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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Nurse midwives in Wisconsin play a vital role in delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care for women across all life stages, with a strong focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health. With growing demand in both rural and urban areas, certified nurse midwives (CNMs) in the state enjoy opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, birthing centers, and private practices.

Wisconsin supports midwifery through a favorable regulatory environment and professional autonomy, making it an attractive state for aspiring midwives. In this guide, you’ll learn about the education, certification, and licensing steps required to become a nurse midwife in Wisconsin.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Wisconsin

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and obtain registered nursing licensure in Wisconsin to build a solid clinical foundation.
Complete a certified nurse midwife (CNM) graduate program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), which typically takes two to three years.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam and apply for Wisconsin state certification to legally practice as a nurse midwife.

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

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

In Wisconsin, the minimum education requirement for nurse midwife in Wisconsin is a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery. This graduate degree is crucial as it combines comprehensive clinical training with advanced coursework, ensuring candidates develop the expertise needed for the full scope of nurse midwife responsibilities.

The program typically spans 2 to 3 years of full-time study and includes rigorous training in areas such as physiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and perinatal care. This level of preparation equips aspiring nurse midwives to confidently manage routine and high-risk pregnancies, perform relevant diagnostic procedures, and provide primary care to women throughout their lives.

Completing an MSN with a midwifery focus not only meets nurse midwife degree requirements Wisconsin but also prepares students for the evolving healthcare landscape. Graduates gain the skills to educate and support patients and families during childbirth, addressing both medical and emotional needs.

The demand for nurse midwives remains strong, with job growth outpacing many other fields, making this degree a practical investment. For those weighing career options, this pathway is often regarded as the best specialty career choice for nurses, balancing advanced clinical competence with meaningful patient care.

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

Meeting the admission standards for nurse midwife programs in Wisconsin requires careful preparation. Below are the key qualifications you need to secure a spot in these competitive programs.

Minimum Degree Requirement: A BSN from an accredited institution is generally required, though some programs accept a professional master’s in nursing for direct entry.
Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, with competitive applicants often above 3.4; associate-level programs may accept a 2.0 GPA with all course grades at C or higher.
RN Licensure: You must hold a current, active RN license. Wisconsin programs specifically require a Wisconsin RN license.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or professional sources are typically needed to demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level study.
Personal Statement: A clear personal goal or career statement outlining your motivation for nurse midwifery is commonly required.
Professional Nursing Experience: At least one year of nursing experience is often required, though some programs allow entry immediately after the BSN with a required RN experience period before clinical work.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted to verify academic credentials.
Clinical Experience: Prior labor and delivery or postpartum nursing experience is not mandatory, but clinical training readiness is essential.
International Students: Must provide evidence of equivalent nursing education, RN licensure, and often proof of English proficiency.
Wisconsin-Specific Requirements: Submission of transcripts from ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs, national certification verification, and completion of state APRN licensure applications with fees are required.
Unique Program Pathways: Some schools offer direct entry associate degrees or bridge programs for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) seeking advanced standing.

The chart below illustrates the wage gap among CNMs by race:

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Wisconsin?

Programs designed to meet Wisconsin nurse midwife curriculum requirements focus on a balanced mix of theory and clinical practice. These courses equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the diverse health needs of women and newborns in the state.

Advanced Health Assessment: Teaches comprehensive physical and psychosocial evaluations of women and newborns, essential for identifying health issues and making safe clinical decisions.
Advanced Pathophysiology: Covers complex body systems and disease processes, helping students understand and manage health problems common in women’s health care.
Pharmacology for Nurse Midwives: Focuses on safe prescribing and management of medications related to reproductive, prenatal, and newborn care, ensuring safe pharmacological interventions.
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Examines care across the lifespan, including contraception and menopause, preparing students to provide holistic women’s health services.
Primary Care of Women: Emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention, focusing on managing acute and chronic conditions specific to women.
Maternal and Newborn Care: Covers evidence-based approaches to pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, and neonatal care, ensuring readiness for comprehensive childbearing support.
Midwifery Care during Labor and Birth: Provides specialized instruction on managing normal and complicated labors for safe delivery and newborn assessment.
Postpartum and Newborn Care: Addresses recovery, breastfeeding, family adjustment, and newborn health after birth to support early maternal and infant well-being.
Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Develops skills to critically evaluate research and apply findings to improve clinical midwifery care continuously.
Health Promotion and Epidemiology: Focuses on community health strategies and disease prevention tailored to maternal and newborn populations.
Clinical Practicums: Offers hands-on supervised training in Wisconsin healthcare settings, vital for real-world experience in prenatal, labor, and newborn care.

Some Wisconsin programs also include training on rural health care delivery and culturally competent care to meet the needs of the state’s diverse communities. For those wondering how long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife, this comprehensive curriculum combined with clinical hours forms the foundation of nurse midwife program courses in Wisconsin.

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

Nurse midwife programs in Wisconsin typically require between 500 and 1,000 supervised clinical hours, depending on the degree level and institution. For example, some associate degree pathways—like the one at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College—may include close to 932 clinical hours over two years. These clinical experiences are structured progressively, beginning with observation and gradually increasing to independent practice under preceptor supervision.

Training takes place in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospital labor and delivery units, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and private practices. This diverse exposure allows students to develop well-rounded competencies across multiple care environments.

Throughout their clinical rotations, students must demonstrate proficiency in prenatal exams, labor and delivery support, postpartum care, newborn assessments, and women’s health services, including gynecologic exams and family planning.

All clinical hours are supervised by licensed preceptors—typically certified nurse midwives or OB/GYN physicians—who provide mentorship and evaluate students’ readiness for independent practice. Wisconsin aligns with national accreditation standards and does not impose additional state-specific clinical hour mandates. Recent legislative updates have expanded CNM autonomy in the state by removing prior requirements for physician collaboration, offering graduates more flexibility in practice settings.

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

Becoming a CNM in Wisconsin starts with earning a BSN, which typically takes four years of full-time study. After completing the BSN, the next step is passing the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in Wisconsin. While gaining clinical experience as an RN is recommended before advancing, it is not strictly required to enter graduate-level nurse midwifery programs.

Graduate education involves enrolling in an accredited nurse midwifery program, which can lead to an MSN or a DNP degree. MSN programs usually last two to three years, while DNP programs may take three to four years. These programs include both classroom coursework and extensive clinical hours that meet national standards, which may extend the timeline depending on scheduling and clinical placement availability in Wisconsin.

After finishing the graduate program, candidates must pass the national CNM certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, which costs $500 and must be taken within 24 months of graduation. Once certified, applying for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure with a nurse-midwife specialty in Wisconsin requires submitting documentation and a $75 fee.

Licensing approval can take several weeks, and CNMs must renew their license every two years. Overall, the process from starting a BSN to becoming a practicing CNM in Wisconsin generally takes seven to eight years, depending on individual pacing and any additional RN experience.

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

The nurse midwife program tuition in Wisconsin typically varies depending on whether you attend a public or private institution. For the 2024-2025 academic year, graduate tuition and fees at public institutions average around $17,789 per year for in-state students, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $30,782 annually.

Private institutions often charge between $25,000 and $35,000 per year, although these rates can fluctuate based on the program’s reputation and specific offerings. Most programs are at the graduate level, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a nurse-midwifery focus.

Beyond tuition, the cost of nurse midwifery school Wisconsin also includes additional expenses like student fees, textbooks, clinical supplies, and licensure fees. Students commonly budget for technology and lab fees, which can add several hundred dollars yearly.

Textbooks and course materials typically cost about $1,463 annually, while clinical supplies—including essential equipment like stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs—may cost a few hundred dollars upfront. After graduation, licensure and certification exams, such as those from the American Midwifery Certification Board, generally add $500 to $700, with state nursing license application fees under $200.

For those planning their education path, it is important to consider all these factors together to create a realistic budget. For example, Southwest Tech estimates total annual costs of around $6,995 for its associate degree midwifery program, excluding living expenses. Graduate programs at public universities will be higher but follow similar cost structures.

If you are curious about how many years to become a nurse practitioner, understanding the financial commitments alongside the timeline can help you plan effectively.

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

Financing nurse midwife education in Wisconsin involves navigating multiple aid options designed to ease the financial burden. Students should consider a combination of federal, state, and private resources to maximize support and reduce debt. Key programs often reward commitments to underserved areas or nursing education roles.

Federal Student Loans and Grants: Includes Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Graduate PLUS Loans, and need-based grants available through FAFSA.
Health Professions Loan Assistance Program (HPLAP): Offers up to $25,000 in loan repayment for full-time work in designated shortage areas for three years.
Wisconsin Guild of Midwives Scholarship: Provides $1,000 every six months, prioritizing students serving underserved populations.
Wisconsin Nursing Program: Grants up to $20,000 for tuition plus $5,000 for additional expenses, based on income eligibility.
State Nurse Educator Loan Forgiveness: Forgives 100% of tuition loans for graduates who become nurse educators in Wisconsin.
National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Offers loan repayment and scholarships for service in federally underserved areas.
Work-Study Opportunities: Part-time jobs through universities help students earn while studying, often within nursing departments.
Private and Institutional Scholarships: Additional awards from organizations like the Nurses Foundation of Wisconsin support graduate students.

When I spoke with a nurse midwife from Wisconsin who graduated locally, she reflected on her financial aid journey as both challenging and empowering. “Balancing loan applications and scholarship deadlines was overwhelming at first,” she shared, “but programs like the HPLAP made it worthwhile to commit to rural practice.”

She emphasized how the combination of state and federal aid allowed her to focus on her studies without constant financial stress. “Knowing there was support tailored for nurse midwives in Wisconsin really motivated me,” she added, highlighting the importance of planning early and staying organized throughout the process.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Wisconsin?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Wisconsin is essential for students aiming to become CNMs, as graduation from an ACME-accredited program is required for national certification and state licensure. Given the lack of on-campus CNM programs in Wisconsin, many students turn to flexible online options that coordinate clinical placements locally, making these programs practical and accessible.

Georgetown University – Online CNM Program: Georgetown offers an ACME-accredited MSN Nurse-Midwifery program fully online, allowing Wisconsin residents to complete coursework remotely while arranging clinical experiences close to home. The program’s rigorous curriculum and nationally recognized faculty prepare students for advanced practice and leadership roles.
Frontier Nursing University – Online Nurse Midwifery Program: Frontier provides both MSN and post-master’s certificate options with online classes and clinical placements available in Wisconsin. Known for its focus on rural and underserved populations, this program suits students dedicated to expanding healthcare access in diverse communities.
Baylor University – Online DNP Nurse Midwifery Track: Baylor’s ACME-accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track offers the highest clinical preparation level with a fully online format and hands-on clinical training in the student’s home state. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and healthcare leadership for nurse-midwives.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College – Direct Entry Midwifery Associate Degree: Located in Fennimore, SWTC offers a MEAC-accredited two-year associate degree preparing students for state licensure as direct-entry midwives. The program is noted for its hands-on, holistic approach and a bridge option for certified professional midwives seeking advanced standing.
Midwest Maternal Child Institute (MMCI) – Associate Degree and Diploma Programs: Based in Milwaukee, MMCI provides MEAC-approved Associate Degree and One-Year Diploma programs focused on practical skills for roles like birth assistants and lactation counselors. These programs meet the needs of students interested in public health and birth support careers.

Graduating from an accredited nurse midwifery programs in Wisconsin ensures eligibility to take the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, a must for CNM practice in the state. For those considering further advancement, exploring the career outlook with a doctorate in nursing can provide valuable insight into leadership and clinical opportunities at the highest level.

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

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Wisconsin?

Advanced degrees are essential for CNMs in Wisconsin to expand their career opportunities and take on leadership roles. Here are key graduate paths and the positions they typically lead to:

MSN – Nurse Midwifery Track: This foundational degree is required for CNM licensure and prepares nurses for advanced clinical care and leadership roles such as lead midwife, clinical coordinator, or nursing faculty.
Doctor of Nursing Practice: The highest clinical nursing degree, the DNP develops skills in healthcare leadership and policy, enabling advancement to director of midwifery services, clinical program manager, or executive healthcare positions.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Midwifery: Designed for nurses with a master’s in another specialty, this certificate facilitates a transition to midwifery, expanding clinical roles or allowing dual certification as a Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dual-Focus Degrees (Nurse Midwife & Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner): These programs broaden clinical scope to include reproductive and gynecologic care, supporting leadership roles in integrated women’s health clinics.
PhD in Nursing: Focused on research and education, this degree prepares CNMs for university faculty, research director, or policy analyst roles, influencing midwifery education and healthcare policy.

clinical hour requirement for clinical nurse leader certification

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Wisconsin?

Accreditation plays a critical role in ensuring nurse midwife programs meet national standards for education and practice. In Wisconsin, the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the exclusive accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse-midwifery programs.

ACME accreditation is essential for anyone considering enrollment in a nurse midwife program tuition Wisconsin. This accreditation guarantees that the curriculum meets strict educational requirements necessary for certification and licensure. Graduating from an ACME-accredited program is mandatory to qualify for the AMCB exam and to obtain the advanced practice license required by Wisconsin.

Marquette University is currently the only provider in Wisconsin offering an ACME-accredited program, which assures students of a recognized and respected path to becoming CNMs. This centralized accreditation process ensures consistent quality and protects students’ investment in their education.

Other midwifery programs, such as those accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC), prepare students for the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential but are not recognized for nurse-midwifery licensure in Wisconsin. For prospective students seeking clarity on the different educational paths, it is helpful to review the different types of RN credentials available.

Choosing an ACME-accredited program is a practical step to ensure eligibility for national certification and state licensure, making it a vital consideration when evaluating the cost of nurse midwife school in Wisconsin and planning your professional journey.

What are the job market opportunities and salary trends for nurse midwives in Wisconsin?

Recent data indicate that nurse midwives in Wisconsin benefit from a robust and steadily expanding job market driven by increased emphasis on women's health and preventive care. Competitive salary ranges vary by region, clinical setting, and years of experience, with urban centers typically offering higher salaries and rural areas providing incentives to address service gaps. Employers value CNMs for their dual expertise in nursing and midwifery, leading to roles that combine clinical practice with leadership in care coordination. For professionals seeking comparable career pathways or alternative advanced practice roles, exploring top nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin can offer additional context and opportunities.

What do nurse midwives in Wisconsin say about their careers?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee was a transformative experience. The hands-on training alongside seasoned professionals prepared me well for the unique demands of Wisconsin’s diverse communities. Starting my teaching career at a local school has been incredibly fulfilling, as I get to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives every day. The balance between clinical practice and education fuels my passion and commitment to healthcare in this state. - Marc
Choosing to pursue nurse midwifery in Wisconsin allowed me to grow not only professionally but personally. The strong community ties and opportunities to work in both urban and rural settings have deepened my understanding of the population’s needs. After graduating from Marquette University’s program, I found joy in contributing to community well-being and witnessing firsthand how culturally sensitive care makes a difference. The career advancement prospects here are promising, which keeps me motivated to push forward. - Sarisa
Wisconsin’s rich blend of cultures and natural resources presents unique challenges and opportunities for nurse midwives like me. Graduating from Edgewood College’s nurse midwifery program gave me a solid foundation, but it’s the ongoing professional development and collaborative environment in the state that truly enhance my career. I appreciate the stability and support as I continue to advance, knowing I’m making a tangible impact on mothers and families in my community. - Mehdi

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

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

No, you cannot become a CNM in Wisconsin without a nursing degree. To practice as a nurse midwife, you must first be a registered nurse. This requires completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After becoming an RN, you need to earn a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery from an accredited program.

Wisconsin follows national standards set by AMCB. These standards require nurse midwives to have both nursing and midwifery education. Direct-entry midwifery, which does not require a nursing degree, is separate and regulated differently. It does not lead to CNM certification.

If your goal is to become a nurse midwife, you must plan to complete nursing education first. Then, pursue advanced training in midwifery. This pathway ensures you meet state licensure and certification requirements to practice legally in Wisconsin.

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

The key difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies primarily in their education, certification, and scope of practice. A nurse midwife, often called a CNM, is a registered nurse with advanced graduate training in midwifery. In Wisconsin and across the United States, CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can offer comprehensive care, including prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum, and newborn care. They are trained to manage both low-risk and some high-risk pregnancies and can prescribe medications.

In contrast, a midwife without a nursing background, often referred to as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife, typically focuses on out-of-hospital births and may have varied training depending on the region.

Globally, midwives’ roles differ widely; in some countries, midwives provide primary maternity care independently, while nurse midwives combine nursing and midwifery skills to practice in clinical settings. Understanding these distinctions helps expectant mothers choose the provider best suited to their needs and clarifies the professional standards in Wisconsin.

Is a midwife in Wisconsin higher than an RN?

In Wisconsin, a midwife is not considered higher in rank than a registered nurse, as their roles, education, and scopes of practice differ significantly. Registered nurses typically hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure. Midwives, particularly CNMs, are APRNs with graduate-level education specializing in midwifery, combining nursing and midwifery training.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, CNMs have a broader scope of practice than RNs, including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, and postpartum care, which RNs do not provide independently.

Statistically, CNMs in the U.S. have demonstrated improved maternal outcomes and lower intervention rates, as reported by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). However, in the professional hierarchy, CNMs are considered a specialized subset of RNs with additional training rather than a higher rank. Therefore, while midwives have expanded responsibilities in Wisconsin, they are not ranked above RNs but rather function as advanced practice clinicians within the nursing profession.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Wisconsin hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Wisconsin is challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires completing an RN program, gaining clinical experience, and earning a graduate degree from an accredited nurse-midwifery program. These programs are rigorous, combining advanced coursework with extensive clinical training.

After education, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by AMCB. Wisconsin also requires licensure through the state’s Department of Safety and Professional Services, which involves meeting education and certification standards.

The pathway demands strong commitment, time, and financial resources. However, support services and resources are available through nursing schools and professional organizations. For motivated individuals, the process is manageable and leads to a rewarding career in women’s health and childbirth care.