Last Updated: May 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Florida has become one of the most promising states for registered nurses pursuing advanced practice careers in midwifery. With more than 10% of births in Florida now attended by midwives—and that number steadily rising—the demand for certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) is stronger than ever. RNs looking to leap into nurse-midwifery education will find numerous ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs available to Florida residents, along with clearly defined licensure steps through the Florida Board of Nursing. Whether you’re seeking a flexible online master’s degree in nurse-midwifery, preparing for the AMCB certification exam, or evaluating job prospects across Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become a nurse midwife in Florida.
Overview: Why Become a Nurse-Midwife in Florida?
Florida is a leader in certified nurse-midwifery education and practice. The state offers a balanced combination of online CNM programs, clinical placements, and high-demand job markets.
Dual Certification Opportunities: CNM + WHNP
Many nurse-midwifery programs offer a dual track with Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) certification. This increases versatility and long-term career value in clinical and outpatient settings.
Credentialing and Regulatory Resources
- American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
- Florida Board of Nursing
- American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM)
- National Certification Corporation (NCC)
How Florida Compares to Other States
Unlike full-practice states like New Mexico, Florida CNMs must practice under collaborative physician agreements. However, Florida offers strong salary potential, online program accessibility, and licensure options for autonomous APRNs.
Step 1: Earn a Master’s or Higher Degree in Nurse-Midwifery
To qualify as a certified nurse-midwife in Florida, you must complete a master’s or higher degree from an ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program.
| School | Program Type | Delivery | Clinical Placement | Florida Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgetown University | MSN – CNM/WHNP Dual | Online + Local Clinicals | Florida Approved | ✅ |
| Frontier Nursing University | MSN or Post-Master’s CNM | Online + Regional Sites | Preceptor Supported | ✅ |
| Thomas Jefferson University | MSN – CNM | Online + FL Preceptors | Partnership Network | ✅ |
A certified CNM/CM must supervise clinical training; over 50% of your clinical hours must be under CNM/CM supervision.
Step 2: Take the National Certification Exam in Nurse-Midwifery
Florida CNMs must pass the national certification exam through the AMCB.
Step 3: Apply for ARNP Licensure in Florida
Florida recognizes two APRN pathways: Supervisory APRN and Autonomous APRN. Learn more on the Florida Board of Nursing site.
Before applying, CNMs must also show proof of malpractice insurance or submit a financial responsibility form: See form.
Step 4: Prescriptive Authority and Practice Guidelines
Florida CNMs can prescribe non-controlled substances under physician-supervised protocols. They may also perform minor procedures and manage women’s reproductive health services.
Step 5: Explore Career Opportunities and Maintain Credentials
Once licensed, certified nurse-midwives in Florida can explore various career paths in clinical and non-clinical settings. While many CNMs work in hospital labor and delivery units, birthing centers, and OB/GYN practices, others pursue roles in education, advocacy, research, or public health.
Florida’s large healthcare systems—including AdventHealth, Baptist Health, UF Health, and HCA Florida—employ CNMs in urban and rural communities. Birthing centers in cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando also offer community-based options for CNM practice, often with a more holistic, low-intervention care philosophy.
Other standard CNM job titles in Florida include:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife – Labor & Delivery Unit
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
- Midwifery Faculty or Clinical Educator
- Public Health Midwife or Program Coordinator
- Perinatal Case Manager or Maternal Health Advocate
In addition to direct patient care, experienced CNMs may also step into leadership roles such as:
- Director of Midwifery Services
- Clinical Practice Manager
- Policy Advisor for Women’s Health Initiatives
Florida’s diverse population and high birth volume provide ample opportunities for new CNMs to build thriving careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state ranks among the top five for CNM employment nationwide.
Certification Maintenance:
CNMs must recertify through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) every five years. They can renew their certification by completing three continuing education modules and 20 CE hours or by retaking the certification exam.
Many CNMs also expand their scope by earning WHNP certification, allowing for broader practice in gynecologic and primary care settings.
Step 6: CNM Salary and Job Outlook in Florida
- Orlando: $97,660 (avg) – $123,740 (high)
- Miami-Fort Lauderdale: $72,860 (avg) – $113,380 (high)
- Jacksonville: $82,250 (avg) – $104,420 (high)
Certified nurse-midwife salary in Florida ranges from $90K–$100K+ with strong demand projected through 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a CNM in Florida with an associate’s degree?
Yes. RN-to-MSN bridge programs offer a path for ADN-prepared nurses.
Are online CNM programs available to Florida residents?
Yes. Several ACME-accredited schools offer online programs with Florida clinical placement support.
Can CNMs in Florida prescribe medications?
Yes, under collaborative agreements — but not controlled substances.
What’s the difference between supervisory and autonomous APRN licensure?
Supervision requires physician oversight. Autonomous APRNs meet extra standards for independent practice.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported salary data for nurse-midwives in May 2023. Figures represent state-level occupational data and are not school-specific. Job growth projections are sourced from Projections Central, a resource supported by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. Local salary and job conditions may vary—information accessed May 2025.