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

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Ohio faces a growing shortage of qualified nurse midwives, with the state projected to need 15% more by 2030. This gap risks limiting access to essential maternal care, especially in rural areas. Pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Ohio offers strong job security and above-average salaries, fueled by increasing demand for personalized childbirth services. The profession’s role is evolving alongside advances in healthcare technology and patient-centered care models.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, outlines the latest midwife schooling requirements for 2025 and guides aspiring nurse midwives through education pathways, licensure, and future opportunities in Ohio’s healthcare landscape.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Ohio

Complete a graduate nursing program with a focus on nurse-midwifery accredited by the American Midwifery Certification Board to meet Ohio licensing requirements.
Pass the national certification exam to become a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM), which enables independent practice and is critical as Ohio moves toward expanding midwifery roles.
Stay updated on Ohio’s evolving healthcare policies that support nurse midwives in addressing maternal health disparities and increasing demand, with job growth projected at 20% over the next decade.

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

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

The minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in Ohio is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery. This graduate degree equips candidates with a comprehensive foundation in women’s health, prenatal and postnatal care, labor and delivery, and newborn care.

Such an educational background is essential as it combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical experience, preparing nurse midwives to navigate the complexities of maternal and infant healthcare effectively.

Looking ahead, the role of nurse midwives is expected to expand, driven by increasing demand for specialized maternal care and the growing recognition of their expertise within healthcare systems. The MSN degree not only meets current professional standards but also positions graduates to participate in innovative practices and policy development. Given that Certified Nurse Midwives are uniquely eligible for Medicaid reimbursement in Ohio, this degree remains a critical credential for practitioners aiming to serve diverse populations.

Aspiring professionals should also consider the broader context of nursing careers, where some of the highest paying careers in nursing often require similarly advanced education and specialization, underscoring the value of the MSN in nurse-midwifery as a forward-thinking investment in one’s professional future.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Ohio is shaping up to balance traditional academic rigor with evolving clinical and professional expectations. Future candidates may see enhanced emphasis on interdisciplinary skills and dual certification pathways.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution is generally required, though some programs accept other bachelor’s degrees if prerequisite courses are completed.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, often focusing on the most recent relevant degree performance.
RN License: Applicants must hold a valid, unencumbered Registered Nurse license in Ohio to qualify for clinical practice components.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three recommendations from academic or professional contacts are typically needed to attest to the applicant’s readiness for graduate-level study.
Clinical Experience: Preference is given to candidates with 1–2 years of experience in labor and delivery or women’s health, strengthening practical competence.
Personal Statement and Interview: A reflective personal statement and possibly an interview assess motivation, communication skills, and clinical insight.
GRE Scores: Many programs have moved away from requiring GRE scores, reflecting a broader trend toward holistic admissions.
Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of courses such as anatomy, physiology, and statistics with qualifying grades remains essential.
International Applicants: Must demonstrate English proficiency and provide credential evaluations alongside proof of RN licensure equivalent to U.S. standards.
Ohio-Specific Requirements: Some institutions offer combined Nurse-Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner tracks and enforce specific deadlines aligned with state workforce needs.

The infographic underscores the remarkable growth in midwifery education—over 3,195 students enrolled in 2021—highlighting increased competition and evolving standards. With demand surging nationwide, it’s crucial to understand the specific academic and licensure benchmarks required for Ohio’s nurse midwife programs.

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

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Ohio?

Nurse midwife programs in Ohio are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for advanced practice in women’s health and newborn care. As the healthcare landscape evolves, these programs increasingly emphasize evidence-based practice and regional clinical integration, reflecting the state's unique healthcare environment.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills to conduct thorough physical, psychosocial, and cultural evaluations of women across all life stages, forming a critical base for accurate diagnosis and care planning.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Explores disease mechanisms and physiological changes related to women’s health and pregnancy, enabling management of complex and high-risk conditions.
Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on safe medication use and prescribing tailored to women and newborns, supporting effective pharmaceutical interventions in clinical settings.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers gynecologic and contraceptive care, preparing students to provide comprehensive well-woman services and manage reproductive health issues.
Antepartum Care: Addresses prenatal assessment, screening, and education, emphasizing management strategies for both normal and complicated pregnancies.
Intrapartum, Postpartum, and Newborn Care: Provides in-depth training on labor, delivery, postpartum recovery, and immediate newborn care, essential for supporting families through childbirth and early infancy.
Primary Care for Women: Examines preventive and acute care beyond pregnancy, highlighting the nurse midwife’s role in managing common health concerns.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Encourages critical evaluation of clinical studies and quality improvement initiatives, fostering application of the latest guidelines and lifelong learning.
Professional Issues and Integration: Discusses Ohio-specific legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities, including regulatory compliance and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Clinical Practicum Rotations: Offers supervised hands-on experience in diverse Ohio healthcare settings, often totaling up to 1,000 clinical hours to ensure readiness for autonomous practice.

These core courses form the foundation of the nurse midwife program curriculum in Ohio, preparing graduates for certification and successful practice within the state’s healthcare system.

For those exploring career pathways, understanding how can I start as a charge nurse provides insight into clinical leadership roles that complement midwifery practice and enhance patient care outcomes.

To see how these courses translate into marketable competencies, review the chart below showing the top skills CNMs list on their resumes. From patient care to obstetrics knowledge, these resume highlights reflect the core curriculum’s practical and specialized training.

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

To become a certified nurse midwife in Ohio, students must complete extensive, hands-on clinical training as part of an accredited graduate program. These clinical experiences are critical in preparing future midwives to deliver safe, competent, and compassionate care across a variety of healthcare settings.

Key clinical training requirements in Ohio include:

Up to 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, typically completed over several semesters.
Rotations in hospitals, birthing centers, and OB/GYN clinics, ensuring exposure to diverse patient populations and care models.
Development of core competencies such as prenatal assessment, labor and delivery support, postpartum care, newborn exams, and breastfeeding counseling.
Guidance from qualified preceptors, including certified nurse midwives and other approved healthcare professionals who provide mentorship and performance evaluations.
Compliance with Ohio state regulations, including holding an active RN license and completing clinical hours in both in-hospital and out-of-hospital settings as required by Ohio administrative codes.

These comprehensive clinical experiences ensure that students are fully prepared for national certification and licensed practice in Ohio.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Ohio who graduated from a local program, she reflected on the demanding but rewarding journey of accruing clinical hours. “Balancing the intense rotations across hospitals and birthing centers was challenging,” she said, emphasizing how each setting sharpened different skills.

She recalled moments of uncertainty early on, especially during high-stakes deliveries, but praised the guidance from her preceptors, whose real-time feedback was crucial. The variety of clinical sites helped her adapt to both hospital protocols and more personalized birth environments. Looking back, she views those clinical hours not just as a requirement but as the foundation that shaped her confidence and competence in practice.

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

Becoming a certified nurse-midwife in Ohio typically starts with earning a BSN, which requires about four years of full-time study at an accredited university. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in Ohio. This licensure is mandatory before advancing to graduate-level nurse-midwifery education and can add several months depending on exam scheduling and state processing times.

The next phase involves enrolling in a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), leading to either an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs usually take between two to three years of full-time study and include rigorous clinical training specific to midwifery, such as gynecological care, newborn support, and pharmacology certifications.

In Ohio, clinical hour requirements and pre-exam skill assessments may extend this timeline, especially for part-time students or those facing delays in securing clinical placements.

After completing graduate education, candidates must pass the national CNM certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), which has a $500 fee as of 2025. Although unofficial results are often immediate, official certification and the Ohio Board of Nursing’s Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) credential can take weeks or months due to processing times.

Overall, the journey to becoming a certified nurse-midwife in Ohio spans roughly seven to eight years, with evolving state-specific factors like licensing backlogs and clinical scheduling potentially influencing this timeline in the future.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Ohio varies widely based on the type of institution and residency status. Public universities such as The Ohio State University and University of Cincinnati typically charge in-state graduate nursing students between $700 and $950 per credit hour, resulting in total tuition costs ranging from approximately $35,000 to $57,000.

Out-of-state students pay higher rates, between $1,200 and $1,500 per credit hour, bringing total tuition to about $60,000 to $90,000. Private institutions usually have higher tuition costs, often falling between $80,000 and $120,000 for the complete nurse-midwifery program.

In addition to tuition, students should plan for several essential expenses. University and program fees can range from $2,000 to $5,000, while textbooks and learning materials typically cost between $1,500 and $3,000. Clinical supplies such as uniforms and medical equipment usually add another $500 to $1,000.

Licensure and certification fees, including a $100 application fee for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse state licensure and a $500 Certified Nurse-Midwife exam fee, bring the total additional costs to several hundred dollars. These supplementary expenses are important considerations in the overall cost of nurse midwife school Ohio.

Looking ahead, as healthcare demands evolve, the cost structure for nurse midwife programs may shift alongside advancing technologies and educational delivery methods. Students entering this field should also understand the professional requirements, including licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse how to become, which involves specific application and certification fees.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Ohio is evolving to meet growing demands, with innovative programs likely to expand support for those committed to underserved communities. Emerging trends suggest enhanced partnerships between educational institutions and healthcare providers to increase access to scholarships and loan forgiveness, helping to ease financial pressures on students.

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants up to $7,495 annually, though mostly unavailable to graduate nursing students, remain a foundational aid source.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Provide up to $20,500 per year for graduate nursing students with fixed interest rates, offering flexible borrowing independent of financial need.
Ohio Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program (NEALP): State-specific loans up to $7,000 annually with forgiveness available after five years of nursing service in Ohio, promoting local workforce retention.
National Health Service Corps Scholarship: Covers full tuition and living expenses in exchange for service in shortage areas, a critical incentive for students targeting underserved populations.
Work-Study and Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Part-time employment and employer-sponsored programs help offset costs while fostering professional experience and retention.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Ohio who graduated from a local program, she reflected on the financial aid journey as both challenging and rewarding. She recalled, “Navigating loan options and state-specific programs felt overwhelming at first, but the NEALP loan forgiveness was a game-changer for me.”

Balancing work-study with clinical rotations required careful planning, yet the support from employer tuition reimbursement eased the burden. Her experience highlights how combining multiple aid sources can transform financial stress into manageable steps, enabling focus on advancing skills and serving communities effectively.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Ohio?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Ohio lays the foundation for a successful career as a CNM. Accreditation not only ensures alignment with rigorous national standards but also opens doors to advanced clinical training and leadership roles in maternal health. As demand grows, these programs evolve to incorporate flexible learning and innovative clinical experiences.

Case Western Reserve University – Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing: This program stands out for its innovative curriculum and strong clinical partnerships with top hospitals. Its nationally recognized DNP and MSN offerings provide students with advanced research opportunities and leadership preparation in midwifery.
Ohio State University – College of Nursing: Known for its robust research focus and patient-centered care, Ohio State offers both MSN and DNP nurse midwifery options with flexible online formats. Its designation as a Center of Excellence reflects consistent national recognition and academic strength.
University of Cincinnati – College of Nursing: With extensive clinical partnerships including a Level I trauma center, this program supports comprehensive clinical training. Offering both in-person and hybrid formats, it caters to students seeking a well-rounded midwifery education.
Wright State University – College of Nursing and Health: ACME-accredited and located in Dayton, Wright State emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and hands-on learning. Its commitment to serving diverse communities enriches the educational experience with real-world relevance.
Kent State University – College of Nursing: This accredited program focuses on evidence-based practice and offers on-campus and hybrid coursework. Known for faculty expertise, it maintains a strong record of graduate success on certification exams.

As the profession advances, understanding the best certified nurse midwifery schools in Ohio can guide prospective CNMs toward opportunities that align with emerging healthcare demands and leadership roles. For insight into career prospects following advanced nursing degrees, consider exploring the best careers with a doctorate in nursing.

As shown below, with 538 degrees awarded in 2023—a 5.11% decline—Ohio’s leading accredited midwifery programs face growing pressure to attract and prepare qualified candidates through robust clinical training and innovative curriculum.

538 nurse midwife degrees were awarded in 2023, which was a 5.11% decline from the previous year.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Ohio?

Advanced degrees increasingly shape the future of career growth for CNMs in Ohio, opening doors to leadership, education, and specialized clinical roles. As healthcare evolves, these credentials become key to staying competitive and expanding professional impact.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): This foundational graduate degree enables CNMs to enter advanced practice and licensure in Ohio. Graduates often move into roles such as clinical leads, women’s health coordinators, or healthcare educators.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Emphasizing clinical expertise and leadership, the DNP prepares CNMs for executive roles and academic faculty positions. Its growing value reflects the demand for advanced clinical and administrative skills.
Dual-Focus Nurse-Midwife/WHNP Degrees: These programs provide dual certification in midwifery and women’s health, allowing CNMs to manage broad women’s health services and pursue specialized clinical roles.
Post-Graduate Certificate Programs: For CNMs with an MSN, certificates offer pathways to additional specialties like family or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, expanding clinical scope.
MSN in Nursing Leadership or Education: Specialized tracks prepare CNMs for management, policy, or academic careers, addressing Ohio’s need for nursing leaders and educators.

The chart below illustrates that more than 78% of CNMs hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees—over 40% with master’s alone—highlighting the pivotal role these advanced credentials play. Pursuing an MSN, DNP, or dual nurse-midwife/WHNP pathway can thus be critical for leadership and specialized practice in Ohio.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Ohio?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) holds a unique and critical position as the sole accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the United States recognized by the Department of Education. This exclusivity ensures a standardized national benchmark for educational quality and professional readiness in nurse-midwifery, particularly in states like Ohio where robust programs exist in cities such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Looking ahead, ACME’s role may evolve with the integration of innovative educational technologies and expanding scopes of practice for nurse midwives. Programs maintaining ACME accreditation are not only required to meet rigorous criteria but also to continuously adapt to emerging healthcare trends and evidence-based practices.

For students evaluating the nurse midwife program cost in Ohio, this accreditation signals a commitment to excellence that can impact career outcomes and certification eligibility. Prospective students should also consider exploring a ranking of easiest nurse midwife programs to get into to identify accessible pathways within the accredited landscape.

Ohio nurse midwifery tuition and fees reflect the value embedded in ACME-accredited programs, which uphold comprehensive curricula preparing graduates for the CNM examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Since only graduates from these accredited institutions are eligible for national certification, the tuition cost encompasses not just education but also the assurance of meeting national professional standards.

As healthcare demands shift, ACME accreditation will likely remain a cornerstone ensuring that nurse midwives are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.

What is the job outlook for nurse midwives in Ohio?

The employment landscape for nurse midwives in Ohio is robust, driven by an aging population, rural healthcare demands, and evolving patient care models. Recent trends show a steady increase in job opportunities as healthcare systems expand maternity services and integrate telehealth technologies. This growth often translates into competitive salaries and enhanced career mobility, particularly for practitioners with advanced certifications and diversified clinical expertise. For those seeking broader career trajectories, exploring complementary qualifications, such as top nurse practitioner programs in Ohio, can further strengthen professional prospects.

What do nurse midwives in Ohio say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Ohio University was a pivotal step in my career. The curriculum was comprehensive and tailored to the needs of Ohio’s diverse populations, which prepared me well for real-world challenges. Starting my teaching journey at a local school allowed me to share my passion for women’s health and empower the next generation of caregivers. I find great fulfillment in knowing that my work contributes positively to both students and the broader community. The strong support networks here truly make Ohio a special place to grow professionally. Sheree
My experience in Ohio’s nurse midwifery field has been deeply rewarding on a personal level. After graduating from Case Western Reserve University, I was drawn to the unique opportunities Ohio offers for community impact, especially in rural areas where access to care is critical. Teaching at a local school has given me the chance to inspire others while continuously expanding my own skills. Ohio’s rich cultural tapestry and resources provide a meaningful backdrop for my work, fueling my commitment to improving maternal health outcomes statewide. Leah
Ohio’s healthcare environment offers tremendous stability and career advancement for nurse midwives. Graduating from Kent State University’s program gave me a solid foundation in evidence-based practice and leadership. Transitioning into teaching at a local school has been an exciting way to give back and stay connected to emerging trends in midwifery. The state’s blend of urban and rural communities challenges me to adapt and innovate constantly, which keeps my career dynamic and fulfilling. I appreciate the professional growth opportunities Ohio consistently provides. Leigh

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Ohio

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife in Ohio without a nursing degree. To practice as a nurse midwife, you must first be a registered nurse. This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After obtaining your RN license, you need to pursue a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education.

Ohio requires CNMs to hold national certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board. This certification mandates a background in nursing and midwifery education. Direct-entry midwifery, which does not require a nursing degree, is not recognized under the nurse midwife licensing regulations in Ohio.

Therefore, if you aim to become a nurse midwife in Ohio, you must first obtain your nursing credentials. Then, complete an accredited nurse-midwifery graduate program and earn certification. This ensures compliance with state law and eligibility for licensure.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife both provide care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, but their training, scope of practice, and certification differ significantly, especially in Ohio and globally.

A nurse midwife, formally known as a certified nurse midwife, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery, usually a master's degree, and holds national certification. CNMs in Ohio can practice independently, prescribe medications, and provide a broader range of healthcare services, including gynecological exams and family planning.

In contrast, a midwife without nursing credentials—often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife—typically undergoes specialized midwifery training but not nursing education. Their scope is more limited, often focusing on out-of-hospital births and less medicalized care.

Globally, the distinction varies widely; some countries require nursing education for midwives, while others recognize midwifery as a standalone profession. Understanding these differences helps clarify professional roles and patient options in maternity care.

Is a midwife in Ohio higher than a RN?

In Ohio, a midwife is not necessarily considered "higher" than a registered nurse; rather, the two roles have distinct scopes of practice and educational requirements. CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses who have completed graduate-level education in midwifery and are nationally certified.

According to the Ohio Board of Nursing, CNMs hold a higher level of clinical training than RNs, allowing them to provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care independently in many settings. As of recent data from the American Midwifery Certification Board, CNMs must complete at least a master's degree and pass a certification exam, while RNs typically require an associate or bachelor's degree with state licensure.

In terms of salary, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of 2023, the median annual wage for nurse midwives is significantly higher than that of RNs, reflecting their advanced qualifications and responsibilities.

However, both professions are essential in healthcare, with RNs often providing broader patient care across various specialties. Thus, midwives are viewed as advanced practitioners rather than simply "higher" than RNs in Ohio.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Ohio hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Ohio is challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires completing a registered nurse (RN) license, earning a graduate degree from an accredited nurse-midwifery program, and passing the national certification exam. Ohio also requires licensure through the Ohio Board of Nursing to practice legally.

The academic demands include mastering advanced clinical skills and maternal-newborn care, often through rigorous coursework and clinical rotations. Time management and commitment are essential to succeed in these graduate programs, which typically take two to three years to complete.

In addition to education, candidates must develop strong communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Ohio’s healthcare environment supports nurse midwives, but candidates should be prepared for a competitive admission process and maintain high academic and clinical performance.

Overall, the pathway is demanding but rewarding for those passionate about women’s health and midwifery.