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

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Nurse midwives in Missouri play a vital role in providing comprehensive care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. With a growing emphasis on maternal health and holistic care, certified nurse midwives (CNMs) are increasingly sought after in hospitals, birth centers, and private practices across the state.

Missouri offers diverse opportunities for nurse midwives, particularly in underserved rural areas where their expertise is in high demand. To pursue this rewarding career, candidates must complete advanced nursing education and obtain national certification and state licensure. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to become a nurse-midwife in Missouri and the educational requirements you’ll need to meet.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Missouri

Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and obtain your registered nursing (RN) license in Missouri to meet state eligibility requirements for nurse midwife programs.
Enroll in an accredited nurse midwifery graduate program, which typically takes 2 to 3 years, focusing on clinical experience and advanced maternal care.
Pass the national certification exam from the American Midwifery Certification Board to practice legally and explore Missouri’s growing demand with a median salary around $117,572.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in Missouri, the minimum degree requirement is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse midwifery. This advanced degree equips aspiring professionals with the knowledge and skills essential for the complex demands of midwifery practice. The nurse midwife education requirements in Missouri emphasize both theoretical learning and extensive clinical practicum experiences.

These experiences, often exceeding 1,000 hours, ensure graduates are proficient in advanced health assessment, prenatal and postpartum care, labor and delivery management, and newborn care. This rigorous training prepares nurse midwives to confidently support women’s health across the lifespan and meet the growing healthcare needs in Missouri’s communities.

Obtaining an MSN with a midwifery focus aligns with national standards and is vital for qualifying for national certification and state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). This degree not only provides clinical expertise but also fosters critical thinking and leadership skills necessary for this impactful career.

For those considering this path, exploring nursing careers can be both inspiring and strategic, especially given the increasing demand for qualified nurse midwives in underserved areas. The comprehensive preparation through this minimum degree for nurse midwives in Missouri ensures that graduates contribute meaningfully to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes across the state.

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

Achieving admission to nurse midwife programs in Missouri demands not only strong academic credentials but also relevant clinical experience and professional preparedness. Below are the key requirements to keep in mind as you prepare your application.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN is required for traditional MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) nurse midwife programs. Those with an associate degree (ADN) may pursue RN-to-MSN bridge programs.
Accredited Program Completion: Applicants must have graduated from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), essential for licensing and certification.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA to ensure academic readiness for advanced study.
RN License: A current and unencumbered RN license is mandatory throughout the application and enrollment process.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time nursing experience in labor and delivery, mother-baby, or outpatient OB/GYN is typically required; some programs accept other maternal-child health experience or significant observational work.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are usually needed, including those from a direct supervisor, a peer nurse, and an advanced degree nurse (MSN, DNP, or PhD).
Personal Statement/Essay: A written essay detailing your motivation, goals, and relevant experiences in midwifery is commonly required.
Background Check and Drug Screening: Passing these screenings is a standard part of the admissions process to ensure patient safety and professionalism.
Standardized Test Scores: Some programs may request GRE scores, although many Missouri programs have recently dropped this requirement.
Admission Requirements for International Students: Proof of English proficiency and credential evaluation for U.S. equivalency are necessary; additional criteria may apply depending on the institution.
Unique Missouri Requirements: Programs may emphasize clinical placements in rural or underserved areas, reflecting the state’s focus on addressing healthcare needs in these communities.

The chart below shows the educational attainment of certified nurse midwives.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Missouri?

The nurse midwife program curriculum Missouri students encounter is designed to build a strong foundation in both clinical expertise and theoretical knowledge. These courses prepare future midwives to meet the specific healthcare needs of women and families across the state while adhering to Missouri’s regulatory standards.

Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches thorough physical and psychosocial evaluations across all ages, essential for early detection of health issues in midwifery practice.
Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on medication management and prescribing within Missouri’s APRN scope, emphasizing safe use during pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers contraception, fertility, and gynecological care, ensuring evidence-based support for women’s reproductive needs throughout life.
Antepartum Care: Equips students to manage normal and high-risk pregnancies before labor with prenatal screenings and counseling skills.
Intrapartum Care: Trains students to provide safe, patient-centered labor and delivery management, including complication response.
Postpartum and Newborn Care: Prepares graduates to assist mothers and infants after birth, including lactation support and newborn health assessments.
Maternal and Newborn Pathophysiology: Explores physiological changes and complications to enable recognition and management of complex cases.
Primary Care for Women and Families: Focuses on holistic care, including chronic disease management and preventive health education.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Introduces critical appraisal of scientific literature and research integration to improve patient outcomes.
Professional Issues and Ethics in Midwifery: Addresses legal, ethical, and state-specific practice guidelines essential for professional conduct in Missouri.
Clinical Practicum Experiences: Provides supervised hands-on training in varied clinical settings to meet Missouri’s competency requirements.

When exploring courses in Missouri nurse midwifery schools, it’s important to understand how each course contributes to developing confident, skilled professionals ready to serve diverse populations. For those wondering how long does it take to become a midwife, this curriculum forms the backbone of that journey, ensuring readiness for both certification and practice.

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

Missouri’s nurse midwife programs combine rigorous academics with extensive hands-on experience to prepare students for the demands of advanced practice. Here’s what aspiring nurse midwives can expect during their clinical training:

Minimum of 1,000 Clinical Hours: Students must complete at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours as part of their graduate midwifery program.
Diverse Clinical Settings: Training occurs in hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and community health centers to ensure exposure to a wide range of patient care environments.
Core Competencies Covered: Students develop skills in prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic services like contraception counseling.
Preceptor Supervision: All clinical work is closely supervised by licensed nurse midwives or physicians who provide mentorship and evaluate student readiness for independent practice.
State-Mandated Prerequisites: Before clinical placements, students must have at least six months of recent RN experience in labor and delivery, certification in neonatal resuscitation, and certification in fetal heart rate monitoring.
Collaborative Practice Agreement: To gain prescriptive authority in Missouri, nurse midwives must maintain a collaborative agreement with a licensed physician.

This comprehensive training ensures graduates are fully prepared to deliver safe, competent care across Missouri’s diverse maternal health settings.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Missouri who graduated locally, she described her clinical training as both demanding and deeply rewarding. She recalled the challenge of balancing the intense 1,000-hour clinical commitment with rigorous coursework, but emphasized how invaluable the mentorship from her preceptors was. “They didn’t just watch over me—they invested in my growth,” she said.

She also shared how working across different settings—from urban hospitals to rural birthing centers—shaped her confidence and adaptability. Reflecting on the process, she acknowledged the state’s requirements pushed her to become a well-rounded provider, prepared for the realities of Missouri’s maternal health landscape. “It was tough, no doubt,” she admitted, “but knowing I was gaining real-world skills every day made it worth every moment.”

To better understand the work-life balance of nurse midwives in Missouri, the following image illustrates how many AMCB-certified midwives work part-time versus full-time.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Missouri begins with earning a BSN, which typically takes about four years of full-time study. After completing your BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN licensure. This step can take several months, depending on exam scheduling and state processing times. Gaining some clinical experience as an RN before moving on to graduate studies can be beneficial, though it’s not always required.

The next phase is completing a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, either an MSN or a DNP with a focus on nurse midwifery. MSN programs usually take between two to three years, while BSN-to-DNP programs often require three to four years. These programs demand rigorous coursework and clinical rotations that often exceed 500 hours under supervision, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the challenges of midwifery practice. Both program types must hold accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).

After graduation, you’ll take the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Passing this exam allows you to apply for APRN licensure through the Missouri Board of Nursing. Here, you’ll need to submit your RN license, AMCB certification, a background check, and pay a $150 fee.

Missouri requires a collaborative practice agreement with a physician for prescriptive authority, which can add to the timeline. Overall, the process usually takes six to eight years, though licensing and collaborative agreement steps may extend this period slightly.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in Missouri can vary widely based on whether you choose a public or private institution, as well as your residency status. Typically, public institutions offer more affordable options for Missouri residents, with average graduate tuition around $17,789 per year for in-state students. Out-of-state students face higher tuition, averaging about $30,782 annually.

Private schools generally charge more, with tuition ranges between $30,000 and $50,000 per year. These figures provide a helpful benchmark when exploring nurse midwife program tuition in Missouri, giving you a realistic expectation of the financial commitment involved.

Beyond tuition, additional program costs are essential to consider. Student fees, textbooks, and learning materials can add several thousand dollars to your budget—fees may range from $6,000 to $7,000, while textbooks and supplies often exceed $4,000 for the program duration.

Clinical supplies such as uniforms and supply kits, health and safety requirements including background checks and immunizations, technology needs like laptops, and licensure fees also contribute to overall expenses. The licensure process itself involves costs for applications, fingerprinting, and certification exams, which are necessary steps toward becoming a qualified nurse midwife.

When planning your path to becoming a nurse midwife, it’s important to factor in how these costs accumulate over the typical two-year graduate program, which can total $40,000 to $60,000 for Missouri residents and $60,000 to $90,000 or more for out-of-state students. Understanding these expenses early on can empower you to make informed decisions about your education and career.

For a deeper understanding of professional requirements, familiarize yourself with advanced practice registered nurse requirements to ensure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.

The chart below shows the highest-paying industries for nurse midwives.

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

Financing nurse midwife education in Missouri can feel overwhelming, but a variety of targeted aid options make it manageable. Leveraging these resources strategically helps ease the financial burden while you focus on your studies and clinical training.

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The essential gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study eligibility, FAFSA is the first step for accessing most financial aid.
Federal Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized loans with fixed rates support tuition and living costs, offering flexible repayment plans post-graduation.
Missouri Professional and Practical Nursing Student Loan Program: Provides up to $5,000 annually for Missouri residents in approved nursing programs, prioritizing underrepresented groups and part-time doctoral students.
Institutional Scholarships: Schools like the University of Missouri offer scholarships based on merit or need, often renewing annually to support ongoing education.
Loan Repayment Programs: Federal initiatives such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program reward service in underserved areas by reducing student debt.
Work-Study Opportunities: Part-time campus jobs related to nursing provide income and professional experience, eligibility tied to FAFSA results.

I recently spoke with a nurse midwife from Missouri who graduated from a local program. She shared how navigating the state loan program alongside multiple scholarships lifted much of her financial stress. "Applying early made all the difference," she said, emphasizing how the annual $5,000 state loan helped cover tuition gaps while she balanced clinical rotations. She also valued the work-study role that gave her hands-on exposure and income simultaneously. Reflecting back, she noted, "The combination of state, federal, and institutional aid created a safety net that made pursuing my dream achievable without overwhelming debt."

How can nurse midwives effectively collaborate with nurse practitioners and other advanced healthcare professionals in Missouri?

Nurse midwives in Missouri can enhance clinical outcomes and streamline patient care by adopting robust interprofessional collaboration models. This includes participating in joint professional development initiatives, engaging in shared decision-making, and establishing formal referral networks that bridge the expertise of nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and other specialists. Utilizing integrated care teams not only broadens clinical competencies but also facilitates evidence-based practices that cater to diverse patient needs. For further complementary training and interdisciplinary insights, consider exploring the top nurse practitioner programs in Missouri.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Missouri?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Missouri is essential for anyone aiming to become a CNM. Accreditation ensures the program meets the highest standards, preparing you thoroughly for national certification and advanced practice licensure. Your education lays the foundation for success in a rewarding career supporting women’s health.

Here are five top nurse midwife schools Missouri offers, each with unique strengths to consider:

University of Kansas Medical Center - DNP Nurse-Midwife Track: This fully ACME-accredited program boasts a remarkable 100% AMCB certification pass rate among graduates for over ten years. It focuses on strong clinical preparation and is designed for post-baccalaureate nurses seeking advanced practice roles.
Saint Louis University - MSN Nurse-Midwifery Concentration: Known for its robust clinical partnerships with hospitals and birthing centers, SLU offers a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experience. Faculty are leaders in women’s health research and midwifery practice, enriching the educational environment.
Research College of Nursing - MSN Nurse Midwifery Track: In partnership with Georgetown University, this hybrid program combines online coursework from Georgetown with local clinical placements in Missouri. It provides flexibility for working professionals without compromising on intensive in-person clinical training.
Missouri State University - Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Tailored for nurses with a master’s degree, this program offers a focused curriculum and access to a statewide clinical network. It supports healthcare delivery in both rural and urban areas across Missouri.
University of Missouri-Kansas City - DNP with Nurse Midwifery Emphasis: UMKC emphasizes interprofessional education and diverse clinical sites in the Kansas City area. This DNP option prepares graduates for leadership and advanced clinical practice roles, addressing critical healthcare needs in the state.

For students exploring how to find jobs with a doctorate in nursing, selecting an accredited nurse midwifery program in Missouri is your first step toward a successful career that makes a real difference in maternal and women’s health.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Missouri?

Advanced degrees open doors for CNMs in Missouri, expanding their impact in clinical care, leadership, and education. Pursuing higher education is a vital step to unlock these opportunities and shape your professional future.

MSN with Nurse Midwifery Focus: This essential graduate degree prepares you for CNM certification and practice, providing comprehensive skills in women’s health and childbirth. Graduates often enter clinical roles delivering primary care and midwifery services across Missouri.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest clinical degree, the DNP equips CNMs for leadership roles such as healthcare administrators or directors of midwifery programs. This degree emphasizes evidence-based practice and policy influence within healthcare systems.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery: Designed for RNs who already hold an MSN, this certificate allows you to add midwifery expertise, opening doors to new clinical and teaching positions in Missouri’s growing midwifery field.
PhD in Nursing: Ideal for those passionate about research and academia, the PhD prepares CNMs to become faculty, researchers, or policy advisors who advance midwifery science and education.

In addition to expanded career paths, midwifery care is also linked to significant cost savings—see the image below to compare the average cost of midwifery-led birth centers versus traditional hospital births.

Cost of midwifery-led birth centers versus traditional hospital births

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Missouri?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education stands as the sole accrediting body authorized by the U.S. Department of Education to oversee nurse midwife programs nationwide. Its role is vital in maintaining rigorous academic and clinical standards, ensuring that students in Missouri receive an education that truly prepares them for professional success.

ACME accreditation is not just a formal endorsement but a gateway for graduates to qualify for national certification and licensure as nurse midwives. In Missouri, completing a program with full ACME accreditation is mandatory for eligibility to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, which is required for advanced practice licensure. This accreditation guarantees that the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical experiences meet the high standards expected in the profession. For students considering the nurse midwife program tuition in Missouri, selecting an ACME-accredited program is essential to ensure their education is recognized and valued.

While ACME focuses specifically on midwifery education, other organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) offer institutional accreditation for broader nursing degrees. However, only ACME accreditation directly impacts nurse midwife certification eligibility. Aspiring nurse midwives should also be aware of state-level approvals, like those from the Missouri State Board of Nursing, which regulate licensure prerequisites.

For those weighing the cost of nurse midwifery school in Missouri, it’s helpful to research accredited programs carefully to balance quality education with affordability. Additionally, prospective students might find the ranking of easiest RN to MSN online programs to get into useful in identifying programs that fit their goals and financial considerations.

What do nurse midwives in Missouri say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Missouri was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in both the science and art of midwifery. Missouri’s rich community resources allowed me to engage with families from diverse backgrounds, which has shaped my approach to care. Starting my teaching career in a local school has been incredibly rewarding, as I get to inspire future nurse midwives while continuing to learn from them. The sense of stability and growth opportunities here make this state a fantastic place to build a long-term career. I truly feel that I’m contributing positively to the health and well-being of women and children in my community. Mel
Finishing my studies at Saint Louis University opened doors I never expected, especially when I began teaching in a local nursing program. The balance between clinical practice and education has fueled my passion for nurturing new talent in the field. Living and working in Missouri offers unique challenges, like addressing rural healthcare disparities, but it also provides a strong support network that fosters professional growth. I find profound satisfaction knowing my work directly impacts families in both urban and rural parts of the state. This career has allowed me to grow not only as a nurse midwife but as a community advocate. Enzo
My journey started at Missouri State University, where the program’s emphasis on community health deeply influenced my path. Working in Missouri gives me the chance to serve diverse populations and address specific cultural needs tied to this region. The opportunities for career advancement are excellent, and the professional development resources are robust, which keeps me motivated to excel. I appreciate the chance to mentor students as a teacher in a local school because it allows me to share my passion for holistic care and empower young professionals. This career has truly enriched my life and helped me make a meaningful difference in my community. Rosie

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Missouri without first obtaining a nursing degree. To pursue a career as a nurse midwife, you must be an RN. This requires completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. The nursing background is essential because nurse midwifery builds on nursing knowledge and skills.

After becoming an RN, you need to complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs typically award a master’s or doctoral degree with a focus on midwifery.

Once the educational requirements are met, you must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB to practice as a CNM in Missouri. Without a nursing degree and RN licensure, you cannot legally become a certified nurse midwife in the state.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide care to pregnant individuals, but they differ significantly in training, scope, and certification. A nurse midwife, specifically a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery and is nationally certified. In Missouri and across the U.S., CNMs are licensed healthcare providers authorized to deliver babies, provide prenatal and postpartum care, and offer primary care services for women. They practice in hospitals, birthing centers, and clinics.

In contrast, a midwife may refer to a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife who does not hold nursing credentials but is trained specifically in childbirth and maternity care. CPMs focus mainly on out-of-hospital births and may have varying legal recognition across states, including Missouri.

Globally, midwives’ training and roles vary widely, with some countries recognizing direct-entry midwives as primary maternity care providers. The key difference lies in the CNM’s nursing background and broader healthcare scope compared to midwives who concentrate primarily on childbirth and prenatal care without nursing licensure.

Is a midwife in Missouri higher than an RN?

In Missouri, a midwife and a registered nurse hold distinct roles with different scopes of practice, education, and regulatory frameworks, making direct comparisons of hierarchy complex. Registered nurses typically complete a nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, enabling them to provide broad healthcare services.

In contrast, CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses with graduate-level education focusing on pregnancy, childbirth, and women’s health. According to the AMCB, CNMs must hold a master’s degree and maintain certification, which places them at an advanced practice level above the RN in clinical specialization and responsibility.

Missouri recognizes CNMs as licensed advanced practice nurses with authority to provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, often collaborating with physicians. While RNs form the essential nursing workforce, CNMs have a higher level of autonomy in their specialty.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2023) reports median annual wages: RNs in Missouri earn about $65,000, whereas nurse-midwives earn approximately $117,572 nationally, indicating the advanced nature and demand for midwifery. Thus, in Missouri, a midwife with RN credentials and advanced certification is generally considered higher in clinical responsibility and specialization than a standard RN.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Missouri hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Missouri is challenging but achievable with dedication. The path requires completing a registered nursing (RN) program, gaining clinical experience, and then enrolling in an accredited nurse-midwifery graduate program. These programs typically award a master’s or doctoral degree and include rigorous coursework and extensive clinical training.

After graduation, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the AMCB. Missouri also requires state licensure to practice, which involves submitting proof of certification and meeting other state-specific requirements.

The process demands strong academic commitment and clinical skill development. However, support systems such as academic advisors and clinical preceptors are available to guide students. While the standards are high, the career’s rewarding nature and growing demand make the effort worthwhile for those passionate about women’s health and childbirth care in Missouri.