How to Become a Certified Nurse Midwife in Oregon

Last Updated: May 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs

Oregon has become a standout state for Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), thanks to its progressive healthcare policies, widespread acceptance of midwifery care, and consistently strong demand. As more women turn to midwives for personalized care during pregnancy, birth, and throughout their reproductive lives, Oregon continues to be at the forefront of nurse-midwifery integration in both hospital and out-of-hospital settings. Whether you’re a registered nurse seeking greater autonomy and advanced clinical practice or someone driven by a passion for holistic women’s healthcare, Oregon offers an ideal environment to begin your journey toward becoming a CNM.

Becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Oregon involves several key milestones, starting with earning an advanced degree and culminating in full licensure as an independent healthcare provider. Oregon’s supportive regulatory landscape allows CNMs to practice independently with prescriptive authority, making the path to advanced practice both empowering and practical. Below, we outline each step to becoming a CNM in Oregon, including education, certification, state licensure, career opportunities, salary expectations, and frequently asked questions.

“Studying to become a CNM while living in Portland gave me the best of both worlds — strong clinical placements and the flexibility to keep working. I now practice at a local birth center where I trained!” — Jessica M., CNM Graduate


Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery
Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the Oregon State Board of Nursing
Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Oregon and Maintain Credentials
Salary Info for Nurse-Midwives in Oregon
FAQs About CNM Licensure and Programs in Oregon

Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery

To become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Oregon, you must complete a graduate-level program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). These programs may be offered in online or hybrid formats and are designed for registered nurses with various academic backgrounds.

Admission criteria generally include a valid RN license, a minimum GPA (often 3.0), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may require GRE scores.

Oregon is home to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), which offers a competitive DNP program in Nurse-Midwifery. Many students also enroll in online CNM programs offered nationwide, which allow for clinical placement in Oregon facilities.

Program Options

Program TypeDesigned ForTypical Duration
MSN/MS ProgramsRNs with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees2-3 years full-time
RN-to-MSN ProgramsRNs with associate’s degrees in nursing3-4 years full-time
Post-Graduate ProgramsRNs with an MSN wanting to add CNM certification1-2 years full-time
DNP ProgramsRNs seeking the highest level of clinical preparation3-4 years full-time

These accredited nurse-midwifery programs in Oregon and across the country prepare RNs for national certification. Whether you’re pursuing an MSN, DNP, or post-master’s CNM degree, online CNM programs provide convenience and flexibility.

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Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM

Graduates of an accredited nurse-midwifery program must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).

  • 175 multiple-choice questions
  • Computer-based format
  • 4-hour time limit
  • Testing centers throughout Oregon

The exam covers six domains of care, including antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, gynecology, newborn care, and primary care.


Step 3. Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the Oregon State Board of Nursing

After certification, apply to the Oregon State Board of Nursing for licensure as a Nurse Midwife-Nurse Practitioner (NMNP). Oregon allows independent practice with prescriptive authority.

  • Complete application
  • Submit transcripts
  • Proof of certification
  • Background check
  • Apply for prescriptive authority

Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Oregon and Maintain Credentials

CNMs in Oregon work in various settings, including hospitals, birth centers, and clinics. Prominent employers include:

  • Oregon Health & Science University
  • Adventist Health
  • PeaceHealth
  • Samaritan Albany General Hospital

Renew your APRN and RN license biennially and maintain national certification through continuing education.


Salaries for Certified Nurse-Midwives in Oregon

Certified Nurse-Midwives in Oregon are among the best paid in the U.S.

  • 10th Percentile: $63,210
  • Median: $121,880
  • 90th Percentile: $164,350

(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.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a CNM in Oregon?

Most programs take 2-3 years to complete. RN-to-MSN or DNP pathways may take 3-4 years.

Can I complete a CNM program online while living in Oregon?

Yes, many online programs partner with Oregon clinics for local clinical placements.

What are dual-focus CNM/WHNP programs?

These combine nurse-midwifery and women’s health NP certification. Learn more here.

Where can I find accredited nurse-midwife schools?

Visit our accredited CNM programs page.

What degree do I need to become a CNM?

At minimum, a master’s degree in nurse-midwifery. Read more about master’s in CNM programs.

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