Fastest 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 MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Online MSN in nurse midwifery programs combine advanced nursing theory with hands-on clinical training. The core curriculum covers topics like reproductive health, prenatal care, labor and delivery, and newborn care. Most programs require a capstone project and at least 600–1,000 supervised clinical hours in midwifery settings.

Courses are delivered through a mix of asynchronous modules, live virtual lectures, and interactive discussion boards. Some programs include occasional campus visits for simulations or exams.

Tuition varies widely, ranging from $39,000 to $51,000 depending on the school. Many schools offer part-time and full-time formats, allowing you to balance work and study. Programs are designed to prepare you for national certification as a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM).

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

An online MSN in nurse midwifery opens doors to advanced roles in various healthcare settings. Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are in demand across hospitals, private practices, birthing centers, and public health agencies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, the top industries employing nurse midwives include:

• Offices of Physicians: Employ approximately 3,490 CNMs, accounting for over 0.12% of the field’s total employment.
• General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: Employ around 1,640 CNMs, or roughly 0.03% of the workforce.
• Outpatient Care Centers: Employ about 1,020 CNMs, comprising 0.10% of the field.
• Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools: Employ nearly 90 CNMs in teaching and training roles.
• Other Health Practitioners Offices: Employ about 470 CNMs in public health programs and clinics.

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

Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) have strong earning potential. The following settings had 2023 median wages well above the national average per hour:

• Certified Nurse Midwives (All Settings): $62.33 per hour; $129,650 per year
• Outpatient Care Centers: $78.89 per hour; $164,080 per year
• General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $65.34 per hour; $135,900 per year
• Physicians’ Offices: $61.32 per hour; $127,550 per year
• Local Government Agencies: $63.55 per hour; $132,190 per year

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

1. Frontier Nursing University

The online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Frontier Nursing University with a Nurse-Midwifery focus prepares registered nurses to provide comprehensive care throughout the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum continuum. Frontier Nursing University emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competency, and care for rural and underserved populations. Coursework is primarily online, with a short on-campus immersion and clinical training arranged in the student’s local community.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 55
• Cost: $705 per credit hour / $38,775 total tuition cost 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati online MSN in Nurse-Midwifery equips registered nurses to deliver primary care to women across the lifespan, with a strong focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support. The program blends online coursework with in-person clinical experiences and brief campus visits. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based care and cultural sensitivity in diverse communities.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 57
• Cost: $892.00 per credit hour (In-state) / $908.00 per credit hour (Out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. Old Dominion University

Through its online Nurse-Midwifery MSN, Old Dominion University trains registered nurses to deliver full-scope midwifery care—from prenatal visits to postpartum and newborn services. The program blends virtual coursework with clinical training and occasional on-campus intensives, emphasizing holistic, evidence-based approaches for diverse populations.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 52
• Cost: $486 per credit hour (In-state) / $649 per credit hour (Out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. George Washington University

In the online Nurse-Midwifery MSN offered by George Washington University, registered nurses gain the skills to provide care across the entire reproductive lifespan. The program mixes distance learning with hands-on clinical training and a few on-campus sessions. Emphasizing health equity, leadership, and research, it prepares students to manage prenatal, birth, and postpartum care confidently and compassionately.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 50
• Cost: $1,630 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

5. Bethel University

Bethel University online Nurse-Midwifery MSN program equips registered nurses to provide holistic care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. The curriculum integrates Christian values with advanced clinical skills, combining online coursework, in-person labs, and local clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared for national certification and independent midwifery practice.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 57
• Cost: $50,559 tuition cost
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

6. Texas Tech University - Health Sciences Center

With its MSN in Nurse-Midwifery, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center equips registered nurses to provide full-scope care, especially in rural and underserved areas. The curriculum combines online coursework with occasional campus intensives and hands-on clinical placements. Emphasis is placed on cultural sensitivity, evidence-based practice, and team-based approaches to maternal and newborn care.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 51
• Cost: $280.18 per credit hour (In-state) / $589 per credit hour (Out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

7. University of Alabama at Birmingham (Hybrid)

Designed to train nurses in full-spectrum midwifery care, the MSN in Nurse-Midwifery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham blends online coursework with on-campus intensives and clinical experiences in the student’s community. The program focuses on interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice, and improving access for underserved populations.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 54
• Cost: $723 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

8. Loyola University New Orleans 

Loyola University New Orleans online MSN in Nurse-Midwifery prepares registered nurses to deliver evidence-based, holistic care to women across the reproductive spectrum. The program includes online coursework, on-campus intensives, and clinical placements near the student’s home. It emphasizes ethics, social justice, and compassionate service rooted in Jesuit values.

• Program Length: 5 semesters
• Required Credits to Graduate: 50
• Cost: $885 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

9. Shenandoah University

Blending online study with in-person clinical work, the MSN in Nurse-Midwifery at Shenandoah University prepares nurses to provide full-scope, personalized care. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, leadership development, and support for women across all stages of reproductive health, with a strong commitment to serving diverse populations.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 49
• Cost: $1020.00 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

10. Marquette University (Hybrid)

Focused on women-centered care from adolescence to menopause, the Nurse-Midwifery MSN program at Marquette University offers a hybrid format that pairs online learning with in-person labs and clinical work. The curriculum highlights ethical leadership, evidence-based care, and a strong commitment to reaching diverse and underserved communities.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 49 to 51
• Cost: $1,400 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

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

Most online MSN‑midwifery programs take 2 to 3 years to complete with full‑time enrollment. Hybrid and full-time online programs typically require 50–60 credit hours and 700–1,000+ clinical hours, aligning with ACME accreditation standards.

Accelerated options let BSN-prepared RNs finish in 15–18 months, depending on the institution and a full-time course load. Some schools even offer combined pathways for nurses seeking both advanced clinical expertise and related skills in a shorter timeframe.  Students interested in applying psychology principles to performance and sports may also consider a fast track sports psychology degree online to complement their healthcare training.

All pathways include substantial hands-on training, with most programs requiring between 620 and 1,000 clinical hours. For example, top online programs list requirements from 620–680 hours to over 1,000 hours for hybrid formats.

Online MSN midwifery programs are not direct-entry routes. They require nurses with at least a BSN and RN license, adding advanced midwifery courses on top of existing clinical abilities.

Accelerated tracks often cost more per credit than traditional plans, though overall duration is shorter. Candidates must balance time savings against increased tuition costs.

Graduates from these programs are eligible to sit for the CNM certification. 

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

Online MSN midwifery programs are academically and clinically equivalent to on-campus programs. They follow the same accreditation standards, offer similar curricula, and prepare students for the same national certifications.  Some schools even offer specialized options—such as accelerated online MSN AGACNP programs—for nurses seeking advanced acute care roles on an expedited timeline.

Key similarities between online and on-campus programs:

• Accreditation: Both must be accredited by CCNE or ACEN, ensuring quality and eligibility for CNM certification.
• Curriculum: Core courses, clinical competencies, and certification exam preparation are identical.
• Clinical hours: Most programs require 600–1,000 supervised clinical hours. Online students complete these locally, supported by school-arranged partnerships.
• Degree recognition: According to a 2025 survey, 83% of healthcare employers view accredited online MSN degrees as credible and equal to traditional formats.

Outcomes are comparable. Online students report similar GPAs, satisfaction rates, and board pass rates. Graduation and retention statistics remain strong, although online learners may face more challenges with isolation or managing clinical schedules.

What is the average cost of an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

The average cost of an online MSN in nurse midwifery ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 in total tuition. According to Research.com, most programs fall within this price range, depending on credits and the school.

Tuition at public universities tends to be lower than at private ones. Public MSN programs average around $28,100 per year, while private non-profit programs can go up to $39,410 per year. For nurse-midwifery tracks specifically, Frontier Nursing University lists tuition at $705 per credit for 55 credits, totaling $38,775.

Online MSN programs are generally more affordable than on-campus ones. On-campus students often face additional campus-based fees and living expenses, while online learners typically save on housing and commuting.

Students should also budget for extra costs: technology fees, textbooks, clinical placement fees, background checks, and travel to clinical sites. This is especially important for students wondering, do I need a DNP to be a nurse practitioner, as those pursuing a DNP will likely encounter even higher overall costs.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Online MSN in nurse midwifery students are eligible for the same financial aid options as those in campus-based programs.

Most students begin by submitting the FAFSA, which opens access to federal aid, including:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans (available through at least July 2026)
• Federal work-study (less common online but still available at select institutions)
• Pell Grants and institutional grants (when eligible)

Scholarships and Tuition Support

There are scholarships tailored to midwifery students. These come from:

• ACNM Foundation, HRSA, and the National Health Service Corps
• Over 50 general nursing scholarships are offered annually.

Combined with grants, these awards can cover 40% to 60% of educational costs.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

About 50% of RNs pursuing graduate degrees receive employer tuition assistance. Hospitals often reimburse part or all of tuition in return for service commitments after graduation.

While assistantships are less common online, many universities include fellowships or need-based support in their aid packages.

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

Most online MSN midwifery programs require applicants to have a BSN, an active RN license, relevant experience, and certain prerequisite courses.  Some applicants meet these prerequisites by completing related undergraduate programs, such as a fast track natural sciences degree online, which can provide a strong academic foundation in science before pursuing nursing.

Core Admission Requirements

Nearly 100% of programs require:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited school
• An unrestricted RN license in the student’s state of practice

Additional Admission Criteria

A minimum GPA of 3.0 is standard, though top programs may prefer 3.3 or higher. A 1–2 year clinical experience is also often required, especially in labor and delivery or women’s health. You also need to have a completion of undergraduate coursework in Statistics, Health Assessment, and Nursing Research.

Alternate Pathways

Some programs offer RN-to-MSN bridge options or direct-entry MSN tracks for those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees, though these are less common and more intensive.

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

An online MSN in nurse midwifery typically includes 50–60 credit hours spread across core nursing, specialty midwifery, and clinical training courses. These programs also cover knowledge areas that overlap with postpartum nurse requirements, particularly in managing recovery and newborn care during the critical weeks after birth.

Core and Specialty Courses

Most programs include the following core courses:

• Advanced health assessment
• Advanced pharmacology
• Advanced pathophysiology
• Biostatistics and research methods

Specialty courses focus on:

• Women’s reproductive and sexual health
• Antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care
• Primary care for women across the lifespan
• Newborn assessment and care

Clinical and Lab Requirements

Programs require 780–900 clinical hours, often completed locally. Many also include short, in-person clinical intensives for hands-on training. For example, the University of Cincinnati’s program includes 57 credits, 784 clinical hours, and 42 lab hours.

Graduation from an accredited program prepares students to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board exam. Programs consistently show high certification pass rates, with UCSF reporting first-time AMCB pass rates near 98%–100%.

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

Most online MSN midwifery programs focus on the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) track, but several offer dual or specialty options to expand practice areas.  Some schools even combine midwifery with leadership-focused programs, such as the shortest MSN in health systems management online, for nurses who want to balance clinical care with healthcare administration expertise.

Some programs allow students to pursue two certifications within one degree plan:

CNM + WHNP (Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner)

Offered at schools like Georgetown, Rutgers, and Penn, this dual path prepares nurses for both childbirth and comprehensive women’s health care.

CNM + FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Available at institutions like Vanderbilt, this track qualifies graduates for broader roles in family, primary, and obstetric care. About 20% of CNMs hold both CNM and FNP certifications.

Online specialization options are nearly on par with on-campus offerings. Students can choose dual tracks or specialty electives without sacrificing online flexibility. You can also explore other clinical paths, like how to become a cardiovascular operating room nurse, to help compare your options and decide which specialization best fits your long-term goals.

How to Choose the Best Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Program

Choosing the right online MSN in nurse midwifery program involves evaluating accreditation, clinical support, outcomes, and program reputation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:

1. Verify Accreditation

Choose a program accredited by CCNE or ACEN to ensure quality and eligibility for certification. Accreditation also aligns with higher graduation rates and board pass success.

2. Check Clinical Placement Support

Look for programs that help match you with local clinical sites and preceptors. Schools offering placement support report strong student satisfaction—median scores average 81 out of 95.

3. Compare Graduation and Retention Rates

Accredited online programs often match or exceed on-campus outcomes. Graduation success is a strong indicator of program quality.

4. Review Program Rankings

Rankings can reflect program quality, clinical partnerships, and alumni outcomes. Well-ranked schools like Baylor or Georgetown tend to offer broader support, but lesser-known accredited programs may still deliver excellent results.

5. Ask Admissions the Right Questions

Inquire about clinical placement processes, faculty experience, board exam pass rates, and graduate employment outcomes to make an informed choice.

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

Graduates of an online MSN in nurse midwifery are qualified for roles in clinical care, leadership, education, and advanced practice.

Primary Career Path: Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

Most graduates become Certified Nurse Midwives, working in:

• Hospitals
• Birthing centers
• OB/GYN and primary care clinics
• Private practice or physician offices

Additional Career Opportunities

Graduates also move into:

• Leadership roles: This includes clinical directors, program managers, or maternal health advocates. Some graduates also pursue wellness-focused leadership by earning a nurse health coach certification, blending clinical knowledge with preventive care and patient education.
• Academic positions: Roughly 60% of DNP graduates transition into faculty roles, and MSN-prepared midwives may begin teaching or research careers.
• Women’s health clinics: Providing comprehensive care across the reproductive lifespan.

Some continue their education by enrolling in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Over 57% of DNP students come from MSN backgrounds, seeking to expand their impact in practice and policy.

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

Demand for Certified Nurse Midwives is growing faster than average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% increase in APRN roles—including midwives—by 2033; specifically, nurse midwives will grow 7% through the decade, representing roughly 32,000 annual openings.

Job opportunities are abundant in states like California, New York, Georgia, Texas, and Pennsylvania, which have the highest employment numbers—California leads all states. California also tops the salary charts, with an average CNM annual pay of $183,740, followed by New York and Gerogia.

Certified Nurse Midwives work in a wide range of healthcare settings—primarily physician offices (49%), hospitals (25%), and outpatient care centers (8%), with increasing roles in clinics and birth centers. For those exploring administrative or leadership opportunities beyond direct care, it’s worth asking, What does a nurse administrator do? as this role can be a natural progression for midwives with management interests.

Median salary for nurse midwives is strong—approximately $129,650 as of 2023–2024, with entry-level earnings around $87,320 and top earners exceeding $177,530.

What is the return on investment of an online MSN in nurse midwifery program?

Evaluating the financial benefits of an online MSN in nurse midwifery program requires a careful analysis of both upfront costs and long-term earning potential. Prospective students should weigh tuition, fees, and ancillary expenses against projected salary increases and career growth. This comparison helps determine whether the educational investment will yield substantial future earnings and enhanced job opportunities. Additionally, examining cost-effective pathways, such as exploring options within the cheapest RN to BSN online programs, can offer valuable insights for those balancing quality education with financial constraints.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Online MSN in Nurse Midwifery Programs

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

What is the highest-paid nurse midwife?

As of 2025, the highest-paid nurse midwives are in California, with average salaries reaching $183,740. In the San Francisco–Oakland–Hayward area, top earners make over $202,000. Nationally, the median salary is about $131,500, but midwives in Hawaii and Massachusetts also earn high pay, typically between $160,000 and $183,000.

These figures reflect growing demand, especially in urban and high-cost regions where experienced nurse midwives fill critical roles in hospitals and women’s health clinics.

Which is better, nursing or midwifery?

Nursing offers broader career flexibility, while midwifery focuses on women’s health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Nurse midwives earn a median salary of $129,650, compared to $93,600 for registered nurses.

Midwifery also shows strong job growth, projected at 7% through 2033, making it a stable and rewarding option. If you prefer specialized, long-term care relationships, midwifery may suit you better. For those seeking variety across settings, general nursing is the more versatile path.

Is a nurse midwife stressful?

Being a nurse midwife can be stressful due to long hours, emotional intensity, and on-call demands. About 40% of U.S. midwives report burnout, and 65% experience emotional exhaustion. Nearly 94% say their work affects their well-being. Stress often comes from managing critical care during births and maintaining a work-life balance.

Still, many midwives find the role deeply meaningful, especially when supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and recovery. Resilience and support systems help manage the pressure..

Can nurse midwives prescribe medication?

Certified Nurse‑Midwives (CNMs) can prescribe medications in all 50 U.S. states, including controlled substances, as part of their scope of practice. They undergo graduate-level pharmacology training and must be licensed and certified to gain prescriptive authority.

In many states, CNMs can prescribe independently, while others require collaborative agreements with physicians. Their prescribing privileges cover medications for prenatal care, contraception, treatments during labor and postpartum, and primary women’s health needs—all standard practice in 2025.