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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing to become a nurse midwife in Washington can present challenges, including understanding specific schooling requirements and navigating licensure pathways. In Washington, the demand for certified nurse midwives is growing, with employment projected to increase by 23% over the next decade, reflecting a broader national trend toward holistic maternal care. This growth suggests promising career prospects but also necessitates careful planning to meet educational and certification standards.

This article, developed by experts in career planning, examines essential schooling requirements, licensure details, and alternative routes to qualification, providing a clear roadmap for prospective nurse midwives in Washington.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Washington

Complete an accredited nurse midwifery program and obtain certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board to meet Washington state requirements.
Understand that Washington offers full practice authority, allowing nurse midwives to provide care independently, which impacts job roles and responsibilities.
Consider the strong demand in Washington, where the median nurse midwife salary exceeds the national average, reflecting favorable employment opportunities.

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

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

The minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in Washington is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This graduate degree is designed to provide advanced clinical knowledge and skills essential for comprehensive primary and reproductive healthcare.

Through rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical practice, students gain expertise in managing prenatal, childbirth, postpartum, and newborn care. This preparation ensures that nurse midwives are capable of addressing a broad scope of healthcare needs, allowing them to serve diverse populations effectively. The degree acts as a foundation for professional practice, equipping graduates to meet the specific demands of midwifery care within the state.

Possessing the nurse midwife degree needed in Washington also aligns with the state’s healthcare priorities, as nurse midwives play a key role in maternal and newborn health services. Graduates are trained to perform routine gynecological exams, family planning, and newborn assessments, which are critical components of community health.

Furthermore, completion of this MSN specialization qualifies candidates to sit for the national certification exam, a requirement for legal practice across all states. While some may consider alternative pathways, the MSN in midwifery remains the established minimum standard, reflecting the profession’s commitment to high-quality care.

For those exploring healthcare careers, nurse midwifery is recognized among the top paying nursing jobs, underscoring the value of this specialized education.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Washington demands a well-rounded portfolio of academic credentials, professional licensing, and relevant experience. Candidates should consider that requirements may vary across institutions, reflecting diverse program priorities and regulatory standards.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants generally must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution, though some programs offer RN-to-MSN bridge options for those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Registered Nurse License: A current, unencumbered RN license in Washington or eligibility for licensure in the state is essential for admission.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a competitive undergraduate GPA, typically around 3.0, but some may accept a 2.7 GPA in key prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Coursework: Required courses often include statistics, chemistry, anatomy and physiology with lab, microbiology with lab, algebra, and psychology, usually completed within a recent timeframe.
Clinical Nursing Experience: Many programs prefer or require applicants to have clinical experience beyond initial licensure, though specifics differ by school.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or professional sources are usually necessary to evaluate readiness for advanced practice.
Resume and Personal Statement: A current resume and a statement outlining professional goals and motivation for nurse-midwifery are standard application components.
GRE Scores: Some programs may request GRE scores, but this requirement is increasingly optional or waived.
International Student Requirements: International applicants must demonstrate degree equivalency, English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS, and have transcripts evaluated by recognized credentialing bodies.
Washington-Specific Requirements: Applicants must meet the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission’s standards for advanced practice and demonstrate eligibility for state RN licensure.

With over 3,195 students enrolled nationwide in 2021, competition for Washington’s nurse midwife programs is fierce. Meeting core criteria—BSN or ADN-to-MSN pathway, Washington RN licensure, GPA benchmarks, prerequisite coursework, and clinical experience—ensures your application stands out in this growing, sought-after field.

Around 3,195 students enrolled in certified nurse midwife programs in 2021.

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Washington?

The nurse midwifery curriculum in Washington is designed to thoroughly prepare students with both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills essential for competent practice. The courses required for nurse midwife programs Washington emphasize comprehensive care for women and newborns, integrating state-specific legal, ethical, and community health considerations.

Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning: Provides skills for detailed physical and psychosocial evaluations across all ages, enabling accurate clinical decision-making essential for nurse midwives.
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology: Focuses on body system functions and changes during pregnancy, crucial for understanding maternal and fetal health dynamics.
Reproductive and Gynecologic Health: Covers management of normal and abnormal gynecological conditions, contraception, and family planning throughout the lifespan.
Advanced Pharmacology: Teaches safe medication use during pregnancy, labor, postpartum, and newborn care, ensuring responsible prescribing and management.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Addresses prenatal through postpartum care, preparing students to provide holistic support from conception to early infancy.
Obstetrics—Normal and Abnormal: Develops competence in managing uncomplicated and high-risk pregnancies and deliveries, essential for patient safety.
Neonatal Pediatrics/Neonatology: Focuses on newborn assessment and stabilization, including care for infants with special health needs.
Genetics for Healthcare Providers: Introduces genetic risk assessment and counseling relevant to reproductive and perinatal care.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Builds skills in critically evaluating research and applying findings to improve maternal and newborn outcomes.
Midwifery Professional Role Development: Examines legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities within Washington’s regulatory framework.
Community Care and Health Policy: Explores social determinants of health and public policy affecting women’s and family health, emphasizing local community engagement.
Childbirth Education: Prepares students to effectively educate families about pregnancy, labor, delivery, and newborn care for informed decision-making.
Epidemiology and Biostatistics: Teaches analysis of health data relevant to maternal and infant health risks and outcomes.
Behavioral Sciences: Examines psychological and cultural influences on health, promoting patient-centered care.

These components collectively ensure graduates meet the standards required for advanced practice as nurse midwives in Washington. For those interested in broader nursing roles, examining the charge nurse salary and career paths may provide additional insight into professional opportunities.

With nationwide enrollment topping 3,195 students in 2021, competition for Washington’s nurse-midwife programs is intense. Highlighting state-specific licensure pathways, GPA thresholds, and prerequisite coursework lets applicants align their credentials with institutional standards and bolster their chances of admission.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Washington typically require around 1,000 clinical hours of hands-on training, consistent with national accreditation standards. These hours are completed across diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, where students experience labor and delivery suites and postpartum care; birthing centers, which emphasize low-intervention, family-centered births; and OB/GYN clinics or community health centers that focus on prenatal visits, reproductive health, and postpartum follow-ups. This variety ensures students are prepared for the full spectrum of maternal and newborn care.

During clinical rotations, students work closely with qualified preceptors—licensed nurse-midwives or physicians—who mentor and evaluate their progress. This supervision is crucial to verify that essential clinical competencies are met, including prenatal assessment, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, and newborn evaluation. Such experiences aim to build proficiency in managing both routine and complex scenarios.

Washington’s licensure requirements align with these training standards but do not mandate a unique number of clinical hours beyond completing an accredited program. Instead, candidates must document adequate clinical experience and pass both national board certification and state jurisprudence exams. Additionally, proof of three years of midwifery training—typically fulfilled within standard graduate programs—is required for licensure, emphasizing comprehensive preparation for autonomous practice.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Washington who graduated from a local program, she reflected on the intensity and breadth of her clinical training. “It wasn’t just about clocking hours,” she said thoughtfully. “Each setting brought different challenges—from the fast pace of hospital deliveries to the personalized care in birthing centers. My preceptors pushed me to think critically, not just follow protocols.”

She also recalled the initial pressure of meeting diverse competencies but emphasized how this rigor built her confidence. “Looking back, those 1,000 hours felt like a marathon with sprints—demanding but absolutely necessary to be ready for independent practice in Washington.”

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Washington typically begins with earning a BSN, which usually takes about four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as registered nurses in Washington. This licensure is essential before applying to graduate-level nurse midwifery programs that offer either an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with these programs generally lasting between two and three years.

Graduate nurse midwifery programs include both coursework and extensive clinical training in areas such as antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, newborn, and gynecologic care. Once the program is completed, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). This exam assesses core competencies required for practice, and passing it is a prerequisite for obtaining Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) licensure with the CNM designation in Washington.

While the core timeline for education and certification ranges from six to eight years, state-specific factors in Washington can extend this period. These include mandatory clinical hour minimums, the time taken for background checks, and the processing of licensing applications.

Additionally, maintaining licensure requires ongoing continuing education, including 30 hours every two years, with at least 15 hours focused on pharmacology for prescriptive authority, which adds to the professional commitment beyond initial certification.

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

The cost to attend nurse midwife school in Washington varies widely depending on whether you enroll in a public or private institution, as well as your residency status. For example, the University of Washington (UW) Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Nurse-Midwifery track charges approximately $11,239 per quarter for in-state students and about $16,038 per quarter for out-of-state students, with the full program spanning nine quarters.

This means total tuition ranges roughly from $101,151 for in-state to $144,342 for out-of-state students, which is notably higher than the national averages for nurse midwife tuition.

When assessing the cost of nurse midwifery programs in Washington, it is important to consider these differences carefully, especially since private programs nationally can range from $45,000 to over $90,000 depending on credit hours and institutional fees.

Beyond tuition, additional required expenses contribute significantly to the overall cost of nurse midwife education in the state. Students should budget for university fees, which may include registration, technology, and health services, often amounting to several hundred dollars per quarter at UW. Textbooks and course materials typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000 annually.

Clinical supplies such as scrubs and stethoscopes add $200 to $500, while background checks, immunizations, and drug screenings can total $100 to $300. Transportation and parking fees vary, with UW parking passes exceeding $400 per year. Licensure and certification fees, including the American Midwifery Certification Board exam and state application charges, add approximately $625 to $700.

Washington residents benefit from significant savings through reduced in-state tuition, approximately $5,000 less per quarter compared to out-of-state students, which impacts the total educational investment substantially. However, private institutions and some online programs may not differentiate tuition based on residency, so prospective students should verify these policies.

For those exploring educational pathways, understanding the full scope of costs alongside program duration and outcomes is crucial. Additionally, for insights on how long it takes to complete such advanced nursing education, reviewing resources like how many years to become a womens health nurse practitioner can provide helpful context.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Washington encompasses multiple sources, each with distinct eligibility criteria and benefits. While federal loans and grants form a foundational support system, state programs and specialized scholarships offer targeted assistance, particularly for those committed to serving underserved communities.

Careful planning is essential to navigate these options effectively.

Federal Student Loans and Grants: Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans provide substantial borrowing capacity with fixed interest rates; some post-baccalaureate students may qualify for limited Pell Grants.
Federal Work-Study: Offers part-time employment opportunities, helping students earn $4,000 to $8,000 annually to offset expenses without increasing debt.
Washington State Grants and Scholarships: Programs like the Opportunity Baccalaureate Scholarship and Washington College Grant provide need-based funding specifically supporting healthcare education.
Scholarships for Nurse Midwife Students: The American College of Nurse-Midwives and diversity-focused awards supply competitive scholarships based on merit and need.
Loan Repayment Programs: Both federal (NHSC) and state (SLRP) initiatives offer loan forgiveness in exchange for service in underserved Washington communities, easing long-term financial burdens.

One nurse midwife from Washington, who graduated from a local midwifery program, reflected on her financial aid journey as both challenging and rewarding. She recalled how navigating multiple applications for scholarships and loan repayment programs required persistence but ultimately enabled her to graduate with manageable debt.

“The loan forgiveness through state programs made a real difference,” she said, emphasizing that the commitment to work in underserved areas was not only a financial decision but a meaningful professional choice. She advised future students to start early, stay organized, and seek guidance from their school’s financial aid office, as “these resources can transform what feels like an overwhelming cost into an achievable goal.”

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Washington?

Selecting an accredited nurse midwifery program in Washington is a critical step for aspiring CNMs to ensure eligibility for national certification and state licensure. Accreditation guarantees adherence to high academic standards and access to quality clinical experiences essential for professional success.

For those seeking the best nurse midwifery programs in Washington, accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is a key factor to consider.

Seattle University – Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse-Midwifery: Seattle University offers the only ACME-accredited DNP nurse-midwifery program in Washington, known for its holistic, evidence-based approach and strong clinical partnerships in the Seattle area. The program’s experienced faculty and recognition as the state’s top nursing school enhance its appeal.
Seattle University – Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery: This ACME-accredited certificate is designed for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who want to specialize in midwifery without repeating core advanced practice courses, providing a streamlined path to expand their clinical scope.
Hybrid Learning and Cohort Model at Seattle University: The cohort structure fosters lasting professional relationships while blending in-person clinical training with simulation and interprofessional education, supporting diverse learning styles and flexibility.
Clinical Partnerships with Major Health Systems: Students benefit from clinical placements across leading hospitals and community clinics in Seattle, gaining exposure to both high-tech obstetric care and underserved populations, an important aspect for comprehensive training.
Program Accreditation and Outcomes: Seattle University’s program maintains full ACME accreditation and meets all Washington State Board of Nursing requirements, with consistently high first-time pass rates on the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, underscoring its academic rigor and clinical excellence.

While Seattle University currently represents the sole accredited nurse midwife school in Washington state, prospective students should verify accreditation status regularly, as program offerings may change.

Those interested in an obstetrics nurse career will find that completing a recognized program is foundational to advancing in this specialized field.

As shown above, just 538 nurse-midwife degrees were conferred in 2023—a 5.11% drop—underscoring the vital role Washington’s ACME-accredited programs play in sustaining the workforce. Highlighting Seattle University’s DNP and post-graduate certificate offerings, these schools are key pipelines for future CNMs.

538 nurse midwife degrees were awarded in 2023, which was a 5.11% decline from the previous year.

How do nurse midwife programs differ from nurse practitioner programs in Washington?

Nurse midwife programs in Washington focus exclusively on advanced training in obstetric, prenatal, and postpartum care with a curriculum tailored to reproductive health and specialized clinical competencies. In contrast, nurse practitioner programs offer a broader clinical education that spans primary care specialties, preparing graduates to address a wider range of adult and family health needs. Key distinctions include differences in core course content, clinical placement experiences, and associated licensure examinations. Prospective students should assess their career aspirations to choose the pathway that aligns best with their goals and explore opportunities available through the top nurse practitioner programs in Washington.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Washington?

Advanced degrees play a significant role in expanding career opportunities for CNMs in Washington, enabling movement into leadership, education, and specialized clinical roles. Different graduate programs offer varied pathways depending on professional goals and prior qualifications.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nurse-Midwifery Track: This degree is the foundational requirement for CNM certification, providing thorough clinical training. It suits those entering advanced practice or pursuing clinical leadership and educational roles.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Midwifery: Recognized as a terminal practice degree, the DNP focuses on clinical leadership and healthcare innovation. Graduates often assume roles such as lead midwife, clinical director, or policy advisor, with opportunities to teach in academic settings.
Post-Graduate Certificates: Designed for nurses holding an MSN or DNP, these certificates allow expansion into specialized areas like women’s health or sexual and reproductive health. They facilitate advancement into niche clinical or leadership roles.
Graduate Certificates in Women’s Health or Sexual and Reproductive Health: Available to CNMs and other APRNs, these certificates provide focused expertise that can lead to specialized clinical or program coordination positions.

The chart below displays educational attainment among CNMs, with over 78% holding bachelor’s or master’s degrees. This underscores the critical role of graduate-level credentials—especially MSN and DNP pathways—in advancing midwifery careers and meeting evolving practice demands in Washington.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Washington?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands as the sole nationally recognized accrediting body for nurse midwife programs in the United States, including Washington. This exclusivity reflects both regulatory decisions and the specialized nature of midwifery education, ensuring programs maintain uniform standards necessary for certification and licensure.

ACME’s accreditation is essential because it guarantees that nurse midwife programs meet rigorous educational criteria aligned with national and state expectations for clinical competence and safety. In Washington, completing an ACME-accredited program is mandatory for those seeking certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board and licensure as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with the CNM designation.

This pathway underscores the importance of accreditation in shaping the workforce and protecting public health by verifying that graduates possess the skills and knowledge required for effective practice. When considering the nurse midwife program tuition in Washington, it is important for prospective students to understand that enrolling in an ACME-accredited program not only impacts eligibility for certification but also influences the quality and recognition of their education.

While ACME is the exclusive accreditor for nurse midwife education, other organizations like the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC) exist to accredit direct-entry midwifery programs, which differ significantly from nurse midwife pathways. This distinction is crucial for students weighing their options. The cost of nurse midwifery school Washington may vary among ACME-accredited institutions, but the accreditation ensures a consistent educational standard, which is not guaranteed by non-ACME programs.

For those exploring their academic future, knowing is there a difference between nursing degrees can help clarify how accreditation impacts career trajectories and educational value.

What do nurse midwives in Washington say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at Seattle University was a transformative experience that grounded me in both clinical skills and community care. Starting my teaching career in a local school has been incredibly rewarding, as I get to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives to embrace holistic patient care. Washington’s diverse population and strong emphasis on women’s health provide unique opportunities to make a real difference. The stability of healthcare jobs here also gives me confidence in my long-term career path. Lennie
Training at Pacific Lutheran University opened my eyes to the importance of cultural competence and community engagement in midwifery. The ability to positively impact young people through education has deepened my passion for the profession. Washington’s rich natural environment and progressive healthcare policies create an inspiring setting to grow both personally and professionally. I’m grateful for the chance to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of families in this state. Keisha
My journey through the University of Washington’s nurse midwifery program prepared me well for the complex realities of care in this region. Starting work in a local school allowed me to blend clinical expertise with teaching, helping students navigate their own career paths. Washington’s unique challenges, like serving rural and indigenous communities, have strengthened my resolve and expanded my skill set. I appreciate the professional growth opportunities and the chance to help shape healthcare practices here. Dina

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Washington

No, you cannot become a midwife in Washington without a nursing degree if you want to practice as a certified nurse midwife (CNM). Washington requires CNMs to hold a registered nursing (RN) license as a foundational credential. This means completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam before pursuing midwifery education.

However, there are other types of midwives, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs), who do not need a nursing degree. CPMs focus on out-of-hospital births and meet different certification requirements. They are regulated separately from CNMs in Washington.

If your goal is to become a nurse midwife, you must complete a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). These programs require applicants to already hold an RN license. After graduating, candidates must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam to practice legally as CNMs in Washington.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their educational background, scope of practice, and licensure. A nurse midwife, specifically a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed advanced graduate education in midwifery and holds national certification.

In Washington, CNMs are licensed healthcare providers authorized to provide comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, including prescribing medications and performing gynecological exams. Conversely, a midwife without the nursing credential—often referred to as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife—may have training focused solely on childbirth and prenatal care, but typically lacks formal nursing education and full medical licensure.

Globally, midwifery roles vary widely; in some countries, midwives are primary maternity care providers, while in others, their practice is more limited. Washington’s regulations emphasize safety and standardized education, requiring nurse midwives to meet rigorous clinical and academic standards, which generally provide a broader medical scope than non-nurse midwives. This distinction impacts both care quality and legal recognition.

Is a midwife in Washington higher than a RN?

In Washington state, a midwife is not generally considered "higher" than a registered nurse in terms of hierarchy but rather serves a different, specialized role within healthcare. Registered nurses typically have broader responsibilities across various medical settings, while midwives focus specifically on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

According to the Washington State Department of Health, CNMs must first be registered nurses and then complete advanced training and certification in midwifery, demonstrating a higher level of specialization. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) reports the median annual wage for nurse-midwives at about $115,540 nationally, which is higher than the median for registered nurses at $77,600, reflecting the advanced expertise required.

Washington state supports licensed midwives who provide care independently in many cases, highlighting their essential but distinct role. Thus, while midwives have specialized credentials and often higher pay, they are not ranked above RNs but rather complement nursing roles with focused maternal care expertise.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Washington hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Washington is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires completing a registered nursing program, gaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program. Washington state mandates certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board to practice legally as a certified nurse midwife.

The academic and clinical demands are rigorous, including advanced coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and obstetric care. Students must complete supervised clinical hours to develop hands-on skills. Additionally, the certification exam tests comprehensive knowledge and practical competencies.

While the pathway requires commitment, Washington offers strong support through accredited programs and professional organizations. Candidates with a passion for women’s health and maternal care who are willing to invest time and effort will find the career rewarding and well-respected. Proper preparation and persistence are key to overcoming the challenges involved.