Choosing the right Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) program isn’t just about rankings—it’s about finding the perfect fit for YOUR situation and goals. As we journey through 2025 and beyond, the landscape of nurse-midwifery education continues to evolve with new opportunities, innovative program formats, and updated accreditation standards that reflect the changing healthcare environment.
The demand for certified nurse-midwives has never been stronger. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nurse midwives is projected to grow 6% through 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. With a national median salary of $129,310 and even higher earning potential in certain states, pursuing a CNM degree represents both a fulfilling career path and a sound financial investment.
What makes a CNM program “best” depends entirely on your specific circumstances. Are you a working RN seeking maximum flexibility? A career changer looking for prestige and comprehensive training? Or perhaps you’re focused on affordability without sacrificing quality? This guide adopts a unique student-centered approach to rankings, enabling you to identify programs that align with your personal and professional objectives.
Drawing from over a decade of experience helping aspiring midwives navigate their educational journey, we’ve analyzed programs based on the latest Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) standards, U.S. News rankings, certification pass rates, and real student outcomes. Our promise: you’ll find your ideal program match, along with actionable next steps to make your midwifery dreams a reality.
Top CNM Programs by Category
| Category | Schools | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Working RNs | Frontier Nursing University Georgetown University University of Colorado | Online/hybrid flexibility, part-time options |
| Best for Prestige Seekers | Vanderbilt University University of Pennsylvania Columbia University | Ivy League/top-tier credentials, research opportunities |
| Best for Affordability | University of New Mexico East Carolina University University of Utah | Low tuition, public school pricing |
| Best for Clinical Excellence | Oregon Health & Science University University of Minnesota University of Michigan | Top-tier clinical training, academic medical centers |
| Best for Career Changers | Yale University UC San Francisco Johns Hopkins University | Entry programs for non-nurses |
How to Use This Guide
Your Decision Framework
Finding your perfect CNM program starts with understanding your unique situation:
- Identify Your Student Type – Review our five categories below to find which best describes your circumstances
- Review Programs in Your Category – Focus on the 3-4 programs that match your needs
- Compare Finalist Programs – Use our comparison tools to evaluate key factors
- Explore State-Specific Resources – Check licensing requirements and job prospects in your target practice location
What Makes a Program “Top-Ranked”
Our rankings consider multiple critical factors:
- ACME Accreditation Status – Only ACME-accredited programs qualify graduates for national certification
- Certification Pass Rates – We prioritize programs with 90%+ first-time pass rates
- Clinical Placement Quality – Access to diverse, high-quality clinical sites
- Graduate Employment Outcomes – Job placement rates within 6 months of graduation
- Student Satisfaction Scores – Based on exit surveys and alumni feedback
Category 1: Best for Working RNs (Online/Hybrid Focus)
For registered nurses maintaining their current employment while pursuing advanced education, flexibility is paramount. These programs offer innovative distance learning formats that do not compromise the quality of clinical training.
1. Frontier Nursing University
Pioneer in Distance Midwifery Education
Hyden, KY
Website | Contact: (859) 251-4700; [email protected]
Program Options: BSN to MSN, BSN to DNP, Post-Master’s DNP
Tuition: $665/credit; $45,000-$55,000 total
Duration: MSN: 2-3 years; DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Fully online with local clinicals, 2-3 campus intensives
Accreditation: ACME
- Key Features:
- Educated 40% of the nation’s practicing midwives
- Asynchronous online coursework accommodates varying schedules
- 1,000+ clinical hours in student’s geographic area
- Dedicated clinical placement coordinators
- Unique Advantages:
- Established relationships with preceptors nationwide
- Strong alumni network for mentorship
- Rural and underserved population focus
- Financial aid specifically for working nurses
As the pioneer in distance education for nurse-midwifery, Frontier has perfected the art of delivering quality education to working nurses. Their innovative model allows students to complete didactic coursework entirely online while arranging clinical placements within their home communities. This flexibility, combined with their extensive preceptor network, makes Frontier ideal for nurses who can’t relocate but want top-tier midwifery education.
2. Georgetown University
School of Nursing & Health Studies
Washington, DC
Website | Contact: (202) 687-0100; [email protected]
Program Options: BSN to MSN, Post-Master’s Certificate
Tuition: $2,358/credit; $65,000-$75,000 total
Duration: MSN: 27 months part-time
Format: Hybrid with synchronous online classes, 3 campus intensives
Accreditation: ACME
- Program Highlights:
- Jesuit values integrated throughout curriculum
- Synchronous online classes maintain peer interaction
- Three on-campus intensives throughout program
- Clinical placements possible in student’s region
- Clinical Excellence:
- 1,000+ supervised clinical hours
- Diverse practice settings required
- Strong emphasis on vulnerable populations
- International clinical opportunities available
Georgetown’s hybrid format combines the prestige of a top-tier university with the flexibility working nurses need. Their 27-month part-time pathway utilizes cutting-edge video conferencing technology while maintaining the personal connections crucial to midwifery education. The integration of Jesuit values ensures graduates are prepared not just clinically, but also ethically and spiritually to serve diverse communities.
3. University of Colorado College of Nursing
Anschutz Medical Campus
Aurora, CO
Website | Contact: (303) 724-1812; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to MSN
Tuition: Resident: $865/credit; Non-resident: $1,400/credit
Duration: MSN: 2.5-3 years
Format: Hybrid with campus visits, local clinicals
Accreditation: ACME
- Program Excellence:
- Ranked #2 nationally
- 100% first-time certification exam pass rate
- Strong rural midwifery preparation
- Interprofessional education opportunities
- Financial Benefits:
- In-state tuition: approximately $66,725 total
- Out-of-state tuition: approximately $108,200 total
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Graduate assistantships available
CU Nursing’s perfect certification pass rate speaks volumes about their preparation quality. The hybrid format is ideal for Colorado residents and those willing to travel for intensives. Their emphasis on rural midwifery and interprofessional education prepares graduates for the diverse practice environments they’ll encounter in the Mountain West and beyond.
Category 2: Best for Prestige Seekers (Ivy League/Top-Tier)
For nurses seeking education from the most prestigious institutions, these programs offer world-class faculty, cutting-edge resources, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
4. Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Top 3 Nationally Ranked Program
Nashville, TN
Website | Contact: (615) 322-3800; [email protected]
Program Options: MSN, MSN/FNP Dual
Tuition: $1,997/credit
Duration: MSN: 4-7 semesters
Format: Hybrid with in-person components
Accreditation: ACME
- Program Distinction:
- Small cohort sizes ensure individualized attention
- Integrated DNP project throughout curriculum
- Simulation laboratory with birthing suite
- Interprofessional education opportunities
- Career Advantages:
- 98% certification pass rate
- Merit-based scholarships available
- Graduate assistantship opportunities
- Strong ROI with high graduate salaries
Consistently ranked in the top 3 nationally, Vanderbilt offers a personalized educational experience with strong research integration. Their holistic care philosophy, combined with cutting-edge simulation facilities and small cohort sizes, ensures graduates are prepared for leadership roles in midwifery. The Nashville location provides diverse clinical opportunities in both urban and rural settings.
5. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Ivy League Excellence
Philadelphia, PA
Website | Contact: (215) 898-4271; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to MSN
Tuition: $81,306/year
Duration: MSN: 14 months full-time
Format: Primarily in-person with some online components
Accreditation: ACME
- Accelerated Excellence:
- 14-month intensive program for focused learners
- Access to Penn Medicine’s world-class facilities
- Strong emphasis on evidence-based practice
- Urban clinical experiences in diverse settings
- Ivy League Benefits:
- World-renowned faculty and researchers
- Strong alumni network in leadership positions
- Research opportunities throughout program
- Connection to Penn’s extensive healthcare system
Penn Nursing’s accelerated 14-month program is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves fully in midwifery education. The Ivy League credential opens doors nationally, while Philadelphia’s diverse healthcare landscape provides unmatched clinical training opportunities. The intensive format requires dedication but delivers exceptional preparation for advanced practice.
6. Columbia University School of Nursing
New York City’s Premier Program
New York, NY
Website | Contact: (212) 305-5756; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to DNP
Tuition: $68,144/year
Duration: DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Primarily in-person with some online coursework
Accreditation: ACME
- Comprehensive Preparation:
- 100% certification pass rate
- Advanced health assessment across the lifespan
- Complex obstetrical and gynecological management
- Leadership and healthcare systems focus
- NYC Clinical Excellence:
- NYC’s premier medical centers for rotations
- Culturally diverse patient populations
- High-risk obstetrical experience
- Collaborative practice models
Columbia’s DNP pathway combines Ivy League prestige with comprehensive clinical training in the world’s most diverse healthcare landscape. The program’s 100% certification pass rate reflects rigorous preparation standards. NYC’s unparalleled clinical opportunities, from community health centers to world-renowned medical centers, ensure graduates are prepared for any practice setting.
Category 3: Best for Affordability
Quality midwifery education doesn’t require excessive debt. These programs offer excellent preparation at reasonable costs, particularly for state residents.
7. University of New Mexico College of Nursing
Serving the Southwest
Albuquerque, NM
Website | Contact: (505) 272-0858; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to MSN
Tuition: Resident: $7,567/year; Non-resident: $24,591/year
Duration: MSN: 2-3 years
Format: Hybrid with in-person clinicals
Accreditation: ACME
- Cultural Competency Focus:
- Recently ranked #10 nationally
- Strong Hispanic and Native American focus
- Rural and frontier midwifery preparation
- Bilingual practice opportunities
- Unique Clinical Training:
- Partnerships with Indian Health Service
- High-volume university hospital
- Community birth center rotations
- Rural clinic experiences
UNM offers exceptional education at public university prices, with particular strength in serving diverse populations. Their focus on health equity and cultural competency throughout the curriculum prepares graduates to serve New Mexico’s unique communities. The program’s partnerships with IHS and rural clinics provide experiences unavailable at many other schools.
8. East Carolina University
College of Nursing
Greenville, NC
Website | Contact: (252) 744-6433; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to MSN
Tuition: Resident: $7,943/year; Non-resident: $20,092/year
Duration: MSN: 2-3 years part-time
Format: Fully online with local clinical placements
Accreditation: ACME
- Online Excellence:
- 100% online didactic coursework
- No campus visits required
- Strong support for clinical placement
- Rural and underserved focus
- Value Proposition:
- One of the lowest tuition rates nationally
- In-state tuition for online students in select states
- Financial aid available for part-time students
- Excellent return on investment
ECU offers one of the most affordable fully online CNM programs in the nation, making quality education accessible to working nurses regardless of location. The lack of required campus visits and strong clinical placement support makes this program ideal for nurses in rural areas who can’t travel for intensives. Their commitment to underserved populations aligns perfectly with the midwifery philosophy of care.
9. University of Utah College of Nursing
Mountain West Excellence
Salt Lake City, UT
Website | Contact: (801) 581-3414; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to DNP
Tuition: Resident: $8,772/year; Non-resident: $27,867/year
Duration: DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Hybrid with online coursework, in-person clinicals
Accreditation: ACME
- Program Strengths:
- Terminal degree at affordable price
- Strong simulation facilities
- Mountain West clinical network
- Research opportunities available
- Clinical Excellence:
- University of Utah Health system access
- Rural and frontier practice preparation
- Diverse patient populations
- High-altitude pregnancy expertise
Utah offers a DNP pathway at state school prices, providing exceptional value for those seeking a terminal degree. Their location provides unique clinical experiences, from urban Salt Lake City to frontier communities throughout the Mountain West. The program’s emphasis on rural practice and their expertise in high-altitude pregnancy makes graduates uniquely prepared for western practice environments.
Category 4: Best for Clinical Excellence
These programs are renowned for their exceptional clinical training, high-volume clinical sites, and comprehensive hands-on preparation.
10. Oregon Health & Science University
School of Nursing
Portland, OR
Website | Contact: (503) 494-7725; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to DNP
Tuition: Resident: $609/credit; Non-resident: $788/credit
Duration: DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Hybrid with in-person intensives
Accreditation: ACME
- Clinical Training Excellence:
- Oregon’s only academic health center
- Level I trauma center experience
- High-risk obstetrics rotation
- Community birth center partnerships
- Unique Opportunities:
- Rural health focus with frontier placements
- Interprofessional education standard
- Simulation center with birthing suites
- Research integration throughout program
OHSU’s location at a major academic medical center provides unparalleled clinical training opportunities across the full spectrum of midwifery care. From their Level I trauma center to community birth centers, students experience every aspect of reproductive healthcare. The program’s commitment to rural health ensures graduates are prepared for Oregon’s diverse practice environments.
11. University of Minnesota School of Nursing
Twin Cities Campus
Minneapolis, MN
Website | Contact: (612) 624-9600; [email protected]
Program Option: BSN to DNP
Tuition: Resident: $14,868/year; Non-resident: $22,990/year
Duration: DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Hybrid with online and in-person components
Accreditation: ACME
- Clinical Diversity:
- Twin Cities metro clinical sites
- Rural Minnesota placements
- Native American health partnerships
- Birth center and home birth options
- Program Excellence:
- Strong simulation program
- Research opportunities abundant
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Global health opportunities
Minnesota’s program combines Big Ten resources with exceptional clinical training across urban and rural settings. Their partnerships with Native American communities and emphasis on diverse birth settings prepares graduates for Minnesota’s varied practice environments. The state’s high CNM employment rate and competitive salaries make this an excellent investment.
12. University of Michigan School of Nursing
Top 3 National Program
Ann Arbor, MI
Website | Contact: Visit website for contact information
Program Options: BSN to MSN, BSN to DNP, Dual MSN/DNP
Tuition: Resident: $14,443/year; Non-resident: $28,888/year
Duration: MSN: 2-3 years; DNP: 3-4 years
Format: Hybrid with in-person components
Accreditation: ACME
- Clinical Excellence:
- Michigan Medicine health system
- Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital
- High-volume birth center
- Research integration standard
- Academic Advantages:
- Faculty-mentored research from year one
- PhD pathway available
- Global health initiatives
- Leadership development focus
As a top 3 program, Michigan offers exceptional clinical training combined with research opportunities at a premier academic medical center. Their multiple degree pathways provide flexibility for different career goals. The program’s emphasis on research and leadership development, combined with access to Michigan Medicine’s vast resources, prepares graduates for any role in midwifery.
Category 5: Best for Career Changers
These programs offer entry pathways for those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees who want to become nurse-midwives.
13. Yale University School of Nursing
Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing (GEPN)
New Haven, CT
Website | Contact: (203) 737-2257; [email protected]
Program Option: GEPN to MSN
Tuition: $46,200/year
Duration: MSN: 3 years (including GEPN)
Format: Primarily in-person with some online coursework
Accreditation: ACME
- Accelerated Pathway:
- Year 1: Pre-licensure nursing education
- Years 2-3: Advanced midwifery training
- Integrated curriculum design
- Intensive clinical preparation
- Career Changer Support:
- Cohort model for peer support
- Academic support services
- Career counseling included
- Strong job placement rates
Yale’s GEPN program allows non-nurses to earn their RN and MSN in midwifery in just three years. The prestigious Yale credential, combined with comprehensive support for career changers, makes this an ideal choice for those making a complete career pivot. The cohort model ensures strong peer support throughout the intensive program.
14. University of California, San Francisco
Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN)
San Francisco, CA
Website | Contact: (415) 476-1435; [email protected]
Program Option: MEPN to MSN
Tuition: Resident: $12,264/year; Non-resident: $24,809/year
Duration: MSN: 3 years (including MEPN)
Format: Primarily in-person with limited online components
Accreditation: ACME
- California Excellence:
- San Francisco Bay Area clinical sites
- Diverse patient populations
- Public health integration
- Technology-forward education
- Career Transition Support:
- Pre-entry preparation courses
- Mentorship programs
- Financial aid priority
- Strong California job market
UCSF’s MEPN offers a direct path from bachelor’s degree to CNM practice at UC system prices. The San Francisco location provides unmatched diversity in clinical experiences and patient populations. California’s high CNM salaries and progressive practice environment make this program an excellent investment for career changers.
15. Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Entry into Nursing Program
Baltimore, MD
Website | Contact: (410) 955-7548; [email protected]
Program Options: Entry to MSN, MSN to DNP
Tuition: $62,880/year
Duration: MSN: 2.5-3 years (including entry program)
Format: Primarily in-person with some online coursework
Accreditation: ACME
- Hopkins Excellence:
- Johns Hopkins Health System access
- Urban and community clinical sites
- Research opportunities abundant
- Global health initiatives
- Entry Program Features:
- Accelerated pre-licensure phase
- Seamless transition to specialty
- Strong academic support
- Career services included
Johns Hopkins offers an accelerated entry option combining world-class education with Baltimore’s diverse clinical settings. The Hopkins name carries significant weight nationally, while their comprehensive support for career changers ensures success. The option to continue to DNP provides a clear pathway for those seeking terminal degree preparation.
2025 Program Updates & Trends
The landscape of midwifery education continues to evolve in response to healthcare needs and technological advances:
New ACME Accreditation Standards
The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education has implemented updated standards emphasizing:
- Competency-based education models
- Enhanced diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements
- Telehealth integration throughout the curriculum
- Climate change and environmental health considerations
Technology Integration
Programs are incorporating:
- Virtual reality simulation for rare clinical scenarios
- Telehealth platforms for remote prenatal care training
- Electronic health record proficiency
- Point-of-care ultrasound training
Rural Midwifery Initiatives
Responding to workforce shortages:
- Dedicated rural tracks at multiple universities
- Distance-accessible programs expanding
- Clinical placement support in underserved areas
- Loan forgiveness programs for rural practice commitment
Post-COVID Educational Innovations
- Hybrid learning models are becoming standard
- Enhanced simulation to supplement clinical hours
- Virtual clinical experiences for select competencies
- Flexible scheduling options are increasing
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Selection Questions
Q: How do I choose between MSN and DNP pathways?
A: Consider your career goals. MSN programs (typically 2-3 years) prepare you for clinical practice. DNP programs (3-4 years) add leadership, systems thinking, and research translation skills. Choose DNP if you envision teaching, administration, or policy work alongside clinical practice.
Q: Can I work while in a CNM program?
A: Part-time work is possible in most programs, especially online/hybrid formats. However, clinical rotations require significant time commitment. Many students work PRN or reduce to part-time during clinical phases. Full-time traditional programs rarely accommodate employment.
Q: What’s the difference between hybrid and fully online programs?
A: Hybrid programs combine online didactic courses with periodic on-campus intensives (usually 2-4 visits annually). Fully online programs complete all didactic work remotely but still require in-person clinical experiences. Both formats require local clinical placements.
Q: How important are program rankings vs. fit?
A: While rankings indicate quality, personal fit matters more for success. Consider learning style, financial situation, geographic preferences, and career goals. A lower-ranked program that meets your needs often leads to better outcomes than a prestigious program that doesn’t fit your life.
Application Questions
Q: What clinical experience do I need before applying?
A: Most programs require 1-2 years RN experience. Labor & delivery experience is highly valued but not always required. ICU, emergency, public health, and women’s health experience also strengthen applications. Some programs accept new graduates with strong academic records.
Q: How competitive are top CNM programs?
A: Top programs accept 15-30% of applicants. Competitive applicants typically have: GPA >3.5, relevant clinical experience, strong references, compelling personal statements, and demonstrated commitment to underserved populations. Apply to 4-6 programs to ensure options.
Q: Can I get in without L&D experience?
A: Yes, many programs value diverse nursing backgrounds. Highlight transferable skills: critical thinking, emergency response, patient advocacy, and cultural competence. Demonstrate midwifery interest through volunteer work, shadowing, or doula certification.
Q: What makes a strong CNM program application?
A: Successful applications demonstrate: academic excellence, clinical competence, understanding of midwifery philosophy, commitment to women’s health, leadership potential, and cultural humility. Specific examples and measurable outcomes strengthen narratives.
Financial Questions
Q: What’s the average cost of CNM programs?
A: Costs vary widely: Public in-state programs: $35,000-$50,000; Public out-of-state: $70,000-$90,000; Private programs: $65,000-$120,000. Factor in living expenses, clinical travel, and certification exam fees.
Q: Are there loan forgiveness programs for CNMs?
A: Yes, multiple options exist: National Health Service Corps (up to $75,000), Public Service Loan Forgiveness (complete forgiveness after 120 payments), state-specific programs, and Indian Health Service opportunities. Many require service in underserved areas.
Q: Can I get scholarships for midwifery school?
A: Numerous scholarships available: ACNM Foundation awards multiple scholarships annually, HRSA offers need-based support, many schools have dedicated midwifery scholarships, and diversity-focused funding is increasing. Apply early and broadly.
Career Questions
Q: What’s the job outlook for CNMs?
A: Excellent. BLS projects 6% growth through 2032, faster than average. Demand is particularly high in: rural areas, federally qualified health centers, states with full practice authority, and facilities embracing midwifery model of care.
Q: How much do CNMs earn by state?
A: Salaries vary significantly by location. Top-paying states include California ($180,560), Washington ($153,710), and Massachusetts ($135,520). Even in lower-paying states, CNMs typically earn $90,000+. Consider cost of living when evaluating opportunities.
Q: What types of practice settings hire CNMs?
A: CNMs practice in diverse settings: hospitals (45%), physician offices (31%), birthing centers (8%), federally qualified health centers, academic medical centers, private midwifery practices, home birth practices, and military facilities. Many CNMs work in multiple settings.
Take Action: Find Your Perfect Program
Ready to begin your journey to becoming a certified nurse-midwife? Take these concrete steps today:
Primary Action: Get Matched with CNM Programs
Create your personalized program shortlist based on:
- Your current location and mobility
- Educational background and experience
- Financial considerations
- Career goals and practice interests
- Preferred learning format
Financial Planning Resources
Instead of a calculator, use these practical approaches:
Create Your Budget:
- Contact financial aid offices for total cost estimates
- Use school-specific net price calculators on program websites
- Factor in your current income and savings
- Plan for 20-30% additional costs beyond published tuition
Questions to Ask Programs:
- What’s included in the tuition quoted?
- Are clinical placement fees additional?
- What financial aid packages do typical students receive?
- What percentage of students graduate with debt, and what’s the average amount?
Next Steps After Reading
- Identify Your Category – Review the five student types and determine which best fits your situation
- Research Programs – Use our detailed profiles to create your shortlist
- Connect with Programs – Attend virtual information sessions and speak with admissions
- Prepare Your Application – Start gathering transcripts, references, and drafting statements
- Plan Financially – Request cost information directly from programs and create a realistic budget
Conclusion
Choosing the right CNM program is one of the most important decisions in your professional journey. Whether you’re a working RN seeking flexibility, a career changer pursuing excellence, or a value-conscious student planning carefully, there’s a program designed for your success.
Remember, the “best” program isn’t necessarily the highest-ranked—it’s the one that aligns with your goals, fits your life circumstances, and prepares you for the career you envision. Use this guide as your roadmap, but trust your instincts about where you’ll thrive.
The need for qualified, compassionate midwives has never been greater. By taking the first step today, you’re joining a profession that transforms lives—including your own. Your journey to becoming a certified nurse-midwife starts now.
Find Your State’s CNM Programs | Compare All Accredited Programs | Learn About CNM Salaries| Review Financial Aid Opportunities for Aspiring Midwives
Last Updated: July 2025. This guide is reviewed quarterly to ensure the accuracy of program information, costs, and admission requirements. For the most up-to-date information, please verify details directly with the programs of interest.
