Last Updated: January 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
New Jersey presents excellent opportunities for nurse-midwives, with a growing demand for their holistic approach to women’s healthcare. The state has seen a steady increase in the percentage of births attended by midwives, reflecting a shifting preference toward more personalized maternal care. According to the most recent data from the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 10-12% of births in New Jersey are now midwife-attended, showing increased acceptance of midwifery care in the state.
The partnership between nurse-midwives and physicians in New Jersey has strengthened considerably over the past decade. This collaboration has expanded opportunities for CNMs to practice across various healthcare settings, from major hospital systems to community-based clinics and birth centers.
“My journey to become a Certified Nurse-Midwife in New Jersey transformed not only my career but my entire perspective on healthcare. The Rutgers nurse-midwifery program provided me with exceptional clinical experiences and mentorship. Now practicing in central New Jersey, I’m able to offer the kind of comprehensive, patient-centered care that first drew me to midwifery. The growing acceptance of midwifery care in our state hospitals has created so many opportunities for new CNMs.”
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 12% growth in nurse-midwife positions nationwide through 2032, with New Jersey showing even stronger employment prospects for CNMs. This growth is driven by increased recognition of the benefits of midwifery care, including lower rates of interventions, reduced costs, and high patient satisfaction.
To become a licensed nurse-midwife in New Jersey, registered nurses must complete specific educational requirements, earn national certification, and obtain state licensure. The following guide details each step of this process:
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Master’s Degree in Nurse-Midwifery
All certified nurse-midwife candidates in New Jersey must earn a master’s or higher degree recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
Rutgers School of Nursing: New Jersey’s Premier CNM Program
New Jersey is home to the state’s only ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark. In February 2025, Rutgers received full continued accreditation through February 2035 with no conditions, representing the highest accreditation level and confirming excellent program quality.
Led by Director Julie Blumenfeld, DNP, CNM, FACNM, FAAN, the program offers multiple pathways, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with 1,000+ clinical hours, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) requiring 50 credits and 945 practicum hours, and a Post-Graduate Certificate (32 credits maximum). Notably, Rutgers launched a new post-baccalaureate MSN track in Fall 2024 to expand access and affordability for aspiring midwives. The program reports an impressive 91% first-attempt pass rate on the AMCB national certification examination.
For working RNs seeking flexibility, numerous online ACME-accredited master’s programs in nurse-midwifery are available from institutions nationwide, including programs at neighboring schools such as Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia), University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University (New York).
Program Options for Aspiring Nurse-Midwives
| Program Type | Designed For | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MSN/MS Programs | RNs with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees | 2-3 years full-time |
| RN-to-MSN Programs | RNs with associate’s degrees in nursing | 3-4 years full-time |
| Post-Graduate Programs | RNs with an MSN wanting to add CNM certification | 1-2 years full-time |
| DNP Programs | RNs seeking the highest level of clinical preparation | 3-4 years full-time |
Admissions Requirements for Nurse-Midwifery Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, most nursing schools require the following for admission into a master’s degree program in nurse-midwifery:
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent nursing degree
- Minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
- Personal statement or essay
- Resume detailing clinical experience (some programs require 1-2 years of RN experience)
- Interview (for select candidates)
- GRE scores (required by some programs)
RNs with an associate’s degree can pursue an RN-to-MSN bridge program, which allows them to earn both a BSN and MSN in nurse-midwifery through an accelerated pathway.
Dual-Focus Program Options
Many ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs offer dual-focus tracks structured as nurse-midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP) programs. Rutgers offers a dual Women’s Health/Nurse-Midwifery DNP that prepares graduates for both CNM and WHNP certification. Graduates of these programs can sit for both CNM and WHNP-BC examinations, becoming dually certified and licensed in both specialties. This dual credential expands career opportunities and the scope of practice.
Program Curriculum and Clinical Requirements
Graduate degree programs in nurse-midwifery consist of both academic coursework and extensive clinical practice hours:
Core Coursework (Examples)
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology
- Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care
- Newborn Care
- Primary Care for Women
- Healthcare Ethics and Policy
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
- Leadership in Advanced Practice Nursing
Clinical Requirements
ACME-accredited programs require a minimum of 500-1,000 supervised clinical hours. These experiences provide hands-on training in various aspects of midwifery care under the guidance of experienced preceptors. For students in online programs, clinical placements are arranged near their location, allowing them to gain practical experience while studying remotely.
The Rutgers School of Nursing nurse-midwifery program offers clinical placements throughout New Jersey and neighboring states. Online programs help students secure placements at approved healthcare facilities near their residences.
Notable Clinical Sites in New Jersey
- Hackensack University Medical Center
- Morristown Medical Center
- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick
- Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune
- St. Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick
- University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro
- Capital Health Medical Center, Hopewell
- Virtua Voorhees Hospital
- Various community-based birthing centers and midwifery practices
Step 2. Pass the National Certification Examination in Nurse-Midwifery
After completing an ACME-accredited graduate program in nurse-midwifery, candidates must pass the national Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
Certification Process Timeline
| Stage | Timeframe | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submission | Within 24 months of graduation | Completed application form, verification of education, and fees |
| Exam Scheduling | 2-4 weeks after application approval | Selection of the testing center and date |
| Examination | 4-hour computer-based test | 175 multiple-choice questions |
| Results | Immediate preliminary results | Official results within 2-3 weeks |
CNM Examination Content
The CNM examination assesses competency across all areas of midwifery practice. The exam content is distributed as follows:
- Antepartum Care: 15-25%
- Intrapartum Care: 25-35%
- Postpartum Care: 5-10%
- Newborn Care: 10-15%
- Well Woman/Gynecology: 15-20%
- Primary Care: 12-16%
- Professional Issues: up to 5%
The AMCB Candidate Handbook provides detailed information about the examination, including sample questions and test-taking strategies. The examination fee is $500 (as of 2025), and candidates may attempt the exam up to four times if necessary.
Testing Locations
The CNM examination is administered through PSI Testing Centers located throughout the United States. In New Jersey, testing centers are available in:
- Cherry Hill
- Fairfield
- Hamilton Township
- Princeton
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (Optional)
Graduates of dual-focus Nurse-Midwife/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner programs may also take the Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) examination through the National Certification Corporation (NCC). This additional certification broadens practice opportunities and may be especially valuable for CNMs working in outpatient settings focused on well-woman care.
The WHNP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering:
- Gynecology (35-40%)
- Obstetrics (25-30%)
- Primary Care (10-15%)
- Pharmacology (5-10%)
- Professional Issues (5-10%)
- Assessment and Diagnostic Testing (10-15%)
Step 3. Apply for Licensure through the New Jersey Board of Nursing
After obtaining CNM certification through the AMCB, the next step is to apply for licensure through the New Jersey Board of Nursing. In New Jersey, certified nurse-midwives are licensed as Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) with a specialty in nurse-midwifery.
Nurse-Midwife Licensure Requirements
To become licensed as a nurse-midwife in New Jersey, candidates must submit the following to the New Jersey Board of Nursing:
- Completed Application for Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife
- Official transcripts from an ACME-accredited graduate program (sent directly from the institution)
- Verification of current, unencumbered New Jersey RN license
- Proof of current certification as a CNM from the AMCB
- Three recent passport-sized photographs
- Criminal background check results (fingerprinting required)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status
- Application fee ($125)
Prescriptive Authority
Nurse-midwives in New Jersey may apply for prescriptive authority as part of their licensure process. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate completion of at least 30 contact hours of education in pharmacology and therapeutics. This education must be relevant to the CNM’s specialty area and may be obtained through:
- Graduate-level pharmacology courses are included in the nurse-midwifery program
- Continuing education courses in advanced pharmacology
- A combination of graduate coursework and continuing education
The application for prescriptive authority includes a verification form that the educational institution must complete to confirm the required pharmacology education. An additional fee of $50 is required for prescriptive authority.
Important Regulatory Update: Pending Legislation
- S3701 would provide independent prescriptive authority for all midwives, removing the requirement for standing orders with a collaborative physician while maintaining pharmacology education requirements
- S1975 (Midwifery Licensing Act) would create an independent State Board of Midwifery and transfer regulatory authority from the Board of Medical Examiners
- A944 would allow APNs with more than 24 months or 2,400 hours of practice to function without joint protocols
These changes could fundamentally alter practice requirements for CNMs in New Jersey. Prospective students should monitor legislative developments through the New Jersey Affiliate of the American College of Nurse-Midwives.
Collaborative Practice Agreement
New Jersey law currently requires CNMs to collaborate with a licensed physician. This agreement defines the parameters of the collaborative relationship, including:
- Consultation procedures
- Referral protocols
- Methods of communication
- Coverage during absence
- Clinical practice guidelines (if applicable)
Although this agreement is required, New Jersey nurse-midwives have a relatively broad scope of practice, enabling them to provide comprehensive care to women throughout their lifespan. Pending legislation may modify or eliminate this requirement in the near future.
Application Processing
The complete application packet should be submitted to:
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General
Division of Consumer Affairs
State Board of Medical Examiners
Midwifery Liaison Committee
140 East Front Street, 2nd Floor, PO Box 183
Trenton, NJ 08625
Application processing typically takes 4-6 weeks. Once approved, licensees receive formal notification and can verify their license status through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs License Verification Portal.
Step 4. Discover Potential Job Opportunities and Maintain Licensure and Certification
With approximately 240-450 certified nurse-midwives currently practicing in New Jersey (as of 2025), the profession continues to grow in response to increased demand for midwifery services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a strong 12% increase in nurse-midwife positions in the state between 2022 and 2032, reflecting excellent employment prospects for newly licensed CNMs. This growth rate exceeds many other healthcare professions and is driven by increased recognition of midwifery care’s benefits, workforce shortages, and state initiatives to improve maternal health outcomes.
Practice Settings for Nurse-Midwives in New Jersey
Certified nurse-midwives in New Jersey practice in diverse healthcare settings, including:
| Setting | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital-Based Practice | Full-scope midwifery within hospital labor and delivery units | Hackensack University Medical Center, Morristown Medical Center |
| Outpatient Women’s Health Centers | Well-woman care, family planning, and gynecology services | Rutgers Health Women’s Care, Atlantic Health Women’s Health |
| Birth Centers | Freestanding facilities offering lower-intervention birth options | Our Birthing Center on the Hudson, The Birth Center of New Jersey |
| Private Practice | Midwife-owned practices are often affiliated with hospitals | Avalon Midwives, Holistic Women’s Healthcare |
| Federally Qualified Health Centers | Community-based care for underserved populations | Zufall Health Center, CompleteCare Health Network |
Major Employers of Nurse-Midwives in New Jersey
The following healthcare systems and organizations regularly employ certified nurse-midwives in New Jersey:
- RWJBarnabas Health System
- Atlantic Health System
- Hackensack Meridian Health
- Virtua Health
- St. Peter’s Healthcare System
- Capital Health Medical Center
- The Valley Hospital
- Hunterdon Healthcare
- CarePoint Health
- Inspira Health Network
- Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey
State Workforce Development Initiatives
- Nurture NJ aims to make New Jersey “the safest and most equitable place in the nation to deliver and raise a baby,” with goals to reduce maternal mortality by 50% and eliminate racial disparities
- Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center (MIHIC) in Trenton receives up to $17 million in federal funding over 10 years for workforce training, clinical services, and maternal health research
- Medicaid Reimbursement Improvements now reimburse midwives at 100% of Medicare rates (up from 50%), ensuring payment parity with physicians
- New Jersey Midwifery Education Project at Rutgers provides preceptor compensation, student scholarships, and maintains a state-of-the-art simulation center
Maintaining Certification and Licensure
To continue practicing as a CNM in New Jersey, midwives must maintain both their national certification and state licensure:
AMCB Certification Renewal
- Recertification is required every five years
- Three certification maintenance modules must be completed
- 20 contact hours of continuing education related to midwifery practice
- Current attestation of licensure as an RN and CNM
- Payment of the recertification fee
New Jersey License Renewal
- APN license renewal is required every two years (biennial)
- RN license renewal (separate process, also biennial)
- 30 contact hours of continuing education per renewal cycle, including:
- At least 15 hours in pharmacology for CNMs with prescriptive authority
- One hour on prescription opioid drugs (including alternatives to opioids, risks of abuse and addiction)
- One hour on implicit and explicit bias for healthcare professionals providing perinatal care (per P.L. 2021, Chapter 79)
- Two hours on end-of-life care
- One-time requirement of six hours in controlled substance prescribing
- Payment of renewal fees ($100 for APN license renewal)
Professional Organizations for New Jersey Nurse-Midwives
Joining professional organizations provides opportunities for networking, continuing education, and advocacy. Key organizations for New Jersey nurse-midwives include:
- New Jersey Affiliate of American College of Nurse-Midwives
- American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM)
- New Jersey State Nurses Association (NJSNA)
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
Salaries for Certified Nurse-Midwives in New Jersey
New Jersey offers highly competitive compensation for certified nurse-midwives, with salaries that consistently rank among the highest in the nation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), the annual salary ranges for CNMs in New Jersey are:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th percentile) | $106,630 |
| Early Career (25th percentile) | $133,020 |
| Mid-Career (50th percentile/median) | $135,680 |
| Experienced (75th percentile) | $154,000 |
| Highly Experienced (90th percentile) | $161,010 |
New Jersey’s median CNM salary of $135,680 exceeds the national median of $128,790 by approximately 5-6%, reflecting the state’s high demand for skilled midwifery professionals and its strong commitment to improving maternal health outcomes.
Salary by Metropolitan Area (2023 Data)
Earnings vary by region within New Jersey and in neighboring metropolitan areas (based on BLS May 2023 data, as 2024 metropolitan data is unavailable):
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $124,780 | $88,910 to $162,840 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $105,630 | $76,420 to $137,530 |
| Trenton | $108,390 | $77,810 to $140,830 |
| Atlantic City-Hammonton | $98,650 | $90,320 to $146,970 |
Factors Affecting Nurse-Midwife Salaries
Several factors influence earning potential for CNMs in New Jersey:
- Experience: Salaries typically increase with years of practice, with experienced CNMs earning $20,000-$30,000 more than entry-level practitioners
- Education: Doctoral-prepared CNMs (DNP) may command higher salaries and have enhanced opportunities for leadership positions
- Practice Setting: Hospital-based positions often offer higher base salaries than birth centers, though compensation models vary
- Urban vs. Rural: Urban metropolitan areas, particularly Newark-Jersey City, generally offer higher compensation
- Specialization: Additional certifications or specialties can increase earning potential
- Employment Model: Salaried positions vs. fee-for-service or mixed compensation models
Certified nurse-midwives who maintain dual certification as Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNP-BC) may have enhanced employment opportunities and earning potential, particularly in outpatient settings focused on comprehensive women’s health care beyond pregnancy and childbirth.
Salary data for nurse-midwives reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2024 for statewide data and May 2023 for metropolitan data. 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 January 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Nurse-Midwife in New Jersey
What is the scope of practice for Certified Nurse-Midwives in New Jersey?
Certified Nurse-Midwives in New Jersey have a comprehensive scope of practice that includes primary care, gynecological care, family planning services, preconception care, care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, and care of the normal newborn during the first 28 days of life. CNMs with prescriptive authority can prescribe medications, including controlled substances, within their scope of practice. New Jersey currently requires CNMs to practice within a collaborative agreement with a licensed physician, though pending legislation (S3701 and S1975) may modify or eliminate this requirement to allow independent practice authority.
Is Rutgers the only nurse-midwifery program in New Jersey?
Yes, Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark is currently the only ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program in New Jersey. In February 2025, Rutgers received full continued accreditation through February 2035 with no conditions. The program offers multiple pathways, including MSN, DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate options, and launched a new post-baccalaureate MSN track in Fall 2024. The program maintains an impressive 91% first-attempt pass rate on the AMCB certification examination. Students seeking alternatives can pursue programs at nearby institutions like Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia or online ACME-accredited programs from schools nationwide.
Can I practice as a CNM in New Jersey if I was certified in another state?
Yes, New Jersey does recognize CNM certification from other states, but you must apply for licensure in New Jersey. You’ll need to submit verification of your current CNM certification from the AMCB, proof of RN licensure in New Jersey, and evidence that you meet all other state requirements, including background checks. The process is similar to initial licensure but may be expedited if you have an active license in good standing from another state.
What is the average salary for nurse-midwives in New Jersey?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual salary for nurse-midwives in New Jersey is $135,680—approximately 5-6% higher than the national median of $128,790. Entry-level salaries start at around $106,630, while experienced nurse-midwives can earn up to $161,010 or more, depending on the region and practice setting. The New York-Newark-Jersey City metropolitan area offers some of the highest compensation in the state.
What is the average time to complete a nurse-midwifery program in New Jersey?
The time to complete a nurse-midwifery program depends on the specific educational path and whether you attend full-time or part-time. For a BSN-prepared nurse, a typical MSN nurse-midwifery program takes 2-3 years full-time. RN-to-MSN bridge programs for nurses with an associate’s degree typically take 3-4 years. DNP programs in nurse-midwifery generally require 3-4 years of full-time study. Rutgers’ nurse-midwifery program offers both full-time and part-time options, with the part-time track extending program length by approximately one year.
Are there any loan forgiveness programs for CNMs in New Jersey?
Yes, several loan forgiveness programs are available to nurse-midwives practicing in New Jersey. The NJCLASS Loan Redemption Program for Primary Care Providers offers up to $120,000 in loan redemption for CNMs who practice in designated underserved areas in New Jersey for a minimum of four years. Additionally, CNMs may qualify for federal programs such as the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Can I attend an online nurse-midwifery program while living in New Jersey?
Yes, you can attend an online ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program while residing in New Jersey. These programs combine online didactic coursework with in-person clinical placements arranged near your location. Many online programs have established relationships with clinical sites throughout New Jersey. Before enrolling, confirm that the program can secure appropriate clinical placements in your area and meets all New Jersey licensure requirements. Some popular online programs among New Jersey students include those offered by Georgetown University, Frontier Nursing University, and Thomas Jefferson University.
What is the difference between a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses with graduate education in nursing and midwifery. They are licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners through the Midwifery Liaison Committee, can practice in all settings (hospitals, birth centers, homes), and have prescriptive authority. Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), in contrast, are not required to have nursing backgrounds and typically focus on out-of-hospital births. New Jersey recognizes both CNMs and Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), but their scopes of practice, educational requirements, and practice settings differ significantly. CNMs generally have more extensive hospital privileges and broader prescriptive authority than CPMs.