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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Nurse midwives in West Virginia play a vital role in improving maternal and reproductive healthcare across both rural and urban areas. With a growing demand for women’s health services and prenatal care, certified nurse midwives (CNMs) offer compassionate, evidence-based care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond.

The state supports advanced nursing practice through favorable licensure laws and opportunities in hospitals, birthing centers, and community clinics.

Those pursuing this path can make a meaningful impact while enjoying professional autonomy and strong job prospects. In this guide, you'll learn about the educational and licensing requirements to become a nurse midwife in West Virginia.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in West Virginia

• Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) followed by an accredited Nurse Midwifery graduate program to meet West Virginia licensing requirements.
• Obtain certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), as this is essential for practice and reflects the growing demand for midwives in rural West Virginia.
• Stay informed on evolving healthcare policies impacting midwifery roles, as expanding telehealth and community-based care will shape future opportunities in the state.

Table of Contents

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

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

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery stands as the minimum degree requirement for nurse midwife professionals in West Virginia. This graduate-level education equips candidates with a comprehensive set of skills essential for providing primary care to women, particularly during critical life stages such as pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

The curriculum emphasizes maternal and newborn health, gynecological care, and health assessment, ensuring that graduates can confidently address complex clinical scenarios. As healthcare evolves, this foundational degree positions nurse midwives to integrate emerging technologies and evidence-based practices into patient care, particularly in underserved rural communities where demand remains steady.

By completing an MSN with a focus on midwifery, aspiring nurse midwives gain the advanced knowledge needed to fulfill their roles as primary care providers. This specialized training supports their ability to prescribe medications and make diagnostic decisions, reflecting the increased responsibilities entrusted to certified nurse-midwives in West Virginia.

The degree also prepares them to adapt to future healthcare trends, including telehealth and interprofessional collaboration, enhancing access to care. For those considering career prospects, it’s useful to explore the highest paying nursing job options, which often require such advanced qualifications and offer rewarding opportunities in both urban and rural settings.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in West Virginia is increasingly shaped by rigorous academic and professional standards, reflecting both current expectations and potential future shifts toward more holistic and flexible evaluations. Candidates may anticipate evolving criteria that balance traditional credentials with demonstrated clinical aptitude and adaptability.

• Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from nationally and regionally accredited institutions is typically required, although some programs may consider accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduates for certain roles.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is the standard, with some programs provisionally accepting applicants with GPAs between 2.75 and 2.99, depending on other qualifications and space availability.
• RN License: An active, unrestricted RN license valid in at least one state is mandatory, emphasizing the importance of licensure compliance in admission decisions.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three professional references are generally required, including at least one from a current supervisor or faculty member, highlighting clinical competence and graduate study readiness.
• Clinical Experience: Recent nursing experience is expected and may become even more central as programs seek candidates with proven practical skills and adaptability.
• Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a statement outlining professional goals, which may evolve to incorporate reflections on resilience and innovation in future healthcare environments.
• International Students: Non-native English speakers need to demonstrate proficiency through TOEFL or equivalent exams, underscoring the emphasis on communication skills in clinical practice.
• West Virginia-Specific Requirements: Unique stipulations include letters of good standing for transfer students and restrictions on enrollment from certain states for online or hybrid programs, which may shift as interstate educational collaborations develop.

The chart below shows the distribution of certified nurse midwives across different industries:

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in West Virginia?

Courses within the nurse midwifery program courses West Virginia offer are designed to ensure graduates are clinically competent and ready to meet evolving healthcare needs. Programs emphasize both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, reflecting the state’s unique healthcare landscape and regulatory requirements.

• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops comprehensive skills in physical, psychological, and social evaluations of women and newborns, critical for safe and independent nurse midwife practice in West Virginia.
• Reproductive Health and Gynecology: Focuses on diagnosis and management of reproductive concerns and preventive care, addressing the full lifespan of women’s health within the region’s demographic context.
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses: Teaches safe prescribing, drug interactions, and medication management tailored to legal standards and clinical needs in West Virginia.
• Antepartum (Prenatal) Care: Covers prenatal risk assessment, screening, and education to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes specific to regional challenges.
• Intrapartum (Labor and Birth) Management: Provides hands-on training for labor support, delivery management, and newborn care, preparing students for complex birth scenarios common in the state.
• Postpartum and Newborn Care: Emphasizes early complication detection, breastfeeding support, and family education to enhance postpartum recovery and newborn health.
• Women’s Primary Care: Equips students to manage chronic conditions, promote health, and prevent disease, reflecting the healthcare priorities of West Virginia’s female population.
• Advanced Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Encourages critical appraisal and application of research to clinical decisions, fostering continuous improvement aligned with emerging trends in nurse midwife curriculum in West Virginia.
• Leadership and Professional Issues: Explores policy, ethics, and leadership strategies to prepare graduates for advocacy roles and system-level impacts in midwifery care.
• Psychosocial and Behavioral Health: Addresses mental health screening, counseling techniques, and social factors to support holistic care for women and families.

These core courses collectively prepare students for certification eligibility and advanced clinical roles. For those considering long-term financial goals, the image below shows how many CNMs in the U.S. earn more than $200,000 per year—highlighting the high-earning potential that can come with experience and specialization. 

For those interested in the broader scope of advanced nursing, understanding family nurse practitioner requirements can complement midwifery training and expand professional opportunities in West Virginia’s healthcare environment. More details can be found at family nurse practitioner requirements.

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

Nurse midwife programs in West Virginia require at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours, following national accreditation standards set by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). These hours take place in a variety of clinical settings—hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and occasionally home birth environments—ensuring students develop a wide range of experience in real-world maternal and reproductive care.

Students build key competencies throughout their rotations, including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum support, newborn assessments, and gynecologic care. Preceptors—licensed CNMs, nurse practitioners, or physicians—closely supervise each student, providing mentorship, feedback, and performance evaluations to ensure safe and effective practice. West Virginia also mandates 12 hours of clinical management training every two years for license renewal, reinforcing continued growth in clinical expertise.

A nurse midwife who trained locally in West Virginia recalled the rigor and reward of her clinical experience. “Juggling 1,000 hours across so many settings was tough, but it gave me the confidence to adapt quickly,” she shared. “My preceptors challenged me to think critically and trust my judgment, whether I was in a busy hospital or a small rural clinic.” Her story underscores how West Virginia’s diverse clinical requirements prepare students to enter practice ready to meet the needs of their communities.

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

Becoming a CNM in West Virginia generally starts with earning a BSN, which takes about 4 years. For those who already hold an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), an RN-to-BSN bridge program may add 1 to 2 years to this timeline. After completing the BSN, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure, a required step before advancing to midwifery education.

Following RN licensure, gaining at least one year of clinical experience in obstetrics, labor and delivery, or women’s health is typically necessary before enrolling in a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program. These programs, offered at the master’s (MSN) or doctoral (DNP) level, usually take 2 to 3 years to complete.

West Virginia emphasizes clinical practicum hours and often recommends prior RN experience to ensure readiness for the advanced practice curriculum, which can affect how quickly a student progresses through the program.

After finishing an ACME-accredited midwifery program, candidates must pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) national certification exam to become a CNM. In West Virginia, additional state licensing requirements—such as background checks and documentation—may introduce minor delays. Looking ahead, evolving legislation could streamline licensure processes or expand practice authority, potentially shortening the overall 6 to 8-year pathway currently required to enter this advanced nursing role.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition West Virginia shows significant variation depending on the type of institution and residency status. Public universities like West Virginia University offer graduate nursing programs at $843 per credit hour for in-state students and $1,915 for out-of-state students, with a typical nurse midwife curriculum requiring around 47 credits. This results in an estimated tuition cost of about $39,621 for in-state residents and up to $90,005 for those from out of state. Private institutions tend to have higher tuition rates, often nearing or exceeding $80,000 for the entire program.

Beyond tuition, the cost of nurse midwifery school in West Virginia includes several mandatory expenses. Students should budget for university fees ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 annually, textbooks and course materials costing between $1,200 and $2,500 for the full program, and clinical supplies such as uniforms and diagnostic tools priced around $400 to $1,000.

Additional costs include background checks, immunizations, travel and lodging for clinical rotations, and exam and licensure fees, which together can add $500 to $1,000 more to the total investment.

In-state students benefit from substantially reduced tuition compared to out-of-state peers, with total costs for public university programs typically ranging from $40,000 to $50,000 over two to three years, while out-of-state students may face totals closer to $90,000 to $100,000. Private programs, when available, usually fall between $60,000 and $80,000 or more.

As demand for advanced clinical training grows, prospective students interested in becoming a womens health nurse practitioner may see evolving program structures and tuition models in the future to better accommodate diverse educational needs and financial realities.

The chart below highlights the wage gap among nurse midwives by race, offering further insight into earnings disparities within the profession.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in West Virginia is evolving to better support advanced nursing education through diverse federal, state, and institutional programs. Emerging trends suggest increased emphasis on service-based incentives and tailored scholarships aimed at addressing healthcare shortages in underserved communities.

• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Provide up to $20,500 annually with a fixed interest rate, offering broad access without need-based restrictions.
• Graduate PLUS Loans: Cover full attendance costs beyond other aid, requiring credit approval, ideal for comprehensive financing.
• West Virginia Invests Grant: A last-dollar grant covering tuition and fees for eligible residents who commit to state service.
• Loan Repayment Programs: Assist advanced practice nurses serving in underserved areas by offsetting debt in exchange for service commitments.
• Federal Work-Study: Enables part-time employment related to nursing, supplementing living expenses while gaining relevant experience.
• State and Institutional Scholarships: Target students from low-income counties or those serving vulnerable populations, often requiring FAFSA completion.
• National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment: Offers significant tax-free loan repayment for service in designated shortage areas.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from West Virginia who graduated locally, she reflected on navigating these options with both hope and challenge. “The Invests Grant was a lifeline,” she explained, “but meeting the service requirement meant planning my career path very carefully.”

She also valued the loan repayment programs, sharing that “knowing support existed for working in underserved areas made the financial burden feel manageable.” Despite the complexity, her experience highlighted how these layered resources can transform financial stress into opportunity for those dedicated to serving their communities.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in West Virginia?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in West Virginia is essential for students seeking CNM certification, as only graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify for the national certification exam. Increasingly, these programs are blending online flexibility with strong local clinical partnerships, reflecting a future where education adapts to student needs and evolving healthcare demands. The best nurse midwife schools in West Virginia are positioning themselves to support diverse learning styles and community-focused practice.

• Marshall University – MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: In partnership with Shenandoah University, this hybrid program allows students to complete core MSN courses locally while accessing ACME-accredited midwifery training. Its emphasis on clinical placements within West Virginia prepares graduates to serve regional populations effectively.
• West Virginia Wesleyan College – MSN Nurse Midwifery Program: This collaborative pathway offers foundational nursing education at Wesleyan before transitioning students to Shenandoah University’s accredited midwifery curriculum. The program’s flexible structure supports smooth progression and benefits from experienced faculty across both institutions.
• Shenandoah University – Nurse Midwifery Program: Although based in Virginia, this ACME-accredited program provides distance-accessible coursework for West Virginia nurses, combined with local clinical experiences. Known for strong clinical partnerships, it readies students for varied practice environments while accommodating remote learning.
• Old Dominion University/Shenandoah University – MSN Nurse Midwifery Online Program: Designed for working professionals, this distance program splits online advanced practice nursing courses with focused midwifery training at Shenandoah. Clinical rotations arranged in West Virginia enhance practical experience without sacrificing flexibility.
• Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) Pathways: For those pursuing direct-entry midwifery outside the CNM route, West Virginia recognizes MEAC-accredited CPM programs. These focus on home birth and community care, requiring national certification through the North American Registry of Midwives, offering an alternative career path.

As healthcare evolves, students exploring the obstetrics nurse career path should consider programs that offer both strong accreditation and adaptable learning models to meet future demands in West Virginia’s maternal health landscape. 

The image below highlights how many midwifery educators hold a master’s degree, offering insight into the academic backgrounds shaping midwifery education today.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in West Virginia?

Advanced degrees are increasingly shaping the future landscape for CNMs in West Virginia, offering pathways to expanded roles and leadership opportunities. As healthcare evolves, these qualifications enable CNMs to adapt and thrive in diverse professional settings.

• MSN NurseMidwifery Track: This essential degree prepares CNMs for clinical roles and certification. Graduates gain foundational expertise required for practice and eligibility for advanced clinical positions within the state.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Designed for those aiming at leadership or academic careers, the DNP equips CNMs with skills in policy, clinical scholarship, and administration. It opens doors to roles like clinical directors and university faculty.
• Post-Graduate Certificates: Specializations such as Women’s Health or Psychiatric Mental Health expand clinical capabilities. These certificates allow CNMs to integrate broader services into midwifery care, meeting emerging community needs.
• MSN in Leadership or Education: This pathway supports advancement into healthcare administration or nursing education. CNMs can become program directors, clinical educators, or policy advisors, influencing the profession's future.

What is the job outlook and salary potential for nurse midwives in West Virginia?

Recent market analysis shows a steady increase in opportunities for nurse midwives in West Virginia, driven by rising demand for maternal healthcare services and the expansion of innovative care models. Diverse practice settings, including community clinics and telehealth platforms, are contributing to competitive compensation packages and long‐term career growth. Data indicates that these advanced practice providers benefit from favorable salary trends that reflect their specialized clinical expertise and the evolving scope of their roles. Professionals evaluating further educational pathways are encouraged to also consider top nurse practitioner programs in West Virginia for alternative advanced practice options.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in West Virginia?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) stands as the sole accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse midwife programs, ensuring consistent national standards. As the landscape of nurse midwifery education evolves, ACME’s role remains pivotal in maintaining the rigor and quality of these programs.

Given that there are currently no ACME-accredited nurse-midwife programs based directly in West Virginia, students often look beyond state borders or to online platforms to meet educational requirements. This situation highlights the importance of understanding nurse midwife program tuition in West Virginia, as costs may vary widely depending on program location and format.

The increasing availability of hybrid and remote learning options could reshape accessibility and affordability for prospective students. With ACME’s three accreditation statuses—preaccreditation, initial, and continued accreditation—future candidates have a range of program types to consider, all leading to eligibility for the national certification exam.

ACME accreditation is a mandatory credential for those aiming to become CNMs in West Virginia, creating a clear pathway to licensure through AMCB. The cost of nurse midwife school that West Virginia residents face may reflect the need to enroll in out-of-state programs, but this also opens doors to diverse educational models and innovations.

For those exploring the next steps, it is valuable to consider what careers can you pursue with a nursing specialization, which underscores the broader impact of choosing a nurse midwife education aligned with recognized accreditation standards.

What do nurse midwives in West Virginia say about their careers?

• Completing my nurse midwifery program at West Virginia University was a transformative experience that prepared me for the unique challenges of rural healthcare. Starting my teaching career in a local school has allowed me to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives while staying deeply connected to the community. The opportunity to work closely with families in West Virginia, where resources can be limited, has strengthened my commitment to compassionate, personalized care. I find great fulfillment in knowing my efforts directly impact the health and well-being of young mothers and infants in this beautiful state. Stewart
• Pursuing my nurse midwifery degree at Marshall University opened doors I never imagined, especially in terms of professional growth and leadership. Transitioning into a teaching role at a local school has been incredibly rewarding, as I get to share my real-world experiences with students eager to serve West Virginia’s diverse populations. The culture here encourages resilience and adaptability, which has helped me evolve both personally and professionally. It’s inspiring to contribute to a workforce dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes across the region. Tiffany
• Graduating from Shepherd University’s nurse midwifery program gave me the foundation to embrace the unique opportunities West Virginia offers, such as working closely with Appalachian communities. Starting my teaching career at a local school has deepened my passion for nurturing future healthcare providers who understand the cultural nuances of this area. The sense of community here is strong, and being able to support families through education and care has been a profound personal journey. I appreciate the stability and career advancement paths available in this field within the state. Thien

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

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

No, you cannot become a certified nurse midwife in West Virginia without a nursing degree. The state 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 become licensed.

After obtaining your RN license, you need to pursue advanced education in nurse midwifery, typically a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited nurse-midwifery program. These programs combine graduate-level nursing courses with specialized clinical training in midwifery.

West Virginia also mandates certification by AMCB to practice legally as a nurse midwife. This certification requires successful completion of an accredited program and passing a national exam.

In summary, a nursing degree and RN licensure are essential first steps before midwifery education and certification in West Virginia. Direct entry into midwifery without nursing credentials is not permitted under current state regulations.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice. In West Virginia and across the United States, a nurse midwife, also known as a CNM, is a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level education in midwifery and is certified by AMCB. CNMs are licensed to provide a wide range of healthcare services to women, including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, and general gynecological services. They can also prescribe medications, which is a significant distinction.

In contrast, a midwife who is not a nurse—often called a certified midwife (CM) or CPM—may have different training pathways that do not require a nursing background. Globally, midwives’ roles vary widely depending on regulations and healthcare systems, with some focusing primarily on childbirth support without the broader medical responsibilities held by nurse midwives. Understanding these differences is essential for those pursuing midwifery careers or seeking care options in West Virginia and beyond.

Is a midwife in West Virginia higher than an RN?

In West Virginia, a midwife is not considered higher in rank or scope than a registered nurse. Rather, the two professions have distinct roles and qualifications. Registered nurses typically hold an associate's or bachelor’s degree in nursing and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, allowing them to work in diverse healthcare settings. Midwives, specifically CNMs, are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed graduate-level education and certification in midwifery, focusing primarily on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

According to AMCB and the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses, CNMs are recognized as APRNs with a specialized scope, which is a higher level of practice than an RN. However, this does not equate to a higher hierarchical status but indicates advanced clinical expertise. Data from Indeed shows that CNMs earn a median annual wage of about $118,467 in West Virginia, higher than the $114,550 median for RNs, reflecting the advanced training and responsibilities of midwives.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in West Virginia hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in West Virginia is challenging but achievable with dedication and proper planning. The process requires earning a BSN, obtaining licensure as a registered nurse, and then completing a graduate-level nurse midwifery program. These programs typically last two to three years and include both classroom instruction and clinical training.

West Virginia’s educational and certification standards align with national requirements, meaning candidates must pass the AMCB exam to practice. The clinical component can be demanding, as students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Additionally, balancing coursework, clinical hours, and personal commitments requires strong time management and perseverance.

Overall, while the path to becoming a nurse midwife in West Virginia involves rigorous study and clinical practice, motivated individuals with a clear focus can successfully meet the requirements and enter this rewarding healthcare profession.

References:

• Indeed. (2025). Midwife salary in West Virginia. https://www.indeed.com/career/midwife/salaries/WV
• Indeed. (2025). Registered nurse salary in West Virginia. https://www.indeed.com/career/registered-nurse/salaries/WV
• Marshall University. (n.d.). Nurse midwifery. https://www.marshall.edu/nursing/degrees/marshall-university-master-of-science-in-nursing/nurse-midwifery
• Midwife Schooling. (2025). How to become a nurse midwife in West Virginia | CNM guide. https://www.midwifeschooling.com/west-virginia
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• Shepherd University, Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing. (n.d.). Nurse midwifery programs. https://www.su.edu/nursing/nursing-graduate-programs/nurse-midwifery-programs
• West Virginia University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing | WVU Online. https://online.wvu.edu/programs/masters-degrees/master-of-science-in-nursing
• West Virginia University. (n.d.). Nursing BSN major. https://www.wvu.edu/academics/programs/nursing-bsn
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• Zippia. (2025). Zippia - find jobs, salaries, companies, resume help, career paths and more. https://www.zippia.com/certified-nurse-midwife-jobs/demographics