Last Updated: January 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
As the demand for holistic, evidence-based maternity care continues to grow across New York, Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are stepping in to fill a critical gap in women’s healthcare. With the ability to provide everything from prenatal care and labor support to postpartum follow-up and primary care for women, CNMs in New York are licensed and nationally certified professionals making a lasting impact on maternal health outcomes.
Whether you’re an RN with a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree holder looking to bridge into advanced practice, becoming a CNM in New York offers a rewarding path forward. With four accredited nurse-midwifery programs based in the state, flexible hybrid learning options, and a supportive regulatory environment, New York is one of the most promising states for aspiring midwives.
This guide offers a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife in New York—from selecting an MSN in nurse-midwifery or dual-focus CNM/WHNP program, to earning licensure through the New York State Education Department and launching a thriving career in one of the nation’s most robust midwifery job markets.
Student Success Story:
“I wanted to make a difference in maternal care and felt called to midwifery. Thanks to a hybrid CNM program with local clinical rotations in Brooklyn, I earned my certification without quitting my job as an RN.”– Danielle S., CNM – Brooklyn, NY
Steps to Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in New York
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery
To become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in New York, the first and most crucial step is earning a graduate degree from an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program. These programs ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and state licensure through the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
Several educational pathways depend on your current level of nursing education:
- RNs with a BSN: Enroll in a traditional Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in nurse-midwifery.
- RNs with an ADN or diploma: Choose an RN-to-MSN bridge program that leads to a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery.
- Advanced practice RNs: Pursue a post-master’s certificate or DNP program with a nurse-midwifery focus.
- Non-nurses with bachelor’s degrees: SUNY Downstate offers the Certified Midwife (CM) pathway for those without nursing backgrounds.
Students interested in expanding their scope of practice can also enroll in a dual-focus Nurse-Midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) program, earning eligibility for both CNM and WHNP-BC credentials.
New York’s Four ACME-Accredited CNM Programs
New York is home to four fully accredited nurse-midwifery programs, all maintaining strong accreditation status as of January 2025:
- Columbia University School of Nursing – Offers DNP pathway (established 1972, renewed through 2034)
- NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing – MS and post-graduate certificate options with 100% AMCB pass rate (2021-2023)
- Stony Brook University – Hybrid-format program with asynchronous/synchronous online coursework and minimal on-campus requirements
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University – Offers both CNM and CM pathways (accredited through 2033)
Important note for online program seekers: Most major national online CNM programs, including Frontier Nursing University (which accepts only six NY students annually in underserved areas), Georgetown University, University of Cincinnati, and Shenandoah University, have limited or no availability for New York residents due to state regulatory requirements. New York-based programs or Stony Brook’s hybrid option remain the most accessible pathways.
| Program | Annual Tuition (NY Residents) | Program Enrollment | Degree Options | Program Format | AMCB Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University School of Nursing | ~$48,676 (Total: ~$146,000 for 47-credit program) | ~23 students per specialty cohort | DNP only (47 credits, 6 semesters) | Full-time, on-campus | 100% (2024) |
| NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing | ~$57,600 (Total: $115,200 for 48-credit MS) | 10-12 students accepted annually; 4-6 graduates per year | MS (48 credits), DNP Post-BS (78 credits), DNP Advanced Standing (36 credits), Advanced Certificate (13-30 credits) | Hybrid: evening on-campus classes with online components | 100% (2021-2023) |
| Stony Brook University | ~$10,598 (Total: ~$21,195 for 45-credit MS) | Small, specialized cohorts (specific numbers not disclosed) | MS (45 credits), Advanced Certificate (22-39 credits), DNP with Advanced Standing (42 credits post-master’s) | Hybrid-online: asynchronous/synchronous online with 1 on-campus day per semester | 100% (2022-2024) |
| SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University | ~$11,310 (Total: ~$24,000-$29,000 for 50-60.5 credit MS) | 41 total students enrolled; annual cohorts vary (5-22 students) | MS (50-60.5 credits), Advanced Certificate (38-47 credits), MS Degree Completion (12 credits), CM pathway available | Campus-based in Brooklyn with distance learning components | 100% (2021-2022) |
Tuition data represents 2024-2025 academic year costs for New York State residents. Annual figures calculated based on full-time enrollment patterns. AMCB pass rates reflect most recent reporting periods as of January 2025. SUNY Downstate is the only program offering the Certified Midwife (CM) pathway for non-nurses. Information accessed January 2025 from university websites and ACME accreditation records.
Common Clinical Placement Sites in New York
Clinical rotations can be completed at healthcare facilities throughout the state, including:
- NYC Health + Hospitals (South Brooklyn Health, Jacobi, Metropolitan, North Central Bronx)
- Mount Sinai Hospital
- NYU Langone Health
- NewYork-Presbyterian
- Northwell Health facilities (Long Island Jewish, Huntington, Peconic Bay)
- Stony Brook University Hospital
- Brooklyn Birthing Center
- Community Healthcare Network (14 centers across NYC)
Curriculum Overview
Whether hybrid or on campus, CNM programs include rigorous academic and clinical training in topics such as:
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Women’s Reproductive Health
- Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care
- Newborn Assessment and Care
- Primary Care for Women
- Health Policy, Ethics, and Leadership
Admissions Requirements
Though specific admission requirements vary by program, most expect applicants to have:
- An active, unencumbered RN license (except for CM pathway applicants)
- A BSN degree (or enrollment in a bridge program)
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement or video interview
- Minimum GPA requirements (typically 3.0 or higher)
Graduates of these programs become eligible to sit for the AMCB exam and apply for state licensure as a Licensed Midwife (LM) in New York.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
After graduating from an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program, candidates in New York are eligible to sit for the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
This exam serves as the national certification required to obtain state licensure and officially practice as a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). The exam is computer-based and consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering key areas of midwifery care.
Exam Content Breakdown
| Topic Area | Weight (%) |
|---|---|
| Primary Care | 12–16% |
| Antepartum Care | 15–25% |
| Intrapartum Care | 25–35% |
| Postpartum Care | 5–10% |
| Newborn Care | 10–15% |
| Well-Woman / Gynecology | 15–20% |
| Professional Issues | Up to 5% |
Where to Take the Exam in New York
The AMCB exam is administered by PSI at multiple locations throughout New York, including:
- Albany
- Buffalo
- New York City (Queens, Long Island)
- Rochester
- White Plains
- Utica
Candidates may schedule their exam online once their application is approved. Exam results are typically available within a few weeks of completion.
Dual Certification Option: CNM + WHNP
If you enrolled in a dual-focus CNM/WHNP program, you may also pursue board certification as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP-BC) through the National Certification Corporation (NCC).
This additional credential requires passing a separate exam and completing a different application process. It opens doors to expanded clinical roles and may increase job opportunities across OB/GYN clinics and women’s health practices.
Step 3. Apply for Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the New York State Education Department
Once you pass the national certification exam through the AMCB, the next step is to apply for state licensure. In New York, nurse-midwives are licensed directly through the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Office of the Professions. This license grants you the authority to use the title Licensed Midwife (LM) and practice legally within the state.
Application Requirements
To apply for your LM license, you must submit several forms and documents. These include:
- Form 1 – Application for Licensure, along with the $322 fee
- Form 2 – Certification of Professional Education submitted by your graduate program
- Form 2A – Proof of advanced pharmacology coursework (minimum 3 semester hours)
- Form 2B – Instruction in federal and New York State prescription laws
These forms must be sent directly from your educational institutions to:
New York State Education Department
Office of the Professions
PO Box 22063
Albany, NY 12201
Prescriptive Authority and Full Practice Independence
New York is a full practice authority state for Licensed Midwives. Once licensed, CNMs can practice independently without a written practice agreement or physician oversight—a regulatory framework established in November 2010.
To prescribe medication as a Licensed Midwife in New York, you must complete the three-credit pharmacology requirement and training on NY/federal prescription laws. Once approved, prescriptive authority is granted under New York law, enabling CNMs to:
- Prescribe and administer drugs, including controlled substances (with DEA registration)
- Order diagnostic tests and interpret results
- Immunize patients
- Provide comprehensive primary care for women
While CNMs practice independently, they must maintain collaborative relationships with board-certified OB/GYNs, physicians practicing obstetrics with hospital privileges, or hospitals providing obstetric services.
Licensing for Non-Nurses
New York is one of only 12 states that recognizes the Certified Midwife (CM) credential for individuals who do not hold a nursing degree. If you’re coming from a non-nursing background, you can still qualify for licensure by completing a graduate-level midwifery program at SUNY Downstate and passing the AMCB’s CM certification exam.
For more information on the CM pathway, visit the NYSED Midwifery Section.
Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in New York and Maintain Credentials
After obtaining your CNM certification and New York State licensure, you’re ready to launch your career as a Certified Nurse-Midwife. CNMs in New York are in exceptionally high demand, with the state employing 740 practitioners as of 2024—the second-largest CNM workforce in the nation behind California.
New York’s healthcare landscape offers diverse opportunities, from major academic medical centers to community health centers, private practices, and emerging birth centers. The state’s 26% projected job growth through 2032 significantly outpaces most healthcare professions.
Top Employers of CNMs in New York
Major health systems and facilities actively recruiting nurse-midwives include:
Hospital Systems:
- NYC Health + Hospitals (Jacobi, Metropolitan, North Central Bronx, South Brooklyn Health)
- Northwell Health (23 hospitals across Long Island and NYC)
- Mount Sinai Health System
- NYU Langone Health
- NewYork-Presbyterian
- Montefiore Medical Center
- Stony Brook University Hospital
Community Health Centers & Private Practices:
- Community Healthcare Network (14 centers across NYC)
- Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health
- Downtown Women OB/GYN Associates, LLP
- Maimonides Women’s Health Services
- Village Maternity
- Central Park Midwifery
- Planned Parenthood NYC
Birth Centers:
- Brooklyn Birthing Center
- The Birthing Center of NY
Job Titles and Practice Settings
CNMs work in diverse settings across the healthcare spectrum. For more information on the various roles available, explore our comprehensive guide on midwifery roles and credentials. Common positions include:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife – Hospitals, Birth Centers, Private Practices
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (if dually certified)
- OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner in outpatient clinics
- Academic Faculty for Midwifery or Nursing Programs
- Midwifery Program Director or Clinical Coordinator
Maintaining Certification and Licensure
To maintain your CNM credential and continue practicing in New York:
- CNM Credential: Renew through the AMCB Certificate Maintenance Program (20 contact hours per 5-year cycle)
- New York License: Register every three years through the NYSED Office of Education (no minimum CE hours required at the state level)
- DEA Registration: If prescribing controlled substances, complete 3 hours of pain management/addiction training every 3 years
- WHNP-BC: If applicable, renewed through the National Certification Corporation
“After completing my hybrid MSN in Nurse-Midwifery at Stony Brook, I secured a position at a community health center in Queens. The flexibility of mostly online learning with occasional campus visits allowed me to continue working as an RN while gaining the advanced skills I needed. I now attend births and lead prenatal care appointments every day.”
– Danielle R., CNM, Queens, NY
Step 5. Salary Expectations for Certified Nurse-Midwives in New York
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) in New York are among the highest-paid in the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNMs in the New York metropolitan area earned an average annual salary of $143,540 as of May 2024. Entry-level CNMs typically earn around $114,650, while experienced midwives in the 90th percentile can make up to $179,700.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Mean Wage | $143,540 |
| Hourly Mean Wage | $69.01 |
| Annual 10th Percentile Wage | $114,650 |
| Annual 25th Percentile Wage | $130,020 |
| Annual Median Wage | $138,980 |
| Annual 75th Percentile Wage | $158,030 |
| Annual 90th Percentile Wage | $179,700 |
| Employment in Metro Area | 400 CNMs |
Demand Outlook for CNMs in New York
The career outlook for CNMs in New York is exceptionally strong:
- 26% projected job growth between 2022 and 2032 (New York Department of Labor)
- Approximately 44 annual openings for CNM positions statewide
- 740 practicing CNMs across New York State—the second-largest workforce in the nation
- 7-11% of all births attended by CNMs in 2024 (approximately 14,250-22,400 of 203,612 annual births)
- 150-190 active job postings in the New York area at any given time
This robust demand is driven by multiple factors:
- Growing consumer preference for midwifery care and holistic birth experiences
- Proven outcomes in reducing cesarean section rates and improving maternal satisfaction
- Shortage of obstetricians, particularly in rural and underserved areas
- Healthcare systems seeking cost-effective, high-quality maternity care models
- Expansion of birth centers and community-based midwifery practices
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 38% growth for nurse-midwives nationally from 2022-2032, classified as “much faster than average” compared to all occupations.
Salary data for nurse-midwives reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2024. Figures represent metropolitan area data for New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA, not school-specific information. Job growth data provided by the New York Department of Labor and 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.
Step 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNM in New York
Can I become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in New York without a nursing background?
Yes. New York is one of only 12 states that recognizes the Certified Midwife (CM) credential for individuals without a nursing degree. You must complete an ACME-accredited graduate midwifery program (SUNY Downstate offers this pathway) and pass the AMCB’s CM certification exam to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Midwife (LM) in New York.
Do I need a separate license to prescribe medication as a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) in New York?
No separate license is required, but you must complete at least three semester hours in advanced pharmacology and training on NYS and federal prescription laws as part of your licensure application. Once approved, prescriptive authority is granted as part of your LM license, allowing you to prescribe medications, including controlled substances (with DEA registration).
Are there online nurse-midwifery programs available for New York RNs?
Options are limited. Most major national online CNM programs (Georgetown, University of Cincinnati, Shenandoah) do not accept New York residents due to state regulatory requirements. Frontier Nursing University accepts only six NY students per year in underserved areas. Stony Brook University offers the best option—a hybrid program with mostly online coursework and minimal on-campus requirements. Otherwise, New York residents should consider the four in-state programs. Learn more about your options on our page for accredited nurse-midwife programs.
What’s the difference between a CNM and a WHNP?
A CNM is certified in nurse-midwifery and provides prenatal, birth, postpartum, and women’s primary care with a focus on reproductive health across the lifespan. A Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) focuses more broadly on gynecologic and reproductive health but does not attend births. Some programs offer dual certification in both roles, which can expand job opportunities.
Can CNMs practice independently in New York?
Yes. New York is a full practice authority state. CNMs can practice completely independently without a written practice agreement or physician oversight. Licensed Midwives have full prescriptive authority once they complete the required pharmacology coursework. However, CNMs must maintain collaborative relationships with board-certified OB/GYNs or hospitals providing obstetric services.
How long does it take to become a CNM in New York?
The entire process typically takes 2–3 years for BSN-prepared RNs enrolled in a full-time master’s program. Part-time programs may take 3–4 years. RN-to-MSN bridge students (starting with an ADN) typically need 3–4 years, depending on the program structure and pace. DNP programs require 3–4 years beyond the BSN.
How many CNMs practice in New York?
As of 2024, approximately 740 Certified Nurse-Midwives practice across New York State, making it the second-largest CNM workforce in the nation (behind California’s 890). The state has a location quotient of 1.71, indicating a 71% higher concentration of nurse-midwives than the national average.
What percentage of births in New York are attended by CNMs?
CNMs attended an estimated 7-11% of all births in New York during 2024, translating to approximately 14,250-22,400 of the state’s 203,612 annual births. This percentage has been steadily increasing as more families seek midwifery care and as health systems expand their midwifery services.