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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Rhode Island faces a growing demand for skilled nurse midwives, yet many aspiring professionals stumble navigating its unique licensing and schooling maze. With the state's birth rate steady at roughly 11.5 per 1,000 residents, midwifery offers a vital, rewarding career path. The local healthcare community increasingly values nurse midwives for their holistic care approach and critical role in maternal health.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, unpacks the precise educational steps, certification requirements, and practical tips for becoming a nurse midwife in Rhode Island in 2025. It aims to clear confusion and guide readers confidently toward this impactful profession.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Rhode Island

Earn your RN and then a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery—Rhode Island requires certification from a recognized program to practice legally.
Complete clinical hours under supervision to master hands-on birthing skills; expect at least 600 hours of practical experience in diverse settings.
Pass the national nurse-midwife certification exam and obtain state licensure; Rhode Island offers a supportive regulatory environment with growing job opportunities fueled by rising maternal health awareness.

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

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

In Rhode Island, becoming a nurse midwife begins with earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery, the foundational degree shaping skilled practitioners. This graduate degree is more than a credential, it is a transformative journey that equips aspiring midwives with the nuanced expertise and clinical acumen essential for autonomous practice.

The program intricately weaves together advanced coursework in physiology, reproductive pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning, ensuring that students develop a deep understanding of women’s health across the lifespan. Immersed in rigorous clinical training, often involving over 1,000 hours in hospitals like Women & Infants Hospital, learners refine their ability to provide compassionate care through every stage of pregnancy and childbirth, reflecting the real-world demands of midwifery in Rhode Island’s healthcare landscape.

Among the accredited nurse midwifery programs in Rhode Island, this MSN specialization stands as a gateway to mastering the art and science of midwifery. It prepares students to navigate complex clinical scenarios with confidence and precision, fostering a comprehensive approach to prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care.

This degree also situates nurse midwives within the broader context of advanced practice nursing, aligning with the state’s expectations for professionalism and autonomy. For those considering the spectrum of nursing roles, exploring the top paying nursing careers highlights the unique blend of responsibility and reward found in nurse midwifery, underscoring the value of this specialized graduate education in Rhode Island’s healthcare system.

What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Rhode Island?

To step into the demanding world of nurse midwifery in Rhode Island, candidates must assemble a portfolio of credentials that reflect both academic rigor and hands-on nursing prowess. These gateways ensure readiness for the blend of science and compassion integral to the profession.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required, though RN-to-MSN bridge programs accept an associate degree with completed nursing prerequisites.
Active RN License: Possession of a current, unencumbered registered nurse license from Rhode Island or any U.S. jurisdiction is mandatory.
Minimum GPA: Most programs demand at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, signaling consistent academic performance.
Clinical Experience: One year or more of nursing experience is highly valued, grounding applicants in real-world patient care.
Letters of Recommendation: Submission of two or three letters from professional or academic sources attesting to clinical skills and potential is expected.
Personal Statement or Essay: A reflective essay or video articulating professional goals and motivations for midwifery illuminates the candidate’s commitment.
GRE Requirements: Some programs request GRE General Test scores, although this is becoming less common nationwide.
International Student Requirements: Proof of English proficiency and validated educational credentials are compulsory, alongside legal eligibility documentation.
Accredited Program Completion: Enrollment in a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is essential for certification and licensure.
Background Check: A national criminal background check with fingerprints is required for state licensure after graduation.

To illustrate the scale of interest in midwifery education, the graphic below shows that approximately 3,195 students enrolled in certified nurse‑midwife programs in 2021. This surge underscores the growing competition and the importance of meeting stringent admission criteria.

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

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Rhode Island?

The nurse midwife program curriculum in Rhode Island is a finely tuned blend of science, compassion, and hands-on experience designed to forge skilled practitioners ready for the unique demands of women’s health in this state. Each course is a stepping stone, building not only knowledge but a deep understanding of the clinical and ethical dimensions of midwifery.

Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology: Explores complex bodily systems and their changes during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, providing a solid foundation for managing maternal and fetal health.
Advanced Health Assessment: Develops the ability to perform detailed physical and psychosocial evaluations of women and newborns, crucial for accurate diagnosis and care planning in clinical settings.
Reproductive Health of Women: Covers gynecological and reproductive care throughout a woman’s life, preparing students to deliver primary and preventive services tailored to diverse populations.
Reproductive and Perinatal Pharmacology: Focuses on medication safety and effectiveness during pregnancy and postpartum, ensuring compliance with Rhode Island’s regulations on prescribing practices.
Maternal, Newborn, and Infant Care: Teaches evidence-based management of pregnancy, childbirth, and neonatal care, emphasizing competence in all stages from antepartum to postpartum.
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Equips students with strategies to educate families on healthy lifestyles and risk reduction, reflecting Rhode Island’s community health priorities.
Biostatistics for Mothers and Infants: Introduces methods to analyze health data, empowering students to interpret research and apply evidence-based care effectively.
Psychology for Pregnancy: Examines emotional and psychological changes during pregnancy, helping midwives support mental health and emotional resilience.
Ethical and Legal Issues in Midwifery: Reviews Rhode Island-specific laws and ethical dilemmas, preparing students for responsible and professional practice within the state’s regulatory framework.
Clinical Practicums: Immerses students in real-world settings across Rhode Island, from hospitals to community clinics, where theory meets practice under expert supervision.

These courses in Rhode Island nurse midwifery schools are crafted to ensure graduates meet the requirements to become a midwife, combining rigorous academics with practical expertise to thrive in advanced nursing roles.

After completing these courses, graduates emerge with a skill set that mirrors professional demands. The chart below illustrates the top competencies CNMs feature on their resumes—highlighting patient care, obstetrics, CNM expertise, and more—underscoring how Rhode Island’s curriculum builds relevant real‑world abilities.

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

Clinical training for nurse midwives in Rhode Island is a rigorous, hands-on component of education that typically requires between 500 and 1,000 supervised hours. This training immerses students in a variety of care settings, including hospital labor and delivery units, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and sometimes home births.

Each environment offers unique learning experiences that help students develop clinical skills, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of patient care. Core competencies include prenatal assessments, labor and birth management, postpartum care, newborn screenings required by state law, and gynecologic care across the lifespan.

Supervision is provided by experienced preceptors such as certified nurse midwives, women’s health nurse practitioners, or OB/GYN physicians who offer guidance, real-time feedback, and ensure patient safety. These mentors play a vital role in helping students translate academic knowledge into practical, confident clinical decision-making.

While Rhode Island follows national standards and doesn’t impose additional hour requirements, it emphasizes public health responsibilities like newborn screening, reinforcing the broader impact and responsibility of midwifery practice in the state.

A nurse midwife from Rhode Island who graduated from a local program described her clinical training as both intense and transformative. She recalled the challenge of balancing long hours with the emotional weight of each birth, noting that her preceptors anchored her through the chaos of hospital labor while teaching her to trust her instincts and rely on evidence-based care. Rotating through hospitals and birthing centers sharpened her adaptability, showing her how different environments shape different approaches. “It wasn’t just about learning procedures,” she said. “It was about becoming a compassionate provider ready for anything.”

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

Starting the journey, you’ll spend about four years earning a BSN, laying down the essential foundation in nursing knowledge and skills. Next, the NCLEX-RN exam awaits—a gateway to becoming a registered nurse. Securing an RN licensure can take several months, depending on exam schedules and state processing, so patience is part of the curriculum here.

Rhode Island doesn’t just require a license; many graduate programs ask for a solid GPA, letters of recommendation, and sometimes clinical experience specifically in women’s health or labor and delivery to prove you’re ready for midwifery challenges.

The real transformation begins with a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, typically lasting two to three years full-time, either at the master’s (MSN) or doctoral (DNP) level. These programs blend advanced coursework with hands-on clinical practice, demanding at least 1,000 clinical hours.

Rhode Island’s hospitals, such as Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, provide rich clinical environments, ensuring you meet state and national standards. Some online programs cleverly coordinate local placements, reducing travel strain while keeping your hands on the pulse of real-world midwifery.

Passing the American Midwifery Certification Board’s national exam caps your certification journey, usually bringing the total time from BSN start to CNM finish to about seven to eight years.

Rhode Island’s clinical hour requirements align with national standards, so no extra hurdles there, but licensing processes or regulatory updates—like shifts in prescriptive authority—can add small delays. The timeline is a blend of rigorous study, practical experience, and navigating state-specific nuances, crafting a midwife ready to serve with skill and confidence.

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

When considering nurse midwife program tuition in Rhode Island, expect costs to orbit around the national averages, with public institutions like Rhode Island College setting the tone. For in-state residents, tuition hovers near $17,789 per year, while out-of-state students face a steeper climb to about $30,782 annually.

Rhode Island College, although not offering a dedicated nurse midwife track, provides a useful benchmark with its graduate nursing tuition totaling roughly $22,950 for the full program—approximately $510 per credit. Private school options are scarce in Rhode Island for this specialty, so public tuition rates often serve as the compass for prospective students.

The cost of nurse midwife school Rhode Island students should budget for extends beyond just tuition. Think of fees as the hidden tributaries flowing into the river of expenses: mandatory program, clinical, and technology fees can add $500 to $2,000 yearly.

Textbooks and course materials, essential for mastering the craft, range between $1,000 and $2,000 for the program’s duration. Clinical supplies, from stethoscopes to lab coats, usually tally $200 to $500, while background checks, immunizations, and health requirements contribute another $100 to $300. Finally, licensure and certification, the gateway to practice, cost about $600 to $750 combined, rounding out the financial landscape.

If you’re curious about the broader journey towards becoming a nurse practitioner, resources like nurse practitioner how to become offer insightful guidance. Navigating the nuances of in-state versus out-of-state tuition is key to budgeting wisely, as out-of-state students typically encounter higher fees, nudging total program costs closer to $31,000 or more at public institutions.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Rhode Island is a lifeline woven from federal support, state scholarships, and unique fellowships designed to ease the financial maze of advanced nursing education. These options not only lighten the monetary load but also open pathways to serve local communities, blending education with meaningful service.

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based, no-repayment grants up to $7,495 annually that kickstart funding through FAFSA.
Graduate Direct and PLUS Loans: Unsubsidized loans up to $20,500 plus credit-checked PLUS loans cover tuition gaps with manageable repayment terms.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time roles in healthcare settings offering $4,000–$8,000 yearly while gaining hands-on experience.
Rhode Island Foundation Scholarships: Nine funds targeting residents, minorities, and those committed to local practice, all accessed via a single May 5 application.
CPM Equity Initiative Fellowship: Full tuition and stipend for Certified Professional Midwifery students with strong Rhode Island ties, fostering a tight-knit cohort.
Loan Repayment Programs: NHSC and state SLRPs reward service in underserved areas with significant loan forgiveness and scholarships.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Rhode Island who graduated locally, she described the financial aid journey as a puzzle of hope and persistence. “Applying felt overwhelming at first, but the single application for multiple scholarships was a game changer,” she recalled.

Balancing graduate loans with work-study and the CPM fellowship made her dream achievable, though “it took constant attention to deadlines and eligibility.” Her gratitude was clear, emphasizing how these supports didn’t just fund her education—they grounded her commitment to give back to Rhode Island’s communities.

What are the continuing education and professional development opportunities for nurse midwives in Rhode Island?

Nurse midwives in Rhode Island are encouraged to pursue ongoing education and actively engage with professional networks to stay current with evolving clinical practices and regulatory updates. Many professionals participate in accredited workshops, specialized courses, and industry conferences that address emerging trends in maternal healthcare and advanced nursing practice. Additionally, professional associations and local networking events provide valuable mentorship and leadership opportunities that support long-term career advancement. Dedicated programs, including the top nurse practitioner programs in Rhode Island, exemplify the commitment to continuous learning, ensuring that practitioners not only meet licensure requirements but also excel in patient care delivery.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Rhode Island?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Rhode Island is a strategic move for aspiring CNMs. These programs not only meet national standards but also align with Rhode Island’s specific licensure requirements, ensuring students gain the clinical expertise and academic rigor needed to excel.

Women & Infants Hospital Clinical Placement Program: This program partners with out-of-state universities, offering nurse-midwifery students access to a nationally recognized hospital known for high-acuity obstetric and newborn care. It’s a prime site for hands-on experience in a respected teaching environment.
University of Rhode Island - College of Nursing (MSN/DNP Nurse-Midwifery): URI collaborates with ACME-accredited programs to provide online didactic coursework combined with local clinical placements at major Rhode Island health systems, blending flexibility with strong, real-world clinical training.
Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery-Rhode Island CPM Equity Initiative: Focused on Certified Professional Midwives, this hybrid program emphasizes maternal health equity and community-based midwifery, enriched by partnerships with the Rhode Island Department of Health for mentorship and clinical exposure.
Online ACME-Accredited Nurse-Midwifery Programs with RI Clinical Affiliates: Institutions like Frontier Nursing University and Georgetown University offer flexible online coursework paired with clinical placements across Rhode Island, ideal for working RNs seeking tailored local preceptorships.
Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island Clinical Training Sites: Serving as a vital clinical site, Memorial Hospital provides nurse-midwifery students with practical labor, delivery, and postpartum care experiences under seasoned CNMs, fulfilling key licensure requirements.

These accredited nurse midwife programs in Rhode Island ensure graduates meet the state mandate of 1,000 clinical hours and ACME accreditation, paving the way for CNM licensure. For those considering the financial aspect of this career path, understanding the nurse salary by state can add valuable perspective to your decision-making process.

To put these program options in perspective, the chart below shows that just 538 nurse midwife degrees were awarded in 2023—a 5.11% decline from the prior year—highlighting the competitive landscape and the importance of selecting a top‐accredited Rhode Island school.

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 Rhode Island?

Advanced degrees serve as powerful launchpads for certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) in Rhode Island, propelling them beyond bedside care into realms of leadership, policy, and specialized practice. These credentials unlock diverse pathways and amplify influence across healthcare settings.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nurse Midwifery: The essential gateway to CNM certification, this degree immerses nurses in women’s health and newborn care, preparing them for clinical mastery and licensure. Graduates often expand their reach by adding Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification, enhancing their roles in clinics and hospitals.
Dual Nurse-Midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Programs: This twin-focus training equips practitioners to deliver comprehensive, lifespan-spanning care. Dual certification opens doors to leadership roles like clinical program director or specialized consultant within Rhode Island’s healthcare landscape.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): At the pinnacle of practice degrees, the DNP sharpens leadership and policy skills, enabling CNMs to helm midwifery services, drive quality initiatives, and influence health policy on broader stages.
MSN with Other Specializations: Diversifying with specializations such as Family or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers CNMs versatile expertise, fueling careers in interdisciplinary care, mental health, or academic leadership.

To illustrate how these advanced qualifications translate across the profession, the chart below shows that over 70% of CNMs hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees—highlighting the critical role of MSN and DNP pathways in Rhode Island—while associate, diploma, and other credentials remain less common.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Rhode Island?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in Rhode Island, ensuring they meet nationally recognized standards of quality. Operating under the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ACME accreditation is essential for any program to be considered legitimate in the state.

Graduation from an ACME-accredited program is required by the Rhode Island Department of Health for licensure and APRN status. This accreditation guarantees that graduates are eligible to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam and are fully prepared to deliver competent, evidence-based care in diverse clinical settings.

For registered nurses curious about how to become a midwife, many ACME-accredited programs offer flexible online options that accommodate professional schedules, making the cost of certified nurse midwife school Rhode Island a worthwhile investment. This blend of accessibility and quality ensures that students receive education recognized both statewide and nationally, setting a solid foundation for their careers.

What do nurse midwives in Rhode Island say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Rhode Island was a transformative experience that prepared me for the unique healthcare needs of our local communities. Starting my teaching career at a local school has allowed me to share my passion and knowledge with aspiring midwives, fostering a new generation dedicated to compassionate care. Rhode Island’s close-knit environment offers unparalleled opportunities to build strong patient relationships, which deeply enriches my professional journey. The support system here truly encourages continuous growth and professional development, making every day fulfilling. Annie
Training at Salve Regina University gave me a strong clinical foundation, but it was the chance to engage with Rhode Island’s diverse populations that really shaped my approach to midwifery. I’ve found immense satisfaction in contributing to the wellness of young families and educating students in a local school about holistic birth practices. The cultural richness and community spirit here offer challenges that push me to innovate and adapt in meaningful ways. This career has not only expanded my skills but deepened my commitment to making a positive impact on maternal health. Leila
My journey began at Rhode Island College, where the program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice equipped me for the complexities of nurse midwifery. Working in education locally has been rewarding beyond measure, as I witness the personal and professional growth of my students firsthand. Rhode Island’s healthcare landscape is unique with its blend of urban and coastal populations, presenting diverse cases that enhance my expertise. This career path has been a steady source of challenge and fulfillment, allowing me to advance while giving back to my community. Tiana

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Rhode Island

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife (CNM) in Rhode Island without first obtaining a nursing degree. The path to becoming a CNM requires a registered nursing (RN) license, which in turn requires completion of an accredited nursing program, typically a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree. After obtaining RN licensure, candidates must complete a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).

Direct-entry midwifery, which does not require a nursing degree, exists but is a separate pathway and often leads to certification as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM), not a CNM. CPMs have different scopes of practice and licensing requirements which vary by state. In Rhode Island, CNMs are the primary professional group recognized for hospital-based midwifery care, and this requires nursing credentials.

Therefore, if your goal is to practice as a nurse midwife in Rhode Island, obtaining a nursing degree is a mandatory step in the process.

What is the difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife in Rhode Island?

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their training, scope of practice, and licensure. A nurse midwife, specifically a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery and holds national certification. In Rhode Island, CNMs are licensed healthcare providers authorized to offer prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as gynecological and family planning services. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices alongside physicians.

In contrast, a midwife without the nursing background—often called a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife—may have different training pathways that do not require nursing education. These midwives typically focus on out-of-hospital births and may be licensed or regulated differently depending on the state or country. Globally, midwives without nursing credentials often provide essential maternal care in community or home settings, especially in areas with limited medical resources.

Thus, the main distinctions are the level of medical training, regulatory authority, and typical care settings between nurse midwives and other midwives.

Is a midwife in Rhode Island higher than a RN?

In Rhode Island, a midwife is not necessarily ranked higher than a registered nurse (RN) as their roles and scopes of practice differ significantly. Registered nurses provide a broad range of healthcare services across various settings, requiring licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education. Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), on the other hand, are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized graduate education in midwifery, focusing primarily on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives (2023), CNMs have prescriptive authority and can provide primary care for women, which extends beyond the typical RN role.

In Rhode Island, CNMs must hold RN licensure and obtain national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board, reflecting a higher level of specialization and education. However, in terms of hierarchy, CNMs are considered advanced practice nurses rather than a higher rank than RNs. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) reports median annual wages of around $120,000 for nurse-midwives nationally, compared to approximately $77,600 for registered nurses, indicating higher compensation corresponding to their advanced qualifications.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Rhode Island hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Rhode Island can be challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires meeting specific educational and licensing standards. Candidates must first become registered nurses by completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Following this, aspiring nurse midwives must earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program.

Rhode Island requires certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), which involves passing a national exam. Additionally, applicants must obtain state licensure, which includes meeting continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials.

The academic workload and clinical training are rigorous, demanding strong commitment and time management. However, the state’s support of advanced practice nursing roles can provide good resources for students. Overall, while the path involves multiple steps and standards, it is a well-defined route that motivated individuals can successfully navigate to become licensed nurse midwives in Rhode Island.