Last Updated: June 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Learning how to become a nurse midwife in Alaska offers exceptional opportunities in a state that leads the nation in CNM employment concentration, with certified nurse-midwives attending nearly 14% of all births statewide. Alaska recognizes Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with full prescriptive authority and independent practice privileges, reflecting the state’s commitment to expanding access to maternal and women’s healthcare. The journey to becoming a certified nurse-midwife in Alaska requires a systematic progression through specialized graduate education, national certification, and state licensure.
Alaska holds the highest concentration of nurse-midwife positions in the nation, with one out of every 714 jobs in the state being in the field of nurse-midwifery. Whether you’re exploring online CNM programs or traditional campus-based options, Alaska provides multiple pathways to earn your nurse midwifery degree while offering competitive salaries averaging $101,350 annually. For Alaska nurses wondering “how long does it take to become a certified nurse midwife” or “what are the CNM degree requirements in Alaska,” this comprehensive guide provides detailed answers to help you plan your educational pathway. The complete timeline to CNM licensure in Alaska typically spans 4-6 years beyond initial RN licensure and culminates in advanced practice certification with exceptional career opportunities.
“Pursuing my CNM degree while living in Alaska was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The state’s support for independent practice and the opportunity to serve diverse communities from Anchorage to rural villages made every moment of graduate school worthwhile. I now work with the Alaska Native Medical Center and absolutely love providing culturally sensitive care to women across our beautiful state.” – Alison K., Alaska CNM Graduate, Class of 2022
How to Become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Alaska: Step-by-Step Guide
The Alaska Board of Nursing regulates certified nurse-midwives as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and maintains rigorous standards for nurse midwifery education and practice. Alaska requires CNMs to meet specific educational, certification, and licensure requirements before practicing independently.
How Long Does It Take to Become a CNM in Alaska?
The complete timeline to become a CNM in Alaska typically spans 4-6 years total:
- Years 1-2: Complete RN prerequisites, obtain Alaska RN license, and gain required clinical experience
- Years 3-4 (or 3-5): Complete ACME-accredited CNM graduate program (minimum 2 years)
- Year 4-6: Pass AMCB certification exam and obtain Alaska APRN license (3-6 months)
Alaska RNs interested in pursuing CNM licensure and earning their nurse midwifery degree must complete these essential steps:
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse-Midwifery from Accredited CNM Programs
Alaska nursing statutes mandate that CNM candidates complete a formal, accredited graduate educational program in nurse-midwifery that meets specific criteria established by the Alaska Board of Nursing. The program must be at least one academic year in duration and include a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical practice. Only programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) satisfy Alaska’s educational requirements for CNM licensure.
Alaska CNM Degree Program Prerequisites and Requirements
Before pursuing midwifery education, candidates must obtain and maintain an active Alaska registered nurse (RN) license, as Alaska does not participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact. Prospective CNMs must accumulate at least one year of clinical experience as a registered nurse before applying to graduate midwifery programs, ensuring fundamental nursing competencies and clinical judgment necessary for advanced practice.
| Prerequisite Requirement | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska RN License | Active, unrestricted registered nurse license in Alaska | Must be current throughout education |
| Clinical Experience | Minimum one year of clinical experience as an RN | Before the graduate program application |
| Educational Foundation | BSN or equivalent nursing prerequisites | Before program admission |
| Graduate Program Selection | ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program | Research and apply 1-2 years in advance |
Alaska CNM Program Comparison: Traditional vs Online vs Accelerated
| Program Type | Duration | Best For Alaska Students | Clinical Placement | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional MSN CNM | 2-3 years | Recent BSN graduates can relocate | Program-arranged sites | $40,000-$70,000 |
| Online CNM Programs | 2-3 years | Working RNs, those unable to relocate | Local Alaska facilities | $35,000-$65,000 |
| RN-to-MSN Bridge | 3-4 years | ADN nurses wanting BSN + CNM | Hybrid local/program sites | $50,000-$80,000 |
| Accelerated CNM Programs | 18-24 months | BSN nurses seeking a fast-track option | Intensive clinical rotations | $45,000-$75,000 |
Alaska CNM Program Types and Options
Graduate programs must provide distinct course offerings of at least three graduate credits each in advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacotherapeutics, and advanced physical assessment. These core competencies form the foundation for the expanded scope of practice that distinguishes advanced practice nurses from their generalist colleagues.
| CNM Degree Program Type | Duration | Clinical Hours | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional MSN in Nurse-Midwifery | 2-3 years | 500+ hours minimum | RNs with BSN degrees seeking CNM certification |
| RN-to-MSN CNM Bridge Program | 3-4 years | 500+ hours minimum | ADN-prepared RNs pursuing BSN and CNM |
| DNP in Nurse-Midwifery | 3-4 years | 500+ hours minimum | RNs seeking doctoral-level CNM preparation |
| Dual-Focus NM/WHNP Programs | 2.5-3.5 years | 600+ hours | RNs seeking dual CNM and WHNP certification |
Online vs Campus-Based CNM Programs for Alaska Residents
Many programs offer both traditional campus-based and online formats, with online programs particularly beneficial for Alaska-based students who might otherwise need to relocate to complete their education. ACME-accredited online CNM programs provide the ideal opportunity for working RNs to complete graduate studies without disruptions to their work life.
Best Online CNM Programs for Alaska Residents
Alaska residents can choose from several ACME-accredited online CNM programs that offer flexible scheduling and arrange local clinical placements:
- Georgetown University – Comprehensive online MSN-CNM program with Alaska clinical partnerships
- University of Cincinnati – Distance learning CNM program with dedicated Alaska coordinators
- Frontier Nursing University – Pioneer in distance CNM education with strong Alaska presence
- Stony Brook University – Flexible online format with Alaska-approved clinical sites
| Program Format | Advantages for Alaska Students | Clinical Placement |
|---|---|---|
| Online CNM Programs | No relocation required, continue employment, family stability | Local Alaska healthcare facilities with faculty support |
| Campus-Based Programs | Direct faculty interaction, immediate resources, peer networking | Integrated with campus-affiliated clinical sites |
CNM Programs Available to Alaska Residents by Region
Alaska nursing students have access to quality CNM education without leaving the state through online programs and local clinical partnerships:
Anchorage Area CNM Clinical Sites
- Alaska Native Medical Center – Primary training hub for culturally diverse populations
- Providence Alaska Medical Center – High-volume maternity services and NICU
- Alaska Regional Hospital – Family-centered birth center with midwifery focus
- Anchorage Women’s Clinic – Outpatient women’s health and prenatal care
Fairbanks/Interior Alaska
- Fairbanks Memorial Hospital – Rural and urban patient populations
- Interior Women’s Clinic – Outpatient women’s health focus
Southeast Alaska
- Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium – Serving indigenous communities
- Sitka Medical Center – Remote healthcare delivery experience
Alaska CNM Program Application Timeline and Deadlines
Most Alaska residents applying to CNM programs should begin the application process 12 to 18 months in advance. Online CNM programs often offer multiple start dates throughout the year, providing flexibility for working Alaska RNs:
- Fall Start: Applications due January-March (most common)
- Spring Start: Applications due August-October (limited programs)
- Summer Start: Applications due February-April (select online programs)
Many Alaska nursing students pursue dual-focus Nurse Midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) programs, expanding their scope of practice and employment opportunities. Alaska’s accredited nurse-midwifery programs offer both online CNM programs and campus-based options, providing flexible pathways for students to pursue MSN, DNP, and post-master’s CNM degrees, depending on their career goals and educational background.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National CNM Certification Examination
Upon completion of graduate education, candidates must pass the National Certification Examination in Nurse-Midwifery administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Alaska also recognizes dual certification pathways for graduates of dual-focus programs, allowing them to sit for both the CNM and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner examinations.
| Certification Type | Sponsoring Organization | Credential Earned | Alaska Testing Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNM Certification | American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) | CNM (Certified Nurse-Midwife) | H&R Block Office, Anchorage |
| Women’s Health NP | National Certification Corporation (NCC) | WHNP-BC | H&R Block Office, Anchorage |
AMCB Certification Exam Requirements and Preparation
The examination is computer-based and consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering six major content areas. Candidates have four hours to complete the examination and must demonstrate competency across the full spectrum of midwifery practice. Testing is conducted at the H&R Block Office, 3120 Denali Street, Suites 6 & 7, Anchorage, AK 99503.
| Content Area | Percentage of Exam | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Antepartum Care | 21% | Prenatal care, risk assessment, nutrition counseling |
| Intrapartum Care | 21% | Labor management, delivery techniques, complications |
| Gynecology | 19% | Well-woman care, contraception, reproductive health |
| Postpartum Care | 18% | Recovery, breastfeeding support, and family planning |
| Women’s Health and Primary Care | 11% | Health promotion, disease prevention, and screening |
| Newborn Care | 10% | Initial assessment, screening, and health maintenance |
CNM Certification Maintenance Requirements
National certification must be maintained throughout the practitioner’s career through the AMCB’s Certificate Maintenance Program, which operates on a five-year renewal cycle. Renewal options include completing three certificate maintenance modules plus 20 hours of continuing education or retaking the national certification examination.
Step 3. Alaska CNM License Requirements and Application Process
Once national certification is obtained, candidates must apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure with the Alaska Board of Nursing. The comprehensive application process typically takes four to six weeks for completion and review.
Alaska APRN Application Requirements
The application process requires extensive documentation and submission of official materials directly from source institutions and certification bodies.
- Official transcripts directly from the graduate program
- Proof of current national certification from AMCB
- Documentation of 60 hours of continuing education within the two years preceding application
- A professional reference form from a qualified individual verifying competency
- Detailed consultation and referral plan for intended clinical practice
- Application fees and required forms
Alaska CNM Prescriptive Authority Requirements
Alaska grants CNMs full prescriptive authority as licensed independent practitioners. Specific requirements for prescriptive privileges include:
| Prescriptive Authority Type | Education Requirement | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Legend Drugs | 15 contact hours in advanced pharmacology and clinical management | Completed within 2 years preceding the application |
| Controlled Substances | Same as legend drugs, plus additional training | Registration with the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program within 30 days |
Temporary Practice Permits for Alaska CNMs
Alaska offers non-renewable temporary permits for qualified applicants while awaiting final licensure approval. Eligible candidates include those currently licensed as APRNs in another state, individuals scheduled to take the subsequent national certifying examination, or those awaiting certification results. Temporary permits are valid for six months for endorsement applicants.
Step 4. Explore Alaska CNM Career Options and Maintain Professional Credentials
Alaska CNMs enjoy exceptional career opportunities as licensed independent practitioners with full prescriptive authority. The state’s recognition of CNMs as autonomous healthcare providers enables practice across diverse settings, from major medical centers in Anchorage to remote healthcare facilities serving rural communities.
Alaska CNM Continuing Education Requirements
Alaska CNM licenses must be renewed biennially with specific continuing competency requirements designed to ensure ongoing professional development.
| Renewal Option | Requirements | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Continuing Education | 30 contact hours | Professional development activities |
| Professional Activities | 60 hours uncompensated | Volunteer services, research, publications |
| Clinical Practice | 320 hours of employment | Active practice as a registered nurse |
Major Alaska Employers for CNMs
Alaska CNMs work in diverse healthcare settings serving both urban and rural populations:
- Alaska Native Medical Center – Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Providence Alaska Medical Center – Maternity Center
- Alaska Regional Hospital – Family Birth Center
- Anchorage Women’s Clinic
- Alaska Women’s Health PC
- Fairbanks Memorial Hospital – Maternity Services
- Interior Women’s Clinic in Fairbanks
- Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium
- Southcentral Foundation
- Mat-Su Regional Medical Center
- Independent CNM practices throughout Alaska
- Rural health clinics and community health centers
Alaska CNM Salary Information and Job Market Outlook
Alaska offers exceptional compensation and career opportunities for certified nurse-midwives, with average salaries of $101,350 annually and the highest concentration of CNM positions in the nation. The state’s commitment to expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, creates abundant opportunities for CNMs seeking rewarding careers.
Alaska CNM Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Rate | Career Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level CNMs | $44,960 – $72,680 | $21.62 – $34.94 | 0-2 years of experience |
| Average Alaska CNM Salary | $72,680 – $88,270 | $34.94 – $42.44 | 3-7 years of experience |
| Experienced CNMs | $88,270 – $111,570 | $42.44 – $53.64 | 8+ years of experience |
Alaska CNM Job Market and Employment Outlook
Alaska holds unique distinctions in the CNM job market, with projected job growth of 9% through 2028 and the highest concentration of nurse-midwife positions nationwide. Key market factors include:
- Alaska has one CNM position for every 714 jobs statewide
- CNMs attend nearly 14% of all births in Alaska
- Strong demand in both urban centers and rural communities
- Growing recognition of CNM cost-effectiveness in healthcare delivery
- Expansion of telehealth and remote consultation opportunities
Geographic Distribution and Practice Opportunities
Alaska’s unique geography creates diverse practice opportunities for CNMs, from major medical centers in Anchorage and Fairbanks to rural health clinics serving remote communities. The state’s Alaska Native Medical Center and rural health consortia offer specialized opportunities to serve indigenous populations with culturally appropriate care.
(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 June 2025.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska CNM Programs and Licensure
How long does it take to become a nurse midwife in Alaska?
The complete process typically takes 4-6 years beyond initial RN licensure. This includes one year of required clinical experience as an RN, 2-3 years of graduate education (minimum of one academic year), plus time for certification examination preparation and licensure application processing.
Can I use a multi-state nursing license to practice as a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) in Alaska?
No, Alaska does not participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact. You must obtain a specific Alaska RN license before pursuing APRN/CNM licensure in the state.
What are the best online CNM programs for Alaska residents?
Alaska residents can choose from several ACME-accredited online CNM programs, including Georgetown University, the University of Cincinnati, Frontier Nursing University, and Stony Brook University. These programs offer flexible scheduling and arrange local clinical placements in Alaska healthcare facilities.
How much does it cost to become a CNM in Alaska?
CNM program costs vary from $35,000 to $80,000 for tuition, plus additional expenses for books, clinical requirements, and certification exams. Many Alaska employers offer tuition assistance for nurses pursuing advanced degrees, and federal loan forgiveness programs are available for those working in underserved areas.
Can you become a CNM without a BSN in Alaska?
Yes, through RN-to-MSN bridge programs that allow ADN-prepared nurses to earn their BSN and CNM simultaneously. These programs typically take 3-4 years to complete and are offered by several ACME-accredited schools.
What is the minimum clinical experience required for Alaska CNM programs?
Alaska requires a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical practice as part of the graduate program, plus at least one year of clinical experience as an RN before entering graduate school.
Do Alaska CNMs have prescriptive authority?
Yes, Alaska grants CNMs full prescriptive authority as licensed independent practitioners, including the authority to prescribe controlled substances with proper registration in the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
What continuing education is required for Alaska CNMs?
Alaska CNMs must complete biennial renewal requirements, including one of three options: 30 contact hours of continuing education, 60 hours of uncompensated professional activities, or 320 hours of employment as a registered nurse.
Can I get a temporary permit to practice while waiting for full licensure?
Yes, Alaska offers non-renewable temporary permits valid for six months to qualified applicants who are licensed APRNs in another state, are scheduled to take certification exams, or are awaiting certification results.
What salary can I expect as a CNM in Alaska?
Alaska CNMs earn an average salary of $101,350, with entry-level positions starting around $44,960 and experienced CNMs earning up to $111,570 annually, reflecting Alaska’s competitive compensation for healthcare professionals.
Are there CNM jobs available in rural Alaska?
Yes, Alaska has significant opportunities for CNMs in rural areas through the Alaska Native Medical Center, Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium, and various rural health clinics. These positions often offer loan forgiveness programs and competitive compensation packages.
What is the AMCB exam pass rate for Alaska graduates?
National AMCB exam pass rates consistently exceed 90% for first-time test takers from ACME-accredited programs. Alaska graduates typically perform at or above national averages, thanks to strong preparation facilitated through clinical partnerships and mentorship programs.