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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many aspiring healthcare professionals face uncertainty about how to become a nurse midwife in New Hampshire. With the state experiencing a 15% projected growth in midwifery roles by 2030, opportunities abound for those ready to embrace this rewarding career. Nurse midwives in New Hampshire enjoy competitive salaries and the chance to impact maternal and newborn health directly, making the path both meaningful and lucrative.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, explores the schooling requirements, licensure, and practical steps to enter the field, guiding readers through a clear, actionable roadmap to launch their midwifery journey.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in New Hampshire

• Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and gain registered nursing experience to meet New Hampshire’s clinical requirements for nurse midwife programs.
• Complete an accredited nurse midwifery graduate program, which typically takes 2-3 years and includes hands-on training in maternal care.
• Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam and obtain New Hampshire state licensure to practice, with a median salary of around $110,000 supporting a rewarding career path.

Table of Contents

1. What is the minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in New Hampshire?
2. What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?
3. What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?
4. What are the clinical training requirements for nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?
5. How long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife in New Hampshire?
6. How much does it cost to attend nurse midwife school in New Hampshire?
7. What financial aid options are available for nurse midwife students in New Hampshire?
8. What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in New Hampshire?
9. Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in New Hampshire?
10. What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?
11. How can nurse midwives stay current with evolving regulations and professional growth opportunities in New Hampshire?
12. Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Nurse Midwife in New Hampshire

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

To step into the role of a nurse midwife in New Hampshire, the minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in New Hampshire is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse midwifery. This advanced degree is not just a formality; it immerses students in 40-60 credit hours of specialized coursework coupled with 700-1000 hours of supervised clinical practicum. Such rigorous training equips future nurse midwives with a profound understanding of maternal and newborn care, blending theory with real-world practice.

The journey through this MSN specialization sharpens skills in managing women’s health comprehensively, preparing graduates to confidently address the complexities of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care.

The nurse midwife master’s degree requirement New Hampshire places emphasis on developing competencies that extend beyond clinical expertise. Students hone proficiency in evidence-based prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care while cultivating skills in patient education, counseling, and family planning. This degree also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring nurse midwives work seamlessly alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals.

As nurse midwives in New Hampshire are recognized as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), this robust educational foundation is crucial. For those exploring the landscape of healthcare careers, understanding these requirements is essential, especially when considering the highest paying nursing job options available today.

What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?

Embarking on the path to becoming a nurse midwife in New Hampshire requires a blend of academic achievements and practical experience. These qualifications ensure readiness for the unique challenges of midwifery care.

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from an accredited institution is typically mandatory.
• RN License: Applicants must hold an active, unencumbered RN license valid in New Hampshire or a compact state.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is generally required for admission to direct entry or advanced programs.
• Clinical Experience: At least one year of clinical experience as a practicing RN is usually expected before applying.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two to four letters from instructors, supervisors, or healthcare professionals are needed to attest to clinical skills and professionalism.
• Personal Statement: A written essay outlining career goals and commitment to midwifery is often required.
• Official Transcripts: Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended is mandatory.
• CPR and NRP Certification: Proof of current Adult, Infant/Child CPR, and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification must be provided.
• Background Check: A state and federal background check is required for advanced practice licensure.
• New Hampshire-Specific References: At least four written references affirming competence and high standards in midwifery care are uniquely mandated by the state.
• International Students: Requirements may include foreign transcript evaluation, English proficiency proof, and validation of foreign nursing credentials.
• Additional Clinical Requirements: For Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) candidates, documentation of at least five laceration repairs and signed clinical competency statements is required.
• GRE and MAT: Most programs in New Hampshire do not require the GRE or MAT exams for admission.

The graphic below shows that nearly 3,200 students enrolled in certified nurse midwife programs in 2021. This national enrollment figure highlights the growing demand for midwifery education, underscoring why New Hampshire maintains such rigorous admission standards to ensure applicants are fully prepared for advanced clinical training.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?

Delving into the nurse midwife curriculum in New Hampshire reveals a rich blend of courses designed to build expertise across women’s health and newborn care. These core courses for New Hampshire nurse midwife programs ensure students are well-prepared to meet both clinical challenges and state-specific healthcare needs.

• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops comprehensive skills in physical and psychosocial evaluations, focusing on women and newborns to identify normal and abnormal health indicators.
• Advanced Human Pathophysiology: Explores body system functions and changes, emphasizing reproductive and perinatal health to prepare for managing pregnancy and childbirth complications.
• Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics: Covers safe medication practices and prescribing protocols specifically tailored to women’s health and obstetrics.
• Nurse-Midwifery Care During Labor and Birth: Focuses on labor management, delivery techniques, and immediate newborn care using evidence-based methods to improve maternal and infant outcomes.
• Well Woman Health Care: Addresses preventive care and treatment of common gynecologic conditions, promoting lifelong reproductive and primary healthcare.
• The Childbearing Family: Examines emotional, physical, and psychosocial aspects of pregnancy through postpartum, equipping students to support families holistically.
• Primary Care for Women: Expands the nurse midwife’s role to include health maintenance and management of acute and chronic female health issues.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Trains students to critically evaluate and apply research findings, enhancing patient-centered care quality.
• Health Informatics and Innovations in Technology: Introduces digital tools to improve documentation, communication, and monitoring of health outcomes in clinical settings.
• Clinical Practicums: Provides extensive hands-on experience in diverse New Hampshire healthcare environments, essential for certification eligibility and real-world skill development.

These programs align with national standards from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) but often emphasize rural healthcare delivery and local regulations. For those curious about what does a charge nurse do, understanding these educational components offers insight into the broader nursing leadership roles available after certification.

The chart below shows the top skills certified nurse midwives include on their resumes—many of which directly align with the competencies developed through Oregon’s midwifery coursework. From patient care to OB-GYN expertise, these courses build the foundation for the clinical and professional skills most valued in the field.

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

Nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire require between 700 and 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training, reflecting the state's commitment to well-rounded, immersive education. These hours are completed across a range of settings, including hospitals for labor, delivery, and obstetric emergencies; birthing centers that emphasize midwife-led, low-intervention births; OB/GYN clinics for prenatal and reproductive health care; and community health centers that serve diverse populations. This mix ensures students are equipped to meet a wide range of maternal and newborn care needs.

Clinical training develops essential competencies such as prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, gynecologic care, and newborn evaluation. Each student is mentored by qualified preceptors—often certified nurse midwives or experienced physicians—who provide real-time oversight, feedback, and performance evaluations. This close supervision fosters clinical judgment and reinforces safety in patient care.

The New Hampshire Board of Nursing requires that graduates complete an accredited program and pass the national CNM certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). While the state does not mandate a fixed number of hours beyond national standards, it emphasizes documented clinical experience and competency development aligned with ACME-accredited curricula. These high expectations help ensure that CNMs in New Hampshire are well-prepared for autonomous, evidence-based practice across all care settings.

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

Begin your journey by earning a BSN, which typically requires four years of full-time study. Afterward, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN license through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. This step is crucial, and the timeline can vary by a few months depending on exam scheduling and processing times. The RN license acts as a gateway to advanced education in nurse midwifery.

Next, enroll in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, such as an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus. These programs usually take between two to three years of full-time study and include 40–60 credit hours along with 700–1000 clinical hours. In New Hampshire, the clinical training requirements align with national standards and are essential for program accreditation, with no additional state-specific mandates reported recently.

Finally, you must pass the AMCB exam within 24 months of completing your graduate program. Once certified, you apply for advanced practice licensure as a CNM through the state board. While licensing processing times can fluctuate, New Hampshire does not show systemic delays, so the total time from starting your BSN to becoming a CNM generally spans six to eight years.

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

The cost of nurse midwife program tuition New Hampshire students face varies depending on whether they attend public or private institutions. At public universities, in-state tuition typically ranges from $15,520 to $17,789 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay between $27,810 and $33,760 annually.

Private or specialized online programs usually have a flat tuition rate around $33,000 for the full program, regardless of residency. This range reflects the adventurous journey of pursuing advanced nursing education in the state.

Beyond tuition, additional fees add to the total investment. Students should budget for university and program fees that may range from $500 to $2,000 per year, along with $1,000 to $2,000 annually for textbooks and course materials—specialized content essential for nurse midwifery studies.

Clinical supplies such as stethoscopes and lab coats might cost between $300 and $700 throughout the program. Upon completion, licensure and certification fees, including a $500 examination fee for the American Midwifery Certification Board and potentially an additional $325 for dual certification exams, also contribute to overall expenses.

When exploring the cost of nurse midwife school in New Hampshire, it's helpful to consider these typical expenses holistically. The total cost to complete a program generally falls between $36,000 and $70,000, influenced by program length, institution type, and residency status. And for those curious about advancing in women’s health nursing, the fastest way to become a womens health nurse practitioner offers related pathways worth exploring.

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

Exploring financial aid opportunities unlocks new pathways for nurse midwife students in New Hampshire eager to pursue advanced nursing education. A variety of options exist, blending federal, state, and local resources that can ease the burden of tuition and living expenses.

• Federal Student Loans: Accessible with lower interest rates and flexible repayment, these loans support graduate nursing students, including nurse midwives.
• Federal and State Grants: Though limited, some grants like the TEACH Grant reward commitments to teaching or practicing in high-need areas.
• Scholarships: National and New Hampshire-specific scholarships, such as the AANP and Heartfelt Dreams Foundation awards, offer valuable financial support.
• Loan Repayment Programs: The NHSC programs help repay loans for serving in shortage areas, often requiring a two to three-year service commitment.
• Work-Study and Assistantships: University-based positions provide income and experience, varying by school availability.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Local healthcare employers often reward continued service with tuition payback initiatives.
• Rural Incentives: Extra aid is available for those willing to work in underserved rural communities in New Hampshire.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from New Hampshire who graduated from a local program, she described how navigating these options felt like assembling a complex puzzle. “I remember the relief of discovering the NHSC loan repayment—it made committing to a rural clinic feel possible,” she reflected.

Despite juggling paperwork and deadlines, she found the layered support from scholarships and employer reimbursement invaluable, saying, “Each piece of aid was a step toward my goal, easing financial stress and allowing me to focus on learning.” Her journey highlights the importance of persistence and resourcefulness in funding advanced nursing education in New Hampshire.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in New Hampshire?

Choosing the right accredited nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire is a vital step for those aiming to become CNMs. Only graduates from ACME-accredited programs can pursue national certification and state licensure, ensuring their education meets rigorous standards. For adventurous learners, the best nurse midwifery schools in New Hampshire offer a combination of flexibility with strong clinical training, opening doors to rewarding careers.

• Online Flexibility: Frontier Nursing University (online/hybrid) provides an MSN with a nurse-midwifery specialization that can be completed mostly online, allowing working RNs to gain hands-on clinical experience locally in New Hampshire without sacrificing their current jobs.
• Robust Clinical Partnerships: Georgetown University’s ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program supports diverse clinical rotations across New Hampshire through a vast national network, giving students real-world experience in various healthcare settings.
• Doctoral Pathway: Baylor University College of Nursing offers a DNP with a nurse-midwifery focus, perfect for those seeking advanced practice and leadership training, with clinical hours arranged within New Hampshire.
• Regional Accessibility: University of Cincinnati’s MSN in Nurse-Midwifery combines online coursework with flexible clinical practicums in New Hampshire, renowned for excellent student support and impressive board pass rates.
• Comprehensive Faculty Support: Thomas Jefferson University blends online classes with on-campus intensives and helps students secure clinical placements locally and regionally, benefiting from faculty mentorship praised by graduates.

As you explore these options, remember that no on-campus ACME-accredited nurse midwifery programs currently exist physically in New Hampshire, but these top online and hybrid programs make local clinical training possible. For those curious about career prospects and earning potential, check out this nurse career salary by state resource to get a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

The image below highlights a recent decline in the number of nurse midwife degrees awarded nationwide, reflecting a broader need for greater investment in high-quality midwifery education. This trend emphasizes the importance of choosing accredited programs—such as those offered in New Hampshire—that are designed to equip future CNMs with the skills and training required to meet evolving healthcare needs.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in New Hampshire?

Advanced degrees unlock exciting new paths for CNMs in New Hampshire, fueling growth into leadership, education, and specialized clinical roles. Exploring these options reveals how CNMs can expand their influence and expertise in healthcare.

• Master of Science in Nursing: The essential step for CNM certification, the MSN builds strong clinical skills for independent practice and supervisory roles, laying the groundwork for future advancement.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: This terminal degree prepares CNMs to lead clinical teams, shape health policies, and drive quality improvements in healthcare systems across the state.
• PhD in Nursing: Focused on research and academia, the PhD opens doors to university faculty positions and groundbreaking studies that advance midwifery science and maternal-child health.
• Post-Graduate Certificate Programs: These specialized certificates enhance expertise in areas like women’s health or nurse education, enabling CNMs to take on educator or program coordinator roles with expanded practice authority.

The chart below shows that most Certified Nurse Midwives hold either a master’s or bachelor’s degree, reinforcing the importance of graduate education for professional advancement. In New Hampshire, pursuing advanced degrees like the DNP or PhD positions CNMs for greater leadership, academic, and policy-driven roles in healthcare.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire?

Accreditation is essential to the quality and credibility of nurse midwife programs in New Hampshire, ensuring that students receive education aligned with national standards for advanced clinical practice. It also plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for certification and licensure, making it a key consideration for aspiring CNMs.

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the only accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse midwifery programs. ACME accreditation confirms that a program meets rigorous educational and clinical training standards, allowing graduates to sit for the AMCB exam—a requirement for APRN licensure in the state. While other agencies like CCNE and ACEN accredit general nursing programs, only ACME accreditation ensures a direct path to national certification in midwifery.

Prospective students researching the cost of nurse midwifery school in New Hampshire will find that attending an ACME-accredited program is a critical factor in securing a valid and respected credential. For those interested in exploring options, certified nurse midwife programs offer insight into accessible pathways into this rewarding profession.

How can nurse midwives stay current with evolving regulations and professional growth opportunities in New Hampshire?

Nurse midwives are advised to integrate structured continuing education initiatives and active participation in professional networks to remain aligned with evolving clinical guidelines and regulatory changes. Regularly attending state and national conferences, subscribing to peer-reviewed journals, and engaging in workshops specific to legal and healthcare policy updates can enhance both practice standards and career progression. Additionally, professionals can explore advanced clinical training and certificate courses, as demonstrated by the top nurse practitioner programs in New Hampshire, to diversify their expertise and fortify their role in a dynamic healthcare environment.

What do nurse midwives in New Hampshire say about their careers?

• Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of New Hampshire gave me not only the clinical skills I needed but also a deep appreciation for rural healthcare challenges unique to this state. Starting my teaching career at a local school allowed me to share my passion for maternal health with aspiring midwives, inspiring them to serve their communities. The balance between advanced training and community connection in New Hampshire has been truly rewarding. I feel proud contributing to a stronger future for families across the region. Jada
• The rigorous nurse midwifery program at Dartmouth College prepared me thoroughly for the diverse needs of New Hampshire’s families, especially in remote areas where access to care can be limited. Working as an educator in a local school has been a fulfilling way to guide the next generation of midwives, blending practical experience with academic insight. The opportunity to witness personal growth in my students and the community impact of our work fuels my dedication every day. Celeste
• Pursuing nurse midwifery at Keene State College opened doors for professional advancement that I hadn’t anticipated. New Hampshire’s strong support for healthcare professionals means job stability and continuous learning opportunities. Being part of a community that values holistic care and environmental mindfulness makes my work deeply meaningful. I’ve grown personally and professionally while contributing to healthier outcomes for mothers and babies across the state. Elain

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in New Hampshire

No, you cannot become a CNM in New Hampshire without a nursing degree. The path to becoming a CNM requires first obtaining a registered nursing license, which generally involves completing a nursing degree program such as an ADN or a BSN.

After becoming a registered nurse, you must then complete a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by ACME. This graduate education prepares you to provide comprehensive care to women, including prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum care.

Finally, to practice as a nurse midwife in New Hampshire, you must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB and obtain state licensure. Without a nursing degree and RN licensure, you cannot meet these requirements or be recognized as a certified nurse midwife in New Hampshire.

What is the difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife in New Hampshire?

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, but they differ significantly in training, certification, and scope of practice. In New Hampshire and across the U.S., a nurse midwife, formally known as a CNM, is a registered nurse with advanced graduate education in midwifery.

CNMs are licensed healthcare providers authorized to prescribe medications, perform routine prenatal tests, and manage low-risk pregnancies independently. They often work in hospitals, birthing centers, or clinics, integrating nursing and midwifery care.

In contrast, a midwife without nursing credentials—often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or direct-entry midwife—typically undergoes specialized midwifery training without nursing education. Their practice mainly focuses on out-of-hospital births, such as home births or birth centers, and their legal scope varies widely by state.

Globally, the terms can overlap more, but in the U.S., nurse midwives have broader clinical authority and medical training compared to midwives without nursing degrees.

Is a midwife in New Hampshire higher than a RN?

In New Hampshire, a midwife is not necessarily considered "higher" than a registered nurse, as they hold distinct roles and qualifications within the healthcare system. Registered nurses typically complete a nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, focusing broadly on patient care across various settings.

Midwives, particularly CNMs, are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized graduate education in midwifery and certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board. According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, CNMs in New Hampshire must meet these national standards, which include competencies beyond those of an RN.

While CNMs have a higher level of specialization and autonomy in childbirth and reproductive health, RNs have a broader scope in general nursing care. Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) indicates that the median annual wage for RNs in New Hampshire is around $77,000, whereas nurse-midwives nationally earn a median of about $120,000, reflecting their advanced qualifications.

Thus, in terms of education and specialization, midwives rank higher, but this does not imply a hierarchical superiority over RNs, as both roles are complementary within healthcare.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in New Hampshire hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in New Hampshire is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing program followed by a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited institution. Prospective students must pass the National Certification Examination to become a CNM.

The academic coursework is rigorous, covering advanced clinical skills, anatomy, physiology, and women’s health. Clinical practice hours are mandatory, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Time management and strong commitment are essential to balance theory and clinical training.

Additionally, licensure requirements in New Hampshire include maintaining RN licensure and CNM certification. While demanding, support from faculty and clinical mentors can ease the journey. For motivated individuals passionate about maternal and newborn care, the path is manageable and rewarding, leading to a respected healthcare role with significant impact.

References:

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. ACME Accredited Programs.
• Mercy In Action College of Midwifery. New Hampshire.
• Midwife Schooling. Learn How to Become a Nurse Midwife in New Hampshire | Midwifery Schools in NH.
• National Midwifery Institute. Midwifery Paths.
• NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. Board of Nursing Education Programs.
• Nurse.org. Top Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Programs | 2025.
• NurseJournal.org. The Top New Hampshire Nursing Schools And Programs.
• OnlineDegree.com. How To Become A Midwife Without A Nursing Degree?
• RegisteredNursing.org. Best Nursing Schools in New Hampshire - ADN, BSN - Updated 2025.
• The American College of Nurse-Midwives. How to Become a Midwife Without a Nursing Degree.