensure optimal neonatal outcomes.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Trains students to critically appraise research and implement best practices, fostering continuous quality improvement in midwifery.
Clinical Practicums: Encompasses 600–1,000 hours of supervised clinical rotations in Indiana’s hospitals and health centers, essential for mastering the full scope of nurse-midwifery practice.

This structured approach to midwife program courses Indiana not only prepares students for certification but also challenges them to integrate knowledge with real-world clinical demands. For those considering pathways in advanced nursing roles, exploring the family nurse practitioner career path might offer additional perspective on overlapping competencies and diverse opportunities within healthcare.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Indiana require between 500 and 1,000 supervised clinical hours, with most programs aiming for the higher end to ensure thorough preparation. These hours span various settings—including hospitals, birthing centers, and OB/GYN clinics—each offering unique experiences.

Hospital rotations focus on high-volume labor and delivery, while birthing centers expose students to low-intervention, family-centered care. Outpatient clinics round out the training by emphasizing prenatal, postpartum, and gynecologic services.

Throughout this training, students develop essential competencies such as prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, newborn care, postpartum support, and women's health services. These skills are aligned with national certification standards and are built through hands-on practice under the direct supervision of experienced preceptors. Certified nurse midwives and physicians guide students closely, helping them develop clinical judgment, technical ability, and patient-centered communication.

Indiana also requires that nurse midwives graduate from an accredited program, pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam, and maintain a collaborative agreement with a physician to prescribe medications. These regulations shape both the structure and documentation of clinical training. To understand one of the driving reasons behind the popularity of midwifery care, see the image below comparing the cost of childbirth in midwife-led birth centers versus traditional hospitals.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Indiana typically begins with earning a BSN, a commitment of about four years of full-time study. This foundational degree sets the stage for clinical competence and eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, necessary to obtain RN licensure in the state. Without this licensure, advancement into graduate-level midwifery programs is not possible, making this step a crucial gatekeeper in the overall timeline.

The graduate education phase is where the timeline can vary significantly. Most candidates pursue an MSN focused on nurse-midwifery, usually requiring two to three years of full-time study, while others opt for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which demands an additional year or more.

Indiana’s requirements for clinical hours align with national accreditation standards, but individual programs may impose stricter thresholds. This variability means students should carefully evaluate program specifics, as clinical training substantially impacts both learning quality and time to completion.

Passing the national certification exam administered by AMCB follows graduate education and involves a rigorous four-hour test of 175 questions. Although Indiana offers multiple testing locations, the final step before practicing as a certified nurse midwife involves navigating state licensure through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. Administrative delays and evolving state regulations can extend the timeline beyond educational requirements, underscoring the importance of proactive planning and staying informed on current licensure policies.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in Indiana varies widely, reflecting differences between public and private institutions as well as residency status. Accredited nurse midwifery programs typically require a total tuition investment ranging from $35,000 to $80,000.

Public institutions like Indiana University School of Nursing often offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private programs or out-of-state tuition can push costs toward the higher end of this range. This spectrum challenges the assumption that all nurse midwife program cost in Indiana are uniformly affordable or expensive, highlighting the importance of evaluating each program’s specifics carefully.

Additional mandatory expenses extend beyond tuition and can significantly impact the overall cost of education. Students should anticipate university and program fees between $1,000 and $3,000, textbooks and learning materials costing $1,000 to $2,000, clinical supplies from $300 to $800, and background checks plus immunizations around $100 to $400.

Licensure and certification fees, including the Indiana APRN application and the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, add another $550 to $1,100. These necessary expenditures underscore that the financial commitment encompasses more than just tuition and must be factored in when considering nurse midwife program cost in Indiana.

Understanding these costs is crucial for individuals contemplating this career path, especially when comparing in-state versus out-of-state tuition differences. Indiana residents generally benefit from lower per-credit costs, which can reduce the total financial burden substantially.

For those seeking the fastest way to become a nurse practitioner, recognizing the full scope of expenses will facilitate more informed decisions about program selection and long-term planning.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Indiana goes beyond typical loan and grant programs, reflecting a strategic effort to address healthcare shortages through targeted support. These options challenge the assumption that advanced nursing education must be prohibitively expensive, revealing a layered system designed to ease financial barriers while encouraging service in high-need areas.

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based awards up to $7,495 annually that don’t require repayment, based on FAFSA information.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Federal loans up to $20,500 per year with a fixed 6.28% interest rate, available regardless of financial need.
Graduate PLUS Loans: Credit-based loans covering remaining costs after other aid, carrying a 7.28% interest rate.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs offering $4,000 to $8,000 annually to help cover education expenses.
Indiana State Grants and Scholarships: Programs like the Frank O’Bannon Grant support students, sometimes extending to graduate nursing fields.
Nursing and Midwifery-Specific Scholarships: Awards from organizations focused on advancing nurse midwives, including those for students with disabilities.
Loan Repayment Programs: NHSC and Indiana’s State Loan Repayment Program encourage service in underserved areas by forgiving loans in exchange for work commitments.
Employer Tuition Assistance: Some Indiana healthcare employers offer reimbursement or loan repayment incentives to retain nurse midwives.

A nurse midwife from Indiana shared that navigating financial aid felt like piecing together a complex puzzle. Graduating from a local school, she recalled how combining state grants with NHSC loan repayment was crucial to managing costs, but required meticulous planning and early FAFSA submission. “I didn’t realize how many avenues there were until I spoke with my advisor,” she reflected.

The support to serve in underserved communities not only eased her financial burden but also gave deeper purpose to her education. “It wasn’t just about the money—it was about investing in where I was needed most.” This blend of financial aid and service commitment shaped her journey profoundly, illustrating the nuanced reality behind the numbers.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Indiana?

Choosing accredited nurse midwifery programs in Indiana is a decisive step that shapes not only your eligibility for CNM certification but also your clinical competence and career trajectory. The best nurse midwife schools in Indiana offer more than credentials; they provide connections to rigorous clinical experiences and expert faculty, essential for meeting the evolving demands of women’s healthcare.

Indiana University School of Nursing – Nurse-Midwifery Track: As the state’s sole ACME-accredited program located in Indianapolis, it boasts extensive clinical partnerships with major hospitals like St. Vincent’s Women’s Hospital. Students gain between 600 and 1,000 supervised clinical hours, ensuring deep hands-on experience in diverse settings.
Marquette University – Nurse-Midwifery Program (Hybrid, accessible for Indiana residents): Though based in Milwaukee, this ACME-accredited program draws Indiana students with its flexible hybrid format and nearby clinical placements. Its strong faculty expertise and accreditation through 2029 make it a top option for those balancing work and study.
Frontier Nursing University – Distance Nurse-Midwifery Program (serving Indiana): Offering a fully online ACME-accredited curriculum, Frontier enables Indiana students to complete required clinicals locally. Its national reputation and vast alumni network are invaluable for those needing remote access to quality education.
Mercy In Action College of Midwifery – MEAC Accredited Program (for CPMs in Indiana): For aspiring Certified Professional Midwives, this MEAC-accredited direct-entry program emphasizes hands-on experience with at least 20 births under qualified supervision, aligning with Indiana’s CPM licensure requirements.
University of Cincinnati – Nurse-Midwifery Program (accessible to Indiana students): This hybrid program, featuring online coursework and Indiana-based clinical placements, stands out for its DNP option and interprofessional education, preparing students for leadership roles in midwifery practice.

For those considering a future in midwifery, understanding these program distinctions is critical. Exploring the obstetrics nurse career path alongside these accredited programs can further clarify the professional landscape and educational requirements ahead. It’s also helpful to see which competencies are most valued—refer to the chart below to explore the top skills nurse midwives commonly highlight on their resumes.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Indiana?

Advanced degrees are more than just credentials for CNMs in Indiana—they are gateways to broader influence and deeper expertise. These educational paths open doors to roles that shape healthcare beyond bedside care.

MSN Nurse-Midwifery Track: This essential degree is the baseline for CNM certification and licensure in Indiana. It equips nurses to practice independently and engage in diverse clinical and community health roles.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: Focused on practice leadership, the DNP prepares CNMs to transform healthcare systems. Graduates often become clinical directors, policy advocates, or lead quality improvement projects in maternal health.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery: Designed for nurses with advanced degrees in other specialties, this certificate allows for career expansion into midwifery education, supervision, or dual advanced practice roles.
PhD in Nursing or Related Fields: This research-driven degree positions CNMs as academic leaders and principal investigators, influencing healthcare policy and advancing maternal health knowledge.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Indiana?

Accreditation plays a crucial role in shaping the nurse midwife career pathway in Indiana, even though it's often overlooked. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the only accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education specifically for nurse midwifery programs. Programs accredited by ACME meet national standards that qualify graduates to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam—a required step for CNM licensure in Indiana.

While other nursing accreditors like CCNE or ACEN oversee broader nursing programs, their recognition does not extend to midwifery-specific credentials. That’s why students must prioritize ACME-accredited programs when evaluating their options, including tuition costs and clinical training. Choosing a non-ACME program could jeopardize eligibility for certification and licensure.

Understanding which organizations provide valid accreditation is key to making an informed investment in your midwifery education and career. For those seeking further insights on certified nurse midwife programs, resources like certified nurse midwife programs can provide valuable guidance.

What do nurse midwives in Indiana say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Indiana University was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in both clinical skills and community health. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share my passion for women's health with the next generation, inspiring them to embrace this rewarding field. Indiana’s strong support for maternal health initiatives gives me hope and motivation every day. The balance between urban and rural healthcare challenges here has truly enriched my professional journey and personal growth. Ruby
Finishing my nurse midwife studies at Purdue University was an incredible stepping stone toward a fulfilling career focused on empowering young families. I cherish the opportunity to work in Indiana’s diverse communities, where cultural values and resourcefulness create unique healthcare dynamics. Teaching in a local school has been both challenging and rewarding, as I guide students to become compassionate and skilled providers. The state’s commitment to expanding access to care has opened many doors for professional advancement. Gil
Graduating from the University of Southern Indiana's nurse midwifery program gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully to maternal health in my community. Indiana’s environment, with its mix of rural towns and growing cities, presents unique challenges that have honed my problem-solving skills and dedication to patient-centered care. Starting my career in education locally has allowed me to influence future nurse midwives by sharing real-world experiences and fostering critical thinking. This journey has been deeply fulfilling both professionally and personally. Ameera

What are the employment prospects for nurse midwives in Indiana?

Nurse midwives in Indiana benefit from a growing demand driven by state initiatives to enhance maternal and women's health services. Diverse opportunities exist in hospital environments, birthing centers, community health agencies, and private practices. Local healthcare systems are increasingly relying on advanced practice providers to bridge gaps in rural and underserved areas, creating a stable job market with potential for career growth. Additionally, many professionals leverage their clinical expertise into leadership, research, or educational roles within integrated care teams. Considering complementary educational routes, such as the top nurse practitioner programs in Indiana, can further elevate career trajectories by broadening clinical competencies and expanding opportunities in innovative healthcare models.

Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Indiana

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Indiana without a nursing degree. To qualify as a nurse midwife, you must first earn an RN license, which requires completing an accredited nursing program. This is a mandatory step because nurse midwifery combines nursing skills with specialized midwifery training.

After obtaining your RN license, you must complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs typically award a master’s or doctoral degree and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice.

Indiana also requires nurse midwives to pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. This certification ensures you meet professional standards to practice safely and effectively.

In summary, a nursing degree is a foundational requirement for becoming a nurse midwife in Indiana. Direct entry into midwifery without nursing credentials is not recognized for certification or licensure in this state.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice. In Indiana and across the United States, a CNM is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate-level education in midwifery, typically a master’s degree, and is certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board. CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can prescribe medications, perform gynecological exams, and manage prenatal, labor, and postpartum care in hospitals and clinics.

In contrast, a midwife without the nursing background—often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife—may have training focused solely on childbirth and prenatal care but usually does not hold a nursing license. Their practice is often limited to out-of-hospital births, such as home or birth center settings, and their legal recognition varies widely depending on state regulations.

Globally, the distinction is similar: nurse midwives have formal nursing education combined with midwifery training, allowing broader medical responsibilities, while midwives without nursing credentials focus primarily on natural childbirth and supportive care.

Is a midwife in Indiana higher than an RN?

In Indiana, a midwife is not necessarily considered "higher" than a registered nurse. Rather, the two professions have distinct roles and scopes of practice. Midwives, particularly CNMs, are APRNs who have completed graduate-level education in midwifery and are nationally certified.

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, CNMs provide comprehensive care including prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum services, often with a focus on low-risk pregnancies. The Indiana State Department of Health regulates both RNs and midwives, but grants CNMs prescriptive authority, which RNs do not have unless they hold additional licenses.

In terms of hierarchy, RNs typically hold a bachelor’s degree and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, whereas CNMs require a master’s degree and certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) reports median annual wages for RNs in Indiana of around $87,645, while nurse-midwives nationally earn approximately $101,663, reflecting their advanced training. Thus, midwives have a higher level of specialization but are not simply ranked “above” RNs; their roles complement each other within healthcare systems.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Indiana hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Indiana is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper preparation. The process requires completing a registered nursing degree followed by a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. Admission to these programs is competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, clinical experience, and relevant certifications.

After completing the educational requirements, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Indiana also requires licensure to practice, which involves submitting proof of certification and meeting state-specific regulations.

The coursework and clinical training are rigorous, combining advanced nursing skills with specialized midwifery knowledge. Time management and commitment are essential to succeed. However, with focused effort and access to quality programs, prospective students can overcome these challenges and build a rewarding career in nurse midwifery in Indiana.