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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many aspiring healthcare professionals struggle to navigate the specific requirements for becoming a nurse midwife in Virginia. With a 15% rise in demand over the past five years, this career offers meaningful impact and strong job stability amid growing maternal health needs.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines Virginia’s 2025 education and licensing steps. It provides clear guidance to help readers confidently begin a nurse midwifery career.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Virginia

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a midwifery focus is the minimum degree required to become a nurse midwife in Virginia.
• Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a registered nursing license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and submit references, a resume, and a personal statement.
• Programs include 720+ supervised clinical hours and advanced coursework in women’s health, labor and delivery, pharmacology, and primary care.

Table of Contents

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

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

In Virginia, students require advanced education to prepare nurses to manage the full scope of maternal and newborn care with clinical expertise and professional confidence. Below are the key components of this degree requirement:

• Completion of a BSN Program: Candidates must first earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
• Midwifery-Focused Graduate Education: The MSN program includes in-depth coursework in pregnancy care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, and newborn health.
• Supervised Clinical Training: Students must complete hands-on clinical rotations under the guidance of certified nurse midwives.
• Advanced Health Assessment and Pharmacology: The curriculum covers pathophysiology, diagnostic reasoning, and safe medication management.
• Evidence-Based and Holistic Care Training: Programs emphasize critical thinking and patient-centered care using current clinical research.
• Eligibility for AMCB Certification: Graduates become eligible to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam.
• Preparation for State Licensure: Earning an MSN with certification fulfills Virginia’s requirements for CNM licensure.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Virginia requires a strong foundation in nursing, academic achievement, and professional experience. Below are the primary admission requirements:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN is required. Applicants with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) may qualify through RN-to-MSN bridge programs with additional coursework.
• Graduate Degree Enrollment: Applicants must enroll in a master’s or doctoral program in nurse-midwifery accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), which is essential for certification and licensure.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on undergraduate coursework is typically required.
• RN License: A current, active, and unencumbered RN license valid in the state of clinical practice must be held before enrollment.
• Clinical Experience: One or more years of recent nursing experience, especially in women’s health, labor and delivery, or obstetrics, is preferred.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or clinical supervisors are typically required to support the applicant’s academic and professional readiness.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Coursework in Health Assessment and Statistics must be completed prior to program entry.
• Personal Statement: A written essay detailing the applicant’s career goals, motivation for midwifery, and readiness for advanced nursing education is required.
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume: A current CV or resume listing educational background, clinical roles, certifications, and other relevant experience must be submitted.
• Technical Standards: Applicants must meet essential physical, cognitive, and communication abilities required for safe and effective clinical practice.
• International Students: A course-by-course transcript evaluation by a NACES-approved service and proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS) are required.
• Virginia-Specific Requirements: Shenandoah University is the only ACME-accredited CNM program based in Virginia. Graduates must obtain nurse practitioner licensure from the Virginia Board of Nursing following certification by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Virginia?

Nurse midwife programs in Virginia offer a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to deliver advanced, compassionate care to women and newborns. Below are the core courses typically included in Virginia nurse midwife programs:

• Advanced Health Assessment: Builds comprehensive assessment skills across physical, psychosocial, and cultural domains for women of all ages.
• Reproductive and Sexual Health: Covers family planning, contraception, STI management, and reproductive counseling tailored to diverse patient needs.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Focuses on pharmacologic treatments specific to pregnancy, postpartum, and newborn care, aligned with prescribing standards.
• Advanced Pathophysiology: Teaches disease mechanisms affecting women and infants to guide accurate diagnosis and appropriate interventions.
• Maternal and Newborn Care: Offers training in prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal care, including high-risk pregnancy management.
• Primary Care of Women: Expands midwifery practice to include preventive health, screening, and chronic condition management across the lifespan.
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice: Develops skills to evaluate clinical research and integrate evidence into midwifery practice.
• Healthcare Policy, Ethics, and Advocacy: Examines Virginia-specific laws, ethical responsibilities, and policy frameworks that shape midwifery care.
• Professional Issues and Leadership in Midwifery: Enhances leadership skills and prepares students for collaboration, advocacy, and career advancement.
• Clinical Practicum: Provides 600 to 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience to meet Virginia Board of Nursing licensure requirements.

All programs adhere to national accreditation standards but also integrate Virginia-specific healthcare laws and population health trends, which is vital for meeting state certification requirements. For detailed guidance on the requirements to become a certified nurse midwife, prospective students should explore accredited program offerings and curricula carefully to match their career goals.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Virginia require at least 720 supervised clinical hours, structured to meet national ACME accreditation standards. These hours are designed to build essential midwifery skills through real-world, hands-on practice across a range of healthcare settings.

Below are the key components of clinical training:

• Multiple Clinical Sites: Students rotate through hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, and community health settings to gain broad clinical exposure.
• Core Midwifery Competencies: Training includes prenatal assessments, labor and delivery support, postpartum care, newborn evaluations, and gynecologic services.
• Supervised Preceptorship: Clinical work is guided by certified nurse midwives or other licensed preceptors who evaluate performance and provide direct mentorship.
• Assessment and Feedback: Competency development is monitored through real-time observation and structured evaluations to ensure readiness for independent care.
• Licensure Preparation: Clinical completion is required before sitting for national certification and obtaining APRN licensure with CNM credentials in Virginia.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Virginia generally takes seven to nine years, including education, clinical experience, and licensure. Below are the key steps and estimated timelines:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: A BSN typically requires four years of full-time study and serves as the foundational step toward advanced practice.
• RN Licensure: Candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed in Virginia. This process usually takes several months.
• Clinical RN Experience: Most midwifery programs prefer applicants with one to two years of RN experience, often in women’s health or labor and delivery.
• Graduate Midwifery Program: Completing an ACME-accredited MSN takes 2–3 years, while a DNP program may take 3–4 years. Programs include didactic coursework and national-standard clinical hours.
• National Certification: Graduates must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to earn CNM credentials.
• State Licensure in Virginia: CNM licensure is granted by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Processing generally takes 6–8 weeks, but may vary based on application volume.

To better understand long-term career potential, the image below shows the projected job outlook for nurse midwives nationwide.

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

Tuition for nurse midwife programs in Virginia varies significantly based on institution type and residency status. Private institutions, such as Frontier Nursing University, offer a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse-Midwifery program for approximately $38,775 (55 credits) and a Post-Graduate Certificate for $29,610 (42 credits). Public universities charge tuition per credit hour, typically ranging from $600 to $1,200 for in-state students and $1,000 to $1,800 for out-of-state students. 

Additional expenses beyond tuition should also be considered. Mandatory fees, including application, enrollment, clinical, lab, technology, and graduation charges, can total between $2,250 and $3,150 across the program. Post-graduation costs, such as the national certification exam ($500–$750) and Virginia RN/APRN licensure fees ($190–$230), further contribute to the overall investment. Notably, in-state students at public universities can save $10,000 to $20,000 compared to out-of-state peers, making residency a key factor in cost planning.

For a closer look at the professional role and requirements, it can be helpful to understand what does an advanced practice registered nurse do, as this context enriches the perspective on the investment involved in this career path.

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

Nurse midwife students in Virginia have access to a range of financial aid options that can significantly reduce the cost of graduate education. Below are the primary financial aid opportunities available in Virginia:

• Federal Student Loans: Graduate students may borrow through Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, offering flexible repayment and substantial funding.
• State Scholarships: The Virginia Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Midwife Scholarship provides financial aid in exchange for service in underserved Virginia communities.
• Loan Repayment Programs: Both federal programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment and state-sponsored options reduce student debt for those who commit to practicing in shortage areas.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Part-time employment on or near campus allows students to earn income while gaining relevant healthcare experience.
• Professional and Institutional Grants: Organizations such as the Virginia Nurses Association and individual universities offer scholarships and grants based on academic merit and Virginia residency.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Some Virginia healthcare systems provide tuition reimbursement for employees advancing toward midwifery roles.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Virginia?

Accredited nurse midwifery programs in Virginia are essential for earning CNM credentials and state licensure. These programs meet national standards set by the ACME and provide rigorous clinical and academic preparation for advanced practice in women’s health.

Below are the top accredited nurse midwife schools serving Virginia:

• Shenandoah University – Nurse Midwifery Program: The only ACME-accredited in-state option, Shenandoah offers both MSN and post-graduate certificates. Clinical partnerships across Virginia provide diverse, hands-on training opportunities.
• Georgetown University – Dual Nurse Midwifery/WHNP Program: This online program places Virginia students in local clinical settings. It offers part-time flexibility and a strong curriculum that combines midwifery with women’s health.
• Frontier Nursing University – MSN or DNP in Nurse Midwifery: Frontier’s fully online format allows students to complete clinical rotations in Virginia. The program emphasizes rural and community-based care, aligning with the state’s healthcare priorities.
• Vanderbilt University – Nurse Midwifery Program: While based in Tennessee, Vanderbilt supports Virginia students through local clinical placements. It offers both MSN and DNP pathways with a focus on interprofessional learning.
• Stony Brook University – Hybrid Nurse Midwifery Program: Combines online learning with clinicals arranged in Virginia for qualifying students. A 100% certification exam pass rate over three years underscores its academic strength.

For those pursuing one of the top nurse midwife schools Virginia offers, verifying accreditation and local clinical placement options is essential. With rising demand and competitive salaries, averaging around $110,000 annually according to what is a average salary for nurse by state, investing in the right program is a key step toward a rewarding career.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Virginia?

In Virginia, advanced degrees equip CNMs with the expertise needed to expand their practice, assume leadership roles, and contribute to healthcare innovation. Among the various types of nursing degrees available, the following advanced programs specifically support CNM career advancement in Virginia:

• MSN Nurse-Midwifery: This essential graduate degree prepares CNMs for independent or collaborative clinical practice and serves as a foundation for leadership, education, or further doctoral study.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: As the highest practice-based degree, the DNP focuses on advanced clinical skills, healthcare systems leadership, and quality improvement. DNP-prepared CNMs often lead clinical teams or serve as faculty members.
• Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for APRNs with a master’s or doctoral degree in another specialty, this certificate allows them to transition into midwifery and expand their clinical scope.
• Master of Science in Midwifery with Specialization: Programs offering tracks in administration, education, or research prepare CNMs for non-clinical roles such as healthcare administrators, nurse educators, or clinical researchers.

To illustrate the practical application of these advanced credentials, the chart below highlights the top employers of nurse midwives across various healthcare settings.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Virginia?

Accreditation ensures that nurse midwife programs in Virginia uphold national standards for academic excellence, clinical competency, and certification readiness, crucial benchmarks for anyone pursuing a nursing career path. Below are the key organizations involved in accrediting or regulating nurse midwife programs in Virginia:

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): ACME is the sole accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the U.S. It oversees curriculum standards, clinical training, and faculty qualifications to ensure graduates are fully prepared for certification.
• U.S. Department of Education: Formally recognizes ACME’s authority, confirming its role in setting educational benchmarks for midwifery programs.
• American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB): Requires applicants to graduate from an ACME-accredited program to sit for the CNM exam, which is necessary for licensure in Virginia.
• Virginia Board of Nursing: Regulates advanced practice licensure and mandates national certification and graduation from an accredited program for CNM applicants.
• Accredited Academic Institutions: Shenandoah University offers an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program within Virginia. Students may also enroll in ACME-accredited online or hybrid programs from other states.
• Professional Organizations: Groups like the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) support ongoing education, advocacy, and the maintenance of high standards in midwifery.

How do nurse midwives in Virginia maintain their certification and licensure?

Nurse midwives in Virginia are required to complete ongoing professional development to uphold their certification and state licensure. They must accumulate a specified number of continuing education contact hours, participate in specialized clinical training updates, and adhere to evolving state and national regulatory guidelines. Regular audits by certification boards ensure that practitioners remain up to date with current best practices and legal requirements. Additionally, some professionals pursue further specialized credentials to enhance their clinical expertise and career progression, complementing their existing qualifications with resources from the top nurse practitioner programs in Virginia.

What do nurse midwives in Virginia say about their careers?

• Working as a nurse midwife in Virginia has shown me how much this role matters. I provide care to women in both small towns and busy cities, and I feel respected in every setting. It’s rewarding to help families feel safe and supported during such an important time. Renee
• Virginia offers a strong support system for nurse midwives. I’ve been able to build lasting relationships with my patients and grow professionally in a way that feels stable and meaningful. The mix of clinical work and community outreach keeps my career exciting and deeply fulfilling. Eli
• Being a nurse midwife in Virginia means constantly learning and adapting. I love being part of a team that values women’s health and works to improve birth outcomes. This career gives me purpose, and I’m proud to serve families across our beautiful state. Melissa

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Virginia

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Virginia without a nursing degree. CNMs must first obtain RN licensure by completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN. Only then can they pursue a graduate midwifery program. Virginia does not recognize direct-entry midwifery for CNM licensure, requiring both nursing and midwifery education.

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

In Virginia, a CNM is a registered nurse with graduate-level midwifery training and national certification. CNMs provide full-scope women’s healthcare, including prescribing medication and managing hospital births. In contrast, Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are non-nurses who attend low-risk births, often in homes. CNMs have broader clinical authority and are more integrated into the healthcare system.

Is a midwife in Virginia higher than an RN?

No, a midwife is not higher than a registered nurse in Virginia, but holds a different specialization. CNMs are advanced practice nurses with graduate education in midwifery. While CNMs typically earn more and provide specialized care in women’s health, both roles are essential and function within distinct clinical scopes rather than a formal hierarchy.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Virginia hard?

Yes, becoming a nurse midwife in Virginia is rigorous due to educational, clinical, and licensing requirements. Candidates must earn RN licensure, complete an ACME-accredited graduate midwifery program, and pass the AMCB certification exam. Virginia also requires state licensure. While demanding, the structured process ensures preparedness for high-quality maternal care and is achievable with commitment and strong academic performance.

References:

• George Mason University School of Nursing. (n.d.). MSN: Nurse-midwifery | School of nursing | The George Washington University. Retrieved from GW Nursing
• Georgetown University. (n.d.). Nurse-midwifery/women’s health nurse practitioner (NM/WHNP) | Nursing@Georgetown. Retrieved from Georgetown Nursing
• GradSchools.com. (n.d.). Midwifery programs in Virginia 2025. Retrieved from GradSchools
• James Madison University. (n.d.). Nurse-midwifery - MSN - CHBS - JMU. Retrieved from JMU
• MidwifeSchooling.com. (n.d.). How to become a certified nurse-midwife in Virginia | 2025 guide. Retrieved from MidwifeSchooling
• Nurse.org. (n.d.). Top 10 best nursing schools in Virginia 2025. Retrieved from Nurse.org
• Old Dominion University. (n.d.). Nurse midwifery MSN online | ODUGlobal. Retrieved from ODUGlobal
• Old Dominion University. (n.d.). Nurse midwifery | Old Dominion University. Retrieved from ODU
• RegisteredNursing.org. (n.d.). [Updated 2025] Best nurse midwifery programs - Certified & online options compared. Retrieved from Registered Nursing
• Shenandoah University. (n.d.). Master of science in nurse-midwifery - Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing. Retrieved from Shenandoah University