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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Mississippi faces a critical shortage of qualified nurse midwives, with rural areas experiencing a 25% higher maternal mortality rate than the national average. This gap underscores the urgent need for skilled midwives to improve maternal health outcomes.

Pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Mississippi offers strong job security, with the state projected to see a 15% growth in demand for midwifery professionals by 2030. This article outlines the essential schooling requirements for nurse midwives in Mississippi in 2025, providing data-driven insights and expert guidance.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Mississippi

• Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) followed by a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) graduate program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
• Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to obtain licensure in Mississippi, where nurse midwives earn a median annual salary of approximately $90,000 as of 2024.
• Maintain licensure through continuing education and clinical practice, meeting Mississippi Board of Nursing requirements to ensure up-to-date skills and knowledge in maternal healthcare.

Table of Contents

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

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

The minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in Mississippi is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This advanced degree equips candidates with the comprehensive clinical and scientific knowledge necessary to manage obstetrical and gynecological care, oversee newborn health, and provide primary care to women throughout their lifespan.

The MSN program integrates advanced coursework with practical clinical experiences, building expertise in biological, physical, behavioral, and nursing sciences essential for effective patient assessment and care management. Additionally, this degree prepares candidates to successfully pass national certification exams, which are mandatory to practice as certified nurse midwives (CNMs) in Mississippi.

Meeting nurse midwife degree requirements Mississippi ensures readiness to work in various healthcare environments such as hospitals, clinics, and birth centers, addressing the diverse needs of Mississippi’s population. Currently, over 200 certified nurse midwives actively contribute to improving maternal and child health outcomes in the state, highlighting the importance of this specialized education.

The MSN with midwifery specialization also fosters skills in teaching, counseling, and leadership, which are crucial for professional collaboration and patient advocacy. For individuals exploring nursing careers, this degree is a critical step toward achieving advanced practice roles with significant responsibility and impact.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Mississippi demands a rigorous academic and professional background. These requirements reflect the advanced responsibilities and competitive nature of the field.

• Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a regionally accredited or internationally recognized institution. Non-nursing bachelor's degrees are rarely accepted in these programs.
• GPA Requirement: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally required, ensuring candidates meet high academic standards.
• Registered Nursing License: A current, unencumbered RN license valid in Mississippi or a multistate compact state is mandatory for admission.
• Clinical Experience: Although not always required, at least one year of professional nursing experience is often preferred to demonstrate practical competence.
• Prerequisite Courses: Completion of college-level statistics is commonly required, along with courses like human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nutrition depending on the program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two to three professional references are typically needed, usually including a nursing supervisor and an academic or professional colleague.
• Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a statement of purpose outlining their career goals and motivation for pursuing nurse midwifery.
• Resume or CV: A current resume detailing relevant education, work experience, and certifications is required for evaluation.
• Interview: Some programs conduct interviews, either in person or virtually, for shortlisted applicants to assess suitability.
• International Students: International degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency, and English proficiency may need to be demonstrated per program policies.
• Mississippi-Specific Requirements: Faculty and administrators must hold an unencumbered Mississippi or multistate RN license and pass a criminal background check, reflecting the state’s regulatory rigor.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Mississippi?

Nurse midwife programs in Mississippi feature a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with advanced clinical skills and knowledge essential for practice in women’s health. The curriculum integrates both national accreditation standards and Mississippi-specific requirements, ensuring graduates meet licensure and certification criteria.

• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills in physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment for women across all ages, enabling accurate diagnosis and monitoring in reproductive and primary care settings.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on medication management related to women’s health, pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, preparing students to safely prescribe and oversee pharmacotherapies.
• Reproductive Health and Gynecology: Covers normal and pathological gynecologic conditions, contraceptive methods, and sexually transmitted infections to provide comprehensive reproductive care to diverse populations.
• Maternal and Newborn Care: Emphasizes evidence-based management throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum periods, including care for high-risk cases to ensure safe, family-centered outcomes.
• Primary Care for Women: Addresses diagnosis and management of common acute and chronic health issues in women, supporting integrated primary care delivery alongside other health professionals.
• Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Management: Offers in-depth study of physiological and psychological changes during pregnancy and childbirth, preparing students for independent clinical decision-making.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Introduces research methods and critical literature appraisal, promoting lifelong learning and continual clinical improvement.
• Professional Issues and Leadership in Midwifery: Explores legal, ethical, and cultural aspects of midwifery practice in Mississippi, including collaborative agreements and advocacy for women’s health.
• Clinical Practicum Experiences: Provides supervised practical training in varied clinical settings, ensuring competence in all aspects of nurse midwifery care.

Additional coursework may address regional health priorities such as community/public health nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health nursing, reflecting the focus of nurse midwife program courses in Mississippi.

To understand how long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife, prospective students should consider the depth and breadth of this curriculum and clinical training required for licensure and certification.

With the courses mentioned above, graduates of nurse midwife programs can work in the highest-paying industries shown below:

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

In Mississippi, nurse midwife programs require students to complete a minimum of 1,000 supervised clinical hours, emphasizing hands-on training across a range of healthcare environments. These include hospital labor and delivery units, postpartum wards, birthing centers focused on low-intervention care, OB/GYN clinics offering prenatal and gynecologic services, and community health clinics that serve diverse patient populations. This broad exposure ensures that students build a well-rounded foundation in maternal and newborn care.

Key clinical competencies include managing prenatal assessments, supporting labor and delivery (including high-risk scenarios), providing postpartum care, conducting newborn evaluations, and offering reproductive health services such as contraception counseling.

All training is closely supervised by licensed preceptors—usually certified nurse midwives or OB/GYN physicians—who evaluate student performance and verify readiness for independent practice. Even though Mississippi has one of the lowest employment levels for CNMs, training standards remain aligned with national expectations.

The state mandates at least one year of post-basic education and direct supervision for provisional certification holders. Recent regulatory changes have also enhanced autonomy for CNMs by eliminating the requirement for collaborative agreements with physicians, provided all clinical education criteria are met. This regulatory structure helps ensure that CNMs are both well-prepared and empowered to deliver high-quality care across Mississippi’s evolving healthcare landscape.

The chart below highlights the states with the fewest practicing nurse midwives, offering additional context on workforce distribution nationwide.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Mississippi begins with earning a BSN, which typically takes four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in Mississippi. The exam and state processing can take several months depending on scheduling and administrative factors.

Following RN licensure, aspiring nurse midwives must enroll in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, such as an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), from an accredited institution. Since Mississippi lacks on-campus accredited CNM programs, most students complete these programs online while arranging clinical placements locally.

The graduate coursework typically requires 2 to 3 years for BSN holders, or 3 to 4 years for those entering via a bridge program from an associate degree. Students must also complete between 1,000 and 2,000 clinical practice hours, with exact requirements influenced by prior RN experience.

After graduation, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) before applying for advanced practice licensure in Mississippi. State-specific factors include a mandated collaborative practice agreement with a licensed physician, which can delay initial licensure if not promptly secured.

Additionally, CNMs must participate in ongoing quality assurance programs and notify the state board of any changes in their collaborative relationship. Overall, the process from starting a BSN to full CNM certification in Mississippi generally spans 6 to 8 years, subject to variations in clinical placements and administrative processing times.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Mississippi varies primarily between public institutions, as there are no private schools accredited for nurse-midwifery education within the state. At the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), in-state graduate nursing students pay about $562 per credit hour, resulting in an estimated total tuition of $20,232 for the typical two-year Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

Out-of-state students face a significant surcharge, with tuition totaling approximately $59,744 for the same duration. Mississippi State University requires a one-time enrollment deposit of $750, but specific tuition rates for graduate nursing programs were not published for the 2025–2026 academic year.

When assessing the overall cost of becoming a nurse midwife in Mississippi, students should also consider additional expenses beyond tuition. These include university and program fees, which can amount to over $1,000, as well as textbooks and course materials costing between $1,000 and $2,000 throughout the program. Clinical supplies such as scrubs and stethoscopes typically add another $300 to $600.

Furthermore, licensure and certification fees, including the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam and state licensure, range from $600 to $700, while miscellaneous costs like background checks and immunizations may add $100 to $300.

Prospective students interested in the length and requirements of nursing specialties might find it helpful to explore resources detailing how many years to become a womens health nurse practitioner.

Overall, the total cost for attending nurse midwife school in Mississippi at public universities generally falls between $23,000 and $25,000 for residents, while out-of-state students should prepare for expenses near $63,000 to $65,000. These figures reflect tuition and essential program-related expenses but exclude living costs or lost wages during full-time study.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Mississippi includes a variety of federal, state, and institutional programs designed to reduce educational costs and encourage service in underserved areas. These options combine loans, scholarships, stipends, and repayment incentives tailored to support advanced nursing education and address local healthcare needs.

• Federal Loans: Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans cover tuition and expenses but require repayment with interest.
• State Forgivable Loans (NELM): Offers up to $4,000 per year to Mississippi residents pursuing a master’s in nursing, forgivable upon state-based employment.
• Mississippi Nurses Foundation Scholarships: Includes grants and stipends like the Car Tag Stipend Program, awarding up to $5,000 to eligible students.
• HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship: Provides up to $75,000 for tuition and living costs in exchange for service at shortage facilities.
• NHSC Loan Repayment: Repays up to $75,000 for certified nurse midwives working in Health Professional Shortage Areas.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Federal or institutional programs offer part-time employment to support educational expenses.
• Institutional and Professional Scholarships: Universities and nursing organizations provide additional financial awards based on merit or service commitment.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Mississippi who graduated locally, she reflected on the complexity of navigating multiple aid sources. “I had to apply early and stay organized because each program had different deadlines and requirements,” she said.

The combination of forgivable loans and scholarships was vital in managing costs, especially balancing coursework with clinical hours. She emphasized the relief provided by loan forgiveness tied to serving Mississippi communities, noting, “Knowing my debt could be reduced by working where I’m needed most made the financial burden less daunting.”

This personal insight highlights the importance of proactive planning and understanding the nuanced aid landscape for nurse midwife students in Mississippi.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Mississippi?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Mississippi is essential for students seeking CNM certification, as only graduates of ACME-accredited programs qualify for national certification and advanced practice licensure. These programs guarantee comprehensive academic and clinical training, preparing students to meet the state’s healthcare needs effectively.

• University of Mississippi Medical Center – Nurse-Midwifery Track (DNP): This is Mississippi’s only in-state ACME-accredited program offering a Doctor of Nursing Practice with a nurse-midwifery track. It boasts extensive clinical partnerships throughout Mississippi, providing hands-on experience with diverse populations of women and infants.
• Frontier Nursing University – Distance Learning Option: Based in Kentucky, this ACME-accredited program offers a flexible distance education format to Mississippi residents. It allows students to complete clinical rotations locally, an ideal choice for working nurses and those in rural areas.
• Georgetown University – Online Nurse-Midwifery Program: This program combines a rigorous curriculum with a strong national reputation and is accessible online for Mississippi students. Clinical experiences are completed at approved sites within Mississippi under expert faculty guidance.
• Vanderbilt University – MSN in Nurse-Midwifery: Located in Tennessee, Vanderbilt admits Mississippi students to its highly regarded program. It offers a mix of academic rigor and clinical placements, sometimes available within Mississippi healthcare settings.
• University of Cincinnati – Online Nurse-Midwifery MSN: Known for affordability and flexibility, this fully online ACME-accredited program accepts Mississippi students and supports clinical requirements at approved Mississippi locations.

Given the low number of CNMs in Mississippi, expanding access through these top accredited nurse midwife programs in Mississippi and online nurse midwifery schools for Mississippi students is critical. For those evaluating career prospects, understanding the potential nurse income by state is also an important factor in decision-making.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Mississippi?

Advanced degrees play a vital role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Mississippi. These graduate-level credentials enable CNMs to access leadership roles and specialized practice areas within the state’s healthcare system.

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Nurse-Midwifery Track: This ACME-accredited degree is the essential credential for entry-level CNM practice in Mississippi. It prepares nurses for clinical leadership, education, and specialized women’s health roles, forming the foundation for career growth.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery or Women’s Health: Designed for nurses with an MSN in other specialties, this certificate provides focused training for midwifery or women’s health nurse practitioner roles. It supports career shifts and dual certification, especially valuable in rural and underserved Mississippi communities.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Recognized as the terminal practice degree, the DNP equips CNMs for advanced clinical leadership, policy advocacy, and academic faculty positions. Programs in Mississippi accommodate both post-BSN and post-MSN entry points.
• PhD in Nursing or Health Sciences: This research-oriented doctorate prepares CNMs for academic research, faculty roles, and leadership in nursing education. Graduates contribute to evidence-based practice and address maternal health challenges through grants and scholarship.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Mississippi?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse midwife programs across the United States, including Mississippi. This exclusive recognition underscores the critical role ACME accreditation plays in ensuring educational quality and eligibility for professional certification.

ACME enforces comprehensive standards that cover curriculum rigor, faculty credentials, and student outcomes to maintain the integrity of nurse midwife education programs. It grants three types of accreditation: preaccreditation for new programs lasting up to five years, initial accreditation for five years, and continued accreditation for up to ten years.

Graduating from any ACME-accredited program is essential for sitting the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, a mandatory step for licensure as a certified nurse-midwife in Mississippi. Given the competitive nature and the specific requirements of nurse midwife program tuition in Mississippi, prospective students should evaluate programs carefully.

For those exploring options, resources like easy RN to MSN online programs to get into can provide additional guidance. State oversight by the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning complements ACME’s role by aligning nursing programs with statewide educational standards, but ACME accreditation remains the definitive requirement for national certification and practice in Mississippi.

What are the licensing and renewal requirements for nurse midwives in Mississippi?

Nurse midwives in Mississippi must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board before applying for state licensure through the Mississippi Board of Nursing. Post-certification, CNMs are required to renew their licenses on a set cycle—typically every two to three years—by submitting documentation that confirms completion of the necessary continuing education credits and, if applicable, updated collaborative practice agreements. Compliance with these renewal requirements is essential for maintaining practice privileges and ensuring up-to-date clinical competency. Professionals are encouraged to review state board updates periodically and consider exploring additional advanced credentials through top nurse practitioner programs in Mississippi for expanded career opportunities.

What do nurse midwives in Mississippi say about their careers?

• Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in the unique healthcare needs of our state. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share my passion for maternal health with the next generation of caregivers. Mississippi's rich cultural fabric and community-focused values bring special challenges and rewards to this work, making every day meaningful. I feel a profound sense of purpose contributing to improved birth outcomes and empowering young women in my community. Hailey
• Graduating from Jackson State University's nurse midwifery program opened doors I never imagined, especially in terms of professional growth and advancement. Working in Mississippi means navigating both rural and urban healthcare settings, which has sharpened my clinical skills and cultural competence. I find great satisfaction in mentoring students at a local school, knowing I’m helping shape compassionate, skilled practitioners who will serve our diverse populations. The stability and respect for nurse midwives here make this career deeply rewarding. Megan
• My journey through the nurse midwifery program at Delta State University was challenging but incredibly rewarding, especially given the unique healthcare disparities in Mississippi. I’ve grown personally and professionally by engaging with communities that value strong family ties and traditional practices, which influence my approach to care. Teaching at a local school has been a joy, as I witness firsthand the passion and dedication students bring to this vital field. This career offers unmatched opportunities to make a tangible difference in women’s lives across our state. Dina

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Mississippi

No, you cannot become a CNM in Mississippi without a nursing degree. To practice as a midwife with full certification, you must first become an RN. This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After gaining RN licensure, you must earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program.

Mississippi follows national standards requiring nurse midwives to have both nursing and midwifery education. Direct-entry midwifery without a nursing background is not recognized for CNM certification here. However, some may pursue certification as a certified professional midwife (CPM), which does not require a nursing degree but offers different scope and recognition.

For those aiming to become nurse midwives in Mississippi, the pathway involves nursing education first, followed by specialized midwifery training. This ensures clinical competence and legal licensure for safe practice within the state.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, formally known as a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate-level training in midwifery and is nationally certified.

In Mississippi, CNMs are licensed to provide comprehensive care including prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum, and gynecological services, often working in hospitals or clinics alongside physicians.

In contrast, traditional midwives, sometimes called direct-entry midwives, may not have nursing training and typically receive certification through non-nursing midwifery programs. Their scope is generally more limited to supporting natural childbirth in home or birthing center settings and may not include the ability to prescribe medications or perform certain medical procedures.

Globally, nurse midwives often have a broader medical role, integrating nursing and midwifery, while midwives may focus more on holistic, low-intervention birth care. Understanding these distinctions helps expectant mothers choose the care best suited to their needs and ensures clarity in professional roles within Mississippi’s healthcare system.

Is a midwife in Mississippi higher than a RN?

In Mississippi, a midwife is not generally considered "higher" than an RN in terms of hierarchy but rather has a specialized scope of practice focusing on childbirth and women’s reproductive health. Registered nurses complete broad nursing education and licensure, while CNMs undergo additional advanced training and certification specifically in midwifery.

According to the Mississippi Board of Nursing, RNs must hold at least an associate degree in nursing, whereas CNMs must be licensed RNs with graduate-level midwifery education, typically a master’s degree.

Midwives in Mississippi have independent practice rights related to prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, which RNs do not. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) reports that the median annual wage for nurse midwives nationally is about $120,000, compared to roughly $75,000 for registered nurses, reflecting the advanced training and specialized services provided by midwives. However, in terms of clinical hierarchy within healthcare facilities, RNs often have broader roles, and midwives operate as specialists within their domain rather than a rank above RNs.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Mississippi hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Mississippi can be challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a BSN and gaining licensure as an RN. Afterward, candidates must enroll in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs are rigorous and combine advanced coursework with clinical practice.

Mississippi also requires nurse midwives to obtain national certification through AMCB and secure state licensure. Meeting these requirements demands time, effort, and financial investment. However, the state’s supportive healthcare environment and growing demand for midwifery services offer good career prospects. Those with strong academic skills and a commitment to maternal-child health typically succeed in this pathway.

Overall, while the path to becoming a nurse midwife in Mississippi involves multiple steps and standards, it is not unusually difficult compared to other states, especially for motivated individuals.

References:

• ACME. (n.d.). ACME Accredited Programs. theacme.org.
• American College of Nurse-Midwives. (2025, July 10). Certified Midwife credential - American College of Nurse Midwives. American College of Nurse Midwives. midwife.org.
• AMCB. (2024). Certified Nurse-Midwives/Certified Midwives by State. amcbmidwife.org.
• BLS. (2024). Nurse midwives. bls.gov.
• CHEA. (n.d.). Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. chea.org.
• Frontier Nursing University. (n.d.). Nurse-Midwifery Program (Certified Nurse-Midwife, CNM). frontier.edu.
• MANP. (n.d.). Mississippi Association of Nurse Practitioners. msanp.org.
• Midwifeschooling.com (2025, June 12). How to become a certified Nurse midwife in Mississippi 2025. How to Become a Nurse Midwife | State by State Guide to Nurse Midwife Masters Programs. midwifeschooling.com.
• Mississippi Board of Nursing. (n.d.). Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. msbn.ms.gov.
• NLM. (2024, April 4). How to become a midwife - Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). nursinglicensemap.com.
• NurseJournal.org. (2023, October 16). Become nurse in Mississippi + Requirements & licensing. nursejournal.org.
• Vanderford, R. (n.d.). OB-GYN integrates nurse-midwifery into maternal health care - University of Mississippi Medical Center. umc.edu.