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

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Becoming a nurse midwife in Kansas offers a clear and rewarding path for those passionate about maternal health. With a 15% increase in demand for midwifery services over the past five years, the state reflects a growing need for qualified professionals.

This expanding field provides competitive salaries, job stability, and the chance to make a lasting impact on community wellness. Pursuing nurse midwife education in Kansas combines rigorous academic training with practical clinical experience, preparing graduates for success in a variety of healthcare settings.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, outlines the latest schooling requirements, licensure steps, and actionable advice to guide your journey. Discover how to launch a meaningful career and contribute to one of Kansas’s most essential healthcare roles.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Kansas

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and obtain registered nursing licensure in Kansas to start your journey as a nurse midwife.
Complete a graduate nurse-midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) to meet state and national certification standards.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam and apply for Kansas state certification to practice legally with an average salary exceeding $90,000 annually in 2024.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in Kansas, the minimum education requirement is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery. This advanced degree equips students with a deep understanding of maternal and reproductive health, blending theoretical knowledge with essential clinical experience.

The curriculum dives into complex subjects such as advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and women's primary care, preparing graduates to navigate the challenges they will face in real-world settings. Embracing this master's degree requirement ensures that aspiring nurse midwives are ready to provide high-quality care in pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn health, addressing critical needs in the state’s healthcare system. This structure reflects Kansas’s commitment to maintaining strong professional standards in midwifery, safeguarding mothers and infants alike through well-prepared practitioners.

Beyond the academic rigor, the kansas nurse midwife master's degree requirement also responds to pressing healthcare demands, especially in underserved rural areas where maternal health professionals are scarce. The specialized training enables nurse midwives to manage normal pregnancies, conduct gynecologic care, and respond effectively to emergencies, all within their scope of practice.

For those curious about career paths combining advanced clinical skills and meaningful patient interaction, this degree opens doors to one of the highest paying nursing careers. By mandating this level of education, Kansas ensures that nurse midwives are not only clinically competent but also capable of adapting to evolving healthcare challenges with confidence and expertise.

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

Admission into nurse midwife programs in Kansas invites a blend of academic rigor and practical expertise, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the unique challenges of this field. Each requirement shapes a pathway for skilled, compassionate care providers.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing (MSN )from an accredited program is essential, with a master’s or higher in midwifery required for programs completed after July 1, 2010.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected for graduate certificates and advanced practice programs.
Registered Nurse (RN) License: Candidates must hold a current, unencumbered RN license from Kansas or another U.S. state.
Clinical Experience: At least six months (1,000 hours) of full-time RN work in labor and delivery within the past five years is typically required before practicum courses.
Advanced Coursework: Completion of advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment courses, usually three credit hours each, is necessary depending on degree timing.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three professional recommendations often support the application, highlighting leadership and clinical potential.
Official Transcripts: Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended is mandatory.
Background Check: A satisfactory criminal background check, frequently including fingerprinting, is required after admission offers.
Special Certifications: Proof of current Neonatal Resuscitation Program certification and recent Intermediate Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring (within three years) is needed before certain practicum courses.
International Students: Those educated outside the U.S. must demonstrate English proficiency and have credentials evaluated for equivalency.
Kansas-Specific Considerations: Preference may be given to applicants willing to serve in underserved Kansas areas with critical maternal and infant health needs.

The graphic shows that about 3,195 students were enrolled in certified nurse-midwife programs in 2021, highlighting the field’s growing demand. Kansas applicants who meet the rigorous admission criteria—degree, GPA, RN license, clinical experience, and certifications—are competing to join this pipeline.

Around 3,195 students enrolled in certified nurse midwife programs in 2021.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Kansas?

Exploring the nurse midwife curriculum in Kansas reveals a rich blend of courses designed to prepare students for real-world challenges in maternal and newborn care. These courses combine scientific rigor with compassionate care, ensuring graduates are ready to serve diverse communities across the state.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills to perform detailed physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessments, crucial for identifying health variations throughout a patient’s life.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers normal and complex reproductive issues, contraception, and family planning, equipping students to manage comprehensive gynecologic care.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Provides deep insight into disease mechanisms, enabling accurate diagnosis and effective management of conditions encountered in midwifery.
Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on safe medication use during pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic care, emphasizing evidence-based prescribing practices.
Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care: Integrates the full spectrum of maternal care, preparing students to support pregnancy, labor, delivery, and recovery with confidence.
Newborn Care: Trains students to assess and stabilize neonates, including emergency procedures like neonatal resuscitation, vital for Kansas clinical requirements.
Primary Care for Women: Addresses prevention and management of common health issues in women, promoting holistic care across the lifespan.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Builds skills to critically evaluate and apply the latest scientific evidence, ensuring modern and effective midwifery practice.
Professional Issues and Leadership in Midwifery: Explores ethics, legal considerations, advocacy, and leadership roles within the Kansas healthcare context.
Clinical Practicum Experiences: Offers hands-on training in diverse settings, fulfilling Kansas-specific mandates like labor and delivery experience and neonatal resuscitation certification.

This comprehensive Kansas nurse midwifery program courses structure reflects the state’s unique healthcare needs, often emphasizing service in rural or underserved areas and mandatory certifications. For those curious about career prospects, exploring the family nurse practitioner salary can provide insight into the financial rewards of this vital profession.

The Kansas curriculum feeds directly into the resume strengths shown here—patient care, obstetrics, midwifery, advanced assessment and pharmacology. Those shorthand labels reflect rigorous coursework and practicum experience; the large “Other skills” bar captures additional hands-on judgment and adaptability.

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

In Kansas, nurse midwife programs demand a minimum of 750 clinical practice hours per clinical track, ensuring students gain rich, hands-on experience in multiple healthcare settings. These hours are not just a number—they represent real-world learning in labor and delivery units, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and community health environments. Each setting offers unique insights, from managing hospital births to supporting family-centered care in birthing centers and providing comprehensive women’s health services in outpatient clinics.

Students develop core competencies across prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum recovery, newborn assessments, and gynecologic health. These skills are sharpened under the watchful eye of seasoned preceptors—physicians or advanced practice registered nurses—who guide clinical decision-making and ensure safe, evidence-based practice.

The state also requires students to have prior labor and delivery RN experience and maintain certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation and fetal heart rate monitoring, reinforcing preparedness before entering advanced clinical placements.

One nurse midwife from Kansas, who graduated from a local program, shared her reflections on this rigorous journey. She recalled the challenge of balancing demanding clinical hours with the emotional intensity of witnessing births and postpartum care firsthand.

“Every hour spent in diverse settings deepened my confidence,” she said, emphasizing how preceptor feedback was invaluable in shaping her judgment and skills. The process was sometimes overwhelming, yet incredibly rewarding—she described it as a “transformative adventure” that molded her into a competent and compassionate midwife ready to serve communities across the state.

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

The adventure begins with earning a BSN, a solid four-year foundation that prepares you for the demanding world of healthcare. After completing your BSN, you’ll need to conquer the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse in Kansas. This step unlocks your eligibility to gain crucial hands-on experience, especially in labor and delivery settings, which Kansas requires as a prerequisite for advancing toward midwifery.

Next comes the exciting challenge of graduate education, typically an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) focused on nurse-midwifery. In Kansas, these programs take about 2 to 3 years full-time, blending online coursework with clinical training.

The state’s unique requirements—like completing around 1,000 hours of RN experience in labor and delivery, plus certifications in neonatal resuscitation and fetal heart rate monitoring—shape your preparation. Clinical placements often emphasize serving underserved communities, adding an enriching layer to your training.

After graduate studies, passing the American Midwifery Certification Board’s national exam is your gateway to becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with nurse-midwife credentials. Kansas state licensure follows, managed by the Board of Nursing, which involves meeting additional criteria such as continuing education and professional liability insurance.

Processing times for state licensing can vary, sometimes extending your journey. All told, from starting your BSN to stepping into independent practice as a certified nurse midwife, expect an engaging 7 to 8 years of dedication and growth in Kansas.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Kansas varies widely depending on whether you attend a public or private institution. For example, the University of Kansas charges about $17,789 annually for in-state residents and $30,782 for out-of-state students pursuing their nurse midwifery graduate degree.

On the other hand, private programs such as Frontier Nursing University have a total tuition cost of approximately $38,775 for their MSN nurse-midwifery track, with no distinction between resident and non-resident tuition. This range highlights the exciting variety of options available for those ready to embark on their nurse midwife journey in Kansas.

Beyond tuition, the cost of nurse midwife school Kansas includes several essential fees and supplies that add up over time. Frontier Nursing University, for instance, requires mandatory fees such as application, enrollment, matriculation, clinical facility, and technology fees, which contribute notably to overall expenses.

Additionally, students should budget for textbooks costing between $1,000 and $2,000, clinical supplies like uniforms and stethoscopes totaling $300 to $600, and graduation-related fees that vary by program. These elements combine to create a fuller picture of the financial commitment involved in midwifery education.

Finally, licensure and certification costs are a crucial part of planning your educational adventure. Graduates must apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure in Kansas, which currently has a $55 application fee. National certification exams by the American Midwifery Certification Board typically cost between $500 and $1,000, adding to the final investment in your career.

To understand the full scope of the journey, it’s helpful to review the requirements to become an advanced practice registered nurse, ensuring you’re prepared for every step ahead.

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

Venturing into nurse midwifery in Kansas opens a gateway to several financial aid opportunities tailored to ease the journey. These options not only reduce financial barriers but often connect students to communities in need, enriching both education and service.

Federal Loans and Grants: Pell Grants and Graduate PLUS Loans help cover tuition with competitive interest rates, requiring FAFSA completion.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs related to nursing offer $4,000–$8,000 annually, blending income with valuable experience.
MIDWIVES KAN Scholarships: Up to $25,000 per year for diverse full-time DNP or post-graduate students focused on underserved areas.
ANEW Scholarships: Awards up to $25,000 for students committed to serving rural or tribal communities in critical health sectors.
Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship: Up to $6,250 yearly for RNs pledging service in Kansas healthcare facilities, prioritizing mental health roles.
Loan Repayment Programs: Forgiveness options for graduates working in shortage or underserved regions help ease debt burdens.
Institutional Scholarships: Universities like the University of Kansas offer additional support based on merit, diversity, or need.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Kansas who graduated locally, she shared how navigating these aid programs was both challenging and empowering. “Applying for the MIDWIVES KAN Scholarship felt like unlocking a door to my future,” she recalled. Balancing paperwork and deadlines was stressful, but the financial relief allowed her to focus on clinical practice and community service without overwhelming debt.

She emphasized how the loan repayment options gave her confidence to work in rural clinics, knowing support was there beyond graduation. Her story shows that while the process demands persistence, the rewards can shape a meaningful career rooted in service and growth.

What are the job market trends and salary prospects for nurse midwives in Kansas?

Recent state data indicates a continued expansion in opportunities for nurse midwives, fueled by increased demand in both urban hospitals and rural healthcare facilities. Growing emphasis on integrated maternal care and interdisciplinary collaboration is influencing competitive salary scales, where experience and specialized certifications yield measurable benefits. In this dynamic environment, professionals may find that pairing their core midwifery skills with additional credentials—such as those available through top nurse practitioner programs in Kansas—enhances both their marketability and earning potential.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Kansas?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Kansas opens doors to a world of advanced practice and specialized care. For those aiming to become CNMs, accreditation is not just a stamp of quality but a gateway to licensure and meaningful clinical experiences that shape your future career.

University of Kansas Medical Center – DNP Nurse Midwifery Program: This premier DNP program stands out as the only ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery track in Kansas. Offering a 76-credit curriculum blending online coursework with essential campus visits, it partners with top hospitals to provide rich clinical experiences across the state and beyond.
University of Kansas Medical Center – Nurse Midwifery Graduate Certificate: Tailored for advanced practice nurses, this 25-credit certificate combines online and on-campus learning. It emphasizes family-centered, culturally respectful care and prepares graduates to step confidently into nurse-midwifery roles, with the next cohort beginning in Fall 2026.
Online CNM Programs with Kansas Clinical Placements: For those who need flexibility, several out-of-state ACME-accredited online programs assist with clinical placements right here in Kansas. These options maintain full recognition for APRN licensure while supporting diverse schedules.
University of Kansas Medical Center – Emphasis on Underserved Communities: This track offers priority admission to students passionate about serving Kansas’s rural and high-need maternal health areas. It's a unique focus that tackles health disparities through dedicated education and practice.
Collaborative Clinical Partnerships Across Kansas: Accredited programs benefit from strong alliances with hospitals like The University of Kansas Hospital, Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, and Wesley Medical Center. These partnerships ensure diverse clinical training essential for real-world readiness.

Completing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Kansas is a key step toward advancing your career and unlocking jobs you can get with doctorate in nursing. Exploring the best nurse midwife schools in Kansas means embracing programs that combine rigorous academics with meaningful clinical practice tailored to the state's unique healthcare needs.

The modest 538 nurse midwife degrees awarded in 2023—the 5.1% drop from 2022—underscores how constrained the pipeline is. Choosing an accredited Kansas program ensures your credentials count and helps strengthen care capacity in underserved areas.

538 nurse midwife degrees were awarded in 2023, which was a 5.11% decline from the previous year.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Kansas?

Exploring advanced degrees can unlock exciting pathways for CNMs in Kansas, blending clinical expertise with leadership and scholarly roles. These educational milestones not only meet licensure requirements but also open doors to dynamic career possibilities.

MSN in Nurse Midwifery: The essential starting point for CNMs, this degree enables nurses to earn APRN licensure focused on midwifery. Graduates often step into clinical leadership or charge nurse roles within midwifery settings.
DNP in Nurse Midwifery: This terminal practice degree prepares CNMs for influential roles such as directors of midwifery services or policy advisors. It emphasizes advanced clinical skills and healthcare leadership.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: For nurses with graduate degrees in other specialties, this certificate adds midwifery expertise, perfect for expanding practice scopes or combining specialties like family nursing and midwifery.
Dual Specialization Programs: Programs integrating nurse-midwifery with women’s health or other fields broaden clinical authority and leadership options, especially valuable in resource-limited rural areas.
PhD in Nursing: Though less focused on clinical practice, a PhD cultivates skills for research, academia, and shaping maternal health policy on broader scales.

The chart shows that most CNMs hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees, with master’s leading—so if you’re aiming to advance in Kansas, investing in an MSN or DNP isn’t optional; it’s the clearest path to influence and opportunity.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Kansas?

Navigating the landscape of nurse midwife program accreditation in Kansas reveals a focused system designed to uphold high educational standards. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands out as the central authority ensuring that nurse-midwifery education meets nationally recognized criteria.

ACME is the only programmatic accrediting organization for nurse midwife programs recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, making it the definitive gatekeeper for aspiring CNMs. This exclusive recognition means that any nurse midwife program in Kansas must hold ACME accreditation for graduates to be eligible to sit for the national CNM certification exam. This exam is administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and only graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify to take it.

Additionally, ACME’s rigorous standards cover curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and student outcomes, ensuring that programs prepare students comprehensively for professional practice. Kansas state licensure requirements also reflect this priority by mandating ACME-accredited education as a precondition for advanced practice licensure, which underscores the close alignment between educational quality and regulatory compliance.

While ACME is the primary accreditor for nurse-midwifery programs, other organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) play a complementary role by accrediting broader nursing degrees like BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. Many institutions in Kansas, including the University of Kansas School of Nursing, hold both CCNE and ACME accreditation to meet comprehensive educational and professional standards.

For a broader perspective on available options, exploring becoming a certified nurse midwife can offer valuable insights into how accreditation impacts both cost and quality.

What do nurse midwives in Kansas say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Wichita State University was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in both the science and compassion necessary for this field. The close-knit community and emphasis on rural health challenges in Kansas prepared me to serve diverse populations with confidence. Starting my teaching career at a local school has allowed me to inspire future nurse midwives while staying connected to the evolving needs of our state’s families. I find great fulfillment in contributing to both education and patient care in a place that truly values personalized healthcare. The balance between professional growth and community impact here is unmatched. Jenna
Training at the University of Kansas' nurse midwifery program was rigorous but incredibly rewarding, especially given the program’s focus on integrating cultural sensitivity with clinical excellence. Kansas’ unique rural environment offers both challenges and opportunities that have shaped my professional journey and teaching philosophy. Now, as an educator in a local school, I’m passionate about preparing students to address the health disparities faced by women in underserved communities. This role has deepened my commitment to lifelong learning and advocacy, which I believe is essential for advancing midwifery services across the state. Leila
My time at Fort Hays State University’s nurse midwifery program equipped me with not only clinical skills but also a profound sense of responsibility toward community health. Kansas’ strong support for nurse midwives and the chance to engage in rural outreach programs have allowed me to grow personally and professionally. Teaching in a local school has been an inspiring chapter, where I get to share my passion for maternal care and help students find their own paths in this rewarding career. The opportunity to witness firsthand the positive impact of midwifery in Kansas communities continues to motivate me every day. Terry

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Kansas without first obtaining a nursing degree. Nurse midwifery requires an RN license, which in turn requires completing an accredited nursing program. Kansas follows the national standards set by the AMCB, which mandates that all CNMs must have a nursing background.

To become a nurse midwife, you must first earn a BSN or an equivalent degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. After gaining RN licensure, you need to complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the ACME. This advanced training prepares you for certification and practice.

In summary, the pathway to nurse midwifery in Kansas is through nursing education and licensure. Direct entry into midwifery without nursing credentials is not recognized for CNM certification in the state.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife differ primarily in their education, scope of practice, and licensure. A CNM is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery, typically earning a master's degree. CNMs are nationally certified and licensed medical professionals who can provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as gynecological services and family planning. In Kansas, nurse midwives are regulated by the Board of Nursing and can practice in hospitals, birth centers, or homes, often collaborating with physicians.

In contrast, midwives without nursing credentials, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs), focus mainly on out-of-hospital births and may have varied training pathways depending on the state and country. CPMs often emphasize natural childbirth and may not have the same prescribing authority or hospital privileges as CNMs.

Globally, midwifery roles vary widely, but nurse midwives generally have a broader medical training and integration within healthcare systems compared to traditional midwives, who may practice more independently in community settings.

Is a midwife in Kansas higher than an RN?

In Kansas, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse, but rather serves a distinct and specialized role within healthcare. Registered nurses typically hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed, while midwives are advanced practitioners focusing on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. CNMs, who are RNs with additional graduate-level training in midwifery, are recognized as APRNs and have a scope of practice that includes primary care for women.

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), CNMs must complete a master’s or doctoral program and pass a national certification exam, demonstrating advanced expertise beyond the RN level. In Kansas, the Board of Healing Arts regulates midwife licensure, and CNMs have prescriptive authority, reflecting their advanced status. However, traditional RNs without midwifery certification do not have these advanced privileges, showing that midwives with proper certification hold a higher level of specialization but are not universally “higher” than all RNs.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Kansas hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Kansas can be challenging but achievable with dedication and planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing degree, gaining clinical experience, and then pursuing a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by ACME.

Kansas does not have its unique licensing exam for nurse midwives; candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Meeting state licensure requirements and maintaining certification through continuing education are also necessary steps. The academic and clinical demands are rigorous, as students must master both nursing and midwifery competencies. However, Kansas offers access to accredited programs nearby, and the state supports nurse midwives through professional organizations and resources.

Overall, while the pathway requires commitment and effort, it is well-defined and supported, making it accessible to motivated individuals seeking to enter this rewarding profession.