Last Updated: June 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) in South Dakota are advanced practice registered nurses who provide essential healthcare services to women throughout their lifespan. From prenatal care and labor support to postpartum care and gynecological services, nurse midwives play a crucial role in South Dakota’s healthcare system. This comprehensive guide outlines how to become a nurse midwife in South Dakota, including education requirements, certification processes, and career opportunities.
The demand for nurse midwifery programs continues to grow as more women seek personalized, evidence-based care. In South Dakota, nurse midwives combine traditional birthing practices with modern medical expertise, making them valuable healthcare providers in both urban and rural communities.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, approximately 7-10.99% of births in South Dakota were attended by midwives in 2018, reflecting the growing acceptance and demand for midwifery care in the state.
The South Dakota Board of Nursing defines the scope of practice for certified nurse midwives to include:
- Providing advanced nursing assessment, intervention, and case management
- Delivering comprehensive health promotion and maintenance education
- Offering counseling to clients, families, and healthcare team members
- Consulting with and referring clients to other healthcare providers when necessary
“Pursuing my CNM degree through an online program while completing clinical rotations in South Dakota was the perfect pathway for me. The flexibility allowed me to continue working while gaining the advanced skills needed to provide comprehensive women’s healthcare. Now I’m practicing at a tribal health clinic, making a real difference in my community.” – Amanda S., CNM Graduate
Steps to Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife in South Dakota
Registered nurses in South Dakota who want to become certified nurse midwives must obtain Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) licensure through the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve your CNM certification:
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Graduate Degree in Nurse-Midwifery
The first step to becoming a nurse midwife in South Dakota involves completing a master’s degree or higher in nurse-midwifery accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), the sole accrediting agency for accredited nurse midwifery programs in the United States.
Educational Pathways for Aspiring CNMs
Since South Dakota does not currently host an ACME-accredited nurse midwifery program, aspiring CNMs must enroll in online programs or out-of-state institutions. Several educational pathways are available to accommodate registered nurses with different academic backgrounds:
| Degree Type | Duration | Target Audience | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 2-3 years full-time | RNs with BSN degrees | 500-1,000 hours |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | 3-4 years | RNs seeking a terminal degree | 1,000+ hours |
| RN-to-MSN Bridge Programs | 3-4 years | RNs with associate degrees | 500-1,000 hours |
| Post-Graduate Certificates | 12-18 months | RNs with master’s degrees | 500-1,000 hours |
Master’s Degree in Nurse-Midwifery Program Components
All ACME-accredited nurse midwifery programs consist of two essential components: comprehensive didactic coursework and extensive clinical training. The core curriculum includes advanced courses in:
- Advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning
- Nurse-midwifery management during antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods
- Comprehensive well-woman healthcare and newborn care
- Management of complications in low-risk and high-risk pregnancies
- Health promotion, disease prevention, and primary care
- Assessment and management of primary care conditions
- Clinical pharmacology and prescriptive authority
- Professional practice issues and healthcare policy
Clinical Training and Practicum Sites
The clinical component of nurse midwifery programs typically requires 500 to 1,000 hours of hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Students complete rotations in antepartum care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, newborn care, well woman care, and primary care services.
In South Dakota, CNM students may complete clinical rotations at approved sites, including:
- Avera Medical Group Women’s Midlife Care Hospital, Sioux Falls
- Sanford Clinic Women’s Health, Sioux Falls
- Women’s Wellness Center, Huron
- Regional Health Spearfish Regional Medical Clinic, Rapid City
- Indian Health Service facilities in tribal communities
Dual-Focus Programs and Specialty Options
Many institutions offer dual-focus nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner programs, allowing students to earn certification in both specialties. These programs provide broader scope of practice opportunities and enhanced career flexibility.
Admission Requirements for CNM Programs
Most ACME-accredited nurse midwifery programs require applicants to meet specific prerequisites:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| RN License | Active, unencumbered license in good standing |
| Educational Background | BSN degree (for MSN programs) or ADN (for bridge programs) |
| GPA Requirement | Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA |
| Nursing Experience | 1-2 years clinical experience (preferred) |
| Standardized Tests | GRE scores (some programs) |
| Application Materials | Letters of recommendation, personal statement, transcripts |
For students in South Dakota seeking accredited nurse-midwifery programs, online CNM programs offer excellent flexibility while maintaining high academic standards. These programs often partner with local healthcare facilities to arrange clinical placements, ensuring students gain relevant experience in South Dakota’s unique healthcare landscape. When researching MSN, DNP, and post-master’s CNM degrees, focus on ACME-accredited programs that offer strong clinical partnerships and comprehensive preparation for national certification.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
After graduating from an ACME-accredited nurse midwifery program, aspiring CNMs in South Dakota must pass the national certification examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
AMCB Certification Examination Details
The computer-based CNM certification examination consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that assess clinical knowledge and competency in key areas of nurse-midwifery practice. The exam covers:
- Antepartum care and risk assessment
- Intrapartum management and emergency procedures
- Postpartum care and lactation support
- Gynecological primary care and contraceptive counseling
- Newborn care and assessment
- Primary care across the lifespan
- Professional practice and ethical considerations
Examination Application Process
Candidates must complete the following steps to schedule their certification examination:
- Submit the online application through the AMCB portal
- Pay the $500 examination fee
- Provide proof of RN licensure
- Submit official transcripts from an ACME-accredited program
- Disclose any disciplinary actions or criminal history
- Receive approval and authorization to test (ATT)
Testing Locations in South Dakota
In South Dakota, candidates can take the AMCB certification examination at PSI testing centers located in:
- Rapid City
- Sioux Falls
Results are available immediately upon completion of the examination, and successful candidates receive their certification credentials within 2-3 weeks.
Dual Certification Options
Graduates of dual-specialty programs may also choose to pursue Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) certification through the National Certification Corporation, expanding their scope of practice and career opportunities.
Step 3. Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the South Dakota Board of Nursing
To practice as a certified nurse midwife in South Dakota, candidates must obtain Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the South Dakota Board of Nursing. This process includes several requirements and involves a transition period of supervised practice.
Initial APRN License Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the CNM Initial License Application along with the following documentation:
| Requirement | Fee/Details |
|---|---|
| Completed application | Signed and notarized |
| Application fee | $100 |
| Criminal background check | Contact the Board at 605-362-2760 for the packet |
| Official transcripts | From an ACME-accredited program |
| CNM certification | Current AMCB certification |
| Collaborative agreement | With a licensed physician or an experienced CNM |
Supervised Practice Requirements
New CNMs in South Dakota must complete 1,040 hours of supervised practice before transitioning to independent practice. This supervision includes:
- First 30 days: Direct supervision with preceptor present during patient encounters
- Remaining period: Biweekly supervision meetings and chart reviews
- Documentation: Detailed logs of supervised hours and patient encounters
Temporary Practice Permits
Candidates awaiting examination results or licensure processing may apply for a 120-day temporary permit ($25 fee), which allows them to practice under supervision while completing the licensure process.
Prescriptive Authority and Controlled Substances
To prescribe medications, including controlled substances, CNMs in South Dakota must:
- Maintain a current Collaborative Practice Agreement
- Register for Controlled Substances Registration through the South Dakota Department of Health
- Ensure collaborative agreement specifically authorizes prescriptive privileges
Independent Practice Pathway
After completing 1,040 hours of supervised practice, CNMs may apply to retire their Collaborative Practice Agreement and practice independently by submitting a Practice Verification Form signed by their supervising physician or employer.
Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in South Dakota and Maintain Credentials
Certified nurse midwives in South Dakota must maintain their RN license, APRN license, and national certification to continue practicing. Understanding renewal requirements and exploring career opportunities are essential for long-term success in the profession.
License and Certification Renewal Requirements
APRN License Renewal (South Dakota Board of Nursing):
- Biennial renewal coinciding with RN license renewal
- $70 renewal fee (or $160 for combined RN/APRN renewal)
- Proof of active CNM certification
- Completion of continuing education requirements
CNM Certification Renewal (AMCB):
- Five-year certification cycles
- Option 1: Complete 3 AMCB Certificate Maintenance Modules plus 20 CE hours and pay annual fees
- Option 2: Retake AMCB certification examination ($500 fee)
WHNP Certification Renewal (if applicable):
- Three-year maintenance cycles
- Continuing competency assessment
- Specified continuing education credit hours based on assessment results
Career Settings and Practice Opportunities
South Dakota offers diverse employment opportunities for certified nurse midwives across various healthcare settings:
| Practice Setting | Examples in South Dakota | Services Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital Systems | Avera McKennan Hospital, Sanford USD Medical Center | Labor & delivery, high-risk pregnancies |
| Tribal Healthcare | Indian Health Service (Pine Ridge, Eagle Butte) | Comprehensive women’s health, cultural care |
| Private Practices | Dakota Women’s Clinic (Mitchell) | Prenatal care, gynecological services |
| Community Health | Rural health clinics, federally qualified health centers | Primary care, preventive services |
Professional Organizations and Resources
CNMs in South Dakota benefit from joining professional organizations that provide continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities:
- American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM)
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
- South Dakota Organization of Nurse Executives
- Regional midwifery practice groups
CNM Salary Information and Job Outlook in South Dakota
The career outlook for certified nurse midwives in South Dakota is exceptionally positive, driven by increasing demand for women’s healthcare services and the growing acceptance of midwifery care. National and regional trends indicate strong job growth and competitive compensation for Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs).
Salary Data and Compensation Trends
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for nurse midwives in 2023 was $129,860 annually. While state-specific data for South Dakota nurse midwives is not separately published, compensation typically varies based on several factors:
| Experience Level | National Average Range | Factors Affecting Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $95,000 – $115,000 | Geographic location, practice setting |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $115,000 – $140,000 | Dual certification, leadership roles |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $140,000 – $170,000+ | Advanced certifications, practice ownership |
Job Growth and Demand Projections
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects exceptional growth for nurse-midwife positions, with national demand expected to increase by 45% between 2019 and 2029. In South Dakota specifically, several factors contribute to strong job prospects:
- Rural Healthcare Needs: Limited obstetric services in rural areas create opportunities for CNMs to fill critical gaps
- Increasing Birth Rates: Between 2004 and 2009, out-of-hospital births in South Dakota increased by 92%
- Healthcare Cost Considerations: CNM-attended births often result in lower healthcare costs and improved patient satisfaction
- Cultural Preferences: Growing demand for personalized, holistic maternity care
Recent Job Opportunities in South Dakota
Recent job postings for CNMs in South Dakota illustrate the diversity of available opportunities:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife positions at Indian Health Service facilities
- Hospital-based CNM roles at major medical centers
- Locum tenens opportunities for flexible practice
- Military healthcare positions with competitive benefits
- Private practice partnerships in growing communities
(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 Becoming a CNM in South Dakota
Are there any nurse-midwifery programs in South Dakota?
Currently, South Dakota does not host any ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery programs. Aspiring CNMs must enroll in online programs or attend out-of-state institutions while completing clinical rotations at approved South Dakota healthcare facilities.
How long does it take to become a certified nurse-midwife in South Dakota?
The timeline varies based on your starting point: RNs with BSN degrees typically complete MSN programs in 2-3 years, while those with associate degrees may need 3-4 years for RN-to-MSN programs. Add 6-12 months for certification and licensure processes.
Can CNMs practice independently in South Dakota?
Yes, after completing 1,040 hours of supervised practice, certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) may apply to practice independently. New graduates must initially practice under a Collaborative Practice Agreement with a physician or experienced CNM.
What is the scope of practice for nurse-midwives in South Dakota?
CNMs in South Dakota provide comprehensive women’s healthcare, including prenatal care, labor and delivery management, postpartum care, gynecological services, contraceptive counseling, and primary care. They cannot perform surgical deliveries but may assist in cesarean sections.
Do CNMs in South Dakota have prescriptive authority?
Yes, CNMs may prescribe medications, including controlled substances, under a Collaborative Practice Agreement. They must register for controlled substance privileges through the South Dakota Department of Health.
What are the continuing education requirements for CNMs in South Dakota?
CNMs must maintain AMCB certification through either completing 3 Certificate Maintenance Modules plus 20 CE hours every five years, or retaking the certification examination. State APRN license renewal occurs biennially.