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

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Oregon faces a growing demand for nurse midwives amid a statewide shortage of maternal healthcare providers. Currently, rural areas in Oregon report 30% fewer obstetricians compared to urban centers, increasing reliance on certified nurse midwives. Pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Oregon offers competitive salaries, with a median annual wage exceeding $105,000, and strong job growth projected at 12% through 2030.

This article details the educational requirements to become a nurse midwife in Oregon for 2025. Developed by career planning experts, it provides data-driven guidance on necessary certifications, accredited programs, and licensure to help prospective students navigate the pathway efficiently and effectively.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Oregon

Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gain at least one year of clinical experience before applying to an accredited nurse midwifery program in Oregon.
Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), which typically takes 2 to 3 years.
Pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and apply for licensure through the Oregon State Board of Nursing to practice legally.

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

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

The minimum degree for nurse midwife in Oregon is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery. This graduate degree provides the comprehensive clinical knowledge and practical skills necessary to deliver a full spectrum of reproductive and primary care to women, including prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care.

The curriculum involves rigorous coursework in advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based midwifery practice, complemented by extensive clinical training in diverse settings such as birthing centers and community health organizations. This specialized education ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of midwifery care and meet the state’s nurse midwife education requirements Oregon.

Completion of an MSN with a midwifery focus also qualifies graduates to sit for the national certification exam administered by AMCB, a prerequisite for licensure as a CNM in Oregon. The state mandates at least 1,000 clinical hours during the graduate program, underscoring the emphasis on hands-on experience. Oregon CNMs possess independent practice and prescriptive authority, reflecting the comprehensive preparation provided by this degree.

Given the strong demand for nurse midwives in Oregon and the competitive compensation reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pursuing an MSN remains a critical step for those seeking to enter this field. For those exploring career pathways, understanding the benefits of nursing course can provide additional insights into the professional advantages of this degree.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Oregon requires meeting defined academic, professional, and documentation standards. These criteria ensure candidates are prepared for advanced practice and independent clinical roles.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a BSN. Conditional admission is possible if the RN license is pending, but it must be secured before clinical coursework.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required across all undergraduate and graduate coursework, including science classes.
RN License: A current, unencumbered RN license is mandatory. Conditional admission may be granted if licensure is pending, with full licensure required before clinical enrollment.
Clinical Experience: While not always mandatory, many programs prefer or require prior clinical experience as a registered nurse to demonstrate readiness for advanced practice.
Letters of Recommendation: Three professional references are required, usually from academic instructors, supervisors, or clinical managers.
Essay and Resume: Submission of a personal essay and current professional resume is mandatory to outline career goals and qualifications.
Statistics Course: Completion of a college-level statistics course within five years with a grade of B- or better is required; waivers may be considered upon review.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions must be submitted for evaluation.
Application System: Applications are processed through the Nursing Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS) for document verification and submission.
International Student Requirements: International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency, credential evaluation, and, where applicable, legal residency or visa documentation.
Interview: Selected applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the admission process.
Unique Oregon Requirements: Oregon programs emphasize full-scope practice and independent prescriptive authority, requiring 45 hours of pharmacology coursework and DEA registration for nurse-midwives.

The image below highlights nationwide enrollment trends of certified nurse midwife programs in 2021. This context reinforces the importance of Oregon’s competitive admission standards, which help ensure that only the most qualified candidates advance into this high-demand, independent clinical role.

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

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Oregon?

Nurse midwife programs in Oregon incorporate a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced clinical practice. The courses address a wide range of topics essential for managing women's health and newborn care across diverse healthcare settings.

Advanced Health Assessment: Focuses on detailed physical and psychosocial evaluations of women throughout their lifespan, critical for accurate diagnosis and management in midwifery practice.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers contraception, family planning, sexually transmitted infections, and menopause, preparing students to support women’s health at all reproductive stages.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Provides an in-depth understanding of disease mechanisms affecting women and newborns, enabling recognition and management of complex conditions.
Advanced Pharmacology: Emphasizes safe prescribing, drug interactions, and therapeutic use of medications; Oregon mandates at least 45 hours of pharmacology coursework for prescriptive authority.
Antepartum Care: Trains students to manage both normal and high-risk pregnancies, with focus on prenatal screening, fetal monitoring, and patient education.
Intrapartum and Birth Care: Develops clinical skills in labor management, fetal assessment, and delivery techniques, including practical experience in hospitals and birthing centers.
Postpartum and Newborn Care: Addresses post-birth recovery, breastfeeding support, and newborn adaptation assessments to ensure comprehensive family care.
Women’s Primary Care: Covers prevention and management of common and chronic health issues in women, promoting health across the lifespan.
Gynecology: Includes diagnosis, management of gynecological disorders, Pap smears, and minor procedures relevant to midwifery.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Trains students to critically appraise research and apply evidence for quality improvement in maternal-child health outcomes.
Clinical Practicum: Requires over 1,000 supervised clinical hours in varied Oregon settings, ensuring readiness for independent practice and engagement with community midwifery networks.

These courses reflect Oregon nurse midwife course requirements and are structured to meet the state's advanced practice standards, emphasizing independent provider roles and prescriptive authority. For those interested in understanding the financial aspects of advanced nursing roles, exploring the family nurse practitioner salary can provide valuable insights into career prospects.

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 Oregon?

In Oregon, nurse midwife students typically complete around 1,000 supervised clinical hours distributed across multiple semesters. These hours are spent in varied healthcare settings, including hospitals (labor and delivery, postpartum, and triage), birthing centers, OB/GYN and midwifery clinics, and even home birth environments. This diverse exposure ensures students are trained in both medical and community-based approaches to childbirth.

During clinical training, students develop core competencies such as prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management—including emergency response—postpartum care, breastfeeding support, and newborn evaluations. Clinical preceptors, usually certified nurse midwives or physicians, provide direct mentorship and performance evaluations to ensure students meet essential milestones before graduation and licensure.

The Oregon State Board of Nursing mandates specific requirements for CNM licensure. These include assisting in 25 births, acting as the primary provider in another 25, completing 100 prenatal visits, 25 newborn assessments, and 40 postpartum exams. Importantly, at least 25 of the 50 total births must take place in community settings, and 10 of those must occur within two years prior to applying. These standards ensure graduates have both the breadth and recency of experience needed to practice independently in Oregon’s varied birth environments.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Oregon begins with earning a BSN, which generally requires four years of full-time undergraduate study. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in Oregon. The timeline for receiving RN licensure can vary, often taking several months depending on exam availability and state licensing board processing times. RN licensure is mandatory before entering graduate-level nurse midwifery programs in Oregon.

The next phase involves completing a graduate nurse-midwifery program, either an MSN or a DNP, offered by accredited institutions in Oregon. These programs typically take two to three years of full-time study and include about 1,000 hours of clinical training. For example, Oregon Health & Science University’s DNP program requires 116 credits and a substantial clinical practicum. Coursework covers advanced pathophysiology, prenatal and newborn care, gynecology, and women’s health, providing comprehensive preparation for midwifery practice.

After graduating from a certified program, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB, a four-hour computer-based test available at various Oregon locations. Subsequently, applicants pursue Advanced Practice Registered Nursing licensure as a nurse midwife nurse practitioner through the Oregon State Board of Nursing. This stage entails background checks, transcript submission, fees of approximately $150–$200, and proof of 45 hours of pharmacology coursework for prescriptive authority.

Overall, the process from starting a BSN to full CNM licensure in Oregon typically spans seven to nine years, influenced by state-specific clinical hour requirements, background check durations, and board review timelines.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Oregon primarily centers around Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), the state's leading public institution for nurse-midwifery education. For the 2025–2026 academic year, OHSU charges $713 per credit for Oregon residents and $926 per credit for non-residents.

Given that most DNP nurse-midwifery programs require approximately 80 credits, the estimated tuition totals are $57,040 for residents and $74,080 for non-residents. These figures highlight a significant cost difference based on residency status and position OHSU competitively within the national tuition range of $500 to $2,000 per credit for similar programs.

Beyond tuition, students should anticipate additional expenses that contribute to the overall cost of nurse midwifery school in Oregon. These include university and program fees such as registration, laboratory, technology, and clinical fees, which can total several hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Textbooks and course materials are estimated between $1,000 and $2,000 depending on course requirements, while clinical supplies—like uniforms and equipment—typically range from $500 to $1,000. After program completion, licensure and certification costs add further expenses, with the American Midwifery Certification Board exam costing approximately $500 to $1,000, and Oregon state licensure fees ranging from $150 to $300.

Prospective students should note that OHSU remains the primary accredited provider within Oregon, while private or out-of-state programs generally charge between $750 and $1,200 per credit, often pushing total program costs above $80,000.

Those interested in understanding the educational requirements to enter this field may also find it helpful to review nurse practitioner requirements, as these outline a broader context for clinical and academic preparation. Overall, the cost of nurse midwifery school in Oregon reflects a balance of competitive tuition rates and necessary supplementary expenses associated with advanced nursing education.

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

Nurse midwife students in Oregon can access multiple financial aid resources designed to ease the cost of advanced nursing education. These options include federal funding, state-specific scholarships, and targeted loan repayment programs, each with distinct eligibility criteria and benefits.

Federal Pell Grant: Need-based grants up to $7,495 annually that do not require repayment and are limited by lifetime eligibility.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Graduate loans up to $20,500 per year with a fixed 6.28% interest rate, requiring repayment post-graduation.
Graduate PLUS Loans: Loans covering up to the full cost of attendance minus other aid, subject to credit approval and a 7.28% interest rate.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities offering $4,000–$8,000 yearly to help offset costs without repayment obligations.
Scholars for a Healthy Oregon Initiative (SHOI): Full tuition and fees coverage for eligible DNP nurse midwifery students committed to serving rural or underserved Oregon communities.
OHSU Nursing Scholarships: Awards ranging from $1,000 to $12,000 supporting midwifery students, some granted automatically based on eligibility.
Loan Repayment Programs: Assistance for graduates working in shortage areas, including federal and state options like SHOI, to reduce post-graduate debt.

A nurse midwife from Oregon who graduated locally shared that navigating these financial aid options required persistence but ultimately provided crucial support. She recalled feeling overwhelmed initially by the variety of programs yet found that applying early for FAFSA and SHOI was key. “The SHOI program was a game changer,” she said, emphasizing how committing to serve in underserved areas made full tuition coverage possible.

She also highlighted the importance of work-study earnings to manage daily expenses and how smaller scholarships from OHSU helped fill funding gaps. Her experience reflects the layered approach needed to effectively finance nurse midwifery education in Oregon.

What emerging healthcare trends impact nurse midwifery practice in Oregon?

In Oregon, nurse midwives are increasingly influenced by advancements in digital health, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice innovations. The integration of telehealth services has expanded prenatal and postpartum care options, while simulation-based clinical training is enhancing critical decision-making skills. Additionally, policy reforms and interdisciplinary practice models are fostering closer collaboration with other advanced practice roles. For comparative educational insights and related career pathways, consider exploring top nurse practitioner programs in Oregon.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Oregon?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Oregon is vital for students aiming to become certified nurse midwives, as accreditation guarantees adherence to national clinical standards and eligibility for certification exams. Oregon’s nurse-midwifery education is centered on high-quality programs that emphasize rigorous clinical training and faculty expertise.

Below are five accredited nurse midwife programs in Oregon recognized for their excellence:

Oregon Health & Science University – Nurse-Midwifery DNP Program: This program offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice with over 1,000 clinical hours and a 100% American Midwifery Certification Board pass rate in 2024, ranking it among the nation’s top three nurse-midwifery programs.
OHSU – Nurse-Midwifery Post-Master’s Certificate: Designed for nurses with a graduate degree, this certificate provides advanced practice nurses with a streamlined pathway to earn nurse-midwifery credentials, supported by expert faculty and diverse clinical placements statewide.
OHSU – Online/Hybrid Nurse-Midwifery Option: Offering flexibility through online and hybrid delivery, this program allows working RNs across Oregon to complete coursework while maintaining employment, with clinical placements coordinated throughout the state to maximize accessibility.
OHSU – Focus on Clinical Partnerships: The program benefits from strong collaborations with major hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, providing students with extensive supervised experiences including high-volume birth centers and unique opportunities such as water births.
OHSU – Faculty Excellence: The faculty includes nationally recognized leaders in midwifery education and clinical practice, ensuring mentorship that combines decades of experience in women’s health and leadership development.

For prospective students exploring the best nurse midwifery schools in Oregon, OHSU stands out as the primary accredited institution offering comprehensive, state-approved nurse-midwifery graduate education. Those interested in advancing their nursing careers may also find valuable insights into the highest paying jobs with a doctorate in nursing, which can inform long-term professional goals.

The image below illustrates a recent decrease in nurse midwife degrees awarded, with 538 issued in 2023—a 5.11% drop from the previous year. This highlights the growing value of enrolling in top-tier accredited programs like OHSU, where rigorous education drives both quality and career sustainability.

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 Oregon?

Advanced degrees play a critical role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Oregon. These qualifications enable CNMs to move beyond clinical practice into leadership, education, and specialized roles within the healthcare system.

Master of Science in Nursing: Serves as the foundational graduate degree for CNMs, allowing independent practice with prescriptive authority. MSN-prepared CNMs commonly work in hospitals, clinics, and birth centers across Oregon.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: A terminal practice degree that enhances clinical expertise and leadership skills. CNMs with a DNP often assume positions such as clinical program directors, policy advocates, or lead midwives in large healthcare organizations.
PhD in Nursing or Related Field: Focused on research and academia, this degree prepares CNMs to become nurse scientists, university faculty, or innovators in evidence-based maternal-child health practices, influencing policy at state and national levels.
Post-Graduate Certificates: These credentials offer CNMs opportunities for dual certification in specialties like women’s health or family nurse practice, broadening their scope for advanced practice or academic roles.

The chart below reinforces the value of advanced education, with the majority of certified nurse midwives holding either a master’s or bachelor’s degree. This distribution underscores how pursuing graduate-level credentials—such as an MSN, DNP, or PhD—can significantly elevate professional opportunities and leadership potential within Oregon’s midwifery landscape.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Oregon?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the exclusive accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse midwife programs nationwide, including those in Oregon. This programmatic accreditation is essential as only graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify to take the national certification exam and obtain state licensure.

Oregon Health & Science University currently operates the state’s sole ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program, with accreditation valid through 2033. ACME offers three accreditation statuses—preaccreditation, initial accreditation, and continued accreditation—each reflecting different program maturity levels and ranging from five to ten years. Regardless of status, all accredited programs meet strict criteria ensuring eligibility for CNM certification.

For those evaluating nurse midwife program tuition Oregon, verifying ACME accreditation is critical, as it directly affects the ability to secure advanced practice licensure. Prospective students should also consider that OHSU’s program ranks among the top nationally, making it a prominent choice for Oregon RNs pursuing this specialty.

For individuals researching the cost of nurse midwife school in Oregon alongside career prospects, exploring the best jobs with a nursing specialization can provide valuable insight into long-term professional outcomes.

What do nurse midwives in Oregon say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Oregon Health & Science University was a transformative experience that deeply connected me to the community I serve. The curriculum balanced rigorous clinical practice with a strong emphasis on culturally sensitive care, which is vital in Oregon's diverse population. Starting my teaching career in a local school allowed me to share my passion for midwifery with the next generation, fostering a supportive learning environment. I find great joy in mentoring students and watching them grow into confident practitioners who will make a real difference in maternal health. Oregon’s commitment to holistic healthcare truly empowers nurse midwives like me to thrive professionally and personally. Justine
Choosing to pursue nurse midwifery through the Pacific University program was one of the best decisions of my life. The blend of hands-on clinical experiences and community engagement prepared me well for the unique challenges in Oregon, where rural and urban settings both demand tailored care approaches. Working in a local school as a nurse midwife educator has deepened my appreciation for the impact we have on young people’s health literacy and well-being. The opportunity to guide students while continuing my own professional development makes every day fulfilling. Living and working in Oregon means embracing an environment that values sustainability and holistic care, which aligns perfectly with my personal values. Chen
The program at Linfield University provided me with an excellent foundation in nurse midwifery and opened doors to incredible professional growth in Oregon’s healthcare landscape. I’ve found that Oregon’s supportive networks and progressive policies create unique opportunities for career advancement and innovation in midwifery care. Starting as a nurse midwife educator in a local school has been deeply rewarding, allowing me to contribute to shaping future healthcare leaders while continuously expanding my own expertise. The chance to positively impact maternal and infant health in communities across this beautiful state inspires me every day. Oregon’s natural beauty and commitment to equity continually fuel my passion for this career. Olivia

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Oregon

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife in Oregon without a nursing degree. To practice as a CNM, you must first obtain a registered nursing license. This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After becoming an RN, you must earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. The Oregon State Board of Nursing mandates this pathway to ensure midwives have both nursing and midwifery expertise.

However, Oregon does recognize direct-entry midwives (DEMs), who do not need a nursing degree. DEMs are licensed separately and have different scopes of practice compared to CNMs. They typically complete specialized midwifery training rather than traditional nursing education. If your goal is to become a nurse midwife specifically, a nursing degree is essential. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right educational path for your career goals in midwifery within Oregon.

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

A nurse midwife, often called a CNM, is a registered nurse with advanced education in midwifery, typically holding a master’s degree. CNMs are licensed healthcare professionals who can provide a wide range of services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, and postpartum care. They are authorized to prescribe medications and perform certain medical procedures. In Oregon, nurse midwives are regulated by the Oregon State Board of Nursing and must pass national certification exams.

In contrast, a midwife without the nursing qualification may be a CPM or a traditional midwife. These midwives focus primarily on childbirth and prenatal/postnatal care, but generally do not have the same medical training or prescribing authority as nurse midwives. They may be licensed differently or operate under less formal regulation depending on the state or country.

Globally, nurse midwives tend to have a broader clinical scope and are integrated into healthcare systems, while midwives without nursing credentials often emphasize natural or home births and may have limited medical intervention capabilities.

Is a midwife in Oregon higher than a RN?

In Oregon, a midwife is not considered "higher" than a registered nurse in terms of licensure hierarchy, but they have distinct roles and scopes of practice. Registered nurses are licensed healthcare professionals who provide a broad range of medical care across settings, while CPMs and CNMs specialize in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, CNMs are APRNs with graduate-level education, allowing them to perform gynecological exams, prescribe medications, and manage labor, which places them at a higher clinical responsibility level compared to RNs. CPMs, however, focus primarily on out-of-hospital births and do not have the same prescriptive authority or hospital privileges as CNMs or RNs.

The Oregon Midwifery Council regulates midwives, with approximately 150 active licenses as of 2023. Meanwhile, the Oregon State Board of Nursing reports over 65,000 licensed RNs, highlighting the broader workforce size. Thus, midwives hold specialized roles rather than a strictly higher rank than RNs.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Oregon hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Oregon is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing degree, obtaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree from an accredited nurse midwifery program. Oregon mandates certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board, which involves passing a rigorous exam. Additionally, candidates must apply for state licensure through the Oregon Board of Nursing.

The academic and clinical requirements are demanding, as students must develop expertise in women’s health, prenatal care, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Clinical hours are extensive, providing hands-on experience under supervision. Balancing coursework, clinical practice, and exam preparation requires strong time management and commitment.

Overall, while the pathway to becoming a nurse midwife in Oregon is rigorous, it is well-structured and supported by clear guidelines. Prospective students who are motivated and prepared for intensive study and clinical training can successfully enter this rewarding profession.