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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Nevada faces a growing demand for midwifery services, with its rural areas experiencing a 12% increase in birth rates over the past five years. This trend highlights the critical need for qualified nurse midwives who can provide comprehensive maternal care. So it goes without saying that pursuing this career offers strong job security and competitive salaries in Nevada’s healthcare market.

Unfortunately, many aspiring nurse midwives in Nevada struggle to navigate the complex education and licensing requirements needed to enter this rewarding field.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines clear steps and practical strategies for meeting midwife schooling requirements to help you achieve your professional goals efficiently.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Nevada

Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education to meet Nevada licensing requirements.
Pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board to practice legally in Nevada.
Understand Nevada’s scope of practice that allows nurse midwives to provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, with a median salary around $115,000 enhancing career prospects.

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

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

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery is the minimum degree requirement for becoming a nurse midwife in Nevada. This graduate degree provides the essential foundation for becoming a certified nurse midwife in the state. The curriculum covers critical areas such as women’s reproductive health, pregnancy management, childbirth, newborn care, and pharmacology.

These subjects ensure that graduates develop advanced clinical skills and a comprehensive understanding of maternal and infant care. By completing this program, aspiring nurse midwives are equipped to handle both routine and complex health scenarios, which is crucial for successful practice in Nevada’s healthcare system.

The master’s degree also fosters expertise in patient education and counseling, preparing nurse midwives to support families through the childbirth process and beyond. Nevada’s increasing demand for women’s health services highlights the importance of this qualification. The state’s recognition of the MSN in midwifery as the baseline credential underscores its role in maintaining high standards of care.

For those exploring career options, understanding what are the best specialty career choices for nurses can help clarify why this degree is vital for advancing in midwifery practice and meeting Nevada’s healthcare needs.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Nevada requires meeting specific academic, professional, and clinical standards. Below are the certified nurse midwife requirements you need to comply with for a successful application to such programs:

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must have a BSN or higher from an accredited institution; some programs accept associate degree RNs through RN-to-MSN bridge pathways.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is standard, though some schools may allow slightly lower GPAs with strong additional credentials.
Active RN License: An unrestricted, active registered nurse license in Nevada or another U.S. state is required and must be maintained throughout the program.
Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time clinical nursing experience is typically necessary; some programs accept related experience such as doula or childbirth educator roles.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from professionals familiar with the applicant’s clinical skills, academic readiness, and leadership are generally required.
Transcripts and Prerequisites: Official transcripts from all post-secondary schools and completion of prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, and statistics are needed.
Personal Statement/Resume: Submission of a personal statement outlining career goals and a current resume or CV detailing relevant experience is expected.
GRE Scores: Some programs may request GRE scores, although this requirement is becoming less common.
International Students: Must demonstrate English proficiency and provide documentation of equivalent nursing credentials and licensure.
Nevada-Specific Requirements: The University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers the state’s first in-state ACME-accredited CNM program; most candidates still attend ACME-accredited online programs to meet state standards.

To help you understand the financial outlook of this career path, the image below highlights the median salary for nurse midwives.

What is the median salary of nurse midwives?

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Nevada?

The nurse midwifery curriculum in Nevada is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for advanced midwifery care. The required courses for Nevada nurse midwife programs focus on clinical proficiency, evidence-based practice, and addressing the unique needs of diverse populations in the state. These courses include:

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills in performing thorough physical, psychosocial, and cultural evaluations of women and newborns to identify normal and abnormal clinical findings.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers management of reproductive health throughout a woman’s life, including contraception, fertility, and sexually transmitted infections, supporting holistic women’s health care.
Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Teaches safe medication management during pregnancy, labor, postpartum, and lactation, ensuring informed pharmacotherapeutic decisions in midwifery.
Antepartum Care: Focuses on assessing and managing normal and high-risk pregnancies with emphasis on prenatal screening and risk identification to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.
Intrapartum and Postpartum Care: Provides training in labor and birth management, pain control, emergency procedures, and postpartum support for safe childbirth experiences.
Newborn Care: Prepares students to assess and stabilize healthy and at-risk newborns, offering family-centered care and recognizing neonatal complications.
Women’s Primary Care: Expands preventive health skills and management of chronic and acute conditions, reflecting the broad scope of midwifery practice in Nevada.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Equips students to critically evaluate research and apply evidence-based guidelines to improve clinical decision-making and care quality.
Professional Issues and Ethics in Midwifery: Addresses legal, ethical, and professional standards specific to Nevada, including scope of practice and collaborative care models.
Clinical Practicum/Internship: Offers supervised hands-on experience in diverse Nevada clinical settings, integrating theory with real-world midwifery practice.

These required courses for Nevada nurse midwife programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared for certification and licensure in the state. For insights on career prospects and compensation, explore the midwife salary outlook and career paths.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Nevada require students to complete between 600 and 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training, with many programs setting a benchmark around 720 hours. These hours are completed across diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and primary care facilities. This range of experience provides students with comprehensive exposure to women’s health and childbirth care.

Throughout their training, students build key competencies in prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, newborn assessments, and gynecologic services. Supervised by experienced nurse midwives or physicians, students receive consistent feedback to ensure they meet clinical standards before progressing. This mentorship is essential to developing the clinical judgment and autonomy required for full-scope midwifery practice.

Nevada also requires an additional 200 hours of supervised clinical practice after graduation for nurse midwives to gain prescriptive authority. This state-specific mandate ensures new CNMs are fully prepared to prescribe independently, reinforcing the state’s emphasis on safe, autonomous care. Meanwhile, the chart below highlights the top-paying industries for midwives, offering insight into potential career opportunities following certification.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Nevada begins with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which typically takes four years of full-time study. After obtaining a BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to secure Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in Nevada. This licensure process can take several months depending on exam scheduling and application processing times. Additionally, most nurse midwifery programs require at least one year of professional RN experience before applying, which can add to the overall timeline.

After obtaining RN licensure and gaining the necessary experience, aspiring nurse midwives need to complete an accredited graduate-level nurse-midwifery program, such as an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery concentration. These programs generally take 2 to 3 years of full-time study, including clinical training and coursework. Nevada offers in-state options like the ACME-accredited program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, while online programs remain viable alternatives for those outside urban areas.

After graduation, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board to become certified nurse midwives. Following certification, applicants apply for APRN licensure in Nevada, which may involve additional background checks and paperwork, potentially adding weeks or months to the process.

Nevada also requires 200 hours of supervised clinical practice post-graduation for CNMs seeking independent prescriptive authority. Maintaining licensure requires 45 hours of continuing education every two years, ensuring ongoing professional development.

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

The nurse midwife program cost in Nevada varies depending on whether you attend a public or private institution and your residency status. Public universities typically charge tuition on a per-credit basis, with national averages ranging from $500 to $700 or more per credit hour.

Given most programs require 50 to 60 credits, total tuition costs for in-state students can range from $25,000 to $42,000 for the entire program. Private institutions often charge higher tuition rates, sometimes exceeding $1,000 per credit hour, which can bring the total cost to $50,000 or more.

Tuition for nurse midwife school Nevada also shows a significant difference between in-state and out-of-state students. In-state tuition averages around $17,789 per year, while out-of-state students may pay approximately $30,782 annually. These figures reflect national averages but provide a practical estimate for prospective students.

Additional expenses include mandatory university fees, which may total $500 to $2,000 yearly, textbooks and course materials costing between $1,000 and $2,000, and clinical supplies with a one-time cost of $300 to $800.

Beyond tuition and fees, students should budget for immunizations, background checks, and health requirements, which typically range from $200 to $400. Licensure and certification fees after graduation can add $700 to $1,500, covering state licensure and national certification exams. Transportation and potential relocation for clinical rotations may further increase costs.

For those exploring program requirements, it is helpful to review the advanced practice registered nurse requirements to understand the full scope of training and certification involved.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Nevada includes a variety of federal, state, and institutional programs designed to reduce education costs. Knowing which options to pursue and how to apply can ease the financial burden throughout your studies.

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants for eligible students, offering up to $7,495 annually without requiring repayment.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Graduate students may borrow up to $20,500 yearly with fixed interest, regardless of financial need.
Graduate PLUS Loans: Cover full attendance costs minus other aid, requiring a credit check, with flexible borrowing limits.
Federal Work-Study Programs: Part-time jobs providing $4,000–$8,000 per year in earnings that don’t need to be repaid.
University of Nevada Scholarships: Donor-funded awards specifically for nursing and midwifery students, applied for annually via MyNevada.
Nevada Health Service Corps Loan Repayment: Up to $20,000 over two years for graduates working in underserved Nevada areas.
Employer Tuition Assistance: Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment tied to post-graduation service.

A nurse midwife from Nevada who graduated locally described the financial aid journey as both challenging and rewarding. “Applying for scholarships through the university felt overwhelming at first, but the support from advisors made a big difference,” she shared. She also emphasized how the state’s loan repayment program was a “game changer,” allowing her to commit to serving rural communities without excessive debt.

Her experience highlights the importance of combining multiple aid sources and seeking guidance early in the process to successfully finance nurse midwifery education in Nevada. The image below illustrates the ideal midwives-to-patient ratio, underscoring how strategic investments in education and financial aid can help meet growing maternal health demands.

What is the ideal nurse midwives-to-patient ratio?

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Nevada?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Nevada is essential for those aiming to become certified nurse midwives. Accreditation guarantees eligibility for national certification and licensure, ensuring graduates meet the rigorous standards needed for prescriptive authority and independent practice. Nevada students benefit from programs that combine strong clinical experiences with flexible learning options tailored to the state’s healthcare needs.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas – MSN Nurse-Midwifery Program: Nevada’s first and only in-state ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program, UNLV offers advanced clinical training with local placements. This program prepares students thoroughly for CNM certification and autonomous practice within Nevada’s healthcare system.
University of Nevada, Reno – DNP with Nurse-Midwifery Focus (Partnership/Hybrid Option): UNR partners with accredited out-of-state institutions to provide hybrid DNP pathways. This option allows students to complete online coursework while gaining clinical experience in Nevada, supporting those who need flexible scheduling without relocating.
Frontier Nursing University – MSN Nurse-Midwifery (Online): Popular among Nevada residents, Frontier’s online ACME-accredited program offers modular courses and established clinical partnerships in Nevada. It is ideal for working nurses seeking to advance credentials without interrupting their careers.
University of New Mexico – DNP Nurse-Midwifery: Known for serving rural and underserved populations, UNM provides guaranteed clinical placements and small cohort sizes. Nevada students benefit from WICHE tuition rates and full prescriptive authority training in this nationally ranked program.
Georgetown University – Online Nurse-Midwifery Program: Georgetown’s flexible online program attracts Nevada students aiming for a prestigious education with access to extensive faculty expertise and a broad network of preceptors nationwide. Graduates often report high board pass rates and strong alumni support.

Prospective nurse midwives in Nevada should carefully evaluate these accredited nurse midwifery programs to align with their career goals and lifestyle. For those exploring an alternative, check out the requirements to become an obstetrics nurse and select a program with solid accreditation and clinical opportunities.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Nevada?

Advanced degrees significantly enhance career opportunities for CNMs in Nevada, enabling access to leadership, education, research, and expanded clinical roles. Pursuing these credentials aligns with the state’s healthcare needs and supports independent practice.

MSN – Nurse-Midwifery Track: This degree is the essential entry point for CNMs, preparing registered nurses for advanced clinical roles such as clinical lead midwife or site supervisor in hospitals and birthing centers.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: A practice-focused terminal degree that qualifies CNMs for senior leadership positions like Director of Midwifery Services and empowers them to implement evidence-based care across healthcare systems.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery: Designed for nurses with an MSN in other specialties, this certificate enables them to add nurse-midwifery certification, facilitating transitions into midwifery or expanding clinical practice.
PhD in Nursing or Related Field: This research-focused degree prepares CNMs for academic, research, and policy roles, often leading to faculty positions or leadership in maternal health research.

To better understand how these career paths align with workforce trends, the chart below shows the typical age range of practicing nurse midwives.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Nevada?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole national accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse-midwife programs in Nevada and nationwide. ACME ensures that programs meet rigorous educational standards necessary for CNM certification and licensure.

Accreditation by ACME confirms that a program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering key areas such as reproductive health, pharmacology, and the clinical management of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. Only graduates of ACME-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam—an essential step toward becoming a licensed CNM in Nevada.

With Nevada's first in-state ACME-accredited program launching recently, many aspiring midwives in the state have historically turned to online programs offered by out-of-state institutions. These programs uphold the same high academic standards, typically requiring students to earn a minimum grade of B (80%) and demonstrate clinical competency through hands-on assessments.

Choosing an ACME-accredited program not only ensures eligibility for licensure but also strengthens post-graduation employment prospects, making it a key factor for students planning their nurse-midwifery education in Nevada.

For prospective students considering their educational options, understanding the cost of nurse midwifery school Nevada and program accreditation is vital. You can also explore options such as the easiest RN to MSN online programs to get into to find pathways that fit your goals and budget.

How do nurse midwife programs compare to nurse practitioner programs in Nevada?

Nurse midwife programs and nurse practitioner programs cater to advanced practice nursing but differ in scope and focus. Nurse midwife education emphasizes specialized maternal care, including prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum management, while nurse practitioner pathways offer broader clinical rotations that cover a wider range of health issues across the lifespan. Both paths require rigorous clinical training and adherence to state licensure standards; however, differences in patient populations and clinical priorities may influence career trajectory. Prospective students should consider how their interests align with specialized reproductive health versus a more generalized clinical practice when selecting their advanced degree. For a comparative overview with detailed insights on program structures, consider reviewing the top nurse practitioner programs in Nevada.

Here's What Nurse Midwives in Nevada Have to Say About Their Careers

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Nevada, Reno opened doors I never imagined. The hands-on experiences in local clinics combined with expert faculty support truly prepared me for the realities of the profession. Transitioning into a teaching role at a local school has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to inspire future midwives while staying connected to the community. Nevada’s unique blend of urban and rural settings offers diverse clinical cases that have strengthened my skills and adaptability. I feel deeply honored to contribute to both education and maternal care in this vibrant state. Jam
Starting my career as a nurse midwife educator in Nevada has been a journey of personal and professional growth. I graduated from Nevada State College, where the program’s emphasis on culturally competent care prepared me well for the diverse populations here. Teaching at a local school has been a rewarding challenge, especially as I guide students through the complexities of Nevada’s healthcare landscape. The opportunity to impact young professionals’ lives while addressing the specific needs of Nevada’s communities fills me with pride and purpose. This career has truly expanded my perspective on healthcare and community wellness. Ariella
Working as a nurse midwife in Nevada has offered unique professional advancement opportunities that I hadn’t found elsewhere. After completing my program at Western Governor’s University, I was able to leverage Nevada’s growing healthcare infrastructure to take on leadership roles and expand my clinical expertise. The state’s dynamic environment, with its mix of cultural backgrounds and healthcare challenges, has made every day rewarding and educational. Teaching in a local school allowed me to pass on my passion for midwifery and advocate for improved maternal health outcomes across Nevada. I am proud to be part of a profession that makes such a meaningful difference here. Desiree

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Nevada

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife in Nevada without first obtaining a nursing degree. Nurse midwives are advanced practice registered nurses, and this designation requires a registered nursing license as a foundational credential. To pursue this path, you must first complete a nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN.

After becoming an RN, you need to earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. These programs typically confer an MSN or a DNP with a midwifery focus. Upon graduation, you must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.

In summary, a nursing degree is a mandatory prerequisite for midwifery certification in Nevada. Individuals without a nursing background must first become licensed nurses before advancing to midwife education and certification.

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

A nurse midwife is a registered nurse with advanced education and training in midwifery, typically holding a master’s or doctoral degree in nurse-midwifery. They are licensed healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, often within hospital settings and can prescribe medications. In Nevada, certified nurse midwives must be licensed by the Nevada State Board of Nursing and follow state regulations that integrate nursing and midwifery practices.

In contrast, a midwife may not have a nursing background but is trained specifically in midwifery, often through apprenticeship or accredited midwifery schools. Certified professional midwives commonly attend out-of-hospital births, such as home or birthing center deliveries, and their licensure and scope of practice vary by state. Globally, nurse midwives often work within established medical systems, while midwives might practice more independently. The key distinction lies in the nursing foundation and the scope of practice, with nurse midwives having broader clinical authority and integration into medical settings compared to midwives.

Is a midwife in Nevada higher than a RN?

In Nevada, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse (RN) in terms of general nursing hierarchy or scope of practice, as their roles and educational paths differ significantly. Registered nurses typically complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, enabling them to work in diverse healthcare settings. CNMs, a subset of midwives with nursing credentials, hold advanced degrees such as a master's or doctorate in midwifery and nursing, allowing them to provide comprehensive maternity care.

According to the Nevada State Board of Nursing, CNMs are licensed APRNs with prescriptive authority, which places them at a higher clinical practice level compared to RNs. However, direct-entry midwives without nursing licensure have a more limited scope and are regulated differently under Nevada law. Per the American College of Nurse-Midwives (2023), CNMs attend to approximately 12% of births nationwide, reflecting their specialized expertise. Thus, while CNMs hold advanced practice status beyond RNs, traditional midwives do not outrank registered nurses in Nevada’s healthcare system.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Nevada hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Nevada is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing an RN program, gaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. After education, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the AMCB.

In Nevada, licensure as a CNM also involves meeting state-specific requirements, including applying through the Nevada State Board of Nursing. The state requires adherence to continuing education to maintain licensure.

The educational and clinical demands are rigorous due to the complexity of maternal and newborn care. However, motivated students who meet the academic and clinical standards can successfully complete the process. Supportive programs and clinical placements in Nevada help prepare candidates well for certification and practice.

Overall, while the path requires significant effort, it is a well-defined route that leads to a rewarding career in nurse midwifery within Nevada.

References:

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Grand Canyon University Blog. (2023, April 6). How To Become a Nurse Midwife. GCU.
Gustafson, K. (2025, April 21). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)- Education, Licensure & Salary. Nursing Colleges.
Midwifeschooling.com. (n.d.). How to Become a Nurse Midwife in Nevada - CNM Programs & Licensing Guide. midwifeschooling.com.
Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health. (n.d.). Midwife. NVHealthForce.
Nevada State Board of Nursing. (n.d.). Important Information About the Nurse Licensure Compact. nevadanursingboard.org.
Nursing License Map. (n.d.) Become a Nurse in Nevada – Licensure & Requirements. nursinglicensemap.com.