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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Nurse midwives in South Dakota play a vital role in providing holistic care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. Working in hospitals, clinics, and rural communities, they offer essential services in a state with growing maternal health needs and limited access in some areas. South Dakota recognizes both certified nurse midwives (CNMs) and certified professional midwives (CPMs), offering diverse paths into the field.

With a focus on personalized, low-intervention care, midwifery is a rewarding and in-demand career across the state. In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to become a nurse midwife in South Dakota, including education and licensing requirements.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in South Dakota

Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gain registered nursing licensure in South Dakota before applying to an accredited nurse midwifery graduate program.
Complete a master’s or Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) with a focus on nurse midwifery from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), which is required for certification.
Pass the national certification exam from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and apply for South Dakota state licensure to practice legally as a nurse midwife.

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

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

To become a nurse midwife in South Dakota, the minimum degree requirement is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This advanced degree equips registered nurses with the comprehensive skills needed to provide expert care in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and newborn health. The MSN curriculum focuses on evidence-based prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care, along with primary care and gynecological health for women throughout their lifespan.

Completing this degree specifically prepares graduates to meet the clinical challenges of midwifery and successfully pass the AMCB exam, which is essential for licensure in the state. Aspiring nurse midwives in South Dakota benefit from this rigorous training to effectively address the increasing demand for maternity care services.

The emphasis on specialized knowledge in the MSN program ensures that nurse midwives are capable of delivering high-quality care while also understanding health policy and leadership within maternal-child health settings. This preparation is crucial for advancing maternal and newborn health outcomes in South Dakota, where access to skilled midwifery care is vital.

Those pursuing this path should consider the long-term advantages of this degree, including eligibility for licensure and the potential for a rewarding career with a strong nursing job salary. By focusing on accredited nurse midwifery programs South Dakota candidates can find, they ensure they receive the education necessary to fulfill state requirements and meet national certification standards.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in South Dakota requires meeting specific academic and professional criteria to ensure readiness for advanced practice. These qualifications balance national standards with state-specific regulations.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a BSN from an accredited institution to qualify for graduate-level nurse midwife programs.
Registered Nurse (RN) License: A current, unencumbered South Dakota RN license is mandatory before admission and practice as a nurse midwife.
Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 for admission consideration.
Letters of Recommendation: Submission of three professional or academic letters is commonly required to evaluate the applicant’s suitability for advanced practice.
Clinical Experience: Prior nursing experience in maternal, labor and delivery, or women’s health settings is often preferred or required.
National Certification: Graduates must obtain certification from AMCB to achieve state licensure.
Graduate Program Accreditation: Enrollment in an ACME-accredited graduate program is required for licensure eligibility in South Dakota.
Background Check: State and federal criminal background checks are mandatory for licensure processing.
Practice Hours for Independent Practice: A minimum of 1,040 licensed practice hours as a nurse midwife within five years is needed to practice independently without a collaborative agreement.
Admission Requirements for International Students: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and undergo credential evaluation, with additional school-specific criteria possible.
Program-Specific Requirements: Some schools may require GRE scores, statements of purpose, or interviews as part of the admission process.

Even though there are many requirements to become a CNM, the chart below indicates a strong demand for certified nurse midwives due to the high mortality rate in the U.S among those 40 and older:

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

Core courses in nurse midwife programs in South Dakota provide a comprehensive foundation to prepare students for advanced clinical roles. These courses balance theory and practical skills essential for effective midwifery care within the state’s healthcare system and regulations.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills to perform thorough physical exams and interpret diagnostic tests across all age groups, vital for accurate patient evaluation.
Pharmacology: Focuses on medication management and prescribing tailored to women’s health and perinatal care, ensuring safe treatment plans.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Explores disease mechanisms in women and newborns, forming the basis for clinical decision-making in midwifery practice.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers contraception, fertility, and sexually transmitted infections, preparing students to address women’s health comprehensively throughout their lives.
Primary Care of Women: Teaches management of a wide range of health issues from adolescence to post-menopause, highlighting prevention and wellness promotion.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Emphasizes prenatal, labor, postpartum, and newborn assessment skills to ensure safe, effective care for mothers and infants.
Midwifery Care Across the Childbearing Cycle: Integrates family-centered and culturally sensitive care approaches throughout pregnancy and newborn care.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Trains students to critically evaluate research and apply best practices to improve patient outcomes.
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Focuses on strategies to enhance wellness and prevent illness at individual and community levels.
Clinical Practicums: Provides supervised hands-on experience in diverse maternity settings across South Dakota, ensuring students meet state-specific competencies required for independent practice.

These courses form the backbone of curriculum for nurse midwife schools in South Dakota, equipping graduates with the skills needed to practice confidently and meet regional standards. For those interested in related advanced nursing roles, reviewing family nurse practitioner requirements can offer additional career pathways and insights into advanced clinical education family nurse practitioner requirements.

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

Becoming a nurse midwife in South Dakota requires completing at least 1,040 hours of supervised clinical training after graduating from a program accredited by the ACME. The first 30 days of clinical work must be directly supervised, with the preceptor physically present during all patient interactions. After this initial phase, supervision continues through regular biweekly meetings and detailed chart reviews to ensure every clinical hour is properly documented.

Students rotate through various clinical environments, such as OB/GYN clinics, birthing centers, and hospital obstetric units. This wide range of settings exposes them to different models of care, from low-intervention births to complex hospital deliveries, and equips them with the adaptability needed to manage diverse patient populations.

Core competencies developed during training include prenatal care with risk screening, labor and delivery management, postpartum support with a focus on breastfeeding and maternal well-being, and newborn evaluations. Some nurse midwife programs also include gynecologic and primary care content to expand students’ scope of practice in women’s health.

Supervised practice must be overseen by licensed nurse midwives or physicians who provide direct evaluation and mentorship. South Dakota mandates a formal preceptorship or collaborative agreement during this period, and aspiring CNMs must maintain comprehensive clinical logs for board approval. One South Dakota nurse midwife shared how the demands of her training built both confidence and resilience—qualities that serve her well in a field where experience often leads to higher earning potential, as shown in the image below.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in South Dakota begins with earning a BSN, a four-year program at an accredited university. After completing the BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in South Dakota. This licensure is essential before advancing to graduate-level nurse midwifery education.

Next, aspiring CNMs enroll in a graduate nurse midwifery program, either an MSN or a DNP, accredited by ACME. These programs typically take 2 to 3 years of full-time study. South Dakota requires completion of 1,040 hours of clinical training within these programs, covering all critical areas of midwifery care, which can affect the program length depending on full-time or part-time enrollment.

After graduating, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB, consisting of 175 multiple-choice questions. Testing centers in Rapid City and Sioux Falls provide immediate results, and successful candidates receive certification within 2 to 3 weeks. However, state licensure may experience delays due to background checks or processing times, making the overall timeline from starting a BSN to practicing as a CNM in South Dakota generally seven to eight years.

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

Estimating the nurse midwife program cost in South Dakota involves considering that the state lacks an in-state, ACME-accredited nurse midwifery program. Therefore, students often enroll in online or out-of-state programs, with tuition varying widely. Public institutions offering reciprocity tuition rates, such as those in Minnesota, typically charge South Dakota students between $25,000 and $45,000 for the entire program, while private programs range from $40,000 to $60,000. These figures reflect the total tuition cost for MSN, DNP, or post-graduate certificate pathways, with online options also falling within this range.

Beyond tuition, several additional expenses contribute to the overall financial commitment. Students should budget for fees ranging from $500 to $2,000, textbooks and course materials costing between $1,000 and $2,000, and clinical supplies such as scrubs and medical equipment that average $300 to $800. Travel and lodging expenses may also apply due to clinical rotation requirements.

Licensure and exam fees, including the American Midwifery Certification Board exam at $500 and South Dakota APRN application fees between $100 and $200, add roughly $600 to $700 to the total cost.

Understanding these costs is essential for managing expenses related to nurse midwife education, especially when assessing financial aid for nurse midwifery students in South Dakota. Given the variability in tuition and fees across programs, prospective students should carefully review individual school costs.

Additionally, those curious about the duration of related advanced nursing education may find useful information on how long does it take to become a womens health nurse practitioner, which can provide insights into program lengths and pathways.

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

Financial aid options for nurse midwife students in South Dakota offer practical ways to reduce the cost of advanced nursing education while encouraging service in underserved areas. Various programs combine federal support with state incentives, scholarships, and employer benefits to create a robust funding landscape.

Federal Student Loans: Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans through FAFSA provide primary funding for graduate nursing education.
State Loan Repayment Program: Offers substantial loan reimbursement for a two-year service commitment in Health Professional Shortage Areas, supported by a $1.5 million grant.
Recruitment Assistance Program (RAP): Provides about $70,751 for certified nurse midwives practicing full-time in rural South Dakota for three years.
NHSC Loan Repayment: Up to $50,000 loan repayment for two years of full-time work in federally designated shortage areas nationwide.
Scholarships: National and regional awards, including the DAR Lena Ferguson Scholarship, support nurse midwife students, with some targeting specific groups like students with disabilities.
Work-Study Opportunities: Federal Work-Study allows part-time employment in healthcare or research to offset education costs based on FAFSA eligibility.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Select South Dakota healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or signing bonuses for advanced practice nurses who commit to employment.
Professional Organization Awards: Membership in groups like ACNM can unlock additional scholarships and educational stipends.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from South Dakota who graduated locally, she reflected on navigating these options. “It was overwhelming at first, especially figuring out which aid required service commitments,” she said. She appreciated the RAP’s substantial incentive but noted the importance of planning ahead to meet eligibility and service obligations. “The combination of federal loans and state programs made it possible to focus on my studies without constant financial stress,” she shared. Her experience highlights how strategic use of these resources can ease the financial challenges of becoming a nurse midwife in South Dakota.

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

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program is a critical first step for South Dakota students who want to become CNMs. Since there are no ACME-accredited programs based in the state, students must look to reputable online options that meet national certification and South Dakota licensure requirements.

Below are five accredited nurse midwifery programs frequently chosen by South Dakota students. Each offers flexible distance learning paired with strong clinical coordination to help meet South Dakota's rigorous training standards.

Frontier Nursing University – Nurse Midwifery Program: This online, ACME-accredited MSN and DNP program emphasizes rural health, allowing students to arrange clinical placements within South Dakota communities to meet local maternal care needs.
Georgetown University – Online Nurse Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner MSN: Known for its faculty expertise and hybrid format, this program offers rigorous coursework and supports clinical rotations near students’ homes in South Dakota.
Vanderbilt University – Nurse Midwifery MSN: Vanderbilt provides an accelerated, distance-friendly hybrid curriculum with national recognition and a DNP completion option, assisting with clinical placements statewide.
Bethel University – Nurse Midwifery MSN: Bethel’s partially online program focuses on personalized mentorship and holistic care, with flexible clinical arrangements designed for working nurses in South Dakota.
University of Cincinnati – Nurse Midwifery MSN: This fully online, ACME-accredited program offers a comprehensive virtual learning environment and a broad network of clinical affiliates, enabling students to complete clinical training at approved South Dakota sites.

Prospective students should verify each program’s accreditation status and clinical placement options to ensure they meet licensure requirements. For guidance on becoming an obstetrics nurse and related career paths, exploring resources on becoming an obstetrics nurse can provide valuable insights.

The chart below illustrates the wage gap among CNMs by race:

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

Advanced degrees enable CNMs in South Dakota to broaden their clinical skills and take on leadership, education, or research roles. Pursuing higher education can open diverse career pathways and increase professional impact.

MSN in Nurse Midwifery: This foundational graduate degree is required for CNM licensure and prepares nurses for advanced clinical midwifery practice. Graduates often advance to lead midwife roles or become clinical preceptors.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: The terminal practice degree equips CNMs with leadership skills to manage healthcare policy and quality initiatives. DNP holders may become Directors of Midwifery Services or policy advisors.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for nurses with a master’s or doctoral degree in another specialty, this certificate allows expansion into midwifery or combined advanced practice roles like Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dual Nurse Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) Programs: These programs provide comprehensive training for broader clinical authority and eligibility for multidisciplinary clinic or academic roles.
PhD in Nursing or Related Field: This degree prepares CNMs for careers in research, health policy, and university teaching, shaping the future of midwifery education.

The following image highlights how many nurse midwifery educators hold a master’s degree as their highest credential:

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in South Dakota?

Accreditation ensures that nurse midwife programs in South Dakota meet rigorous educational standards required for professional licensure. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the primary recognized body overseeing these standards nationwide.

ACME is the only accrediting organization for nurse midwife programs in the United States recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This recognition is crucial because it guarantees that the education provided aligns with national quality benchmarks, making graduates eligible for licensure as CNMs in South Dakota. Prospective students should confirm that their chosen graduate program holds current ACME accreditation to ensure eligibility for licensure and professional practice.

Additionally, South Dakota’s Board of Nursing recognizes programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which also meets federal standards and supports advanced nursing education pathways. This dual recognition allows some flexibility for students who pursue graduate nursing programs with midwifery tracks accredited by either organization.

For those exploring financial planning, understanding nurse midwife program tuition South Dakota can vary depending on the institution and program length. Students should research available financial aid for nurse midwife students in South Dakota to offset costs. Many accredited programs offer scholarships, grants, or loan options.

To better assess options, aspiring midwives might also explore what are the easiest nurse midwife programs to get into, which can include considerations of both admission competitiveness and tuition affordability. Ultimately, choosing an ACME-accredited program ensures not only quality education but also access to appropriate financial aid and licensure pathways in South Dakota.

What do nurse midwives in South Dakota say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Augustana University gave me the perfect foundation to serve the families in my community. The program’s strong local ties and practical approach allowed me to seamlessly transition into a teaching role at a local school, where I now inspire future nurse midwives. South Dakota’s close-knit communities offer unique opportunities to build lasting relationships with patients and students alike. I feel deeply fulfilled knowing I contribute to both healthcare and education in this beautiful state. - Zoey
My journey began at the University of Sioux Falls, where the nurse midwife program challenged me intellectually and personally. Starting my teaching career in a local school opened my eyes to the importance of mentorship and the power of education in shaping compassionate healthcare providers. South Dakota’s diverse rural settings require adaptability and cultural sensitivity, which have enriched my professional growth. It’s rewarding to witness how my work positively impacts young people’s aspirations and the health of our communities. - Janis
Pursuing nurse midwifery at Dakota Wesleyan University was a transformative experience that prepared me for the unique challenges of practicing in South Dakota. The state’s vast rural areas demand resourcefulness and creativity, which have strengthened my clinical skills and leadership abilities. I am proud to be part of a profession that not only supports mothers and babies but also allows me to advance my career through continuous learning and professional development. This path has been both a career and personal growth journey that I cherish deeply. - Malos

What are the license renewal and continuing education requirements for CNMs in South Dakota?

CNMs in South Dakota must adhere to state-specific renewal cycles that require submission of verified continuing education credits. Renewal typically involves completing a defined number of professional development hours focusing on clinical practice, pharmacology, and regulatory updates. Professionals are encouraged to verify the latest details with the South Dakota Board of Nursing, as requirements may evolve. In addition to meeting minimum credit thresholds, participating in advanced practice workshops and evidence-based training modules ensures ongoing competence and supports career growth alongside emerging healthcare trends. For potential multi-disciplinary insights, consider reviewing top nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota.

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in South Dakota?

No, you cannot become a CNM in South Dakota without a nursing degree. The state requires nurse midwives to hold an active RN license, which mandates completion of an accredited nursing program. This requirement ensures that all CNMs have a solid foundation in nursing practice before pursuing advanced midwifery education.

To become a nurse midwife, you must first earn a BSN or an equivalent degree. After obtaining your RN license, you need to complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by ACME. Passing the national certification exam administered by AMCB is also required for licensure.

Alternatives like direct-entry midwifery, which do not require a nursing degree, exist but are not recognized for CNM licensure in South Dakota. Therefore, a nursing degree is essential for those seeking to work as nurse midwives within the state.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their training, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, often known as a certified nurse midwife or CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level education in midwifery.

CNMs are nationally certified and licensed to provide a full range of women's healthcare services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and gynecological exams. In South Dakota, CNMs are authorized to practice independently and prescribe medications, making them an integral part of the formal healthcare system.

On the other hand, a midwife without the nursing credential may have varied training backgrounds, such as direct-entry midwifery, which focuses primarily on childbirth and prenatal care without nursing education. These midwives may not have the authority to prescribe medications or perform certain medical procedures, and often work in out-of-hospital settings. Globally, midwifery practices differ widely, but nurse midwives usually have a broader medical scope and stronger integration with healthcare systems compared to non-nurse midwives.

Is a midwife in South Dakota higher than an RN?

In South Dakota, a midwife is not generally considered "higher" than a registered nurse, as these roles have distinct scopes of practice and credentials. RNs typically complete a nursing program (either an associate's or a bachelor's degree) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, qualifying them for a wide range of healthcare settings. CPMs and CNMs provide specialized care focused on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support.

According to the South Dakota Board of Nursing and the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners, CNMs must first be registered nurses who then complete graduate-level midwifery education and certification, combining nursing and midwifery expertise.

CPMs, while trained in midwifery, do not require an RN license but must meet state licensing requirements. Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) indicate that CNMs nationally earn a median annual wage of approximately $201,787, which is often higher than the median wage for RNs, about $80,959, reflecting the additional specialization. Thus, while a midwife may have more specialized training in childbirth, an RN’s role is broader, and the two professions are complementary rather than hierarchical.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in South Dakota hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in South Dakota is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper preparation. The path requires completing a registered nursing degree, gaining relevant clinical experience, and then earning a graduate-level nurse midwifery certification from an accredited program. South Dakota does not have its own nurse midwifery programs, so students often enroll in out-of-state or online programs accredited by ACME.

After education, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. South Dakota requires nurse midwives to be licensed as APRNs, which involves meeting state-specific licensing criteria.

The process demands strong academic skills, clinical competence, and time commitment, but the state’s supportive healthcare environment offers rewarding career opportunities. Prospective students should plan carefully and seek guidance from professional nursing organizations to navigate requirements effectively.