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

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Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Tennessee is a rewarding path that blends advanced clinical training with compassionate care for women and families. As demand for midwives grows across the state—with more than 300 CNMs already serving communities—there’s never been a better time to enter this impactful field.

Whether you're starting from scratch or expanding your nursing career, this guide will walk you through every step, from RN licensure to national certification, so you can navigate your journey with clarity and confidence.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Tennessee

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gain registered nursing licensure to start your journey toward nurse midwifery in Tennessee.
Enroll in an accredited nurse-midwifery graduate program, which typically lasts 2-3 years and includes hands-on clinical training.
Pass the national certification exam by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) to practice legally and meet Tennessee’s licensing requirements.

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

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

The minimum degree for nurse midwife in Tennessee is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse-midwifery, a requirement set by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. This advanced degree prepares candidates with a unique blend of clinical expertise and theoretical knowledge essential for providing comprehensive care.

Students gain skills in advanced assessment and diagnostic reasoning, particularly tailored to women’s health needs. The curriculum also emphasizes evidence-based management of pregnancy, labor, and delivery, ensuring graduates are ready to handle complex situations confidently and competently.

Meeting nurse midwife education requirements Tennessee means acquiring more than just clinical skills; it involves learning leadership and interprofessional collaboration within healthcare teams. Graduates are equipped to deliver primary and reproductive healthcare across diverse populations and life stages.

With over 300 CNMs licensed in Tennessee, the demand for well-prepared professionals continues to grow. For those exploring options in healthcare, nurse midwifery stands out as one of the top paying nursing careers, combining rewarding work with advanced practice roles.

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

Venturing into nurse midwifery in Tennessee means meeting a blend of academic, professional, and personal qualifications designed to prepare you for this demanding field. Here’s what most programs typically expect from applicants:

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN or higher from an accredited program is usually required, though some schools accept non-nursing degrees with additional coursework.
RN Licensure: An unencumbered RN license valid in Tennessee is essential; international applicants must demonstrate licensure equivalency and eligibility.
Minimum GPA: Most programs require a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with competitive candidates often exceeding this benchmark.
Work Experience: At least two years of full-time RN experience is common, although some schools, like Vanderbilt, waive this requirement.
Prerequisite Coursework: Courses in human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, developmental psychology, and statistics are frequently required.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are typically needed, often from supervisors, faculty, and professional colleagues.
Personal Statement or Writing Sample: Applicants usually submit a statement reflecting clinical experience, problem-solving skills, and professional goals.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae: A current resume or CV outlining education and clinical background is mandatory.
Interview: Some programs require a personal interview, though this is not universal.
Technical Standards and Health Requirements: Candidates must meet physical, sensory, and communication standards, plus complete background checks, drug screens, immunizations, and medical clearances.
CPR Certification: Current CPR certification must be maintained throughout the program.
International Student Requirements: Proof of RN licensure equivalency and possibly TOEFL scores are needed, along with other school-specific criteria.
Unique Tennessee Requirements: Tennessee emphasizes eligibility for state RN licensure and requires documentation ensuring compliance with state regulations.

To better understand what makes candidates stand out, the chart below highlights the top skills nurse midwives list on their resumes.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Tennessee?

Exploring the core curriculum of nurse midwife programs in Tennessee reveals a blend of scientific rigor and practical experience designed to prepare students for the unique demands of midwifery in this region. Each course targets essential skills and knowledge that align with Tennessee’s healthcare landscape and certification requirements.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops the ability to perform thorough physical and psychosocial assessments across all ages, with a focus on women’s health, forming the foundation for clinical decision-making in midwifery practice.
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology: Provides an in-depth understanding of body systems and disease processes, enabling nurse midwives to interpret clinical findings and deliver evidence-based care safely.
Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses: Focuses on medication management in reproductive and newborn health, equipping students to prescribe and monitor drugs in compliance with state and national standards.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers family planning, infertility, sexually transmitted infections, and counseling, preparing nurse midwives to support holistic reproductive care throughout a woman’s life.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Teaches management of pregnancy, labor, delivery, postpartum, and newborn care, emphasizing skills for monitoring maternal-fetal health and handling complications.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Introduces research methods and critical appraisal to help students integrate the latest scientific findings into clinical practice and healthcare improvement.
Clinical Reasoning and Decision-Making: Enhances diagnostic judgment through case studies and simulations, fostering the application of theory to real-world scenarios for better patient outcomes.
Professional Issues and Policy in Midwifery: Explores Tennessee’s legal and ethical landscape, licensure, scope of practice, and interprofessional collaboration, essential for advocacy and regulatory navigation.
Practicum/Clinical Rotations: Provides 800+ hours of supervised clinical experience in diverse urban and rural settings, tailored to meet Tennessee’s regional healthcare needs and broaden clinical competence.

These courses form the backbone of the curriculum for nurse midwifery schools in Tennessee, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and practice. For those interested in advancing their nursing career further, understanding specific charge nurse requirements can provide valuable insight into leadership pathways within healthcare.

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

Nurse midwife students in Tennessee typically complete between 500 and 1,000 clinical hours, immersing themselves in real-world care settings that span hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and even supervised home births. This variety ensures exposure to diverse birth experiences and healthcare environments, sharpening skills across the full spectrum of midwifery practice.

Hands-on training takes place under the guidance of experienced preceptors, usually certified nurse-midwives, nurse practitioners, or physicians, who oversee student progress and validate their clinical competencies. These mentors play a vital role in shaping confident, skilled practitioners ready for independent practice.

Students develop critical skills in prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, newborn assessments, and gynecological and primary care. Each area demands mastery of specific tasks, from monitoring fetal well-being to supporting breastfeeding and counseling on family planning, reflecting Tennessee’s adherence to national standards.

In addition to the requirements to become a certified nurse midwife, the Tennessee Board of Nursing requires all clinical hours to occur at approved sites with credentialed supervision, ensuring quality and consistency in training. Documentation of these experiences is essential for licensure and certification, reinforcing the importance of thorough clinical preparation.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife who graduated from a local Tennessee program, she reflected on the intensity and reward of her clinical journey. “Balancing the high number of hours with the emotional weight of labor and delivery was challenging,” she shared. “But having a supportive preceptor who trusted me made all the difference. Each birth taught me something new, and documenting every step kept me accountable and focused.”

Her experience underscored the demanding yet deeply fulfilling nature of Tennessee’s clinical training requirements, emphasizing both rigorous preparation and personal growth. To give this context a national perspective, the image below shows how many nurse midwives are currently practicing across the United States.

7200 nurse midwives held jobs in the U.S. in 2023.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Tennessee begins with earning a BSN, which usually takes about four years of full-time study at an accredited institution. After obtaining the BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN in Tennessee, a crucial step before pursuing advanced practice roles. This initial phase lays the solid foundation required for further specialization in nurse midwifery.

Next comes graduate education, where aspiring CNMs enroll in either an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program accredited by ACME. These programs generally take two to three years to complete full-time. During this time, students complete several hundred clinical hours in maternity and primary care, which are aligned with both national and Tennessee-specific requirements. The state supports this education with multiple accredited graduate programs, though timelines may vary slightly depending on full- or part-time enrollment.

After finishing graduate school, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Following certification, the final step is obtaining Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing, which may include background checks and document reviews.

While processing and exam scheduling can sometimes add a few months of waiting, maintaining certification involves biennial renewals and continuing education, especially for prescriptive authority. Altogether, the entire journey typically spans six to eight years, blending education, clinical experience, and licensing into a rewarding path.

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

Exploring the cost to attend nurse midwife school in Tennessee reveals a range of tuition expenses depending on the institution and program type. Private schools like Frontier Nursing University offer an MSN in nurse-midwifery for about $38,775 total tuition, while Vanderbilt University’s tuition can reach between $82,280 and $92,565 due to its higher per-credit-hour cost.

Public options such as the University of Tennessee offer BSN-to-DNP programs with reported costs around $67,277 for in-state students, though specific nurse-midwifery tuition should be confirmed. Generally, public institutions have lower tuition for in-state residents, but most nurse midwife programs in Tennessee are found at private universities where tuition does not vary by residency, making this an important factor when considering nurse midwife program tuition in Tennessee.

Additional expenses beyond tuition also shape the overall investment. Students should anticipate mandatory fees including application, enrollment, matriculation, clinical, graduation, and technology fees, which can add several thousand dollars. Textbooks alone may cost around $2,500, and clinical supplies such as uniforms and immunizations typically range from $500 to $1,000. Health insurance and student service fees can further increase yearly costs, especially at institutions like Vanderbilt.

Licensure and certification fees after graduation, including the AMCB exam and Tennessee APRN state licensure, might exceed $500. These added expenses are critical to understand when calculating the total cost of nurse midwife education.

For those ready to embark on this professional journey, understanding the financial commitment complements the adventurous spirit needed for a career in midwifery. If you want to learn more about the steps required to become a nurse practitioner, including nurse midwife pathways, check out these steps to become a nurse practitioner. This exploration into the cost of nurse midwife school in Tennessee provides a realistic foundation, helping future students prepare for the exciting challenges and rewards ahead.

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

Venturing into nurse midwifery in Tennessee comes with exciting financial pathways that can ease the journey. A variety of aid options—ranging from federal loans to specialized scholarships—offer support tailored to graduate nursing students, making advanced education more accessible.

Federal Student Loans and Grants: Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans provide flexible funding with competitive interest rates, while some grants may also be available based on eligibility.
Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs tied to education expenses offer need-based awards typically between $4,000 and $8,000 annually.
Tennessee Nurses Foundation Scholarships: Exclusive $5,000 scholarships for members pursuing advanced degrees, with annual applications from January to March.
Institutional Scholarships: Universities like Vanderbilt offer substantial scholarships, often ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 per program for full-time students.
Loan Repayment Programs: Federal and state initiatives support advanced practice nurses serving in underserved areas, offering loan forgiveness opportunities.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Tennessee who graduated locally, she reflected on the financial maze she navigated. “Applying for multiple scholarships felt overwhelming at first,” she said, “but the Tennessee Nurses Foundation and Vanderbilt’s institutional aid were lifelines.”

She emphasized the importance of early FAFSA submission and persistence, sharing how combining work-study with employer tuition assistance softened the financial strain. Her journey highlights that while the process can be complex, the available resources truly pave the way to achieving nurse midwife certification in Tennessee.

To further understand the academic backgrounds of those entering the field, the chart below illustrates the educational attainment of nurse midwives.

What is the career outlook for nurse midwives in Tennessee?

Career prospects for certified nurse midwives in Tennessee remain strong as the demand for comprehensive women’s health services grows statewide. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals who combine clinical expertise with advanced competencies in areas such as telehealth, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. These trends contribute to competitive salary packages and diversified roles—including leadership positions and specialized practice areas—across both urban and rural healthcare settings. Additionally, expanding educational pathways, such as the top nurse practitioner programs in Tennessee, further enhance career versatility and create opportunities for cross-disciplinary advancement.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Tennessee?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Tennessee opens the door to becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) with confidence and credibility. These programs not only prepare you for national certification but also connect you to clinical experiences that shape your skills and impact on maternal health. Exploring the best nurse midwife schools in Tennessee means diving into options that blend innovation, flexibility, and strong professional networks.

Vanderbilt University – Nurse Midwifery MSN Program: Located in Nashville, Vanderbilt offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a nurse-midwifery specialty that combines classroom learning, simulation, and hands-on clinical practice. Graduates from Vanderbilt are recognized for their leadership and clinical excellence in healthcare innovation.
University of Tennessee Health Science Center – DNP Nurse Midwifery Option: Based in Memphis, UTHSC provides a Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a nurse-midwifery focus. This public university’s program has ACME pre-accreditation and emphasizes midwifery-led care models linked to improved maternity outcomes and cost savings.
Frontier Nursing University – Nurse Midwifery Program (Distance Learning, Kentucky-based): Though located in Kentucky, Frontier’s flexible online program is popular with Tennessee students. Its ACME accreditation and focus on rural and underserved communities make it an excellent choice for those seeking accessible education and diverse clinical placements.
Georgetown University – Online Nurse Midwifery Program (Nationally Accessible): Georgetown’s ACME-accredited online program supports Tennessee residents through a rigorous curriculum paired with local clinical practicums. The program boasts high national certification pass rates and a commitment to excellence in nurse-midwifery education.
Baylor University – DNP Nurse Midwifery Program (Hybrid, Texas-based, Accessible to Tennessee Students): Baylor offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program that blends online learning with campus visits and clinical training arranged in Tennessee. Known for faculty mentorship and innovation, it provides a strong foundation for aspiring midwives.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Tennessee?

Exploring advanced degrees for CNMs in Tennessee reveals exciting paths that open doors to leadership, specialized practice, and educational roles. These credentials can transform your career in unique and rewarding ways.

MSN in Nurse-Midwifery: This essential degree is the foundation for CNM practice in Tennessee, equipping you for advanced clinical roles in diverse healthcare settings. It also allows pursuing dual certifications, expanding your expertise and job prospects.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest clinical degree, the DNP prepares CNMs for leadership, administration, and policy-making positions. Programs emphasize extensive clinical practice and empower graduates to drive improvements in maternal health care.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for nurses with existing advanced degrees, this certificate offers a flexible route to add CNM credentials, enabling career shifts or combined advanced practice specialties.
Dual Specialization Programs (e.g., CNM/WHNP): These innovative programs blend nurse-midwifery with women’s health nurse practitioner roles, broadening clinical scope and opening doors to multidisciplinary leadership in women’s health.

These top programs not only shape highly skilled nurse midwives but also contribute significantly to the broader maternal health landscape in the U.S. To better understand their impact, the image below shows how many births in the U.S. are attended by certified nurse midwives.

10.9% of births in the U.S. were attended by nurse midwives.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Tennessee?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) holds a unique and crucial role in nurse midwife education across Tennessee and the entire United States. This organization is the only programmatic accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education specifically for nurse-midwifery programs.

ACME’s accreditation is more than just a formal stamp of approval—it reflects a rigorous evaluation process that ensures programs meet high standards in curriculum design, faculty expertise, and student outcomes. Whether a program has preaccreditation, initial accreditation, or continued accreditation, graduates from these programs qualify to sit for the AMCB exam, a must for becoming a CNM. This national recognition is essential for licensure in Tennessee, so attending an ACME-accredited program guarantees that students are on the right path.

For those curious about the nurse midwife program tuition in Tennessee, it’s important to note that investing in an ACME-accredited education ensures quality and eligibility for certification.

While ACME oversees national standards, the Tennessee Board of Nursing plays a complementary role by approving advanced practice nursing programs at the state level. This state approval ensures that programs meet Tennessee’s specific educational requirements but does not replace ACME’s accreditation.

For students exploring the cost of nurse midwifery school in Tennessee, understanding both national accreditation and state-level approval is essential to navigating the educational landscape effectively. For those interested in related nursing pathways, exploring different types of RN programs can provide a broader perspective on nursing education options.

What do nurse midwives in Tennessee say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Vanderbilt University was an incredible foundation for my career here in Tennessee. The strong emphasis on both clinical skills and community health prepared me well to address the unique needs of rural and urban populations alike. Starting my teaching career at a local school has allowed me to share my passion and knowledge with the next generation of nurse midwives, which is deeply rewarding. Tennessee's blend of rich cultural traditions and modern healthcare challenges offers a dynamic environment for growth and impact. I feel privileged to contribute to the well-being of families throughout the state. Annalise
After graduating from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, I was eager to begin my role as an educator in a local school, where I could help shape future nurse midwives. Tennessee’s diverse communities provide unique opportunities to learn and teach about culturally sensitive care, which is essential in our profession. The state’s supportive healthcare network and focus on midwifery have allowed me to grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to maternal and infant health. Reflecting on my journey, I appreciate how this career has challenged me and enriched my perspective on community health. Kier
My experience finishing the program at Belmont University gave me practical skills and confidence to work effectively in Tennessee’s varied healthcare settings. The robust career advancement options here have motivated me to pursue leadership roles, and the job stability in this state is reassuring. Tennessee’s beautiful landscapes and strong community ties make it a special place to practice midwifery, where I can engage with families in a holistic way. The personal growth I’ve achieved through this career is immense, and I’m proud to support the health and happiness of so many young people. Leonardo

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Tennessee without a nursing degree. Tennessee requires nurse midwives to hold an RN license as a foundational credential. This means you must first complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure. After becoming an RN, you can then pursue a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program.

The path to becoming a nurse midwife involves specialized education beyond general nursing. Nurse midwifery programs typically award a master's or doctoral degree, focusing on maternal and newborn care. Completion of this advanced program, along with passing the national certification exam, is mandatory to practice legally in Tennessee.

However, there are other types of midwives, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs), who do not require nursing degrees but have different scopes of practice and licensure requirements. These roles are distinct from nurse midwives and may not have hospital privileges or the same recognition.

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

A nurse midwife and a midwife differ primarily in their education, scope of practice, and licensure, both in Tennessee and globally. A nurse midwife, often called a CNM in Tennessee, is a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level training in midwifery and is certified by a national board. This dual training allows CNMs to provide a broader range of healthcare services, including gynecological exams, family planning, and prenatal care, with the authority to prescribe medications. They are licensed healthcare providers regulated by the state nursing board.

In contrast, a midwife may have training strictly focused on childbirth and prenatal care without a nursing background, and their licensure varies widely worldwide. In Tennessee, traditional or direct-entry midwives who are not nurses may have limited legal recognition and a narrower scope, often focusing solely on childbirth outside hospital settings. Globally, midwives' roles range from full medical professionals in some countries to community birth attendants in others, affecting their responsibilities and legal status.

Is a midwife in Tennessee higher than a RN?

In Tennessee, a midwife is not generally considered “higher” than an RN in terms of hierarchy, but rather holds a distinct professional role with specialized expertise. Registered nurses must complete accredited nursing programs and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, enabling them to work across diverse healthcare settings. CNMs, who are advanced practice registered nurses, obtain additional graduate-level education and certification through AMCB, allowing them to provide comprehensive reproductive and maternity care.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), CNMs in Tennessee are licensed to practice independently in many cases, focusing on prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2023) reports median annual wages for RNs in Tennessee of around $62,000, while nurse-midwives earn a higher median wage nationally at approximately $115,000, reflecting their advanced qualifications.

Thus, while both roles are essential, a midwife’s advanced scope and education differentiate them from RNs, but this does not imply a strict hierarchical superiority.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Tennessee hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Tennessee can be challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing degree, followed by a graduate program accredited by ACME. Tennessee mandates licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing, which includes passing the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.

The coursework and clinical training are rigorous, focusing on both nursing and midwifery skills. Candidates must demonstrate strong knowledge in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Balancing clinical hours with academic requirements demands time management and commitment.

Financial and time investments are significant, but the growing demand for nurse midwives in Tennessee offers promising career opportunities. Overall, while the path requires effort and perseverance, it is not excessively difficult for motivated individuals with a clear goal of entering this specialized healthcare field.

References:

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