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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Wyoming faces a shortage of qualified nurse midwives, affecting access to maternal healthcare in rural areas. Currently, only 1.8 nurse midwives serve every 10,000 residents in the state, which figure is below the national average. This gap highlights a critical need for well-trained professionals in the field. As such, pursuing a career as a nurse midwife in Wyoming offers strong job security and competitive salaries, with median annual earnings exceeding $105,000.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines the specific educational pathways, certification requirements, and practical steps necessary to become a nurse midwife in Wyoming.

Key Points About Becoming a Nurse Midwife in Wyoming

Complete a graduate-level nurse midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education to meet Wyoming’s certification requirements.
Pass the American Midwifery Certification Board exam, which is required for licensure to practice as a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in Wyoming.
Understand that Wyoming offers competitive salaries averaging $110,000 annually for CNMs with growing demand due to rural healthcare needs and maternal care shortages.

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

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

The minimum degree requirement for a nurse midwife in Wyoming is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in nurse midwifery. This graduate degree involves completing 45-60 credits and 700-1000 clinical hours, which together provide a comprehensive foundation for entry-level certified nurse midwife (CNM) practice.

Wyoming’s advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licensure rules explicitly mandate this specific graduate degree, reflecting the state’s emphasis on advanced clinical preparation. The MSN curriculum is designed to equip registered nurses with the specialized skills needed to manage primary and reproductive health care for women, addressing a broad spectrum of patient needs.

Fulfilling the nurse midwife education requirements in Wyoming ensures that graduates are proficient in managing pregnancies, childbirth, postpartum care, and newborn health, as well as providing gynecological and primary care for women. The extensive hands-on clinical experience embedded in the degree is critical for developing real-world competency, especially important in Wyoming’s rural areas where obstetric care access is limited.

By completing this degree, aspiring midwives are well-prepared to pass national certification exams and meet state licensure standards, positioning them for a field with sustained demand.

Individuals exploring nursing careers will find that this MSN specialization serves as the essential credential for nurse midwife practice in Wyoming.

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

Admission to nurse midwife programs in Wyoming demands a combination of academic credentials, licensure, and clinical experience. Candidates must satisfy specific criteria to be considered competitive for enrollment.

Minimum Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program or be on track to complete it before enrollment; bridge programs for ADN nurses are uncommon.
Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is generally required, particularly for graduate-level programs.
Registered Nurse (RN) License: A current, unencumbered RN license valid in Wyoming or the clinical training state is mandatory.
Clinical Experience: One to two years of professional nursing experience, preferably in women’s health or labor and delivery, is strongly recommended.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or professional references attesting to clinical skills and preparedness are typically required.
Personal Statement and Resume: A personal statement detailing career goals in midwifery and a current resume or CV must be submitted.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions must be provided, including any records of unsatisfactory grades or withdrawals.
International Students: Must submit evaluated transcripts from approved agencies, provide course descriptions if requested, and demonstrate English proficiency.
Background Check: A completed background check through the College of Health Sciences is required before final admission.
Wyoming-Specific Requirements: No unique state-specific requirements exist beyond national accreditation and nursing board standards; lawful presence verification is required.

What is the minimum education requirement to become a nurse midwife?

What courses are included in nurse midwife programs in Wyoming?

The nurse midwife program curriculum in Wyoming is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills essential for advanced practice in maternal and newborn care. These programs emphasize both theoretical coursework and extensive clinical training to meet state certification standards.

Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills to evaluate patients across all ages, focusing on thorough physical exams and identifying key findings in women’s health and pregnancy.
Advanced Human Pathophysiology: Explores disease mechanisms, especially those affecting women and newborns, to aid in risk identification and complex condition management.
Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics: Covers safe prescribing practices and medication management specific to women’s health, pregnancy, and newborn care.
Nurse-Midwifery Care During Labor and Birth: Teaches evidence-based labor, delivery, and postpartum care techniques to promote safe and physiologic birth experiences.
Reproductive and Women’s Health: Addresses contraceptive methods, fertility, and gynecologic care, broadening the scope to include well-woman health promotion.
Primary Care for Women: Prepares students to provide preventive care and manage chronic conditions, critical in Wyoming’s rural healthcare settings.
Care of the Childbearing Family: Focuses on family-centered care throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, including newborn assessment and culturally sensitive practices.
Evidence-Based Practice and Health Informatics: Instructs on critical appraisal of research and the use of informatics for informed clinical decision-making.
Professional Issues and Leadership in Midwifery: Covers legal, ethical, and leadership responsibilities within Wyoming’s regulatory environment.
Clinical Practicum: Requires 700–1000 supervised hours in diverse settings, ensuring practical competence in real-world care delivery.

These courses required for nurse midwife certification in Wyoming reflect the state’s unique healthcare demands, including dual-focus tracks combining nurse midwifery with women’s health nurse practitioner roles. For those exploring how to advance in this field, resources such as midwife how to become one offer valuable guidance on career pathways and educational requirements.

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

Nurse midwifery programs in Wyoming require between 500 and 700 supervised clinical hours for post-master’s CNM certificate candidates, though some DNP programs may require up to 1,000 hours. These hours must be completed in person under the guidance of licensed preceptors, such as certified nurse midwives, women’s health nurse practitioners, or OB/GYN physicians. Simulation-based training is not accepted as a substitute for these hands-on experiences.

Clinical placements span diverse settings across Wyoming’s rural landscape, including hospitals, birthing centers, OB/GYN clinics, community health centers, and occasionally home birth practices. These placements provide broad exposure to prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, newborn assessment, and women’s reproductive health. The goal is to prepare students for independent, full-scope midwifery practice in both high-volume and low-resource environments.

A nurse midwife who completed her training locally described the challenges of shifting between fast-paced hospital settings and more personal birthing centers. She credited her preceptors with helping her develop confidence and adaptability, noting, “The hours weren’t just a requirement—they were essential for understanding how to care for families in every corner of the state.”

The chart below highlights the states with the fewest practicing nurse midwives, offering additional context on workforce distribution nationwide.

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

Becoming a certified nurse midwife in Wyoming begins with earning a BSN, which typically requires four years of full-time study. After completing the degree, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain RN licensure in Wyoming. This licensing step can take several additional months, depending on exam availability and the processing time of the Wyoming Board of Nursing.

Following RN licensure, aspiring CNMs enroll in an accredited graduate-level nurse midwifery program, pursuing either an MSN or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs generally take between two and three years to complete, influenced by whether the student attends full- or part-time.

Since Wyoming does not offer in-state nurse-midwifery graduate programs, students typically participate in distance-based education combined with local clinical placements, which may extend the timeline due to challenges arranging preceptorships, especially in rural areas.

After completing the graduate program, candidates must pass the national Certified Nurse-Midwife Examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Successful candidates then apply for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licensure with a midwifery focus through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.

Application processing usually takes several weeks but can experience delays if documentation is incomplete or demand is high. Notably, Wyoming grants CNMs full independent practice authority, a factor that may influence the scope and immediacy of clinical practice post-licensure.

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

Attending nurse midwife school in Wyoming typically involves tuition costs ranging from $45,000 to $85,000 for an MSN program, depending on whether the program is offered by a public or private institution. DNP programs with a nurse-midwifery focus tend to be more expensive, with total costs between $75,000 and $120,000.

Since Wyoming does not have its own in-state ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program, many residents enroll in online or regional programs that provide in-state clinical placements. This affects the nurse midwife program tuition in Wyoming, often requiring students to pay out-of-state rates or distance learner fees.

Out-of-state tuition for nurse-midwifery graduate programs averages about $30,782 annually, compared to $17,789 for in-state students nationwide. Additional expenses beyond tuition include university and program fees, which cover technology and administrative costs, textbooks and course materials costing between $1,500 and $3,000, and clinical supplies such as uniforms and stethoscopes typically priced from $500 to $1,000 for the entire program.

Students should also budget for background checks, immunizations ($100–$300), and travel and lodging expenses related to clinical rotations. Licensure and certification fees include a $500 examination fee for the national nurse midwife certification as of 2025.

The overall cost of becoming a nurse midwife in Wyoming, taking into account tuition, fees, books, clinical supplies, and licensure, generally falls between $50,000 and $90,000 for MSN-level programs. These estimates reflect current data and typical expenses for Wyoming residents pursuing accredited nurse-midwifery education.

For those interested in becoming an APRN, in general, it is helpful to review what requirements are needed to become an advanced practice registered nurse, which provides a comprehensive overview of the credentials necessary to enter this field.

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

Financial aid for nurse midwife students in Wyoming includes a variety of federal, state, and institutional programs designed to reduce the financial burden of advanced nursing education. These options range from grants and loans to scholarships and loan repayment incentives, many tailored specifically to support nurse midwifery or rural healthcare commitments.

Federal Grants and Loans: Includes the need-based Federal Pell Grant, Direct Unsubsidized Loans with a 6.28% interest rate, and Graduate PLUS Loans up to full attendance cost, accessed via FAFSA.
Wyoming State Scholarships: Scholarships like the Mabel C. Sargent and Mountain Region awards provide financial support to nursing students, including those pursuing midwifery.
Loan Repayment Programs: State initiatives offer loan repayment for service in underserved areas, with programs such as the Healthcare Provider Loan Repayment and Accelerated Loan Repayment Program offering up to $25,000 for multi-year commitments.
Federal Work-Study: Eligible students may earn $4,000–$8,000 annually through part-time work related to their field, helping offset costs without increasing debt.
Institutional and National Scholarships: Local universities and national nursing organizations provide competitive scholarships, aiding midwifery students at graduate and advanced levels.

The image below shows the projected employment growth rate of nurse midwives in the United States, offering insight into future job stability and national demand for the profession. The image below shows the projected employment growth rate of nurse midwives in the United States, offering insight into future job stability and national demand for the profession.

A Wyoming nurse midwife who graduated locally shared that balancing work, school, and financial aid applications was initially overwhelming, but loan repayment programs tied to rural service brought peace of mind. While the FAFSA process was complex, she found that scholarships and work-study helped ease financial stress. More than just loans, these resources aligned with her goals of community service and advancing in maternal care. Her experience underscores how Wyoming’s financial aid landscape not only makes midwifery education more accessible but also supports long-term retention in underserved areas.

What is the job outlook for nurse midwives?

What collaborative opportunities exist between nurse midwives and nurse practitioners in Wyoming?

Integrated care models in Wyoming leverage the complementary skills of nurse midwives and nurse practitioners to enhance patient outcomes, particularly in rural settings. Cross-disciplinary collaboration facilitates shared decision-making, streamlined patient management, and improved resource allocation. Joint practice initiatives, supported by targeted continuing education, drive efficiency and foster community-based care improvements. For further insight on advanced educational options, explore the top nurse practitioner programs in Wyoming.

What are the top accredited nurse midwife schools in Wyoming?

Choosing an accredited nurse midwifery program in Wyoming is essential for students aiming to become CNMs, as only graduates from ACME-accredited programs qualify for national certification and state licensure. With Wyoming facing rural healthcare shortages and only about 72% of expectant mothers receiving early prenatal care, selecting quality education is critical to meet community needs effectively.

University of Wyoming – Nurse-Midwifery Partnership Pathway: Offered with out-of-state ACME-accredited partners, this program lets Wyoming students complete core graduate nursing courses locally before transferring to a nurse-midwifery specialty. The hybrid format supports rural clinical partnerships, addressing Wyoming’s healthcare gaps.
Frontier Nursing University (Distance Option for Wyoming Students): Kentucky-based and ACME-accredited, Frontier’s online curriculum is popular among Wyoming nurses. It enables remote coursework and clinical placements within Wyoming, ideal for working professionals seeking flexible study.
University of New Mexico – Nurse-Midwifery Program (Regional Proximity): This ACME-accredited program, though outside Wyoming, offers DNP or MSN tracks with a focus on underserved populations. It has clinical agreements allowing Wyoming students to complete rotations in-state.
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing (Distance/Hybrid): Vanderbilt’s highly ranked, ACME-accredited program features a flexible hybrid model with online courses and on-campus intensives. Wyoming students can arrange clinical experiences locally, supporting access from remote areas.
Georgetown University Nurse-Midwifery Program (Online National): Georgetown’s rigorous ACME-accredited online program admits Wyoming residents and boasts high CNM board pass rates. Its extensive network facilitates clinical placements in Wyoming’s rural communities.

Wyoming nurse midwifery schools primarily rely on partnerships and distance education to serve state residents, ensuring access to accredited programs despite the lack of a standalone in-state option. These pathways align with Wyoming’s healthcare needs and support students pursuing certification and licensure. For those considering advanced roles, understanding the career outlook with a doctorate in nursing is also beneficial when planning educational goals.

To better understand how these career paths align with workforce trends, the chart below shows the typical age range of practicing nurse midwives.

Which advanced degrees support career advancement for CNMs in Wyoming?

Advanced degrees significantly enhance career opportunities for CNMs in Wyoming, enabling them to pursue leadership, clinical, and academic roles. These credentials align with employer preferences and correlate with higher salaries.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN with a nurse-midwifery focus is the foundational requirement for CNMs. Wyoming programs offer specializations like Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Leadership, preparing CNMs for roles such as clinical lead midwife or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): This terminal practice degree emphasizes advanced clinical skills and leadership. Graduates often advance to positions including clinical director, hospital administrator, or policy advisor, influencing maternal health policy and quality initiatives.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs: These certificates allow CNMs to add subspecialties like Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator, expanding their scope and enabling roles in specialist consultation or academic teaching.
PhD in Nursing or Related Field: A PhD prepares CNMs for research-intensive careers as nurse scientists or academic faculty. This degree supports evidence-based midwifery and maternal-child health research, crucial for rural Wyoming communities.

What organizations accredit nurse midwife programs in Wyoming?

The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) is the sole accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for nurse midwife programs in the United States, including those relevant to Wyoming students. ACME ensures that nurse-midwifery educational programs meet rigorous national standards, which is critical because graduation from an ACME-accredited program is mandatory to qualify for the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam and subsequent state licensure.

Wyoming does not currently host any in-state ACME-accredited nurse-midwife programs, so students typically enroll in online or out-of-state programs that provide clinical placements within Wyoming hospitals. This approach allows candidates to receive hands-on training tailored to local healthcare environments.

When evaluating the nurse midwife program cost in Wyoming, prospective students should consider tuition for nurse midwife school Wyoming in these accredited programs, as only these fulfill the educational prerequisites for licensure.

For those exploring the field’s financial outlook, resources like highest paying careers with a nursing specialization can provide valuable insights on career returns.

What do nurse midwives in Wyoming say about their career?

Completing my nurse midwifery program at the University of Wyoming was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in rural healthcare practices. The close-knit community and the vast open spaces have allowed me to connect with my patients in meaningful ways, making every birth a shared celebration. Starting my teaching career at a local school gave me the chance to inspire the next generation of nurse midwives by sharing real-world knowledge and fostering a passion for maternal health. I feel proud knowing my work directly supports families in this unique region while advancing my own professional growth. Wyoming’s blend of professional opportunity and natural beauty makes this career incredibly fulfilling. Judith
After finishing my nurse midwife studies at Casper College, I embraced the challenge of working in Wyoming’s diverse and sometimes unpredictable environment. The cultural richness and strong community bonds here offer unique opportunities to impact lives beyond clinical care, especially in educating young parents and promoting wellness in rural areas. Teaching at a local school has been a rewarding extension of my practice, allowing me to mentor students who are passionate about serving underserved populations. The blend of professional development and personal growth in Wyoming’s healthcare field is unlike anywhere else I’ve experienced. Yolanda
My journey through the nurse midwifery program at Laramie County Community College equipped me with the clinical skills and confidence to thrive in Wyoming’s healthcare system. The state’s emphasis on supporting rural providers means there are ample opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles. Teaching at a local school has been a joyful way to give back, cultivating a new wave of compassionate nurse midwives. Living and working here has deepened my appreciation for community resilience and the vital role we play in shaping healthier futures for Wyoming families. Mandy

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

Can I be a midwife without a nursing degree in Wyoming

No, you cannot become a CNM in Wyoming without first earning a nursing degree. Wyoming requires nurse midwives to be RNs who have completed a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by ACME. This means that aspiring midwives must first obtain a BSN or an equivalent nursing degree before advancing to specialized nurse midwifery education.

The nurse midwifery pathway combines nursing and midwifery training, preparing candidates to provide comprehensive care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Without a nursing background, you cannot meet the state licensing requirements for nurse midwives.

Alternatively, Wyoming does recognize certified professional midwives (CPMs), who do not need nursing degrees but have a different scope of practice and certification process. However, if your goal is to become a nurse midwife, a nursing degree is mandatory.

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

The primary difference between a nurse midwife and a midwife lies in their education, certification, and scope of practice. In Wyoming and across the U.S., a CNM is a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level training in midwifery, allowing them to provide a full range of healthcare services, including prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and general women’s health services. CNMs are licensed healthcare providers who can prescribe medications and practice in hospitals or clinics.

In contrast, a midwife—often called a certified professional midwife (CPM) or traditional midwife—may not have a nursing background and typically focuses on out-of-hospital births such as home or birth center deliveries. Their training varies widely by state and country. Globally, midwives can have diverse educational pathways, but nurse midwives generally hold a higher level of formal medical training.

In Wyoming, only CNMs are recognized as licensed healthcare providers with prescriptive authority, making them integral to the formal healthcare system, whereas midwives without nursing credentials often work independently or under different regulatory standards.

Is a midwife in Wyoming higher than a RN?

In Wyoming, a midwife is not considered higher than a registered nurse (RN) in terms of scope of practice or licensure hierarchy. Registered nurses hold a broader range of responsibilities and are licensed through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing, requiring completion of accredited nursing programs and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Midwives, specifically CNMs, are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized training in midwifery, often requiring a master's degree and certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board.

According to the Wyoming Board of Nursing and the American College of Nurse-Midwives, CNMs provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care but generally work within a collaborative framework that includes physicians and RNs. As of recent data, Wyoming has a limited number of practicing CNMs compared to RNs, reflecting their specialized role rather than a higher rank. Therefore, while midwives have advanced skills in childbirth and women's health, they are considered a specialized subset of nursing rather than higher than an RN.

Is becoming a nurse midwife in Wyoming hard?

Becoming a nurse midwife in Wyoming is challenging but achievable with dedication. The process requires meeting educational, certification, and licensing standards set by the state. Candidates must first earn an RN license, which involves completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Next, aspiring nurse midwives must complete a graduate-level nurse-midwifery program accredited by ACME. These programs typically take two to three years and include extensive clinical training. After graduation, candidates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).

Wyoming requires nurse midwives to obtain state licensure, which involves submitting proof of education, certification, and passing a criminal background check. While the path demands significant time and effort, the state’s supportive healthcare environment and growing demand for midwifery services provide strong incentives for those committed to the profession.

References:

Aldrich, G. (2023, August 12). How to Become a Midwife Without a Nursing Degree. OnlineDegree.com.
All Nursing Schools. (n.d.). What You’ll Study in a Nurse Midwife Program. allnursingschools.com.
American Midwifery Certification Board. (n.d.). Our mission: To protect and serve the public by leading the certification standards in midwifery. AMCB.
Chapel Hill. (2025, July 7). What Training is Required to be a Certified Nurse Midwife? chapelhillobgyn.com.
Gustafson, K. (2025, April 21). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)- Education, Licensure & Salary. Nursing Colleges.
Morris, G. (2025, July 9). Guide to Financial Aid and Scholarships for Nurses. Nurse Journal.
Nurse.com Higher Education Guide. (n.d.). APRN Certifications | Become a Certified Nurse-Midwife. nurse.com.
Nurse Midwifery. (n.d.). Become a Certified Nurse Midwife. nursemidwifery.org.
Nursing License Map. (n.d.). Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). nursinglicensemap.com.
RegisteredNursing.Org. (2025, July 16). Best Nursing Schools in Wyoming. registerednursing.org.
United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics | 29-1161 Nurse Midwives. BLS.