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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Maryland is witnessing a rising demand for nurse midwives, driven by a 15% increase in births requiring specialized maternal care over the past decade. This surge highlights the critical need for highly trained professionals who can deliver compassionate, evidence-based care.

Pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Maryland not only offers the chance to make a meaningful impact—it also comes with a competitive median salary that exceeds the national average and the opportunity to serve a wide range of communities.

In this article, you'll find the essential schooling requirements for 2025, along with practical guidance to help you make confident, informed decisions as you begin or advance your journey in midwifery.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Maryland

• Maryland is experiencing a rising need for qualified nurse midwives, with a 15% increase in births requiring specialized maternal care over the past decade.

• To legally practice in the state, aspiring nurse midwives must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam, which verifies their competence in both maternal and newborn care.

• For the 2024–2025 academic year, in-state students attending public universities can expect to pay an average annual tuition of approximately $17,789.

Table of Contents

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

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

Achieving the minimum education required to become a nurse midwife in Maryland involves earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery. This advanced degree is carefully designed to provide the clinical knowledge and practical skills essential for managing the full spectrum of care related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum health.

The curriculum emphasizes critical areas such as reproductive physiology, newborn assessment, and health promotion tailored specifically to women’s needs. Through this program, future nurse midwives develop strong decision-making abilities and evidence-based approaches to complex pregnancy management, preparing them to confidently support women through one of the most significant stages in their lives.

Meeting the nurse midwife degree requirements Maryland entails more than just clinical expertise; it also fosters effective communication and collaboration with healthcare teams to ensure comprehensive care. Graduates are equipped to educate and counsel women and families, enhancing patient outcomes while respecting individual choices.

For those seeking a rewarding and impactful career, understanding the importance of this degree aligns with pursuing a highest paying nursing career focused on meaningful patient care.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Maryland demands a well-rounded preparation that balances academic achievement with clinical readiness. Meeting these criteria thoughtfully can strengthen your application and readiness for the profession.

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program is typically required, though some programs may consider RNs with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees if they complete additional clinical practice portfolios.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 to ensure academic preparedness for advanced study.
• RN License: Applicants must hold a current, unencumbered registered nurse license valid in Maryland or the state where clinical training occurs.
• Clinical Experience: One year of recent relevant clinical experience is preferred, especially in labor and delivery or women’s health settings, as it enhances practical readiness.
• Prerequisite Courses: Completion of undergraduate courses in Health Assessment and Statistics is generally required before admission.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are needed, ideally from academic or clinical professionals who can attest to your readiness for advanced practice.
• Curriculum Vitae/Resume: A current CV or resume outlining your professional and academic accomplishments is standard.
• International Applicants: Must submit course-by-course transcript evaluations from a NACES-accredited service, official transcripts, and proof of English proficiency.
• National Certification Eligibility: Graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify to sit for the AMCB exam, required for legal practice in Maryland.
• Technical Standards: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to meet the essential technical and functional requirements of the nurse-midwife role.
• Maryland-Specific Requirements: Maryland recognizes both certified nurse midwives and certified midwives, with CMs legally licensed in only a few states, including Maryland; Direct-Entry Midwives follow a separate licensure pathway.

CNMs typically possess advanced educational qualifications, underscoring the academic rigor of the profession. A combined 79% hold either a master’s or bachelor’s degree, reflecting the standard pathway toward certification and licensure.

In contrast, only a small percentage of CNMs have an associate degree (11%) or diploma (3%), highlighting a shift away from entry-level nursing education. The remaining 7% hold other types of degrees, which may include international or interdisciplinary credentials. The chart below breaks down the educational attainment levels among CNMs.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Maryland?

The nurse midwife curriculum in Maryland is thoughtfully designed to build a strong foundation of clinical expertise and professional readiness. Each course addresses vital areas that prepare students for the unique challenges of midwifery practice within the state’s healthcare system.

• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops the ability to perform detailed evaluations of women, newborns, and families, emphasizing the identification of critical health indicators throughout the lifespan.
• Advanced Pathophysiology: Explores the biological mechanisms behind diseases, equipping students to manage complex conditions affecting diverse populations.
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Focuses on medication management tailored for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods, ensuring safe therapeutic decisions.
• Reproductive Health: Covers gynecologic care, contraception, infertility, and sexual health, enabling comprehensive support for women from adolescence through menopause.
• Maternal and Newborn Care: Provides evidence-based instruction on prenatal, labor, delivery, and newborn care, emphasizing the critical skills needed for primary midwifery roles.
• Primary Care of Women: Prepares students to deliver holistic health care, including preventive services and management of common illnesses throughout a woman’s life.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Trains students to critically evaluate and apply current research to improve care quality and outcomes in midwifery.
• Professional Issues in Nurse-Midwifery: Addresses ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks specific to Maryland, along with advocacy skills for maternal and newborn health.
• Clinical Practicum Experiences: Offers supervised hands-on practice in diverse settings, essential for refining clinical skills and meeting certification requirements.
• Capstone or Clinical Integration Course: Integrates theoretical knowledge and clinical skills to prepare students for independent midwifery practice.

Given that Maryland does not currently have campus-based nurse-midwifery programs, many candidates pursue online ACME-accredited options that fulfill the nurse midwifery course requirements Maryland demands.

This approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for state licensure and clinical roles. For those wondering how many years to become a family nurse practitioner, understanding the structured curriculum and clinical hours in nurse midwife programs is a key step toward a successful career in midwifery.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Maryland require students to complete between 500 and 1,000 supervised clinical hours, with most programs targeting around 700 to 800 hours. These hours are essential for gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments such as hospitals—especially labor and delivery units—birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health clinics, and outpatient women’s health centers. This variety helps students adapt to different care settings and patient needs.

Throughout their clinical training, students develop proficiency in key areas including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, newborn assessment, gynecological care, and primary care for women. Each competency is designed to match the scope of practice expected for nurse midwives and aligns with national certification standards.

Experienced preceptors, typically certified nurse midwives or obstetrician-gynecologists, closely supervise clinical activities, offering essential feedback and evaluations. Their guidance ensures students meet rigorous academic and professional benchmarks before graduation.

Maryland’s Board of Nursing enforces adherence to these standards, requiring all programs to be ACME-accredited and graduates to fulfill clinical requirements before sitting for certification exams. Notably, Maryland grants independent practice authority to certified nurse midwives, reflecting the trust placed in their clinical competence. 

These structured clinical experiences not only prepare students for certification but also support Maryland’s emphasis on autonomous, high-quality midwifery care. The image below illustrates the current workforce size of certified nurse midwives in the U.S.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Maryland generally starts with earning a BSN, which takes about four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their RN license.

This licensing process can add several months, depending on exam scheduling and state processing times. It’s important to note that many graduate nurse-midwifery programs in Maryland require applicants to have a BSN and often expect a minimum undergraduate GPA, commonly around 3.0 or higher.

The next phase involves completing a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs typically last between two and three years for full-time students and may lead to an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Maryland’s requirements include extensive clinical training, often several hundred hours of supervised practice, which can extend the timeline depending on the student’s pace. Some programs also require applicants to have one or more years of RN experience before admission, potentially lengthening the journey.

After graduating from an ACME-accredited program, candidates must pass the CNM exam administered by AMCB. This exam, consisting of 175 multiple-choice questions, is offered year-round at Prometric centers in Maryland, with results typically available within two to four weeks.

Once nationally certified, candidates apply for state licensure, a process in Maryland that can face delays due to application volume and background checks. Maintaining certification requires continuing education and recertification every five years, ensuring ongoing professional development throughout one’s career.

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

The cost of attending nurse midwife school in Maryland varies notably depending on the type of institution and residency status. For the 2024-2025 academic year, typical tuition at public universities for in-state students averages around $17,789 annually, while out-of-state students or those attending private institutions can expect tuition closer to $30,782 per year. These figures include tuition and mandatory fees but exclude essential additional expenses. 

Beyond tuition, students must consider several other necessary costs. Application fees generally run around $50, with matriculation fees ranging from $200 to $475. Additional charges for student resources and technology can add $150 to $300 per term, while clinical facility and lab fees may total between $200 and $420.

Textbooks and course materials often cost between $1,000 and $2,000 over the course of the program, and clinical supplies and uniforms add approximately $200 to $500. These expenses collectively contribute to the overall investment in your nurse midwife education.

Licensure and certification fees also form an important part of the total cost. Maryland’s Board of Nursing requires a $50 application fee for advanced practice licensure, and the national certification exam through the American Midwifery Certification Board typically costs between $500 and $1,000.

Prospective students should note the significant difference in tuition for in-state versus out-of-state residents, which can exceed $13,000 annually. For those exploring career pathways, reviewing the steps to become a nurse practitioner may provide additional context on the educational journey ahead.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Maryland is diverse, reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals who serve critical needs. Navigating these options thoughtfully can ease the financial burden and open doors to a rewarding nursing career path. Key programs blend federal, state, and institutional resources tailored to nurse midwives and those dedicated to underserved communities.

• Federal Student Loans: Graduate students may access up to $20,500 annually through Stafford Unsubsidized Loans, with a lifetime cap of $138,500 for graduate study, regardless of income.
• Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: This HRSA-funded scholarship covers tuition, fees, and a stipend in exchange for a two-year service commitment at a Critical Shortage Facility, with targeted funds for women’s health specialties.
• Maryland State Grants: The Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant supports students pledging to work in shortage fields, including nursing, especially in underserved Maryland areas.
• School-Specific Scholarships: Institutions like the University of Maryland offer awards such as the Conway Scholarship, providing financial support specifically for nursing and midwifery students.
• Loan Repayment Programs: After graduation, the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program can repay up to 85% of nursing education debt for those working in critical shortage locations.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Federal Work-Study allows students to earn income through part-time jobs, often in healthcare settings aligned with their field.
• State Healthcare Incentives: Maryland sometimes provides additional loan repayment and funding incentives for advanced practice nurses committed to rural or underserved communities.

Although the cost of midwifery education can be significant, the long-term financial benefits are clear. Nurse midwives in outpatient care centers earn over $164,000 annually, reflecting the value placed on their expertise in specialized settings. Other roles in hospitals, government, and physician offices also provide well-paying opportunities, all exceeding $120,000. These figures highlight the strong earning potential available to those who complete the necessary training and certification.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Maryland?

Choosing one of the accredited nurse midwifery programs in Maryland is a decisive step for those aiming to become CNMs. Accreditation ensures the program meets national standards, which is essential for eligibility to sit for certification exams and obtain licensure. 

• Johns Hopkins University (MSN Entry into Nursing with Nurse Midwife Track): This program leverages Johns Hopkins’ renowned medical network, offering students access to premier clinical sites and interdisciplinary training with leaders in maternal and child health. Its integration within a top-tier academic environment provides a rich foundation for advanced practice.
• Georgetown University (Online Nurse Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program): Georgetown’s ACME-accredited program combines online coursework with Maryland-based clinical placements. It boasts an impressive 88% first-time pass rate on the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, reflecting its quality and student preparedness.
• University of Maryland, Baltimore (DNP NurseMidwifery Specialty): Offering a DNP pathway, this program emphasizes leadership and evidence-based care across diverse populations. Its strong clinical partnerships across Maryland provide students with varied experiences in both urban and rural healthcare settings.
• Frontier Nursing University (Distance Nurse Midwifery Program): Although based in Kentucky, Frontier offers ACME accreditation and clinical placements throughout Maryland, making it a flexible option for nurses balancing work and study while remaining in their communities.
• Shenandoah University (Nurse Midwifery MSN Program): Known for its collaborative approach, Shenandoah’s program partners with Maryland healthcare providers for hands-on clinical rotations. It emphasizes interprofessional education in multiple birth settings, preparing students for a range of midwifery environments.

Given Maryland’s demand for skilled nurse-midwives, selecting a program that aligns with your career goals and meets accreditation standards is critical. For those evaluating career prospects, understanding obstetrics nurse salaries and career pathways can provide valuable context as you embark on this specialized nursing journey.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Maryland?

Advanced degrees play a crucial role in expanding the professional opportunities available to Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) in Maryland. These credentials not only enhance clinical expertise but also open doors to leadership, education, and policy roles within healthcare.

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Nurse-Midwifery Focus: This degree is the foundational requirement for CNM certification and prepares graduates for advanced clinical roles in women’s health, including primary and gynecological care. Many programs offer flexible online options suited for working nurses.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A practice-focused terminal degree that equips CNMs for executive and policy leadership. Graduates often assume roles such as midwifery directors or clinical program managers, driving organizational and systemic improvements.
• Dual Nurse-Midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) Programs: These dual credentials expand clinical scope, enabling CNMs to practice broadly and pursue higher-paying or administrative positions.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery: Designed for nurses with graduate degrees in other specialties, this certificate allows midwifery specialization without completing a full degree program.
• Academic and Research Roles (PhD or Research-Focused DNP): Doctoral preparation supports CNMs in faculty positions and research leadership, influencing midwifery education and practice standards.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Maryland?

Accreditation plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and credibility of nurse midwife programs in Maryland. Among the accrediting bodies, the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands out as the recognized authority ensuring high educational standards.

ACME is the only organization officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit nurse midwife programs across the United States. This distinction means that programs accredited by ACME meet strict criteria covering curriculum rigor, faculty expertise, and clinical training quality.

Graduates from ACME-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the CNM certification exam, a critical step for licensure and practice. For students considering nurse midwife program cost in Maryland, choosing an ACME-accredited program ensures their investment translates into recognized qualifications that support professional advancement.

The accreditation process involves multiple stages, including preaccreditation, initial accreditation, and continued accreditation, which collectively uphold ongoing program excellence. Additionally, while some programs also seek accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ACME accreditation remains the essential benchmark specifically for nurse midwifery education.

What is the future job outlook for nurse midwives in Maryland?

Industry projections indicate a steady expansion in opportunities for nurse midwives as healthcare systems increasingly emphasize preventative care and community-based services. Rising demand is driven by evolving patient demographics and a focus on personalized maternal care, creating a favorable environment for career advancement. Enhanced clinical competencies supported by interdisciplinary training—including insights from top nurse practitioner programs in Maryland—are positioning CNMs to assume leadership roles in diverse practice settings.

What do nurse midwives in Maryland say about their careers?

• Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Maryland was truly a transformative experience. The hands-on clinical training paired with Maryland’s diverse patient population prepared me to handle a wide range of birth scenarios confidently. Starting my teaching career at a local school has allowed me to inspire future nurse midwives with the same passion I developed during my studies. There’s a unique sense of fulfillment in knowing I’m contributing to the health of families and supporting my community’s well-being. Maryland’s strong healthcare network also offers excellent opportunities for career growth and collaboration. - Alexa
• After graduating from Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, I found the transition into teaching at a local school both challenging and rewarding. The rich cultural diversity of Maryland provides a unique backdrop for educating future nurse midwives, allowing me to incorporate real-life community health issues into the curriculum. This career path has deepened my understanding of maternal health disparities and strengthened my commitment to advocacy. I feel proud knowing my work positively impacts young professionals who will go on to serve families across the state. - Charlie
• My journey through the nurse midwifery program at Towson University was marked by tremendous personal growth. Maryland’s supportive environment, with its access to urban and rural communities, gave me a broad perspective on the challenges and rewards of midwifery. The ability to advance professionally here is impressive, with many pathways for specialization and leadership roles. I find great joy in collaborating with other healthcare providers and witnessing the positive impact we make on maternal and infant health. This career truly feels like a calling, and Maryland is the perfect place to pursue it. - Sage

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Maryland

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

No. To become a certified nurse midwife (CNM) in Maryland, you must first be a registered nurse (RN). This requires a nursing degree, passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a graduate-level midwifery program. Certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) is also required.

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

A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is an RN with advanced training and a graduate degree. CNMs can prescribe medications and work in hospitals or clinics. Other midwives, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs), often focus on home births and may not have formal nursing training or full legal recognition in Maryland.

Is a midwife in Maryland higher than an RN?

CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses with more education and a specialized scope of practice than RNs. They can work independently in maternal care, including prescribing medications. While not “higher” in title, their qualifications and responsibilities exceed those of a general RN.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Maryland hard?

Yes, it’s challenging. It requires becoming an RN, completing a graduate midwifery program, gaining clinical experience, passing a certification exam, and obtaining state licensure. While demanding, it’s a rewarding career for those committed to women's health.

References:

• Downstate Health Sciences University. (n.d.). Midwifery | Costs | Financial aid. SUNY Downstate. https://www.downstate.edu/education-training/student-services/financial-aid/cost/midwifery.html

• Frontier Nursing University. (n.d.). Tuition and fees. Frontier Nursing University. https://frontier.edu/tuition/

• Midwife Schooling. (n.d.). Certified nurse-midwife programs in Maryland | CNM career path. Midwife Schooling. https://www.midwifeschooling.com/maryland/

• Nurse.com. (n.d.). Become a certified nurse-midwife | Nurse.com school directory. Nurse.com. https://www.nurse.com/schools/aprn-programs/become-a-certified-nurse-midwife/

• NurseJournal. (n.d.). Guide to financial aid and scholarships for nurses. NurseJournal.org. https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/

• Stony Brook Medicine. (n.d.). Master of Science – Nurse Midwifery | Stony Brook School of Nursing. Stony Brook Medicine. https://nursing.stonybrookmedicine.edu/midwiferyMaster