Last Updated: 2026 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Understanding how to become a nurse-midwife CNM in Minnesota reveals exceptional opportunities in one of the nation’s most progressive states for midwifery practice. Minnesota provides registered nurses with multiple comprehensive pathways to become Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), supported by progressive legislation that continues expanding career options and practice autonomy. As an independent practice state, Minnesota grants CNMs full clinical autonomy without physician collaborative agreements, establishing the state as one of the most midwife-friendly jurisdictions in the nation for advanced practice nursing professionals.
Currently, Minnesota recognizes three distinct pathways to midwifery practice: Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses; Licensed Traditional Midwives with Certified Professional Midwife credentials; and, as of July 2026, a new Licensed Certified Midwife pathway that eliminates nursing degree requirements. With midwives attending 16% of all births in Minnesota as of 2022—including 22% of vaginal births—the state demonstrates exceptional integration of midwifery care into its healthcare system.
“The University of Minnesota’s nurse-midwifery program transformed my career completely. The clinical rotations, including the international experience in Italy, gave me confidence to practice in diverse settings. Minnesota’s full independent practice authority means I can truly make a difference in women’s healthcare without unnecessary barriers.”
– Sarah J., CNM Graduate, Class of 2023
Steps to Becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Minnesota
Certified Nurse-Midwives are licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) through the Minnesota Board of Nursing after earning national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Minnesota’s progressive practice environment allows CNMs to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services, including full prescriptive authority and hospital privileges.
Registered nurses with an unrestricted license in good standing can pursue APRN licensure as a certified nurse-midwife by following these essential steps:
Step 1: Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery
To qualify for the CNM designation through the American Midwifery Certification Board and become eligible for APRN licensure in Minnesota, candidates must complete a master’s degree program in nurse-midwifery accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
Educational Program Options in Minnesota
Minnesota offers exceptional educational opportunities through two established ACME-accredited institutions with strong clinical partnerships throughout the state. Both programs maintain “Continued Accreditation” status—ACME’s highest designation—ensuring high-quality midwifery education.
ACME-Accredited Program Options
| Institution | Program Type | Accreditation Status | Special Features | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota School of Nursing | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Nurse-Midwifery Specialization | Continued Accreditation through July 2031 | Ranked #8 nationally, 100% AMCB pass rate (2024), Mayo Clinic partnership with international rotations in Italy | Minneapolis |
| Bethel University | Master of Science (MS) in Nurse Midwifery | Continued Accreditation through February 2032 | Faith-based education, small cohort sizes, flexible 2-3 year completion options | Saint Paul |
| Mayo Clinic/University of Minnesota Partnership | Clinical Training Pathway (through UMN DNP program) | Operates under UMN’s ACME accreditation | Approximately 1,000 clinical hours at Mayo facilities, international rotations, and accepts up to 6 students annually | Rochester/Minneapolis |
| Online ACME-Accredited Programs | Various MSN/DNP Options | ACME-accredited programs nationwide | Flexibility for working RNs, clinical placement assistance in Minnesota | Virtual with local clinicals |
Program Admission Requirements
Admission to accredited nurse-midwife programs is competitive, with admissions committees typically evaluating:
- Academic Performance: Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (many programs prefer 3.5+)
- GRE Scores: Required by most programs (some waiving during nursing shortage)
- Professional References: Letters from nursing supervisors, educators, or healthcare providers
- Personal Statement: Demonstrating commitment to midwifery and women’s health
- Clinical Experience: Preferred background in women’s health, obstetrics, or related areas
- Prerequisite Coursework: Statistics, research methods, and advanced health assessment
Curriculum and Clinical Training
Graduate programs integrate rigorous didactic coursework (40-60 credits) with extensive clinical experience (700-1,000+ hours). Core curriculum includes:
- Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
- Women’s Reproductive Healthcare Across the Lifespan
- Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care
- Newborn Assessment and Care
- Family Planning and Contraceptive Management
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
- Healthcare Policy and Leadership
- Cultural Competency in Women’s Health
Clinical rotations encompass diverse settings, including hospitals, birth centers, community clinics, and private practices throughout Minnesota’s urban and rural areas.
Dual Specialization Options
Many programs offer dual-focus Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) tracks, allowing graduates to become dually certified and expand their scope of practice throughout women’s healthcare.
Step 2: Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
Upon completing an ACME-accredited graduate program, candidates apply for and take the Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
Examination Details
The CNM exam is offered at AMP testing centers within H&R Block offices throughout Minnesota, including locations in:
- Duluth
- Minneapolis
- Rochester
- St. Cloud
- Mankato
CNM Exam Content Distribution
| Content Area | Percentage of Exam | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Antepartum Care | 19-26% | Prenatal assessment, risk identification, and health promotion |
| Intrapartum Care | 17-26% | Labor management, delivery techniques, and emergency procedures |
| Postpartum Care | 15-18% | Recovery assessment, breastfeeding support, complications |
| Gynecological Care | 15-18% | Reproductive health, contraception, and preventive screening |
| Women’s Health & Primary Care | 8-16% | Health maintenance, chronic conditions, referrals |
| Newborn Care | 7-16% | Assessment, feeding support, and health promotion |
The four-hour examination consists of 175 multiple-choice questions. Candidates can access the AMCB Candidate Handbook for comprehensive preparation guidelines.
Step 3: Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the Minnesota Board of Nursing
After receiving notification of passing the CNM exam, successful candidates apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure through the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
Application Process
Candidates must complete the Certified Nurse Midwife application and submit it with a $105 application fee to:
Minnesota Board of Nursing
2829 University Avenue SE #200
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Full Independent Practice Authority
Important Update: Minnesota is a full practice authority state for CNMs. Unlike some APRN roles, Certified Nurse-Midwives in Minnesota are NOT required to complete 2,080 hours under a collaborative agreement. The Minnesota Board of Nursing explicitly states that CNMs (along with CRNAs) are exempt from collaborative management agreements and written prescribing agreements.
CNMs in Minnesota enjoy:
- Immediate independent practice upon licensure, with no supervised practice period required
- Full prescriptive authority to independently prescribe, dispense, and administer all drugs, including controlled substances (Schedules II-V)
- No collaborative agreements or physician supervision requirements
- Complete clinical autonomy to serve as primary care providers and manage patient care across all settings
- 100% reimbursement parity with physicians for equivalent services
This positions Minnesota as one of the most progressive states for CNM practice in the nation.
Landmark Legislation: Licensed Certified Midwife Pathway (Effective July 2026)
In June 2025, Minnesota made history by passing the Certified Midwife Practice Act, creating a new pathway for midwifery practice that eliminates the nursing degree requirement. Governor Tim Walz signed this groundbreaking legislation on June 14, 2025, with the law taking effect July 1, 2026.
Key Provisions of the New Licensed Certified Midwife (LCM) Law:
- Non-Nursing Pathway: Allows individuals to become licensed midwives through ACME-accredited graduate programs without first becoming registered nurses
- Equal Scope of Practice: LCMs will have the same clinical authority as CNMs, including full prescriptive authority for controlled substances
- Board of Nursing Oversight: LCMs will be regulated by the Minnesota Board of Nursing alongside CNMs
- Medicaid Coverage: Services provided by LCMs will be covered by Minnesota’s Medicaid program
- Reduced Timeline: Eliminates approximately 7 years from the traditional nursing-based pathway to midwifery
- AMCB Certification Required: LCMs must pass the same national certification exam as CNMs
The University of Minnesota has indicated readiness to launch an LCM program once the law takes effect, positioning Minnesota as a national leader in expanding access to midwifery education and addressing maternal healthcare workforce shortages.
Step 4: Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Minnesota and Maintain Credentials
Minnesota’s progressive healthcare environment offers diverse career opportunities for CNMs in both urban and rural settings. With over 100 active CNM job openings across major healthcare systems and strong demand projected through 2034, Minnesota provides exceptional employment prospects.
Major Employers Actively Hiring CNMs in Minnesota (2025)
- Mayo Clinic Health System: Expanding midwifery services across the Midwest with positions in Rochester, Mankato, Austin, and Red Wing, plus a 12-month nurse-midwifery fellowship program
- Allina Health: Midwifery programs at Abbott Northwestern Hospital (Minneapolis), United Hospital, and Mercy Hospital through The Mother Baby Center network
- HealthPartners: On-call CNM positions at Regions Hospital and established Park Nicollet midwifery practices
- Essentia Health: Active recruitment for CNMs in Duluth’s OB/GYN department and northern Minnesota facilities
- Fairview Health Services: Casual CNM positions across the Twin Cities metro area
- North Memorial Health: Expanded partnership with Roots Community Birth Center (fall 2024)
- Independent birth centers and midwifery practices: 123 midwifery-friendly facilities statewide
- Community health centers: Serving rural populations throughout Minnesota
Job Market Outlook
- Current Job Openings: Over 100 CNM positions available across Minnesota as of January 2025
- Projected Growth: 35% growth for APRNs (2024-2034) and 11.1% growth specifically for nurse-midwives nationally
- State Healthcare Expansion: Minnesota’s healthcare sector projected to add 41,200 jobs by 2032—the largest sectoral growth in the state
- Rural Workforce Needs: Significant opportunities in rural Minnesota to address maternal healthcare access gaps
Professional Development and Support
Minnesota maintains active professional organizations supporting CNM practice:
- Minnesota Affiliate of the American College of Nurse-Midwives: Professional advocacy, continuing education, and legislative support
- Minnesota Organization for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention & Parenting: Community health initiatives and collaborative programs
- Regional APRN organizations: Networking opportunities and policy development advocacy
Alternative Pathways to Midwifery Practice in Minnesota
Licensed Traditional Midwife (LTM) Route
Minnesota recognizes Licensed Traditional Midwives who obtain Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credentials through the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). This pathway focuses on out-of-hospital birth and community-based midwifery care.
Requirements for LTM licensure:
- Current NARM certification as CPM
- Completion of NARM-approved education or apprenticeship
- Initial license fee: $200
- Annual renewal: $100
- Criminal background check: $33.25
Note: Traditional midwife licensure is currently voluntary in Minnesota under Statute 147D, though recent amendments (March 2024) clarified their authority to administer specific medications, including Vitamin K, RhoGAM, and emergency postpartum medications.
Salaries for Certified Nurse-Midwives in Minnesota
Minnesota offers competitive compensation for CNMs, with salaries reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting advanced practice nursing and midwifery care. Salary ranges are consistent across the state, with minimal variation between the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area and statewide figures.
CNM Salary Data for Minnesota (May 2024)
| Experience Level | Statewide Annual Salary | Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th Percentile) | $85,560 | $85,560 |
| Mid-Career (Median) | $127,180 | $127,160 |
| Experienced (90th Percentile) | $157,660 | $157,360 |
| Mean | $125,650 | $125,750 |
Salary Ranges at Major Minnesota Healthcare Systems
- Mayo Clinic: $112,570 – $168,875 annually
- Essentia Health: $105,144 – $126,173 annually
- Other Major Systems: Competitive packages aligned with statewide median ranges
(Salary data for nurse-midwives reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2024. 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 January 2025.)
CNM Employment in Minnesota: Twin Cities Leads with Strong Demand Statewide
Certified nurse midwives in Minnesota find the strongest job market in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metropolitan area, which ranks among the top five metros nationally for CNM employment. The Twin Cities region employed 180 CNMs as of May 2023, with a location quotient of 2.10—meaning CNMs are employed at more than twice the national concentration rate in this metro area. CNMs in Minneapolis-St. Paul earn a mean annual wage of $121,620, with healthcare practitioners overall earning a mean hourly wage of $56.32 (above the $50.59 national average).
Statewide Employment and Metro Area Data Limitations
Minnesota employs approximately 290 certified nurse midwives statewide, with the Twin Cities metro accounting for nearly two-thirds of that total. For smaller Minnesota metropolitan areas, including Rochester, Duluth (Duluth-Superior, MN-WI), St. Cloud, and Mankato, the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish CNM-specific employment data. This suppression occurs because employment numbers in these specialized roles are too small to meet BLS precision standards or could potentially identify individual employers—a common limitation for specialized healthcare occupations in smaller metros.
Rochester presents a unique employment situation despite lacking published BLS data. Home to Mayo Clinic, the Rochester MSA has 17.7% of local employment in healthcare practitioners and technical roles—the highest proportion of any metro. Healthcare practitioners there earn a mean hourly wage of $72.04, well above the national average. Mayo Clinic actively recruits CNMs for supplemental positions at salary ranges of $83,782–$125,736 annually. Similarly, Essentia Health in Duluth maintains persistent CNM openings with advertised salaries of $105,144–$126,173 annually, suggesting strong regional demand even where official BLS counts are unavailable.
Growth Projections Signal Strong Demand Through 2034
The employment outlook for CNMs in Minnesota remains exceptionally strong. The BLS projects 35% growth nationally for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners combined from 2024 to 2034—much faster than the average for all occupations— with approximately 32,700 annual openings projected. Minnesota-specific historical projections from DEED showed 17.9% growth for CNMs from 2018 to 2028, with roughly 20 annual job openings. The state’s Healthcare and Social Assistance sector is projected to add over 41,200 jobs by 2032, the largest sector growth in Minnesota’s economy.
Several factors drive this demand:
- Midwives attend 16% of all Minnesota births (22% of vaginal births), demonstrating exceptional integration of midwifery care
- Minnesota’s status as an independent practice state after 2,080 hours of supervised practice attracts CNMs
- The Minnesota Hospital Association reports a 17% healthcare vacancy rate with approximately 6,000 unfilled positions statewide
- Greater Minnesota faces more acute shortages, with 22% higher nurse departure rates outside the Twin Cities
Major Employers and Current Job Market
The Twin Cities metro features multiple major health systems actively recruiting CNMs. Allina Health operates Mother Baby Centers at Abbott Northwestern and United Hospitals, where CNMs attend 40–50 births monthly. HealthPartners/Park Nicollet maintains one of the first established CNM groups in the Twin Cities. The Minnesota Birth Center operates freestanding birth center locations in both Minneapolis and St. Paul, actively recruiting for 0.7–1.0 FTE positions. Other significant employers include Hennepin Healthcare, M Health Fairview, and Minnesota Community Care.
Current job posting analysis shows 39 nurse midwife positions listed in the Minneapolis area on ZipRecruiter, with 9–12 positions on Glassdoor and Indeed. Advertised salary ranges span $102,000–$155,000 annually, depending on experience and setting.
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for Nurse Midwives (SOC 29-1161), May 2023. Published April 2024. Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Employment Outlook, 2022-2032 projections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNM in Minnesota
How long does it take to become a certified nurse-midwife in Minnesota?
The typical pathway takes 4-6 years total: 2-4 years for the MSN/DNP program plus initial RN education. Beginning in July 2026, the new Licensed Certified Midwife pathway could reduce this timeline by approximately 7 years by eliminating the requirement for a nursing degree.
Can CNMs practice independently in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota grants full independent practice authority to CNMs. Unlike some APRN roles, CNMs do not need to complete any supervised practice hours or maintain collaborative agreements. CNMs can practice independently from day one of licensure with full prescriptive authority.
Do I need a collaborative agreement as a new CNM in Minnesota?
No. This is a common misconception. While Clinical Nurse Practitioners (CNPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) must complete 2,080 hours with a collaborative agreement, CNMs and CRNAs are explicitly exempt from this requirement by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
What’s the difference between CNMs and traditional midwives in Minnesota?
CNMs are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses with graduate degrees, while Licensed Traditional Midwives hold CPM certification through NARM. CNMs can practice in hospitals and provide full primary care with prescriptive authority, while traditional midwives typically focus on out-of-hospital births with a more limited scope.
What is the new Licensed Certified Midwife pathway in Minnesota?
Starting July 1, 2026, Minnesota will license Certified Midwives (CMs) who complete ACME-accredited graduate programs and pass the AMCB exam without requiring a nursing degree. LCMs will have the same scope of practice and prescriptive authority as CNMs.
Are there online nurse-midwifery programs available for Minnesota residents?
Yes, several ACME-accredited online programs accept Minnesota residents, with clinical placements arranged locally. Working RNs often prefer this flexibility while maintaining employment. Visit our schools by state guide to explore all options.
What is the average salary for new CNMs in Minnesota?
New CNMs in Minnesota typically earn around $85,560 annually at the entry level, with median salaries reaching $127,180 statewide. Experienced CNMs in the 90th percentile can earn up to $157,660 annually.
Do I need to retake the boards if I move to Minnesota from another state?
No, AMCB certification is nationally recognized. You’ll need to apply for APRN licensure in Minnesota through the Board of Nursing, but you won’t need to retake the certification exam.
What clinical settings do CNMs work in throughout Minnesota?
CNMs practice in hospitals, birth centers, independent clinics, community health centers, and some provide home birth services. Minnesota’s 123 midwifery-friendly facilities offer diverse opportunities across urban and rural settings.
Are there scholarship opportunities for nurse-midwifery students in Minnesota?
Yes, various organizations offer scholarships, including the Minnesota Council of Certified Professional Midwives and national organizations like the American College of Nurse-Midwives Foundation, with a particular focus on supporting students of color and LGBTQIA students.
How is Minnesota addressing maternal health disparities?
Minnesota recognizes significant maternal health disparities, with Black pregnant individuals facing 2.3 times higher mortality rates and Indigenous individuals facing approximately 4 times higher rates than white individuals. The state is expanding midwifery services, culturally-centered birth centers like Roots Community Birth Center, doula services through Medicaid (now reimbursed at up to $2,000), and workforce diversity initiatives.
Minnesota’s commitment to expanding midwifery education and practice presents exceptional opportunities for current and future Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs). With full independent practice authority, landmark legislation creating new pathways to midwifery, over 100 active job openings, and strong institutional support, the state provides comprehensive resources for midwifery careers that make meaningful differences in women’s healthcare. Whether pursuing traditional nursing-based pathways or considering the emerging Licensed Certified Midwife option, Minnesota stands as a national leader in supporting the midwifery profession. Learn more about what nurse-midwives do and explore your path to this rewarding career.