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

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South Carolina faces a critical shortage of nurse midwives, with fewer than 100 certified professionals serving a growing population. This gap challenges maternal healthcare access, especially in rural areas where birth outcomes lag behind national averages. As such, pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in South Carolina offers not only a vital service to communities but also strong job security and competitive salaries, reflecting increasing demand.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, unpacks the specific educational requirements for becoming a nurse midwife in the state. It provides clear guidance on how to navigate certification, licensure, and schooling pathways to help you overcome barriers and contribute meaningfully to maternal care.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in South Carolina

Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) to meet South Carolina’s licensure requirements.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam to become a certified nurse midwife (CNM), a credential essential for legal practice and higher earning potential in the state.
Understand that South Carolina’s demand for nurse midwives is growing, with a median salary of around $110,000, reflecting both rural healthcare needs and expanding maternal health services.

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

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

The minimum education requirement for nurse midwives in South Carolina is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This degree is far more than a credential; it represents a rigorous blend of theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise essential for the complexities of midwifery care.

The MSN curriculum immerses students in evidence-based practice, advanced health assessments, and nuanced management of pregnancy and childbirth complications. Such preparation ensures nurse midwives are not just healthcare providers but critical thinkers and decision-makers equipped to navigate the unpredictable nature of maternal and newborn health.

The nurse midwife degree requirements South Carolina demand go beyond clinical skills to encompass counseling and health education, fostering a holistic approach that supports women and families throughout the reproductive lifespan. In a state where maternal health disparities persist, the role of nurse midwives is indispensable, bridging gaps in rural and underserved communities. This specialization positions graduates to contribute meaningfully to public health initiatives while providing personalized care.

For those exploring career options, it’s worth noting that nurse midwifery stands among the best paying nursing jobs, reflecting both the skill level required and the societal value of this profession.

What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in South Carolina?

Admission to nurse midwife programs in South Carolina demands more than academic credentials. It also requires a blend of professional readiness and personal commitment. These criteria reflect a deeper expectation for candidates to be both skilled clinicians and advocates for underserved communities.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program is typically required, with some flexibility for RNs holding an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), though BSN is strongly preferred.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, emphasizing academic consistency particularly within nursing coursework.
Registered Nurse (RN) License: Applicants must hold a current, unrestricted RN license valid in South Carolina or an approved compact state to ensure legal eligibility for clinical practice.
Professional Experience: At least one year of clinical experience as an RN is generally required, with preference given to those with labor and delivery exposure, highlighting the practical foundation needed.
Letters of Recommendation: Three professional references are usually requested, ideally from medical providers or nursing supervisors who can attest to clinical competence and professionalism.
Personal Statement/Essay: A reflective essay is often required to demonstrate motivation, career goals, and dedication to midwifery, especially serving under-resourced populations.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Submission of a current resume documenting education, work history, and certifications is standard to present a comprehensive professional profile.
Interview: Most programs include an interview process to evaluate interpersonal skills and candidate suitability beyond academic achievements.
Admission Requirements for International Students: International applicants must provide degree equivalency, demonstrate English proficiency, and comply with visa regulations, which vary by institution.
Unique South Carolina Requirements: Some programs restrict out-of-state applicants to South Carolina residents and emphasize commitment to serving underserved communities, reflecting regional healthcare priorities.

The chart below highlights the top employers of nurse midwives, offering insight into where graduates are most likely to build their careers.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in South Carolina?

The nurse midwife curriculum in South Carolina is designed to build a deep clinical foundation while addressing the specific healthcare needs of women and newborns in the state. These programs challenge students to integrate advanced knowledge with practical skills essential for midwifery practice in diverse settings, including rural communities.

Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning: Develops the ability to perform thorough evaluations and make independent clinical decisions for women and newborns, a critical skill for autonomous practice.
Anatomy & Physiology for Midwives: Provides detailed understanding of reproductive systems to inform accurate assessments and care plans tailored to women’s health.
Pharmacological Management Across the Lifespan: Focuses on medication use in maternal care, ensuring safe and effective pharmacologic interventions throughout different life stages.
Foundations of Midwifery: Explores the profession’s history and cultural context in South Carolina, helping students appreciate the social dimensions influencing midwifery practice.
Midwifery Care in Women’s Health: Covers preventive care, family planning, and chronic disease management, emphasizing a holistic approach to women’s primary health needs.
Antepartum and Postpartum Care: Teaches evidence-based strategies for monitoring and supporting maternal-fetal health before and after delivery.
Intrapartum, Immediate Postpartum and Newborn Care: Focuses on labor and delivery management plus newborn assessment, shaping clinical judgment in birth settings.
Statistical Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice: Equips students to critically analyze research and apply findings to clinical decisions, ensuring care aligns with current best evidence.
Clinical Application of Population Analysis: Addresses health trends and needs specific to South Carolina’s communities, preparing students to serve diverse and underserved populations.
Seminar in Clinical Nursing Research: Encourages discussion of contemporary research and clinical challenges, fostering lifelong learning and professional growth.
Diagnostic Interpretation and Therapeutic Modalities: Builds skills to interpret diagnostic tests and implement appropriate treatments for women and newborns.

Meeting these midwifery course requirements in South Carolina ensures that graduates are not only clinically competent but also culturally responsive to the state’s unique healthcare landscape. For those seeking the fastest way to become a certified nurse midwife, understanding these curriculum components is essential to navigating their educational path efficiently.

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

Clinical training for nurse midwives in South Carolina demands a commitment to extensive hands-on experience, typically ranging from 500 to 1,000 supervised clinical hours. These hours are not just numbers; they represent immersion across diverse care settings such as hospitals with labor and delivery units, birthing centers emphasizing physiological birth, OB/GYN clinics, and community health environments serving underserved populations.

The spectrum of clinical competencies expected is broad and complex. Students must master prenatal risk assessment, support normal and complicated deliveries, manage postpartum recovery, conduct newborn assessments, and provide comprehensive women’s health care. This training does not happen in isolation. Qualified preceptors—experienced nurse-midwives, nurse practitioners, or physicians—are integral, guiding students through real-life scenarios and ensuring skill mastery while adhering to South Carolina Board of Nursing standards.

South Carolina adds layers of regulation that shape this clinical training landscape. Beyond national certification, graduates must secure APRN licensure and submit a Supervising Physician Agreement. Additionally, at least 45 hours of pharmacotherapeutics study are required to obtain prescriptive authority, pushing students to blend clinical skill with pharmacological knowledge.

A nurse midwife from South Carolina who graduated locally reflected on the intensity of balancing clinical hours across multiple sites. “Navigating schedules between hospitals and birthing centers was challenging, but it was essential for understanding different birth philosophies,” she shared. The preceptor’s role, she noted, was more than supervision: “My preceptor didn’t just teach procedures; she showed me how to read the room, anticipate needs, and advocate for my patients.”

These rigorous training and licensure standards not only prepare nurse midwives for independent practice, but also influence where they choose to apply their skills across South Carolina’s diverse healthcare settings. The image below highlights the practice environments nurse midwives most commonly prefer, offering insight into where this expertise is most often put to use.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in South Carolina begins with earning a BSN, which typically takes four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain registered nurse licensure. While gaining one to two years of RN experience is common to build clinical skills, it is not always a strict requirement for admission into graduate midwifery programs. This early phase lays a critical foundation but also adds variability to the overall timeline depending on individual career paths.

The next educational milestone involves enrolling in a graduate-level nurse midwifery program, such as an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a midwifery focus. These programs generally require two to three years of full-time study for an MSN, with the DNP extending the timeline by an additional year or more.

South Carolina’s upcoming accredited nurse-midwifery program at the University of South Carolina will provide targeted clinical experiences through partnerships with statewide healthcare providers, which may streamline practical training and influence completion times.

Following graduate education, candidates must pass the national CNM exam to obtain licensure in South Carolina. Unlike some states, South Carolina does not require additional state-specific exams, but factors such as clinical hour requirements and administrative processing can affect the final timeline.

Altogether, the journey from BSN to CNM certification commonly spans seven to nine years, though this range can shift based on clinical experience, program choice, and evolving state resources dedicated to midwifery education.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition South Carolina students face is centered around the University of South Carolina’s College of Nursing, which offers the state’s only accredited nurse-midwifery program. The total tuition for this program is estimated at $45,280 for in-state students, while out-of-state students are charged $80,865. This stark difference highlights how residency status significantly impacts the overall cost, with in-state tuition representing roughly 56% of the out-of-state rate. Prospective students should carefully consider this when evaluating their options, as these figures represent the full program cost rather than annual or semester tuition.

Beyond tuition, the cost of nurse midwife school in South Carolina includes a variety of additional expenses that can add up over the course of the program. University and program fees vary but typically range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars, while textbooks and course materials can total $1,000 to $2,000.

Clinical supplies such as scrubs, stethoscopes, and lab coats may cost between $300 and $800. Students also need to budget for background checks, immunizations, and travel expenses related to clinical placements. On top of these, certification and licensure fees, including the Certified Nurse-Midwife exam and state licensure applications, add approximately $600 to $700 to the total cost.

When considering the financial commitment, it’s valuable to reflect on the broader context of such programs. Comparable nurse-midwife programs in neighboring states or elite private institutions often have significantly different pricing structures. For example, private programs like those at the University of Pennsylvania can exceed $100,000, far above USC’s charges. Understanding these costs invites deeper reflection on the value and accessibility of advanced nursing education.

For those exploring career paths, learning about what does an advanced practice registered nurse do can provide meaningful insight into the professional opportunities that justify this investment.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in South Carolina goes beyond simple loans, inviting you to rethink how education funding can shape your path. These resources not only lessen financial burdens but also reflect targeted investments in advancing women’s health statewide. Explore these key options to understand how to strategically support your studies and career.

Federal Pell Grant: Offers up to $7,495 annually for eligible graduate nursing students without repayment, based purely on financial need.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Provides up to $20,500 yearly with fixed interest, available regardless of financial need but requiring repayment.
Graduate PLUS Loans: Covers costs beyond federal loan limits, subject to credit approval, helping bridge financial gaps with a 7.28% interest rate.
Federal Work-Study: Enables part-time employment during school, earning $4,000–$8,000 annually without repayment obligations.
State and Institutional Scholarships: Includes the Wood-Bond Legacy Scholarship, a $2,000 annual award for USC nurse-midwifery students committed to advancing women’s health.
Loan Repayment Programs: Incentivize service in underserved areas through federal and state initiatives, easing debt for those who commit clinically.
Healthcare Workforce Incentives: South Carolina offers periodic scholarships and tuition reimbursement for nurses working in high-need communities.

A nurse midwife from South Carolina who graduated locally shared her experience navigating this complex financial landscape. She recalls the anxiety of balancing loan applications and scholarship deadlines while juggling clinical hours. “The Wood-Bond Legacy Scholarship was a lifeline—it felt like the state was investing in my future,” she reflected. Yet, securing federal loans required patience and persistence, especially understanding repayment terms.

She noted how federal work-study not only eased finances but built professional connections. Her journey underscores how financial aid in South Carolina can be a mosaic of support, demanding active engagement but ultimately enabling a focused path to practice and serve the community.

How will evolving healthcare policies impact nurse midwife practice in South Carolina?

Recent state and federal health policy reforms are reshaping clinical practice and reimbursement models for nurse midwives in South Carolina. Legislative initiatives aimed at expanding maternal health services in rural and underserved areas are enhancing operational flexibility and support for CNMs. These policies are refining collaborative practice agreements and telehealth provisions, thereby influencing both patient access and care delivery standards. Additionally, monitoring policy trends can uncover alternative educational pathways that broaden professional opportunities, such as those offered by top nurse practitioner programs in South Carolina, which complement midwifery practice and expand career versatility.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in South Carolina?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in South Carolina is a decisive step that directly impacts your eligibility for national certification and state licensure as a certified nurse midwife. With the state's growing demand for maternal health providers, selecting the right program means not only meeting rigorous educational standards but also positioning yourself for a meaningful career that answers critical community needs.

University of South Carolina – Nurse-Midwifery MSN Program: Set to launch in Fall 2025, this program is the only ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery education based in South Carolina. It combines online flexibility with extensive clinical partnerships across the state, preparing students to successfully pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam.
Coastal Carolina University – Nursing Department: While not currently offering an accredited nurse-midwifery program, Coastal Carolina provides strong nursing foundations and collaborates with out-of-state midwifery programs for clinical placements within South Carolina.
Clemson University – Nursing Graduate Studies: Clemson offers advanced nursing degrees but lacks a specific accredited nurse midwife track; however, its strong faculty reputation supports students pursuing online accredited programs elsewhere.
Francis Marion University – Nursing Program: This program emphasizes practical nursing skills and has partnerships that may assist students in securing clinical experiences necessary for midwifery certification through external accredited programs.
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) – School of Nursing: MUSC delivers excellent nursing education with a focus on women's health, preparing students for related graduate programs, though it currently does not offer an accredited nurse-midwifery program within the state.

Since accredited nurse midwifery programs in South Carolina remain limited, many students turn to nationally recognized online programs that provide clinical placements locally. It is important to verify that such programs comply with South Carolina’s licensure requirements. Exploring the obstetrics nurse career path can reveal the growing opportunities and guide your educational choices effectively.

How many ACME-accredited midwifery programs are in the U.S. in 2024?

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in South Carolina?

Advanced degrees are not merely credentials; they are gateways to leadership and influence within South Carolina’s evolving midwifery landscape. Pursuing higher education can profoundly reshape a Certified Nurse Midwife’s career trajectory.

Master of Science in Nursing with Midwifery Focus: This foundational degree prepares graduates to take the Certified Nurse-Midwife exam and step into advanced clinical roles in women’s health, labor, and primary care settings, marking the essential starting point for professional practice.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Nurse-Midwifery Track: As a terminal practice degree, the DNP cultivates leadership in clinical excellence, healthcare policy, and administration, enabling CNMs to become clinical directors, healthcare administrators, or lead educators shaping maternal health policies.
Dual Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Degrees: These programs broaden CNMs’ scope to encompass comprehensive women’s health care, opening doors to advanced practice roles in OB-GYN clinics and community health centers.
Post-Graduate Certificates in Leadership, Education, or Research: Specialized certificates empower CNMs to transition into faculty positions, program leadership, or research roles, amplifying their impact within academic and healthcare institutions.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in South Carolina?

Accreditation plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and credibility of nurse midwife programs in South Carolina. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the only U.S. Department of Education-recognized body that accredits nurse midwife programs nationwide. Without ACME accreditation, graduates cannot sit for the Certified Nurse Midwife exam or obtain state licensure, making it a non-negotiable requirement for entering the profession.

As of 2025, the University of South Carolina College of Nursing offers the state’s only ACME-accredited pathway, delivering a critical in-state option for aspiring CNMs. This program not only meets national standards but also reduces the financial and logistical burden of seeking education elsewhere. For South Carolina students weighing nurse midwife program costs, this local option provides both accessibility and assurance of eligibility for certification and practice.

Students curious about their educational pathways might also want to explore what are the easiest RN to MSN online programs to get into to navigate their options effectively while ensuring they meet all accreditation requirements.

What do nurse midwives in South Carolina say about their career?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of South Carolina was a transformative experience that grounded me in both clinical skills and community health. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to share my passion for maternal care while shaping the next generation of nurse midwives. South Carolina offers unique opportunities to work closely with diverse populations, which has enriched my professional and personal growth tremendously. The support and stability here have made it possible for me to focus on long-term career development and contribute meaningfully to healthcare in the region. Floria
Graduating from the Medical University of South Carolina opened the door to an exciting career where I could combine hands-on care with education. Teaching at a local school has been deeply rewarding, as I get to mentor students and ignite their passion for midwifery. The state's rich cultural heritage and strong community ties create a special environment where we address unique health challenges with innovative approaches. Working here has expanded my understanding of holistic care and strengthened my commitment to improving outcomes for mothers and babies. Louella
My journey through the Charleston Southern University nurse midwifery program was both rigorous and inspiring, preparing me well for the realities of practice in South Carolina. The state's coastal and rural settings present distinct challenges, but also incredible opportunities to make a real difference. Starting work as an educator in a local school has been a fulfilling way to give back and promote health literacy among young professionals. I appreciate the career advancement possibilities here, as well as the chance to grow alongside a supportive network of healthcare providers. Debbie

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in South Carolina

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife in South Carolina without a nursing degree. To practice as a CNM, you must first be a registered nurse. This requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After becoming an RN, you must earn a graduate-level degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited nurse-midwifery program.

South Carolina follows the national credentialing standards set by the American Midwifery Certification Board. This board requires candidates to hold both RN licensure and a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery. Simply becoming a midwife without nursing credentials is not recognized for CNM licensure in the state.

However, South Carolina does allow other types of midwives, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs), who do not need nursing degrees but have different scopes of practice and legal status. If your goal is to be a nurse midwife, completing nursing education first is mandatory.

What is the difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife in South Carolina?

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice, both in South Carolina and globally. A nurse midwife, formally known as a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate training in midwifery and is licensed to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including prenatal, delivery, postpartum, and gynecological care. CNMs in South Carolina must pass a national certification exam and meet state licensing requirements, allowing them to work in hospitals, clinics, and birthing centers.

In contrast, a midwife without a nursing background, often referred to as a CPM or traditional midwife, may have specialized midwifery training but does not hold a nursing degree. Their focus is primarily on out-of-hospital births and holistic care. Globally, midwifery roles vary widely, but nurse midwives generally have a broader medical scope and integration into the healthcare system than midwives, who often practice more independently and with different regulatory oversight.

Is a midwife in South Carolina higher than a RN?

In South Carolina, a midwife and a registered nurse hold distinct roles within the healthcare system, and one is not necessarily "higher" than the other, as their scopes of practice and educational requirements differ. Midwives, specifically CNMs, are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed graduate-level education and specialized training in midwifery.

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, CNMs in South Carolina provide comprehensive prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care, often with a focus on natural birth and holistic care models.

Registered nurses typically hold an associate or bachelor’s degree and provide a broad range of nursing care but do not have the advanced clinical training midwives receive. In terms of salary, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) shows that the median annual wage for nurse midwives nationally is about $120,000, compared to about $77,600 for registered nurses, reflecting the specialized expertise of midwives.

Thus, while midwives have a higher level of specialized education and a broader scope of practice in childbirth-related care, RNs have a more general nursing role. The roles complement rather than compete with each other in South Carolina’s healthcare system.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in South Carolina hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in South Carolina can be challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing degree, gaining clinical experience, and then obtaining a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. South Carolina follows national standards, so candidates must also pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB.

The academic path involves rigorous coursework in advanced health assessment, obstetrics, gynecology, and neonatal care, combined with clinical rotations. Balancing study, clinical hours, and personal commitments requires strong time management skills. Additionally, candidates must meet South Carolina’s licensure requirements, which include background checks and maintaining continuing education.

While the training demands commitment and discipline, many find the career rewarding and impactful. Prospective students should prepare for a structured, multi-year educational path but can expect to emerge as highly skilled healthcare providers equipped to serve women and families in diverse clinical settings.

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