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

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The demand for nurse midwives in Iowa is expected to grow by 15% by 2030—a trend driven largely by the vital role these professionals play in rural communities where access to obstetric care is limited. In regions where hospitals are closing and OB/GYNs are scarce, nurse midwives are stepping in to provide essential, life-saving maternal and reproductive healthcare. This growing need translates into strong job security, competitive salaries, and a meaningful career path for those ready to serve.

If you’re considering becoming a nurse midwife in Iowa, understanding the path ahead is crucial. This article offers a clear, expert-developed roadmap covering everything from education and licensing to certification and clinical experience. Whether you're just beginning your nursing journey or planning your next career step, you'll find practical, up-to-date strategies to help you move forward with confidence.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Iowa

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and obtain registered nursing licensure in Iowa to meet state requirements for advanced practice.
Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)to qualify for certification.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam and apply for Iowa advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) licensure to practice legally in the state.

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

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

To meet the minimum education requirement for nurse midwives in Iowa, candidates must earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery. This graduate-level degree provides the essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills tailored to maternal and newborn care. Through advanced coursework and supervised clinical experiences, students develop expertise in reproductive health, pharmacology, and labor management.

This comprehensive training ensures nurse midwives are well-prepared to address the complex health needs of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods. The MSN specialization is crucial for qualifying for state licensure and national certification, enabling practice as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in Iowa.

The nurse midwife degree requirements in Iowa emphasize hands-on clinical practice alongside evidence-based care strategies. Graduates gain experience in diverse birth settings, enhancing their ability to provide safe and personalized care. This advanced education also supports skills in primary care, gynecology, and family planning, broadening the nurse midwife’s scope of practice.

With an average annual salary of $112,700 in Iowa as of 2022, this career reflects the value of specialized training. For those considering this path, understanding the role of an MSN in midwifery is key to entering one of the highest paying careers in nursing, combining professional growth with meaningful impact on women’s health.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Iowa demands a strong academic foundation and relevant clinical experience. Meeting these criteria improves your chances of acceptance and readiness for advanced practice.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN is required; some programs accept associate degree nurses through RN-to-MSN pathways.
RN License: A current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license valid in Iowa or a compact state is mandatory.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, with higher GPAs enhancing competitiveness.
Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of physical assessment and statistics courses is required before program start.
Clinical Experience: One year of full-time maternal-child health nursing is strongly recommended; new graduates may qualify if they complete childbirth education or doula training.
Professional References: Three references from academic or clinical supervisors validating readiness for graduate study are necessary.
Personal Essay: Submission of a personal essay outlining motivation and suitability for nurse-midwifery is required.
Interview: A personal interview assesses interpersonal skills and professional commitment.
CPR Certification: Current CPR certification must be maintained throughout the program.
Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $50 is required upon application.
Additional Recommended Experience: Training in fetal monitoring, childbirth education, doula work, or midwife shadowing strengthens applications.
International Students: Must provide proof of English proficiency, credential evaluations, and meet Iowa RN licensure standards.
Deadlines: For example, the University of Iowa opens applications December 9, 2024, with a July 1, 2025 deadline; late applications may be accepted if space allows.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Iowa?

Nurse midwife programs in Iowa include comprehensive coursework designed to develop clinical skills and prepare students for certification. The curriculum addresses key areas critical to effective midwifery care within the state’s unique healthcare environment, reflecting the specific nurse midwife course requirements in Iowa.

Nurse midwife MSN programs typically include the following courses:

Advanced Health Assessment: Trains students in thorough physical and psychosocial evaluations, enabling accurate diagnosis and management of diverse patient needs across all age groups.
Reproductive and Gynecologic Health: Focuses on contraception, fertility, and gender-affirming care, tailored to Iowa’s population for managing primary and reproductive health issues.
Pharmacology: Provides knowledge of medications relevant to women’s health and perinatal care, preparing students for prescriptive authority under Iowa law.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Covers pregnancy stages, newborn care, breastfeeding support, and postpartum management, emphasizing evidence-based practices that address rural health disparities in Iowa.
Primary Care in Midwifery: Equips students to manage common acute and chronic conditions, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention for women and families.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Develops skills to critically assess and apply current research, enhancing patient outcomes and care quality.
Professional Issues and Community Health: Addresses ethical, legal, and policy topics alongside community health initiatives, preparing students to serve underserved and rural populations effectively.
Advanced Ambulatory Care: Emphasizes outpatient care coordination, patient education, and follow-up necessary for midwifery practice in both rural and urban Iowa settings.
Clinical Practicum/Residency: Involves supervised clinical experiences in hospitals, clinics, and birthing centers, allowing application of theory in real-world Iowa healthcare environments.

This Iowa nurse midwifery program curriculum is designed to meet national accreditation standards while addressing regional needs such as rural healthcare access. For more detailed career pathway information, see this guide on midwife how to become one.

To better understand where these qualifications are most in demand, the chart below illustrates the distribution of employed nurse midwives across various industries.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Iowa require at least 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training, completed in settings that expose students to a wide range of patient experiences. These include hospitals like University of Iowa Health Care and Covenant Medical Center, birth centers, OB/GYN clinics, and family health practices. This variety ensures that students develop versatile, hands-on skills across different care environments.

During clinical training, students build core competencies in prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, newborn assessment, and women’s primary care. Under the supervision of certified preceptors—such as CNMs, OB/GYNs, and women’s health nurse practitioners—students apply what they've learned in real-time scenarios, developing clinical judgment and communication skills essential for advanced practice.

Iowa mandates that all clinical hours be completed through an accredited program, with competencies verified by qualified faculty or preceptors. An active RN license in Iowa and successful completion of the national CNM certification exam are also required. Notably, Iowa allows CNMs to practice independently without a collaborative agreement, though interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged to ensure comprehensive patient care.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Iowa starts with earning a BSN, which usually takes about four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN license. This licensing step can take a few months, depending on testing schedules and state processing times, so it’s important to plan accordingly to avoid delays.

Once licensed as an RN, you will enroll in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. Most candidates choose an MSN with a focus on midwifery, which typically requires 2 to 3 years of full-time study. Alternatively, some pursue a DNP, which takes 3 to 4 years. Iowa also offers RN-to-MSN bridge programs for those with associate degrees, but these can extend the timeline. Graduate programs include both coursework and hundreds of clinical hours, a key state requirement before eligibility for national certification.

After completing the graduate program, you must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Following certification, you apply for ARNP licensure with the Iowa Board of Nursing. This final step may take several weeks due to background checks and application volume. Notably, Iowa allows certified nurse midwives to practice independently without a physician collaborative agreement, which can speed employment after licensure.

Overall, the process typically takes between 6 and 8 years, depending on your educational path and any licensing delays specific to Iowa.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Iowa, particularly at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics (UIHC) Nurse-Midwifery Education Program, typically totals around $65,780 for five semesters. Additional mandatory program fees amount to about $7,500, and affiliated coursework through Thomas Jefferson University adds approximately $12,876. Overall, tuition costs at this public institution are significantly lower than private university averages, which often exceed $1,000 per credit hour, compared to the $500–$700+ range typical in Iowa’s public universities.

The cost of nurse midwifery school Iowa also includes several other essential expenses. Students should budget for textbooks and clinical supplies at about $1,000 per semester, totaling $5,000 for the full program. Room and board expenses can reach $6,000 per semester, with personal expenses adding roughly $2,000 per semester.

Transportation costs are estimated between $800 and $1,500 per semester, and licensure and certification fees after graduation range from $500 to $1,000. Application fees are a minor but necessary cost, typically around $50, and some program fees may cover technology or lab supplies.

For prospective students, it is important to consider the in-state versus out-of-state tuition difference when estimating total costs. At the University of Iowa, graduate tuition for nurse midwife programs is about $17,789 per year for in-state students and $30,782 for out-of-state students, creating a substantial cost gap over the course of the program.

Those interested in this career path can benefit from reviewing the advanced practice registered nurse career path to understand all educational and professional requirements alongside these financial considerations.

What are the additional certification and continuing education opportunities for nurse midwives in Iowa?

Pursuing supplementary certifications and ongoing education can further validate a nurse midwife’s expertise and enhance career resilience in Iowa’s dynamic healthcare landscape. Beyond the mandatory clinical training and initial credentialing, professionals can opt for specialty certifications—such as neonatal resuscitation, lactation consulting, or family planning—to broaden their clinical portfolio without duplicating core academic content. Participation in state and national conferences, workshops, and online learning modules also offers practical insights into emerging practices and regulatory changes. Moreover, relevant academic collaborations, including exploring top nurse practitioner programs in Iowa, provide opportunities for interdisciplinary growth and knowledge exchange, ensuring that midwives maintain a competitive edge while meeting continuing education requirements.

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

Financing nurse midwife education in Iowa involves multiple aid sources designed to reduce out-of-pocket costs and ease loan burdens. Students should explore these diverse options to build a tailored funding plan suited to their needs and eligibility.

Federal Loans: Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans offer substantial borrowing limits with fixed interest rates, accessible regardless of financial need.
Federal Pell Grant: Provides need-based grants up to $7,495 annually, potentially available to some post-baccalaureate nursing students.
Federal Work-Study: Offers part-time campus jobs that combine income with relevant professional experience, typically ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 per year.
Institutional Scholarships: Many Iowa nursing schools award scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, and diversity, varying by institution.
Loan Repayment Programs: State and federal initiatives, including the National Health Service Corps, forgive or repay loans for service in underserved Iowa areas.

A nurse midwife from Iowa, who graduated locally, shared how juggling multiple financial aids was key to managing costs. She recalled, “Applying early to institutional scholarships was crucial because funds ran out quickly.” She also emphasized the importance of federal work-study, saying it not only helped financially but provided hands-on experience that strengthened her resume. Navigating loan repayment programs felt overwhelming at first, but guidance from her school’s financial aid office made the process manageable and less stressful. Her journey highlights the value of proactive planning and leveraging all available resources to successfully fund nurse midwifery education in Iowa.

Which industry pays nurse midwives the highest?

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Iowa?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Iowa is critical for students aiming to become certified nurse-midwives. Graduation from an ACME-accredited program ensures eligibility for national certification and Iowa state licensure, laying the foundation for a successful career in maternity care.

University of Iowa – Nurse Midwifery Education Program: This in-state ACME-accredited program offers a graduate certificate tailored for registered nurses seeking advanced practice. Its strong clinical partnerships with Iowa health systems provide valuable hands-on experience in both urban and rural settings.
Frontier Nursing University – Distance Option for Iowa Residents: Based in Kentucky, Frontier offers a hybrid CNM program accessible to Iowa students. The program combines online coursework with local clinical placements, allowing working nurses to complete requirements flexibly while gaining community-based experience.
Georgetown University – Online Nurse Midwifery Program (Iowa-Accessible): Georgetown’s ACME-accredited program supports Iowa residents through a blend of online learning and Iowa-based clinical preceptorships. Its well-regarded faculty and placement support enable students to balance work and education effectively.
Bethel University – Hybrid Nurse Midwifery Program (Open to Iowa Students): Bethel provides a hybrid format with on-campus intensives and clinical rotations in Iowa. The program focuses on evidence-based practice and leadership skills, appealing to nurses seeking quality education with flexible scheduling.
Minnesota State University, Mankato – Regional Hybrid Option: Near the Iowa border, MSU Mankato offers an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program with strong faculty expertise and regional clinical partnerships. Its location allows convenient access to clinical sites in both Iowa and Minnesota.

For those exploring the top accredited nurse midwifery programs in Iowa, these options provide diverse pathways to meet education and certification requirements. As nurse-midwives play a vital role in healthcare, consider programs that fit your professional goals and lifestyle. To understand broader career possibilities, check out the best careers with a doctorate in nursing.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Iowa?

Advanced degrees are essential for CNMs in Iowa to expand their career opportunities and meet state licensure requirements. These programs prepare CNMs for diverse roles in clinical practice, leadership, and academia.

MSN Nurse-Midwifery: This foundational degree enables registered nurses to qualify for ARNP licensure and work in primary midwifery roles across hospitals and community health settings. Graduates often take on clinical preceptor or leadership positions within care teams.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: Focused on advanced clinical practice and leadership, the DNP equips CNMs to lead midwifery services, manage hospital departments, and influence health policy. It is recognized as the terminal degree for practical nursing roles.
PhD in Nursing or Health Sciences: This research-focused degree prepares CNMs for academic careers, principal investigator roles, and health policy consulting, emphasizing rigorous research methods and health systems analysis.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for nurses with prior graduate degrees, this certificate allows ARNPs to gain nurse-midwifery certification and expand their clinical scope without completing a full degree program.

To better understand how these career paths align with workforce trends, the chart below shows the typical age range of practicing nurse midwives.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Iowa?

In Iowa, the ACME is the sole accrediting organization recognized for nurse midwife programs by the U.S. Department of Education. ACME’s accreditation is essential for programs seeking to prepare graduates for licensure as APRNs specializing in nurse-midwifery, ensuring they meet strict national standards for education and clinical practice.

ACME accreditation holds significant value because it guarantees that nurse midwife programs maintain high-quality curricula, qualified faculty, and comprehensive clinical training. Only graduates from ACME-accredited programs can sit for the national certification exam administered by AMCB, a requirement for Iowa licensure. This makes ACME accreditation a critical factor for anyone considering nurse midwife program tuition in Iowa, as attending a non-accredited program would disqualify students from becoming licensed nurse-midwives in the state.

The University of Iowa, the state’s only institution offering post-baccalaureate nurse-midwifery education, holds ACME accreditation, which underscores the importance of selecting an accredited program for those focused on advancing their careers.

For prospective students evaluating the cost of nurse midwifery school in Iowa, understanding the accreditation landscape is key to making informed decisions. While some may look for the easiest nurse midwife programs to get into, it is crucial to prioritize ACME accreditation to ensure licensure eligibility and a quality education.

Other midwifery credentials, such as CPMs, follow a different accreditation path through the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC), but this does not apply to nurse midwives pursuing ARNP licensure in Iowa. Thus, ACME remains the definitive accreditor for nurse midwife programs aiming to meet Iowa’s rigorous standards.

What do nurse midwives in Iowa say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Iowa was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in both clinical skills and community health. Starting my teaching career at a local school allowed me to share my passion for midwifery with the next generation, inspiring students to embrace compassionate care. Iowa’s supportive network and emphasis on rural health provide unique challenges that have truly shaped my professional growth. I take pride in contributing to the well-being of families across the state while continuously expanding my knowledge in this rewarding field. Sandy
Training at Drake University gave me the confidence to pursue a fulfilling career as a nurse midwife here in Iowa. The blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience prepared me well for the diverse needs of our communities. Working in a local school setting as an educator has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to mentor students who are passionate about women’s health. Iowa’s rich agricultural environment and close-knit communities offer unique opportunities to make a lasting impact on maternal care. This journey has been both professionally enriching and personally meaningful. Taylor
My journey began at Des Moines University, where I completed my nurse midwifery studies with a focus on holistic and culturally sensitive care. Transitioning into a teaching role at a local school, I’ve found immense joy in nurturing future nurse midwives and witnessing their growth. Iowa’s evolving healthcare landscape presents exciting challenges that push me to continually advance my skills and knowledge. Being part of this community has strengthened my commitment to improving maternal health outcomes across the state. Lauren

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Iowa without a nursing degree. Iowa requires nurse midwives to hold an active RN license, which necessitates completing an accredited nursing program. The pathway to becoming a nurse midwife involves first becoming a licensed RN, then obtaining specialized graduate-level education in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program.

After earning a nursing degree and gaining RN licensure, candidates must complete a master's or doctoral program in nurse-midwifery accredited by ACME. Following graduation, they must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB to practice legally in Iowa.

Therefore, pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Iowa without a nursing degree is not possible. The nursing foundation is essential to meet state licensure requirements and ensure comprehensive clinical training for safe midwifery care.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, but their education, certification, and scope of practice differ significantly. In Iowa, a nurse midwife is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate-level education in midwifery, typically earning an MSN or higher. They are certified as CNMs through AMCB and are licensed to practice in all 50 states. Nurse midwives can provide a broader range of healthcare services, including prescribing medications and managing certain medical conditions.

In contrast, a midwife who is not a nurse may have a direct-entry midwifery education focused solely on midwifery skills without nursing training. Their certification varies worldwide and may not be recognized in all states, including Iowa, where only CNMs are licensed to practice legally. Globally, midwives’ roles and training levels differ, but nurse midwives generally have more extensive medical training and legal recognition in the U.S. healthcare system.

Is a midwife in Iowa higher than an RN?

In Iowa, a midwife is not generally considered higher than an RN in terms of scope of practice or licensure hierarchy, but their roles differ significantly. According to the Iowa Board of Nursing and Iowa Board of Medicine, CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with specialized training in midwifery, including obstetric and gynecologic care. This advanced credential requires a registered nursing license as a prerequisite, plus graduate-level education and national certification. As of recent data, Iowa licenses approximately 150 CNMs, who provide prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care, often collaborating with physicians.

While RNs provide a broad range of nursing care, CNMs have a narrower, specialized focus with greater autonomy in maternity care. The Iowa Board of Nursing classifies CNMs as APRNs, a higher level than basic RNs, but this does not necessarily mean "higher" in a general professional sense; rather, it reflects specialization and advanced training. The distinction is important for understanding roles rather than ranking status.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Iowa hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Iowa is challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires completing an accredited nurse midwifery program, which demands strong academic performance and clinical skills. Applicants must first be registered nurses, typically holding a BSN.

After meeting educational prerequisites, students undertake graduate-level coursework and extensive clinical training. Iowa’s programs emphasize both theory and hands-on experience, preparing candidates for certification exams. Passing the national certification for nurse midwives is mandatory to practice professionally.

The journey involves time, effort, and financial investment, but the state supports students through various resources and clinical placement opportunities. While rigorous, the pathway is well-defined and supported by Iowa’s healthcare community. Prospective students should be prepared for intensive study and clinical work but can expect a rewarding career in women’s health and childbirth after successful completion.

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