Last Updated: May 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Whether you’re already a registered nurse or just beginning your journey into healthcare, Hawaii offers flexible, accredited nurse-midwifery programs that make it possible to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) without leaving the islands. As an independent practice state, Hawaii grants CNMs full authority to practice autonomously, including prescriptive rights and the ability to establish their practices.
In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know to become a nurse-midwife in Hawaii, from accredited online programs and certification to licensing, salary expectations, and how midwifery intersects with Hawaii’s unique cultural context.
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery
To qualify for CNM licensure in Hawaii, you must earn a graduate degree accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). These programs prepare registered nurses (RN) to provide holistic healthcare to women throughout their lifespan, encompassing prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care.
Although there are no campus-based CNM programs in Hawaii, residents can enroll in online nurse-midwifery programs with clinical placements locally at facilities like:
- Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children – Honolulu
- The Queen’s Medical Center – Honolulu
- Castle Medical Center – Kailua
- Bay Clinic Family Health Center – Hilo
Program Options
| Program Type | Designed For | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MSN/MS Programs | RNs with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees | 2-3 years full-time |
| RN-to-MSN Programs | RNs with associate’s degrees in nursing | 3-4 years full-time |
| Post-Graduate Programs | RNs with an MSN wanting to add CNM certification | 1-2 years full-time |
| DNP Programs | RNs seeking the highest level of clinical preparation | 3-4 years full-time |
Standard core courses include Advanced Health Assessment, Pharmacology, Intrapartum Care, and Primary Care for Women. Schools such as Frontier Nursing University, Georgetown University, and Baylor University all offer online CNM programs for residents of Hawaii.
This makes it easier for RNs to pursue MSN, DNP, and post-master’s CNM degrees from ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs without leaving the islands.
Explore dual-focus nurse-midwife and WHNP programs or browse our list of accredited nurse-midwifery programs.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
Graduates of accredited nurse-midwifery programs are eligible to sit for the CNM exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). The exam fee is $500, and registration includes proof of program completion and verification of eligibility.
Once approved, candidates may take the exam at Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP) testing centers. The only test site in Hawaii is located in Honolulu. Successful completion earns the CNM credential—a requirement for licensure in the state.
Step 3. Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the Hawaii Board of Nursing
After passing the certification exam, applicants must apply for APRN recognition through the Hawaii Board of Nursing. Requirements include:
- Active and unencumbered RN license in Hawaii
- Completed application form (see official PDF here)
- Official transcripts sent directly from your graduate nursing program
- Verification of national certification (AMCB)
- Background check and fingerprinting
Prescriptive Authority: Hawaii grants prescribing privileges to CNMs who complete:
- 30 hours of continuing education in advanced pharmacology within the past 3 years
- Training on controlled substances and the U.S. DEA’s prescribing guidelines
Types of Midwives in Hawaii
Hawaii officially recognizes Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) for licensure and autonomous practice. However, the state also includes other midwifery pathways, which are regulated differently:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): Must be a licensed RN with a graduate degree and AMCB certification. Can practice independently, prescribe medications, and open private practices in Hawaii.
- Certified Midwife (CM): Non-nurse with a science degree, certified by AMCB. As of 2024, Hawaii does not license CMs.
- Certified Professional Midwife (CPM): Direct-entry midwife certified through NARM. Not recognized by the Hawaii Board of Nursing for licensure or reimbursement.
Important Legal Note: Senate Bill 1033 and the establishment of Chapter 457J have narrowed midwifery regulation in Hawaii. As of 2024, traditional Native Hawaiian midwifery is under review for potential recognition as a separate entity. However, only CNMs are currently eligible for APRN licensure and legal autonomy.
“Becoming a nurse-midwife in Hawaii changed my life. I was able to attend births in my community while studying online, and now I run my own women’s health practice on the Big Island.” — Leilani K., CNM
Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Hawaii and Maintain Credentials
Certified Nurse-Midwives in Hawaii can pursue careers in hospitals, birthing centers, OB-GYN practices, and even start their own private women’s health clinics thanks to the state’s full-practice autonomy. CNMs must renew both their RN and APRN licenses by June 30 of every odd-numbered year.
Although Hawaii does not mandate state-level continuing education for APRNs, CNMs must comply with AMCB’s Certification Maintenance Program by either:
- Completing three modules and 20 CE hours every 5 years, or
- Retaking the CNM certification exam and paying the renewal fee
Popular employers in Hawaii include:
- Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
- Bay Clinic Family Health Center
- Hawaii Women’s Healthcare
- North Hawaii Community Hospital
- Private midwifery practices
Certified Nurse Midwife Salary in Hawaii
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse-midwives in Hawaii earned an average annual salary of $111,130 as of 2023. Entry-level salaries for CNMs in Hawaii typically range from $80,000 to $90,000, while experienced midwives can earn over $130,000 annually, especially in Honolulu and Maui County.
CNMs in Hawaii often receive comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, paid time off, and CME stipends. Higher costs of living on the islands are typically offset by competitive salary packages and flexible practice options.
Salary data for nurse-midwives reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2023. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Job growth data provided by Projections Central, a resource funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed May 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CNM in Hawaii?
Most CNM programs take 2–4 years, depending on whether you pursue an MSN, DNP, or bridge program. Online programs with local clinical placements offer flexibility for working registered nurses.
Do I need a nursing degree to become a certified nurse-midwife (CNM)?
Yes. To become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Hawaii, you must first be a licensed RN and complete an ACME-accredited graduate program in nurse-midwifery.
Are online CNM programs accepted in Hawaii?
Yes. As long as the program is ACME-accredited, online CNM programs are entirely accepted for licensure. Ensure you can complete your clinical hours in an approved Hawaii facility.
Can CNMs prescribe medication in Hawaii?
Yes. CNMs who apply for prescriptive authority must complete 30 CE hours in pharmacology and controlled substances training to prescribe medications legally.
What’s the difference between a CNM and a CPM?
A CNM is a licensed nurse with a graduate degree, certified by the AMCB, and can practice independently in Hawaii. A CPM is a direct-entry midwife not recognized for licensure in the state.
Can CNMs open their own clinics in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii’s independent practice laws allow CNMs to operate private women’s health and maternity clinics without physician supervision.
Are there accredited nurse-midwife programs in Hawaii?
While there are no campus-based CNM programs in Hawaii, residents can attend accredited online programs offered by schools such as Frontier Nursing University or Georgetown University.