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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Oklahoma faces a growing shortage of qualified nurse midwives, with rural areas especially underserved. Only about 15% of births are attended by certified nurse midwives, underscoring the rising demand and strong career opportunities in maternal healthcare across the state.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines Oklahoma’s 2025 education and licensing steps. It offers clear, practical guidance to help aspiring nurse midwives start a successful and impactful career.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Oklahoma

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus is the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife in Oklahoma.
• Applicants need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a registered nursing license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and supporting materials such as recommendations, transcripts, and a personal statement.
• Programs include at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours and advanced coursework in prenatal care, labor, postpartum, newborn care, and women's health.

Table of Contents

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

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

In Oklahoma, to become a nurse midwife requires an advanced degree that prepares nurses to provide safe, comprehensive care to women across all stages of life. Below are the key components of this degree requirement:

• Completion of a BSN Program: Candidates must first earn a BSN from an accredited institution.
• Specialized MSN in Midwifery: The graduate program must focus on midwifery and include training in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and primary women’s care.
• Supervised Clinical Experience: Students are required to complete clinical rotations under the supervision of certified nurse midwives.
• Training in Newborn and Gynecologic Care: Coursework includes care for newborns and management of gynecological health.
• Advanced Coursework in Assessment and Pharmacology: The program includes instruction in pathophysiology, diagnostics, and safe medication use.
• Eligibility for National Certification: Graduates must qualify to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam.
• Preparation for State Licensure: Passing the AMCB exam is required to obtain a CNM licensure in Oklahoma.

For those weighing career options, understanding nursing job requirements highlights how this degree opens doors to specialized roles in healthcare, combining clinical expertise with patient-centered care in a growing field.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Oklahoma involves meeting defined academic, clinical, and regulatory standards. Below are the primary admission requirements:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from a regionally accredited institution is generally required. Some programs may consider applicants with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) who complete additional bridge coursework.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically expected.
• RN License: Applicants must hold a current, unrestricted RN license in the U.S. Additional state-specific licensure may be necessary depending on clinical site locations.
• Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time RN experience in maternal-child health, such as labor and delivery or OB/GYN, is preferred. Relevant roles like doula or lactation consultant may be considered if RN experience is limited.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are usually required, ideally from a clinical supervisor, peer nurse, and a graduate-prepared nurse (MSN or higher).
• Personal Statement: A written essay is required, outlining the applicant’s motivation, career goals, and readiness for graduate study in nurse midwifery.
• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be submitted for academic review.
• GRE/MAT Scores: Most programs in Oklahoma do not require GRE or MAT scores for admission.
• International Students: Must provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS and may need to submit credential evaluations and complete prerequisite coursework.
• State-Specific Requirements: Applicants must complete bloodborne pathogen training certified by the American Red Cross or an equivalent organization for post-graduation licensure. No student permit is required for clinical training.
• Program Accreditation: Admission must be to a program accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

To better understand the financial potential of this career path, the chart below highlights the top-paying industries for certified nurse midwives.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Oklahoma?

Nurse midwife programs in Oklahoma are structured to provide advanced education in clinical practice, evidence-based care, and reproductive health. Below are the core courses typically included in accredited nurse midwife programs in Oklahoma:

• Advanced Health Assessment: Trains students to conduct comprehensive physical and psychosocial evaluations across all stages of a woman’s life.
• Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers contraception, fertility care, and management of sexually transmitted infections with a focus on holistic reproductive wellness.
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: Provides instruction on safe medication use during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, aligned with advanced nursing guidelines.
• Maternal and Newborn Care: Offers clinical and theoretical training in prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal care for both low- and high-risk cases.
• Primary Care of Women: Equips students to manage common health conditions, support preventive care, and promote wellness across the female lifespan.
• Antepartum and Postpartum Management: Focuses on risk assessment, patient education, and clinical interventions before and after childbirth.
• Intrapartum Care and Birth: Emphasizes safe, evidence-based labor and delivery care, including early recognition of complications.
• Newborn Assessment and Care: Teaches newborn evaluation, stabilization, breastfeeding support, and parental guidance.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Develops skills to analyze scientific research and apply findings to improve clinical outcomes.
• Professional Issues and Ethics in Midwifery: Explores ethical principles, licensure, and legal responsibilities specific to Oklahoma midwifery practice.

Clinical experiences aligned with these courses ensure readiness for certification and practice in Oklahoma. Students often gain practical knowledge by completing rotations within local healthcare settings, tailoring their skills to meet the state’s population needs. For those interested in leadership roles, understanding the requirements to become a charge nurse is also beneficial alongside clinical expertise.

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

In Oklahoma, nurse midwife students must complete at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours to ensure readiness for independent practice. These hours are distributed across varied care environments and are essential for meeting national certification and state licensure standards.

Below are the key components of clinical training:

• Diverse Clinical Placements: Students rotate through hospitals, birthing centers, and OB/GYN clinics to gain experience in labor, delivery, postpartum, and women’s health care.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: Clinical training includes prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, emergency response, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic care.
• Supervised by Licensed Preceptors: Certified nurse midwives or OB/GYN physicians oversee clinical work, providing direct mentorship and performance evaluation.
• Competency Verification: Students must document all clinical hours and skills to fulfill licensure requirements set by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.
• Independent Practice Preparation: Oklahoma grants certified nurse midwives full practice authority, so clinical training emphasizes autonomous decision-making and patient management.
• Legal and Professional Standards: Completion of an ACME-accredited program and national certification is required for licensure under the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act.

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

The path to becoming a certified nurse midwife in Oklahoma typically spans six to eight years. Below are the key steps and estimated timelines:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Completing a BSN program usually takes four years of full-time study and serves as the foundation for advanced nursing roles.
• RN Licensure: Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain RN licensure in Oklahoma. The licensing process may take several months, depending on scheduling and application review.
• Graduate Nurse Midwifery Program: Earning an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus takes 2 to 3 years. Programs include coursework and clinical hours that meet national standards.
• National Certification Exam: After graduation, candidates must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to achieve CNM status.
• Advanced Practice Licensure in Oklahoma: CNMs apply for licensure as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. The state does not require additional exams or clinical hours, and CNMs may practice independently.

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

The cost of attending nurse midwife school in Oklahoma depends largely on the program format and residency status, as there are currently no ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs based within the state. Most students enroll in online or out-of-state programs, where tuition for public universities typically ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 for a complete MSN program. Private institutions often charge more, with total tuition ranging from $65,000 to $85,000. 

In addition to tuition, students should anticipate a range of other expenses. University fees can vary from several hundred to several thousand dollars annually. Required textbooks and course materials may cost between $1,000 and $2,000 per year, while clinical supplies, including scrubs and equipment, often add another $500 to $1,000.

Online learners may incur technology fees for access to digital platforms. Post-program costs include licensure and certification fees—approximately $70 for the Oklahoma APRN application and $500 to $1,000 for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam. 

For those exploring career options, the fastest way to become a womens health nurse practitioner may offer alternative or complementary paths. Keeping a close eye on tuition differences and additional fees will help ensure a realistic budget for completing your nurse midwife education.

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

Nurse midwife students in Oklahoma can access a variety of financial aid programs designed to ease the cost of graduate education and promote service in medically underserved areas. Below are the main financial aid options available in Oklahoma:

• Federal Pell Grants: Need-based awards of up to $7,495 per year for eligible students, with no repayment required.
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Fixed-interest loans allowing up to $20,500 annually, available regardless of demonstrated financial need.
• Graduate PLUS Loans: Credit-based federal loans that can cover the full cost of attendance beyond other aid sources.
• Federal Work-Study: Provides $4,000–$8,000 per year through part-time jobs, often in clinical or healthcare settings.
• Oklahoma Health Corps Loan Repayment Program: Offers up to $35,000 in loan repayment for nurse midwives who serve two years in designated shortage areas.
• National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Programs: Provides scholarships or loan repayment in exchange for practice in federally underserved communities.
• State Nursing Scholarships: Awards administered by the Oklahoma Health Workforce Training Commission for students with strong academic performance and service goals.
• State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP): Matches federal funds to repay student loans for CNMs working in Oklahoma’s high-need communities.
• Private Scholarships: Organizations throughout Oklahoma and nationally offer awards of up to $5,000 annually for advanced nursing students.

What is the job market outlook for nurse midwives in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, evolving healthcare demands have led to a steadily increasing need for certified nurse midwives, with the job market showing robust growth despite geographic and institutional challenges. Recent data indicates that CNMs benefit from competitive salaries and attractive benefits, particularly in underserved rural areas where the shortage is most acute. Employers value CNMs for their comprehensive skill set and ability to provide holistic maternal healthcare, making the profession a strategic option for career longevity. For those considering complementary career paths or dual roles in advanced practice, exploring top nurse practitioner programs in Oklahoma can further expand opportunities in a multidisciplinary setting.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma does not currently offer an in-state, ACME-accredited nurse midwifery program. However, aspiring CNMs have access to several high-quality out-of-state and online options that support local clinical placements.

Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools serving Oklahoma:

• Baylor University – Online DNP Nurse Midwifery: Offers a fully online DNP program with a focus on holistic, culturally responsive care. Clinical placements and mentorship prepare students for independent practice.
• Frontier Nursing University – MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Known for flexible distance learning, Frontier allows Oklahoma students to complete clinicals locally. The program emphasizes service to rural and underserved communities.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center – MSN Nurse Midwifery Track: Located near Oklahoma, this program provides in-person clinical experience and emphasizes leadership and evidence-based maternity care.
• University of New Mexico – Nurse Midwifery Concentration (MSN/DNP): Offers interdisciplinary education with a focus on rural and Native American populations. Clinical training aligns well with Oklahoma’s community health needs.
• Vanderbilt University – MSN in Nurse Midwifery (Hybrid Format): Combines online coursework with on-campus intensives. Vanderbilt’s strong academic reputation and national faculty make it a competitive choice for Oklahoma residents.

To successfully enter these best nurse midwifery programs in Oklahoma, verify each program’s current ACME accreditation and clinical placement options. For those planning their career path, understanding what requirements are needed to become an obstetrics nurse can also provide valuable foundational knowledge.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Oklahoma?

Advanced degrees provide CNMs in Oklahoma with the qualifications needed to grow professionally and take on roles in clinical leadership, education, and research. Below are the advanced degrees that support CNM career advancement in Oklahoma:

• MSN Nurse-Midwifery Focus: This is the foundational graduate degree required for CNM licensure in Oklahoma. It prepares nurses for independent practice and supports advancement into educator or leadership roles.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest clinical nursing degree, the DNP prepares CNMs to lead healthcare teams, influence maternal health policy, and improve care systems across the state.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery or Women’s Health: Designed for APRNs with existing graduate credentials, this certificate facilitates specialization in midwifery or women’s health and broadens clinical responsibilities.
• PhD in Nursing or Related Field: This research-focused doctorate prepares CNMs for academic careers, health policy leadership, and evidence-based innovation in maternal and reproductive care.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Oklahoma?

Accreditation is crucial for aspiring nurse midwives in Oklahoma, as it determines program quality and eligibility for national certification. While Oklahoma currently lacks in-state accredited nurse midwife programs, students can pursue education through approved online or out-of-state options.

Below are the key organizations involved in accrediting or overseeing nurse midwife education relevant to Oklahoma:

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): ACME is the only accrediting body for nurse midwife programs nationwide. Its standards ensure academic and clinical quality essential for certification and licensure.
• U.S. Department of Education: Officially recognizes ACME, granting it the authority to accredit midwifery programs that prepare students for professional practice.
• American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB): Requires graduates of ACME-accredited programs to sit for the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) exam, which is necessary for licensure in Oklahoma.
• Oklahoma Board of Nursing: Regulates licensure for CNMs, requiring candidates to have national certification and education from an ACME-accredited program.
• Out-of-State Academic Institutions: Universities like Baylor University and Frontier Nursing University offer ACME-accredited programs accessible to Oklahoma residents via online or hybrid formats.
• Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC): Accredits programs for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), a separate midwifery path not governed by the Board of Nursing but recognized by the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

 For those exploring how to become a midwife, verifying ACME accreditation is a practical first step to ensure eligibility for certification and licensure, especially given there are no in-state ACME-accredited nurse-midwife programs available as of 2025.

What do nurse midwives in Oklahoma say about their careers?

• Being a nurse midwife in Oklahoma has helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. I work with families from all backgrounds, especially in rural areas where care is limited. Every birth I attend reminds me how meaningful this job is. I know I’m making a difference. Tanya
• Oklahoma offers real opportunities for nurse midwives to lead in patient care. I love being part of a close-knit healthcare team that supports moms and babies. The work can be tough, but it’s always rewarding. I feel valued and respected in my role. Reid
• I became a nurse midwife to support women during one of the most important times in their lives. In Oklahoma, I’ve found a strong sense of purpose and a welcoming professional community. Helping others while continuing to learn every day keeps me motivated. Jasmine

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Oklahoma

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Oklahoma without a nursing degree. CNMs must first obtain RN licensure, then complete an accredited graduate midwifery program. Only licensed RNs may sit for the national certification exam. Non-nurse midwives, like Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), exist in Oklahoma but follow separate licensure processes and have distinct scopes of practice.

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

A CNM in Oklahoma is a registered nurse with graduate-level midwifery training and national certification. CNMs provide full-spectrum care, including prescribing medication and attending hospital births. In contrast, CPMs are non-nurses who focus on home births and have limited medical authority. CNMs are more integrated into Oklahoma’s formal healthcare system.

Is a midwife in Oklahoma higher than an RN?

No, a midwife is not higher than a registered nurse in Oklahoma, but CNMs are advanced practice nurses. CNMs require graduate education and provide specialized maternal healthcare. While they often earn more and have prescriptive authority, the roles differ in scope rather than hierarchy. Direct-entry midwives, without RN licensure, are regulated separately.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Oklahoma hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Oklahoma is demanding due to educational, clinical, and certification requirements. Candidates must become RNs, complete a graduate midwifery program, and pass the AMCB certification exam. State licensure adds further requirements. Despite the rigor, the process is clearly defined and achievable with dedication, offering meaningful career opportunities in maternal healthcare.

Reference:

• American College of Nurse Midwives. (n.d.). Become a midwife. Retrieved from Midwife.org
• Baylor University. (n.d.). Online DNP - Nurse-midwifery program. Retrieved from Baylor University
• Graduate Schools. (n.d.). Midwifery programs in Oklahoma 2025. Retrieved from GradSchools
• Mercy In Action College of Midwifery. (n.d.). Oklahoma. Retrieved from Mercy College of Midwifery
• Midwife.org. (n.d.). Career changers. Retrieved from Midwife.org
• MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to become a certified nurse-midwife in Oklahoma 2025. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
• NurseJournal.org. (n.d.). How to become a nurse midwife. Retrieved from NurseJournal
• Oklahoma Board of Nursing. (n.d.). Education program types regulated by OBN. Retrieved from Oklahoma.gov
• Oklahoma College Start. (n.d.). Explore programs and majors. Retrieved from OK College Start
• University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. (n.d.). Programs & academics. Retrieved from OUHSC Nursing