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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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A career as a nurse midwife in Texas offers both purpose and potential. With over 4 million births each year and a rising demand for maternal healthcare, the state urgently needs skilled providers—and nurse midwives are stepping in to fill that gap. Alongside the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, they also earn salaries well above the national healthcare average, making this a rewarding and financially sound career choice.

This guide, developed by career planning experts, outlines the education and licensing steps for aspiring nurse midwives in Texas as of 2025. It’s designed to provide clear, actionable guidance to help you take the next step toward a fulfilling future in midwifery.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Texas

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus is required to become a certified nurse midwife in Texas.
• Applicants need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Texas registered nursing license, clinical experience, and supporting documents like essays, references, and a resume.
• Programs include advanced coursework and over 500 clinical hours across hospitals, birthing centers, and OB/GYN clinics.

Table of Contents

1. What is the minimum degree requirement to become a nurse midwife in Texas?
2. What are the admission requirements for nurse midwife programs in Texas?
3. What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Texas?
4. What are the clinical training requirements for nurse midwife programs in Texas?
5. How long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife in Texas?
6. How much does it cost to attend nurse midwife school in Texas?
7. What financial aid options are available for nurse midwife students in Texas?
8. What is the future outlook for nurse midwives in Texas?
9. What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Texas?
10. Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Texas?
11. What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Texas?
12. Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Texas

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

In Texas, becoming a nurse midwife requires graduate-level education to prepare for independent practice in women’s health and maternity care. Below are the key components of this degree requirement:

• Graduate Nursing Education: The MSN builds on a BSN foundation and includes advanced coursework in maternal and newborn care.
• Specialization in Midwifery: Programs provide in-depth training in prenatal, labor, postpartum, and gynecological care.
• Clinical Skills and Experience: Students complete supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, birthing centers, and outpatient settings.
• Advanced Pharmacology and Diagnostics: Coursework includes pharmacology, health assessment, and diagnostic reasoning.
• Critical Thinking and Decision-Making: The curriculum emphasizes clinical judgment in managing routine and high-risk cases.
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates become eligible to take the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam.
• Licensure Readiness: Completion of the MSN is required for licensure and independent midwifery practice in Texas.

For those curious about career paths, nurse midwifery is often considered the best specialty career choice for nurses, combining advanced nursing practice with a unique focus on women’s health.

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

Gaining admission to a nurse midwife program in Texas involves meeting a blend of academic qualifications, clinical experience, and state-specific criteria. Below are the key admission requirements:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from an accredited institution is typically required for application.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• RN License: Applicants must hold a current, unencumbered RN license in Texas or a compact licensure state.
• Clinical Experience: At least one year of full-time clinical experience is usually expected, particularly in labor and delivery, OB/GYN clinics, or mother-baby units.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are commonly required, including one from a nurse supervisor, a peer, and an advanced practice nurse.
• Personal Statement or Essay: A written statement explaining your interest in midwifery, career goals, and leadership strengths is typically required.
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume: A detailed CV or resume must be submitted, highlighting your education, certifications, clinical history, and professional involvement.
• International Students: Most programs require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency; students on F1 or F2 visas are generally not eligible.
• Texas-Specific Focus: Many programs emphasize service to underserved or rural Texas communities, often giving preference to residents or those with community ties.
• No GRE or MAT Required: Standardized tests such as the GRE or MAT are not typically required for admission.

With these criteria in place, Texas programs seek to admit candidates who are both academically prepared and deeply committed to maternal care. The image below shows how many CNMs would choose this career path again, highlighting the strong personal and professional fulfillment it offers.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Texas?

Nurse midwife programs in Texas offer a well-rounded curriculum that blends clinical training with advanced theoretical instruction. Below are the core courses commonly included in accredited nurse midwife programs in Texas:

• Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches comprehensive physical and psychosocial evaluations across all stages of a woman's life.
• Advanced Pathophysiology: Focuses on understanding disease processes and physiological changes throughout the female lifespan.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Covers safe and effective medication use for mothers and newborns, in compliance with Texas prescribing laws.
• Women’s Health Across the Lifespan: Emphasizes disease prevention, health promotion, and care management specific to women in Texas.
• Antepartum Care: Prepares students to handle normal and high-risk pregnancies, including prenatal screening and patient counseling.
• Intrapartum Care: Trains students to manage labor and delivery, including complications and emergency responses.
• Postpartum and Newborn Care: Focuses on recovery support, newborn assessments, and identification of complications.
• Newborn and Breastfeeding: Provides instruction on newborn care and lactation support based on state midwifery guidelines.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research Methods: Builds skills in evaluating and applying clinical research to improve outcomes.
• Healthcare Policy and Leadership: Explores ethics, regulations, and policy issues impacting midwifery in Texas.
• Protocol Development and Adaptation: Teaches students how to write and update clinical protocols aligned with Texas standards.

Along with these courses, nurse midwife programs in Texas include extensive clinical hours across hospitals, birth centers, and clinics, which help you gain real-world experience. If you’re curious about career paths related to nursing roles, check out this helpful guide on how to become a charge nurse.

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

To become a certified nurse midwife in Texas, students must complete rigorous clinical training that meets both national and state standards. Below are the key components of clinical training:

• Diverse Clinical Settings: Training takes place in hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and sometimes supervised home birth environments to reflect the full scope of midwifery care.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: Students gain practical experience in prenatal assessments, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic health.
• Supervised Preceptorship: Approved preceptors—licensed midwives or physicians—oversee clinical learning to ensure safe, evidence-based practice.
• Required Certifications: Students must hold current Basic Life Support (BLS) and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certifications before or during training.
• State-Specific Compliance: Additional Texas mandates include human trafficking prevention training and passing the Texas Midwives Jurisprudence Exam to meet regulatory expectations.

Given the depth of training required, many nurse midwives in Texas go on to pursue roles in specialized or high-paying healthcare settings. The chart below highlights the top-paying industries for nurse midwives.

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

The path to becoming a CNM in Texas generally takes six to eight years, depending on your prior experience and the type of graduate program pursued. Below are the essential steps and estimated timelines:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Completing a BSN degree typically takes four years and serves as the foundational requirement for licensure and graduate study.
• RN Licensure: Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain Texas RN licensure, a process that may take several months.
• Clinical Nursing Experience: Most nurse-midwifery programs prefer candidates with at least one year of RN experience, especially in labor and delivery or women’s health.
• Graduate Nurse Midwifery Program: Earning an MSN or DNP with a midwifery focus takes an additional 2 to 3 years and includes more than 500 hours of clinical training.
• National Certification and State Licensure: After completing the program, you must pass the AMCB exam and apply for CNM licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing. Processing may involve additional steps such as background checks.
• Ongoing Certification Maintenance: To stay certified, CNMs must complete continuing education and maintenance modules every five years.

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

The cost of attending a nurse midwife program in Texas depends largely on the type of institution and your residency status. At public universities, in-state students typically pay between $300 and $400 per credit hour.

With most programs requiring around 51 credit hours, total tuition ranges from approximately $15,300 to $20,400. Out-of-state students and those attending private institutions can expect higher rates, often between $500 and $2,000 per credit hour.

For those curious about the licensing process, there’s useful info on becoming an advanced practice registered nurse how to become. While exact out-of-state tuition rates aren’t always published, it’s common for those students to pay higher rates than in-state residents. Overall, the total cost to attend an accredited nurse midwife program in Texas usually falls between $13,000 and over $20,000 just for tuition, plus additional mandatory expenses that can add several thousand dollars more.

For many, the long-term financial payoff makes the investment worthwhile—the image below shows the potential for nurse midwives to earn over $200,000 annually.

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

Financing a nurse midwife education in Texas is achievable with a range of federal, state, and private aid programs. Below are the key financial aid opportunities for nurse midwife students in Texas:

• Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants of up to $7,495 annually may be available for qualifying midwifery programs, particularly at the undergraduate or bridge level.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Graduate students can borrow up to $20,500 per year without demonstrating financial need.
• Graduate PLUS Loans: Additional federal loans are available to cover the full cost of attendance, subject to credit approval.
• Federal Work-Study: Eligible students can earn $4,000–$8,000 annually through part-time employment, often in healthcare settings.
• NHSC Scholarship Program: Covers full tuition and provides a living stipend in exchange for post-graduation service in federally designated shortage areas.
• Texas Nursing Students Scholarship: State-funded financial assistance for eligible Texas residents enrolled at least half-time in nursing programs.
• A.C.N.M. Foundation Scholarships: National scholarships of up to $3,000 for students enrolled in accredited nurse midwifery programs.
• Loan Repayment Programs: Federal and state programs, including the NHSC Loan Repayment, offer up to $50,000 for service in underserved Texas communities.

What is the future outlook for nurse midwives in Texas?

Texas continues to see evolving opportunities for nurse midwives as demand for comprehensive maternal healthcare expands. Increasing patient volumes, state-led healthcare initiatives, and a focus on community-based care have contributed to a positive job market outlook. Projections indicate continued growth in both clinical settings and leadership roles, with emerging opportunities that allow CNMs to diversify their expertise. For professionals considering a parallel advancement in clinical practice, exploring top nurse practitioner programs in Texas may provide additional pathways to broaden their impact and skill set.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Texas?

Accredited nurse midwifery programs in Texas provide the education and clinical training needed to become a CNM. Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Texas:

• Baylor University – DNP Nurse Midwifery Track: Baylor’s ACME-accredited hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person clinicals. Known for high graduation rates and strong Texas-based clinical partnerships, it suits students seeking flexibility and advanced training.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center – MSN Nurse Midwifery Track: Focused on rural and underserved communities, this program emphasizes practical experience in diverse settings. It prepares graduates to meet the unique maternal health needs of West Texas.
• Texas Woman’s University – MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: TWU’s ACME-accredited program is grounded in evidence-based care and faculty mentorship. It develops leaders in women’s health, with strong ties to hospitals and birth centers across Texas.
• University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston – MSN Nurse Midwifery Track: As one of Texas’s oldest midwifery programs, UTMB offers robust clinical rotations and a research-oriented curriculum backed by extensive clinical affiliations.
• University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) – MSN Nurse Midwifery: UTHealth provides urban and community-focused clinical training supported by simulation labs and faculty with national midwifery leadership roles.

Graduating from these top accredited nurse midwife programs in Texas sets you up to pass the national CNM exam and enter a rewarding career. Nurse midwives in Texas earn a median wage of $112,830 as of 2022, and with employment expected to grow by over 40% nationwide, it’s a smart path. For more info on obstetrics nurse salaries and careers, check out that link.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Texas?

Pursuing advanced degrees is a key strategy for CNMs in Texas who wish to expand their scope of practice, move into leadership, or enter academic and policy-making roles. Below are the advanced degrees that support nursing career advancement in Texas:

• MSN Nurse-Midwifery: This is the primary degree for CNM certification in Texas. It builds clinical knowledge in midwifery and women’s health, preparing graduates for direct patient care and specialized roles.
• Dual MSN – Nurse Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): This dual-focus degree expands career flexibility, allowing CNMs to work in both midwifery and primary women’s health settings across clinical environments.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest clinical practice degree, the DNP prepares CNMs for advanced leadership roles, healthcare innovation, policy development, and clinical education.
• Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Ideal for nurses with an existing MSN in another specialty, this certificate enables a transition into midwifery without completing a second master’s degree.
• PhD in Nursing: Tailored for those pursuing research, academic leadership, or health policy, the PhD supports long-term impact through scholarship and teaching.

These degrees open doors to a range of clinical, administrative, and educational opportunities. The chart below shows the states with the lowest employment levels for nurse midwives, offering insight into where these advanced credentials may be in greatest demand.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Texas?

Accreditation plays a critical role in determining program quality, certification eligibility, and career readiness for aspiring nurse midwives in Texas. The leading authority in this field is a nationally recognized body that ensures all accredited programs meet established academic and clinical standards.

Below are the key organizations responsible for accrediting or regulating nurse midwife education in Texas:

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): ACME is the sole accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the U.S., including Texas. It ensures programs meet national benchmarks in curriculum, clinical hours, and faculty qualifications.
• U.S. Department of Education: Officially recognizes ACME, confirming its authority to accredit midwifery programs that lead to national certification.
• American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB): Requires graduates of ACME-accredited programs to qualify for the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) exam, a licensure prerequisite in Texas.
• Texas Board of Nursing: Enforces state-specific licensure requirements and accepts ACME-accredited education as a condition for advanced practice recognition.
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR): Oversees licensure for non-nurse midwives (e.g., licensed midwives), distinct from the CNM pathway but important for understanding midwifery options in Texas.
• Accredited Academic Institutions: Schools like Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Frontier Nursing University maintain ACME accreditation for their nurse midwife programs offered in Texas.

What do nurse midwives in Texas say about their careers?

• Being a nurse midwife in Texas means working with strength and heart. Every day I care for women from different backgrounds, and I see how much access to respectful, skilled care matters. I feel proud knowing I help create safer, more informed birth experiences across our communities. – Rose
• Texas offers so many opportunities to grow as a nurse midwife. I work in a busy hospital where I manage a wide range of births and collaborate with amazing teams. It’s rewarding to be part of a profession that is respected and needed in both urban and rural areas. – Wilfred
• I’ve found real purpose as a nurse midwife in Texas. The work is fast-paced, but it’s meaningful. Helping women feel seen and supported through pregnancy and birth is what drives me. I’m constantly learning and thankful to be in a state that values midwifery care. – Neal

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Texas without a nursing degree. CNMs must first become registered nurses by completing an accredited nursing program. Only then can they pursue graduate-level midwifery education. While Texas does license non-nurse midwives, such as Licensed Midwives (LMs), these are distinct from CNMs and have separate scopes.

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

A CNM in Texas is a registered nurse with advanced midwifery training and national certification. CNMs provide full-scope care, including prescribing medications and attending hospital births. In contrast, LMs or Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are not nurses and typically attend home or birth center deliveries. Their scope and settings of practice differ significantly.

Is a midwife in Texas higher than an RN?

No, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse in Texas. CNMs are advanced practice nurses with specialized training, while RNs have a broader clinical scope. Although CNMs often earn more due to their specialization, they operate as a focused extension of nursing practice, not as a hierarchically superior role.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Texas hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Texas is academically and clinically demanding. It requires RN licensure, completion of an accredited nurse-midwifery graduate program, and passing a national certification exam. Clinical training is extensive and essential for safe, competent care. While the path is rigorous, motivated candidates can succeed with careful planning and a strong commitment to women's health.

References:

• Baylor University. (n.d.). Online DNP - Nurse-midwifery program. Retrieved from Baylor University
• Frontier Nursing University. (n.d.). Nurse-midwifery program (certified nurse-midwife, CNM). Retrieved from Frontier University
• Midwife Training Center. (n.d.). Midwife training center - Midwifery school tuition and fee schedule. Retrieved from Midwife Training Center
• MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to become a nurse-midwife in Texas | Complete CNM guide. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
• My Texas Future. (n.d.). Nurse midwives career overview. Retrieved from My Texas Future
• Nurse.org. (n.d.). Top certified nurse midwife (CNM) programs | 2025. Retrieved from Nurse.org
• RegisteredNursing.org. (n.d.). [Updated 2025] Best nurse midwifery programs - Certified & online options compared. Retrieved from Registered Nursing
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• Texas A&M University. (n.d.). Top benefits of earning an advanced nursing degree. Retrieved from Texas A&M
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