Best Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online nurse midwifery programs?

Online nurse midwifery programs are actually hybrid programs. This is a critical distinction that speaks directly to the quality of your education.

You can expect the academic coursework—the lectures, reading, and assignments—to be delivered online. This provides you with the flexibility to manage your studies in conjunction with your existing work and life commitments.

However, the most essential part of your training, the clinical practice, is 100% in-person. You will be required to complete extensive, supervised hours in real-world settings, such as hospitals and birth centers. This is where you build the hands-on competence and confidence needed to practice safely and effectively.

Earning a master's is the most common path for nurse practitioners, and by doing so, you join an elite group, as only 17.4% of RNs hold this credential. The quality of your clinical placements is the most critical factor in your success, so evaluating a program's clinical support system is essential.

Where can I work with an online MSN in nurse midwifery?

Most graduates work in hospitals, but you'll also find significant opportunities in freestanding birth centers and outpatient clinics.

This reality often surprises people who think midwives only attend home births. The fact is, the vast majority of Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) attended births in the U.S. happen within hospital systems. Many hospitals are actively expanding their midwifery practices to improve maternal health outcomes.

This variety of work environments is a significant strength of the profession. It allows you to choose a setting that best fits your practice style and career goals, whether that's in a large medical center or a smaller community-focused clinic.

How much can I make with an online MSN in nurse midwifery?

The median annual salary for a Certified Nurse-Midwife is approximately $128,790. This figure aligns closely with the median yearly wage for all nurse practitioners, which is roughly $129,210. This shows that the profession is valued on par with other key NP specialties.

Of course, your actual salary will depend on factors such as your geographic location, years of experience, and the type of facility in which you work. But this strong earning potential is a key factor when calculating the return on your educational investment.

List of the Best Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Programs for 2025

1. Georgetown University - Online Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program

Georgetown University offers a dual Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program grounded in the Jesuit ideal of cura personalis, or care for the whole person. The curriculum emphasizes health equity and prepares graduates to provide holistic, person-centered care across the lifespan.

• Program Length: 27 months
• Program Focus: Dual Nurse-Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Required Credits to Graduate: 49
• Cost per Credit: $2,652
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

2. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - MSN Nurse Midwifery

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center provides a distance education MSN in Nurse Midwifery that blends online coursework with occasional required travel to campus. The program emphasizes a holistic review process for admissions and prepares graduates for certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 51
• Cost per Credit: $280.18 (in-state), $685.18 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

3. Bethel University - Nurse-Midwifery Program

Bethel University offers its M.S. in Nurse-Midwifery program from a faith-based perspective, emphasizing sound ethics and compassionate, holistic care. The flexible online program requires one week of on-campus intensives each year and prepares graduates to serve diverse communities.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 57
• Cost per Credit: $887
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

4. University of Cincinnati - MSN Nurse-Midwifery

The University of Cincinnati’s online MSN in Nurse-Midwifery focuses on providing expert care to women during labor and birth, preparing graduates to serve as primary care providers. The program is taught by clinically active faculty and requires a skills-intensive visit to the Cincinnati campus.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 57
• Cost per Credit: $892 (in-state), $908 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

5. Frontier Nursing University - Nurse-Midwifery Specialty Track

Frontier Nursing University, the nation’s oldest and largest midwifery program, uses a distance education model where students complete clinicals in their home communities. The curriculum is delivered online, supported by two brief on-campus immersion experiences to build community and skills.

• Program Length: 27 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 55
• Cost per Credit: $705
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

6. George Washington University - Online MSN Nurse-Midwifery

George Washington University’s online MSN in Nurse-Midwifery is built to address the national maternity care crisis with a focus on reproductive justice. The curriculum structure emphasizes two final semesters of intense clinical immersion to ensure graduates are practice-ready.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 50
• Cost per Credit: $1,630
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

7. Old Dominion University - Nurse Midwifery MSN Online Program

Old Dominion University offers a unique cooperative program in partnership with Shenandoah University, combining the strengths of both institutions. Students earn an MSN from Old Dominion while completing specialized midwifery coursework online through Shenandoah during their second year of study.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 52
• Cost per Credit: $486 (in-state), $649 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

8. Stony Brook School of Nursing - Master of Science - Nurse Midwifery

Stony Brook School of Nursing’s distance education program prepares nurse-midwives to serve as expert clinicians, educators, and leaders. The curriculum focuses on developing graduates who can collaborate in the care of women and healthy newborns across various healthcare settings.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Credit: $471 (in-state), $565 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

9. Georgia College & State University - Nurse Midwifery Concentration MSN

Georgia College & State University offers an online MSN with a Nurse-Midwifery concentration, which requires all clinical rotations to be completed within the state of Georgia. The program enhances practical learning with mandatory on-campus labs and simulations, which occur approximately once per semester.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Credit: $784.50
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

10. East Carolina University - MSN Nurse-Midwifery

East Carolina University’s Nurse-Midwifery program is mission-driven to transform the health of women and families in rural and underserved communities. The curriculum is designed to prepare leaders who can reduce health disparities and provide culturally sensitive, evidence-based care.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 53
• Cost per Credit: $433.16 (in-state), $1,163.66 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

How long does it take to complete an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Most full-time programs take between 24 and 36 months to complete. If you need to balance your studies with work and family commitments, part-time tracks will extend that timeline. Some schools also offer bridge programs for RNs who don't have a BSN, which adds to the overall program length.

This timeline is standard for many advanced roles in healthcare, which all have distinct educational paths. For example, there are specific benefits of being a medical assistant that guide people into that foundational role on the career ladder.

The Biggest Variable: Clinical Placements

Finding a qualified preceptor and an approved clinical site can be a significant challenge. It is the number one reason students take longer than expected to graduate, which can create unexpected financial and logistical stress. This is why you must ask every program you consider about its clinical placement support.

Do they find sites for you, or are you expected to find your own? Their answer is a critical piece of information for your decision. Your journey to an advanced degree is a significant step, moving beyond the associate or bachelor's degree that typically accounts for most initial nursing licenses.

How does an online MSN in nurse midwifery program compare to an on-campus program?

When it comes to the things that matter most, the programs are identical. Whether you study online or on campus, you will earn the exact same degree. In fact, many students choose online learning because of the benefits of pursuing a BSN degree, including MSN in nurse midwifery, such as greater flexibility and the ability to balance work and family commitments.

The curriculum remains the same, the academic standards remain unchanged, and most importantly, the accreditation remains intact. Your diploma will not say “online,” and employers view the degrees as equivalent. The only real difference is the delivery format for the coursework, which gives you greater flexibility.

The Great Equalizer: Clinical Requirements

Here’s why the degrees are truly equivalent: the clinical requirements.

Accreditation bodies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), mandate that all students, regardless of program format, must complete the same number of rigorous, in-person clinical hours.

This is the great equalizer. It ensures that every single graduate has demonstrated the same level of hands-on competence before they can sit for their board exams. This national standard guarantees that an accredited online program provides the legitimate, high-quality education you need to become a competent and respected Certified Nurse-Midwife.

What is the average cost of an online nurse midwifery programs?

The cost of online nurse midwifery programs varies dramatically, and it can be one of the most confusing parts of making your decision. Total tuition can range from approximately $21,000 to over $130,000. If you’re also considering your long-term career path, it helps to explore what can you do with a master's in nursing education to see how different advanced nursing degrees may align with your goals.

This vast difference often comes down to the school's funding model—whether it's a public or private university. A higher price tag doesn't always mean a better program, which is why looking only at the sticker price can be misleading.

Calculating the 'True Cost' of Your Investment

To make an accurate comparison, you need to calculate the "true cost" of your investment. This goes beyond the per-credit tuition rate. You have to factor in all the other required expenses.

Look for mandatory university fees, technology fees, and costs for liability insurance. Most importantly, since these are hybrid programs, you must budget for travel, food, and lodging for any required on-campus intensive sessions. Some programs have several of these, and those costs can add up quickly.

Only by adding these expenses to the base tuition can you get a realistic picture of your total financial commitment. The chart below illustrates the wide range of tuition for the programs on our list.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in online nurse midwifery programs?

You have several options, including federal aid and private loans, to help fund your degree. It's essential to explore all options to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. The primary sources of financial aid include:

• Federal Student Aid: This is the most common starting point. You'll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal loans.
• University Scholarships and Grants: Many schools offer their own institutional aid specifically for nursing students, so be sure to check with the financial aid office at any program you're considering.
• Specialized Nursing Loan Forgiveness Programs: These are high-value opportunities that can significantly reduce your educational debt in exchange for service.
• Private Loans: These can help fill any funding gaps but should generally be considered only after you've exhausted all other options.

Funding Your Future Through Service

For many aspiring midwives, the most effective financial aid options are those that align directly with their mission. Exploring these service-based options is a strategic way to align your financial plan with your professional interests. Programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program are a perfect example.

In exchange for a two-year service commitment in a Critical Shortage Facility, the program will pay off a significant portion of your nursing education loans. This is a true win-win. It allows you to fund your education while immediately using your new skills to serve a community with critical needs.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

You’ll typically need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program and an active, unencumbered RN license. Most programs also require specific undergraduate courses, like statistics, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.

But here’s the key prerequisite that sets competitive applicants apart: one to two years of relevant clinical experience. Many programs strongly prefer or even require a background in labor and delivery. Building this specific experience is a strategic step, much like meeting the distinct infusion nurse requirements is for that particular specialty.

Why the High Bar? A Degree with a Secure Future

Why are the entry standards so rigorous? It’s because these programs are preparing you for a role with immense responsibility and autonomy. Admissions committees need to see that you have demonstrated maturity, clinical judgment, and a true commitment to the profession.

This high bar pays off directly in your career prospects. The investment in building a strong application profile leads to a degree with a proven track record of success. In fact, 95% of new MSN graduates have a job offer within four to six months of completing their program.

What courses are typically in an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

The curriculum is designed to build on your RN experience and prepare you for full-scope advanced practice. It's far more comprehensive than just focusing on birth, covering the entire spectrum of women's health.

You can expect your coursework to be divided into two main categories:

• Core Advanced Practice Courses: All advanced practice nursing students take foundational courses, including Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Health Assessment.
• Specialized Midwifery & Women's Health Courses: This is where you dive deep into your specialty. You'll take courses in antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care, as well as newborn care and the primary care of women across the lifespan. The specifics of

Earning an Elite Credential

Beyond the core clinical subjects, your curriculum will also include courses on health policy, research, and leadership. These are designed to prepare you to be a leader and advocate in the healthcare system, not just a clinician. If you’re exploring additional credentials, it’s worth learning what can you do with a women's health nurse practitioner graduate certificate to understand how it can expand your career opportunities.

Completing this rigorous curriculum places you in an elite tier of the nursing profession. While most nurses work in physicians' offices or hospitals, earning this master's degree sets you apart. In fact, only about 17.4% of all registered nurses in the U.S. hold a master's degree.

What types of specializations are available in an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Formal sub-specializations within online nurse midwifery programs are quite rare. The MSN in midwifery is a highly specialized degree in its own right. Instead, midwives typically develop an area of expertise after graduation through their choice of practice setting and patient population.

For example, you might focus on high-risk obstetrics within a hospital setting or become an expert in adolescent gynecology in a clinic. This is similar to how one might specialize in a role like a nurse health coach, which has its own distinct nurse health coach salary and focus developed through practice.

The Critical Choice: Midwife (CNM) vs. Women's Health NP (WHNP)

The most important decision you'll make is often between becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). The primary difference lies in the scope of practice.

A CNM is educated and licensed to manage labor and deliver babies, in addition to providing comprehensive gynecological and primary care. A WHNP provides the same lifespan GYN and primary care, but is not trained to attend births.

Some universities now offer dual-certification tracks that prepare you for both roles. This is an excellent option if you want the ultimate flexibility in your career, allowing you to work across the full spectrum of women's health, from primary care offices to hospital labor and delivery units.

How to choose the best online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

The "best" program isn't about a national ranking; it's about finding the right fit for your specific career goals, learning style, and personal values. Use this five-point framework to evaluate your options and make a confident choice.

• Confirm ACME accreditation. This is non-negotiable and your absolute first step, as it guarantees the program meets national standards for quality and that you'll be eligible to sit for the board exam.
• Investigate the clinical placement support model. You must learn if the program provides direct assistance in securing clinical sites and preceptors or if you will be expected to find them on your own.
• Evaluate the program's philosophy and its alignment with real-world applications. Consider how a school's mission aligns not just with your values but also with the political and legal landscape of reproductive health in the state where you plan to practice.
• Calculate the "true cost" of the program. Look beyond tuition and add up all mandatory fees, travel expenses for on-campus requirements, and technology costs to understand the full investment.
• Review program outcomes. Ask for the program's first-time pass rate on the AMCB certification exam and their graduate job placement rate to see evidence of their success.

Following this process will provide you with a clear and comprehensive picture, enabling you to choose a program that truly sets you up for success.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

While most graduates of online nurse midwifery programs build careers in direct patient care, your advanced degree also prepares you for influential roles in leadership, education, and even business ownership.

The most common path is clinical practice in a hospital or outpatient clinic. For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, opening a private midwifery practice is another central avenue, offering greater autonomy and flexibility.

Beyond the Bedside: A Career in Advocacy and Policy

Your MSN also opens doors to careers where you can shape the future of maternal health on a systemic level. This includes roles in academic education, research, and health policy.

Working in policy for professional organizations like ACNM allows you to advocate for midwives and their patients on a state or national level. To be effective in this work, it's crucial to understand the entire community health ecosystem. This often leads to a key question for aspiring advocates: how to become a certified community health worker? Understanding roles like these provides the ground-level perspective needed to create meaningful policy.

The chart below shows the top industries where midwives are employed today, which serve as the foundation for all these career paths.

What is the job market for graduates with an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

The job market is excellent. Overall employment for advanced practice nurses, including midwives, is projected to grow by a staggering 40% over the next decade. If you’re considering other advanced practice specialties, exploring pediatric NP graduate certificate jobs can help you understand how different paths compare in terms of opportunities and growth.

This robust growth is a clear indicator of the high demand for your advanced skills. You are entering a secure and expanding field.

Stable Demand in a Critical Field

It's essential to understand the specific context for midwives within that larger number. The growth for the midwifery specialty itself is a stable 7%. This isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of deep, consistent demand.

This demand is directly tied to childbirth, a fundamental societal need that remains unchanged by market trends. The ongoing maternal health crisis in the U.S. only intensifies the need for your expertise, placing you in a profession that offers a direct solution to a critical national problem. This ensures a secure and impactful career for years to come.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Program

What challenges should I anticipate in an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Students may face hurdles that require proactive planning to ensure academic and clinical success. Limited access to on-campus resources, potential delays in securing approved clinical placements, technology-related issues within virtual learning environments, and balancing demanding course schedules with personal and professional responsibilities are common challenges. To overcome these obstacles, it is critical to engage with your program's support services early, including academic advisors and clinical placement coordinators. Evaluating peer and alumni experiences can offer additional insights on overcoming these challenges, much like reviewing best accelerated BSN nursing programs online can provide guidance on streamlined nursing education pathways.

Other Things You Should Know About Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Programs

What is ACME accreditation and why is it important?

ACME stands for the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. It is the only accrediting agency for nurse-midwifery programs recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Attending an ACME-accredited program is essential because it ensures the education meets national standards and is the only way to be eligible to take the national certification exam to become a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).

Do I need to be a labor and delivery nurse to get into a midwifery program?

While a background in labor and delivery (L&D) is highly preferred and can make your application more competitive, it is not always a strict requirement. Many programs accept experienced RNs from other specialties like the ICU, ER, or medical-surgical units. These programs value the diverse clinical judgment and skills these nurses bring to the midwifery profession.

Can I work full-time as an RN while completing an online midwifery program?

Many students continue to work while enrolled, especially during the initial online coursework portion of the program. However, it becomes very challenging to maintain a full-time work schedule during the intensive clinical rotation phase. Most programs require hundreds of in-person clinical hours, which often follow a full-time schedule; therefore, many students reduce their work hours or switch to part-time roles during that time.

What is an RN-to-MSN bridge program for midwifery?

An RN-to-MSN bridge program is designed for registered nurses who hold an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) but do not have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This pathway enables you to complete the required bachelor's-level coursework and then transition directly into the master's-level midwifery curriculum within a single, continuous program, saving you time and streamlining the application process.