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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring nurse midwives in Minnesota struggle to navigate the complex schooling and certification requirements needed to enter the field. With Minnesota experiencing a 15% growth in demand for certified nurse midwives over the next decade, the profession offers a promising career path. Nurse midwives in the state earn a competitive median salary above the national average, making the investment in education worthwhile.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, provides clear, step-by-step guidance on the necessary educational credentials, licensure, and practical training. It equips readers with the knowledge to successfully pursue nurse midwifery in Minnesota in 2025.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Minnesota

Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and gain RN licensure in Minnesota to meet state requirements for nurse midwife programs.
Enroll in an accredited nurse midwifery graduate program, typically a master’s or doctorate, focusing on both clinical skills and patient care.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam to become certified and apply for Minnesota state licensure to practice legally.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in Minnesota, the minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in Minnesota is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This degree combines advanced nursing knowledge with focused training on women's reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.

The curriculum includes essential topics such as labor and delivery management, gynecological care, and neonatal health, ensuring graduates gain comprehensive expertise. Clinical rotations in hospitals and birthing centers provide hands-on experience, preparing students for real-world challenges in midwifery practice.

Pursuing this degree through accredited nurse midwifery programs in Minnesota equips students with the skills necessary to safely and effectively support women throughout their reproductive lifespan. After earning the MSN, graduates become eligible to take the national certification exam, a critical step toward state licensure. Maintaining certification requires ongoing education to stay current with evolving healthcare standards.

For those interested in exploring more about nursing pathways, nursing career requirements provide valuable insights into the profession’s scope and demands.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Minnesota demands clear academic and professional qualifications. Meeting these requirements positions candidates for success in advanced clinical training.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must have at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is typical, with a preference for 3.5 or higher to remain competitive.
RN License: A current, unencumbered registered nurse license in Minnesota is required; some programs also require eligibility for Wisconsin licensure.
Graduate Degree Prerequisite: Enrollment or completion of an MSN or doctoral (DNP) nursing degree with a midwifery focus accredited by ACME is necessary.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of professional nursing experience is mandatory, with some programs requiring ICU experience.
GRE Scores: Some programs require GRE results, though waivers may apply for applicants with advanced degrees or high GPAs.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three letters from clinical supervisors or faculty familiar with the applicant’s nursing skills and professionalism are needed.
Personal Statement: A concise essay (around 500 words) outlining clinical background, motivation, and career goals must be submitted.
Transcripts and CV/Resume: Official transcripts from all post-secondary education and a current resume or CV are required.
Licensure/Certification for Fellowships: Board certification as a CNM and eligibility for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license in Minnesota are required for post-graduate fellowships.
International Students: Proof of English proficiency, credential evaluations, and a valid U.S. nursing license are necessary for international applicants.
Mayo Clinic/University Partnership: Applicants must be eligible for clinical rotations in both Minnesota and Wisconsin and demonstrate commitment to culturally sensitive care.

The image shows roughly 3,195 students enrolled in certified nurse midwife programs in 2021, implying a large candidate pool. In Minnesota, meeting the academic, licensure, and experience thresholds isn’t optional—weak applications get filtered early.

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

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Minnesota?

Nurse midwife programs in Minnesota are structured to equip students with a robust set of skills essential for advanced clinical practice and licensure. The nurse midwife curriculum in Minnesota emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring graduates can manage diverse patient needs effectively.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills in comprehensive physical and psychosocial examinations across all ages, crucial for accurate diagnosis and midwifery care.
Reproductive Health and Gynecologic Care: Focuses on managing reproductive health, contraception, and gynecologic exams for all gender identities, preparing students for primary care roles.
Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Covers safe medication prescribing, including controlled substances, with emphasis on drugs relevant to pregnancy and women's health to support independent prescribing authority in Minnesota.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Offers clinical training in prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care, including complications, enabling confident management of labor and delivery.
Antepartum and Postpartum Management: Teaches assessment and care strategies before and after birth, addressing risks and complications to optimize outcomes.
Intrapartum Care and Labor Support: Prepares students to handle labor and delivery independently and collaboratively in various settings common in Minnesota.
Family Planning and Contraception: Provides knowledge on contraceptive methods and counseling, aligning with state and national healthcare guidelines.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Enhances understanding of disease processes affecting women and newborns, supporting accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Builds skills in analyzing research and applying evidence to clinical care, encouraging quality improvement initiatives within Minnesota’s healthcare environment.
Leadership, Ethics, and Policy in Midwifery: Covers healthcare laws, ethics, and policy with a focus on Minnesota’s regulations and advocacy for maternal-child health.

Programs integrate these courses with clinical experiences in diverse Minnesota healthcare settings, preparing students comprehensively for nurse-midwifery program courses Minnesota standards. For those curious about related advanced nursing pathways, the fastest way to become a family nurse practitioner may offer additional insight into advanced practice roles.

The bar chart illustrates the most common skills CNMs list—patient care, OB-GYN, midwifery, and related competencies. Minnesota’s curriculum delivers those skills through courses like advanced health assessment, reproductive care, intrapartum management, and evidence-based practice.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Minnesota require around 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training as part of graduate education, typically through accredited DNP or MSN programs. This hands-on experience is essential for certification and licensure as an APRN specializing in midwifery.

Clinical training occurs in diverse healthcare settings to provide broad exposure. Students gain experience in hospitals, working in labor and delivery, postpartum, and neonatal units. Rotations at birthing centers emphasize low-intervention, physiologic birth approaches. OB/GYN clinics and women’s health practices allow students to deliver prenatal, gynecologic, and reproductive care. Some programs include community health agencies, broadening understanding of public health and diverse populations.

Key clinical competencies focus on prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, newborn assessment, and gynecologic and reproductive health. Students also learn to collaborate effectively with physicians and allied health professionals, ensuring coordinated patient care.

Training is supervised by certified nurse-midwife preceptors or qualified clinicians with adjunct faculty roles. These preceptors provide mentorship, oversight, and feedback, helping students develop clinical judgment and professional skills in real-world settings. Minnesota’s Board of Nursing mandates graduation from ACME-accredited programs with substantial clinical hours and national certification before applying for APRN licensure as a CNM.

I spoke with a nurse midwife from Minnesota who graduated from a local program. She described the clinical training as both demanding and rewarding, emphasizing the challenge of balancing rigorous hours in multiple settings while absorbing complex skills. “The preceptors were invaluable,” she recalled, “guiding me through difficult deliveries and helping me build confidence step-by-step.”

She noted that the variety of clinical sites helped her adapt quickly to different patient needs and scenarios. Reflecting on the process, she said, “It felt overwhelming at times, but knowing these experiences were required to protect mothers and babies made every hour worth it.” Her journey highlights how Minnesota’s clinical requirements prepare nurse midwives to enter practice fully equipped and confident.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Minnesota begins with earning a BSN, which typically takes four years. After completing the BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN licensure. This licensure is essential for entering advanced nurse midwifery programs and practicing as an RN. The BSN and RN licensing together lay the foundation for specialized graduate study.

The next step is completing a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, usually a MSN or DNP with a focus on nurse midwifery. These programs generally take 2 to 3 years of full-time study, depending on your prior education and the specific degree pursued. Upon finishing the graduate program, you must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board to become eligible for advanced practice licensure in Minnesota.

In addition to educational requirements, Minnesota mandates 2,080 hours of supervised clinical practice under a collaborative agreement before allowing independent practice. The state’s licensure process can add 6 to 9 months, particularly if you seek licensure in multiple states. Legislative efforts may create alternative pathways soon, but currently, the entire process from starting your BSN to practicing independently as a certified nurse midwife often spans 7 to 9 years, accounting for education, clinical hours, and licensing delays.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition Minnesota varies primarily based on residency status and institution type. At public institutions like the University of Minnesota, graduate tuition for residents is approximately $10,640 per semester for full-time enrollment, while nonresidents pay about $16,776 per semester.

Given that a typical DNP nurse midwifery program requires around 75–80 credits over three years, total tuition costs generally range from $80,000 to $95,000 for residents and $130,000 to $150,000 for nonresidents. Private school tuition data is less readily available, but most accredited nurse midwifery programs in Minnesota are offered through public universities.

When calculating the cost of nurse midwifery school in Minnesota, it’s important to include additional expenses beyond tuition. University fees, which cover technology and health services, typically range from $1,000 to $2,000 annually.

Textbooks and course materials can add another $1,000 to $2,000 each year, while clinical supplies such as uniforms and stethoscopes may cost between $500 and $1,000 total.

Students should also budget for background checks, immunizations, and travel and housing expenses related to clinical rotations. After graduation, licensure and certification fees usually total $600 to $700. These costs combined can significantly affect the overall investment required.

There are notable differences between in-state and out-of-state tuition, with reciprocity agreements sometimes allowing residents of neighboring states to qualify for reduced rates similar to in-state tuition. Planning carefully for these expenses can help manage the financial commitment.

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

Managing the cost of nurse midwifery education in Minnesota requires knowing your financial aid options. Students can combine multiple resources to reduce debt and focus on training. Here are key aid types to explore:

Federal Student Loans: Includes Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans, offering flexible repayment after graduation.
Minnesota State Grants: Need-based grants for eligible residents, sometimes available to graduate nursing students.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: State and federal initiatives forgive loans for nurse midwives working in rural or underserved areas.
Scholarships: Offered by universities, nursing groups, and state programs targeting advanced practice nurses and diversity.
Mayo Clinic Fellowship Stipend: A $77,000 annual stipend plus benefits for nurse-midwifery fellows.
Work-Study: Part-time jobs tied to healthcare or academics to help offset costs based on financial need.

Talking with a nurse midwife who graduated from a local Minnesota program revealed the balancing act behind the aid process. She recalled applying for several scholarships and juggling work-study hours while navigating loan paperwork. “The loan forgiveness programs made a huge difference because I committed to serve in a rural clinic afterward,” she said.

Though the initial paperwork and eligibility checks were stressful, having access to multiple aid sources allowed her to focus on clinical training without overwhelming financial pressure. This layered approach to funding was essential for her successful path into practice.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Minnesota?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Minnesota is critical for those aiming to become CNMs because only graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify for national certification and state licensure. This ensures the education you receive meets rigorous standards and prepares you for the demands of clinical practice.

University of Minnesota – DNP with Nurse-Midwifery Specialization: This Minneapolis-based program offers a research-driven curriculum combined with extensive clinical training across Minnesota. It focuses on leadership and evidence-based practice, equipping students for both primary care and hospital midwifery roles.
Bethel University – Master of Science in Nurse Midwifery: Located in Saint Paul, Bethel’s faith-based approach emphasizes small cohorts and personalized mentorship. Clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings throughout Minnesota support practical experience.
Mayo Clinic & University of Minnesota Partnership – Nurse Midwifery Primary Program: A hybrid program that pairs University of Minnesota DNP coursework with clinical rotations at Mayo Clinic hospitals. Students benefit from world-class clinical facilities and about 1,000 hours of hands-on training.
Online ACME-Accredited Programs with Minnesota Clinical Placements: Designed for working RNs, these programs offer didactic learning remotely while providing clinical placements within Minnesota. This flexibility supports advancement without relocation.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery – University of Minnesota Twin Cities: For nurses already holding graduate degrees, this hybrid certificate program offers a streamlined route to CNM eligibility with strong clinical partnerships for practicum experiences.

For those exploring the obstetrics nurse career path, selecting one of the top accredited nurse midwifery programs in Minnesota ensures you meet licensure requirements and gain the clinical expertise needed to succeed in this growing field.

The chart shows only 538 nurse midwife degrees were awarded in 2023, a 5.11% decline, underscoring a tightening pipeline. That makes picking a top ACME-accredited Minnesota program even more critical—it ensures your credential carries weight and you aren’t left chasing scarce clinical slots.

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 Minnesota?

Advanced degrees play a key role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Minnesota. Pursuing further education allows CNMs to access leadership, clinical, and academic roles beyond initial certification.

Doctor of Nursing Practice: This terminal clinical degree prepares CNMs for high-level clinical roles, leadership positions, and involvement in healthcare policy. Graduates may also become clinical educators or program directors.
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Midwifery Track: Required for initial CNM certification, the MSN supports advancement into roles like clinical coordinator, lead midwife, or women’s health program manager.
Post-Graduate Certificates: Designed for those with advanced practice degrees in other specialties, these certificates enable expansion into nurse-midwifery or women’s health, opening doors to dual certification and interdisciplinary leadership.
PhD in Nursing or Healthcare Leadership: Focused on research and academia, this degree supports roles as faculty, principal investigators, or health policy consultants.

The chart shows that most CNMs already hold at least a bachelor’s, with master’s degrees the largest share; earning a DNP, PhD, or post-graduate certificate pushes you past the common baseline and primes you for leadership, research, or teaching.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Minnesota?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole national body responsible for accrediting nurse midwife programs in Minnesota and across the United States. This ensures that programs meet rigorous standards required for certification and licensure.

ACME’s accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, making it the definitive authority for nurse-midwifery education quality. Programs accredited by ACME undergo thorough evaluation based on curriculum content, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and graduate outcomes. This process guarantees that students receive comprehensive preparation needed for their careers.

Whether a program holds preaccreditation, initial accreditation, or continued accreditation status, it confirms adherence to ACME’s standards and eligibility for graduates to take the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.

For anyone comparing nurse midwife program cost in Minnesota, choosing an ACME-accredited program is essential to ensure the investment leads to valid certification and licensure.

In Minnesota, ACME accreditation supports the state’s licensure requirements for advanced practice registered nurses specializing in nurse-midwifery. Graduates from these accredited programs are positioned to meet state standards and maintain their credentials through ongoing recertification. When considering tuition and fees, it’s important to prioritize programs that hold this accreditation to avoid issues with certification eligibility.

For those exploring career paths within nursing, understanding the types of nursing specializations can help in making informed decisions about the educational route and expected outcomes.

How do nurse midwife and nurse practitioner roles differ in Minnesota?

Nurse midwife and nurse practitioner programs in Minnesota are designed for advanced clinical care but differ in scope and educational focus. Nurse midwives concentrate on reproductive and obstetrical health, emphasizing prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum care, while nurse practitioner programs deliver broader primary or specialized care beyond women’s health. Candidates assessing their career goals should compare program curricula, clinical training opportunities, and licensure outcomes. In Minnesota, both roles offer robust job prospects; however, the path to becoming a nurse practitioner may include additional competencies in diagnostic reasoning and management of chronic conditions. For further comparison, please review the top nurse practitioner programs in Minnesota.

What do nurse midwives in Minnesota say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Minnesota was a transformative experience that connected me deeply to the local community and healthcare system. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share my knowledge and passion with aspiring midwives, fostering a new generation dedicated to holistic care. Minnesota’s supportive environment and diverse population have enriched my practice and teaching, offering unique challenges and rewarding moments. I feel privileged to contribute to both the health of families and the education of future professionals. The stability and growth opportunities here make it an ideal place to build a lifelong career. Janice
After graduating from Augsburg University’s nurse midwifery program, I was inspired to give back by starting to teach at a local school. It has been incredibly fulfilling to mentor students while continuing to grow personally and professionally. Minnesota’s strong emphasis on community health and access to excellent resources has allowed me to make a real impact on maternal care, especially within underserved populations. The state’s unique cultural landscape and natural environment create a special context for my work that continually challenges and motivates me. Pursuing this path here has been both a professional advancement and a deeply meaningful journey. Naomi
My journey began at Winona State University, where their nurse midwifery program prepared me for the realities of practice in Minnesota’s diverse rural and urban settings. Transitioning to a teaching role locally has been rewarding, as I help students understand the importance of culturally sensitive care. The state’s blend of natural beauty and vibrant communities offers unique opportunities to address health disparities and foster resilience. Professionally, Minnesota’s healthcare system provides ample chances for advancement and specialization, which motivates me to keep learning and evolving. I am proud to support families and students alike in this beautiful state. Tanya

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Minnesota

No, you cannot become a CNM in Minnesota without a nursing degree. The state requires candidates to hold an RN license, which in turn requires completing an accredited nursing program. This is a foundational step before pursuing advanced midwifery education.

To become a CNM, you must complete a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. These programs demand a prior nursing background, generally a BSN or equivalent.

After completing the midwifery program, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Minnesota law recognizes only certified nurse midwives, so direct entry into midwifery without nursing credentials is not an option here.

In summary, a nursing degree is essential to meet licensure and certification requirements for midwifery practice in Minnesota.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their training, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, specifically a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced education in midwifery, often holding a master’s degree. CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can practice in all 50 states, including Minnesota, and are qualified to provide comprehensive care including prenatal, delivery, postpartum, and gynecological services. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or birth centers and can prescribe medications.

In contrast, a midwife without the nursing background, often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or direct-entry midwife, typically receives training outside the nursing framework. Their certification and legal recognition vary widely by state and country. In Minnesota, CPMs can attend home births but have a more limited scope of practice and generally do not have prescriptive authority. Globally, midwifery practices differ significantly, with nurse midwives often more integrated into formal healthcare systems, while midwives may operate independently, especially in rural or traditional settings.

Is a midwife in Minnesota higher than a RN?

In Minnesota, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse (RN) in a traditional hierarchical sense, as both roles have distinct scopes of practice and educational requirements. Registered nurses typically hold an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing and are licensed to provide a broad range of healthcare services. CNMs in Minnesota, however, are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed graduate-level education in midwifery and are nationally certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board. According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing, CNMs have prescriptive authority and provide comprehensive prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum, and gynecological care, often in collaboration with physicians.

Statistics from the American College of Nurse-Midwives indicate that CNMs attend nearly 10% of all births in the U.S., reflecting their specialized expertise. While RNs provide essential general care across many settings, CNMs have a more specialized and autonomous role in childbirth and women’s health, which can be viewed as a higher level of practice within nursing. Therefore, midwives in Minnesota hold a distinct, advanced role rather than a strictly higher or lower position compared to RNs.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Minnesota hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Minnesota is challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires completing a registered nursing program, gaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. Minnesota demands certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board, which involves passing a rigorous national exam.

The educational path typically takes several years, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees, with a strong focus on both nursing and midwifery skills. Clinical training is extensive, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

Licensing in Minnesota also requires meeting state-specific requirements and maintaining continuing education. While the process is demanding, it is well-structured and supported by clear guidelines. With commitment and proper preparation, aspiring nurse midwives can successfully meet Minnesota’s standards and build a rewarding career.