Last Updated: January 2026 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Learning how to become a nurse midwife in Utah opens doors to a rewarding career in women’s healthcare within one of the most supportive regulatory environments in the United States. Utah recognizes multiple types of midwives, with Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) distinguished as advanced practice registered nurses who can provide comprehensive care in hospital, birth center, and home settings. The practice of midwifery has long been embraced among Utah’s population, thriving within a regulatory framework that supports and respects the autonomy of nurse-midwives.
Utah remains an independent practice state where nurse-midwives practice independently without being required to hold a collaborative practice agreement with a physician. Recent statistics show that approximately 13% of births in Utah were attended by midwives in 2023, reflecting growing acceptance of midwifery care across the state.
Utah’s certified nurse-midwives are licensed as advanced practice nurses and provide a full range of services to women of all ages and stages of life. In addition to caring for expectant mothers and attending childbirth, these healthcare leaders provide:
- Family planning services
- Reproductive education
- Gynecological checkups
- Preconception planning and care
- Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases
- Care of the newborn during the first 28 days of life
“The University of Utah’s nurse-midwifery program prepared me not just clinically, but as a leader in women’s healthcare. The hands-on training and mentorship from faculty made all the difference in my confidence as a practicing CNM in Salt Lake City.” – Lisa A, CNM Graduate
Steps to Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife in Utah
RNs in Utah looking to advance their education and scope of practice to become certified nurse midwives (CNM) must meet the requirements for national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board and CNM licensure through the Utah Department of Commerce-Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). This guide explains how:
Step 1. Earn a Qualifying Doctoral or Master’s Degree in Nurse-Midwifery
The journey to becoming a CNM in Utah begins with establishing a strong educational foundation as a registered nurse. Earning a certified nurse-midwife license in Utah starts by completing a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery accredited by the American Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
Basic Admission Requirements
Prospective CNMs must first complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, though some programs accept an RN-to-MSN bridge pathway. Following BSN completion, candidates must successfully pass the NCLEX examination and obtain an active RN license. Utah law specifically requires that applicants hold “a license in good standing as a registered nurse in Utah, or be at that time qualified for a license as a registered nurse under Title 58, Chapter 31b, Nurse Practice Act.”
| Requirement | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| BSN Degree | Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited program | 4 years |
| RN License | Pass the NCLEX and obtain an active RN license | Upon BSN completion |
| Clinical Experience | Minimum 1 year as a registered nurse (recommended) | 1 year post-licensure |
| Graduate Degree | ACME-accredited master’s or doctoral degree in nurse-midwifery | 2-3 years |
University of Utah Nurse-Midwifery Program
The University of Utah offers one of the premier nurse-midwifery programs in the nation, representing the oldest continually operating Nurse-Midwifery track west of the Mississippi and now ranking #6 nationally in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Graduate Schools rankings (up from #11 in 2024). This nationally recognized program has transitioned to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, reflecting the profession’s move toward doctoral-level preparation.
The program emphasizes preparing clinically, culturally, and philosophically competent nurse midwives who can provide excellent care to women, newborns, and families while serving as leaders in their communities. With a 100% combined national certification pass rate and full accreditation through July 2026, the University of Utah stands as the only ACME-accredited nurse-midwifery program in Utah.
The curriculum includes hands-on training with on-campus simulations, as well as clinical experiences that begin in the third semester. The DNP program requires 840 direct patient care hours over 8 semesters (approximately 3 years). Most clinical rotations are conducted with faculty preceptors in the Salt Lake City area. The program focuses on preparing graduates to influence public policy through professional engagement and participation in health policy activities at local and global levels.
Program Options and Structure
Schools that offer graduate degrees in nurse-midwifery often provide students with several options:
- Part-Time/Full-Time Programs: While full-time ACME-accredited master’s degrees in nurse-midwifery take about two years to complete, part-time programs take about three years to complete. The University of Utah’s DNP program is designed as a full-time 8-semester program. The slower pace of part-time programs is often the ideal choice for practicing RNs juggling education and full-time employment.
- Hybrid Learning Formats: Many institutions offering nurse-midwifery programs provide hybrid formats combining synchronous and asynchronous online learning with some on-campus requirements. The University of Utah’s program uses this approach, allowing students flexibility while maintaining high-quality clinical preparation.
- Dual-Specialization Programs: Many students opt to pursue dual-specialization programs to gain a deeper foundation in women’s health and expand their practice options. The University of Utah offers a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner/Nurse-Midwifery dual track requiring 9 semesters and 1,200 clinical hours.
Core Curriculum
Programs in nurse-midwifery consist of two components: a didactic component and a clinical component, both of which provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver healthcare to women of all ages. The core curriculum includes:
- Advanced health assessment
- Advanced pharmacology
- Healthcare for women and primary care
- Antepartum care
- Intrapartum and postpartum care
- Newborn care
- Reproductive physiology
- Advanced pathophysiology
- Fetal evaluation
- Perspectives in nurse-midwifery
The clinical component may consist of up to 1,000 hours of practice and includes placement in a full continuum of nurse-midwifery practice sites, such as private practice, birth centers, hospitals, and community clinics.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
Upon successfully graduating from a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery, RNs in Utah must take and pass the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) examination through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
National Certification Process
The AMCB serves as the national certifying body for Certified Nurse-Midwives and has been providing certification by examination since 1971. This certification represents the gold standard in midwifery certification and serves as a critical component of professional quality assurance in the field.
| Examination Component | Content Areas |
|---|---|
| Antepartum Care | Preconception counseling, prenatal care, and risk assessment |
| Intrapartum Care | Labor management, delivery, and emergency procedures |
| Postpartum Care | Maternal recovery, breastfeeding support, and complications |
| Newborn Care | Initial assessment, ongoing care, and health promotion |
| Well Woman/Gynecological Care | Annual exams, contraception, and reproductive health |
| Women’s Health/Primary Care | Preventive care, chronic conditions, and health maintenance |
The certification examination must be passed within two years of completing the approved education program. Candidates must apply through the AMCB and receive approval to test before scheduling their examination at any PSI Services testing center. PSI has over 300 testing locations across the United States, with multiple locations available in Utah for local candidates.
Graduates of dual-specialization programs in nurse-midwifery/women’s health may also choose to pursue additional certification as a Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) through the National Certification Corporation. However, this requires a separate application and examination process.
Step 3. Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through Utah DOPL
Following successful completion of national certification, candidates must apply for CNM licensure through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. RN candidates who have achieved the CNM designation may apply for initial CNM licensure with the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Application Requirements and Fees (2025-2026)
The application process requires the submission of multiple components. Utah DOPL has updated its fee schedule for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The current initial application fee is $100 (increased from $130), made payable to DOPL. Candidates must complete the Certified Nurse Midwife application and submit it to DOPL along with:
- A $100 application processing fee
- Official transcripts documenting completion of an accredited nurse-midwife program (must be sent directly from the school to the DOPL)
- Proof of CNM designation through AMCB certification
- Verification of active RN license if not currently licensed in Utah
- Fingerprinting for criminal background checks ($12 FBI + $20 BCI processing fees)
Important: Beginning July 1, 2025, DOPL no longer accepts walk-in fingerprinting. All fingerprinting appointments must be scheduled in advance through DOPL’s online system.
New Training Requirements
Utah has implemented new mandatory training requirements for controlled substance prescribers:
- SBIRT Training (since January 2024): All controlled substance prescribers must complete a one-time 3.5-hour SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) training class
- DEA MATE Act Training (since June 2023): All DEA-registered practitioners must complete 8 hours of training on opioid and substance use disorder treatment
Endorsement Pathway
Utah offers a licensure-by-endorsement pathway for certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) currently licensed in other states. To qualify for endorsement, applicants must hold an active CNM license in good standing that has been issued for at least one year from a jurisdiction designated by DOPL as equivalent to Utah.
Controlled Substance Licensing
CNMs planning to prescribe controlled substances must obtain additional licensing through Utah’s controlled substance program. This requires completion of additional application materials and payment of an extra $100 application processing fee. CNMs with controlled substance privileges must also register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and meet specific continuing education requirements related to controlled substance prescribing.
Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Utah and Maintain Credentials
CNMs in Utah must always ensure their CNM designation and CNM license in Utah are in good standing. Utah’s progressive approach to advanced practice nursing positions the state as a favorable environment for midwifery practice, with strong demand across both urban and rural areas.
Scope of Practice
Certified Nurse-Midwives in Utah operate with full independent practice authority for core midwifery services but maintain physician relationships for certain prescriptive authority functions. Utah recognizes CNMs as advanced practice registered nurses, authorized to provide comprehensive primary care for women across the lifespan, including care for adolescents and women in menopause.
CNMs in Utah may prescribe drugs, devices, and Schedule II-V controlled substances, with specific requirements for Schedule II prescribing, including advanced pharmacology education and mentorship requirements for newer practitioners. Utah law recognizes nurse practitioners, including certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), as primary care providers, although with some limitations for pregnancy-related services.
License Renewal Requirements (Updated for 2025-2026)
CNM licenses in Utah expire on January 31 of even-numbered years, requiring renewal every two years. The updated renewal fees for 2025-2026 are:
- Standard CNM License: $73 (increased from $63)
- CNM with Controlled Substance License: $151 total ($73 + $78 controlled substance fee)
- Late Renewal Fee: $20 (if applicable)
| License Type | Renewal Fee (2025-2026) | Frequency | CE Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard CNM License | $73 | Every 2 years (Jan 31) | Maintain AMCB certification |
| CNM with Controlled Substances | $151 | Every 2 years (Jan 31) | 4 hours CE (3.5 controlled substance + 0.5 DOPL tutorial) + suicide prevention training |
APRN Compact Status (2026 Update)
In March 2022, Governor Spencer Cox signed the APRN Compact into law, making Utah the third jurisdiction to enact this legislation. However, as of January 2026, the compact has not yet been implemented. The APRN Compact requires seven participating states before it becomes operational, and currently, only four states have enacted the necessary legislation (North Dakota, Delaware, Utah, and South Dakota). Once implemented with adequate state participation, the APRN Compact will enable practitioners to hold a single multistate license, granting them privileges to practice in other compact states, thereby significantly enhancing opportunities for telehealth services and cross-border practice.
Career Opportunities and Employment Outlook
Utah faces significant workforce gaps in maternal healthcare, with 12 of Utah’s counties having no CNM and 22 of 29 counties designated as primary care shortage areas. This creates exceptional career opportunities for newly licensed CNMs, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
CNMs in Utah exploring opportunities may look to large hospitals, small birth centers, or private practices. Major healthcare systems employing nurse-midwives include:
Intermountain Health operates the largest CNM network in Utah, with midwives delivering at 16 hospitals across the state. Key locations include:
- Intermountain Medical Center, Murray
- LDS Hospital, Salt Lake City
- Orem OB/GYN, Orem
- McKay-Dee Hospital, Ogden
University of Utah Health sites include:
- BirthCare HealthCare (BCHC), Salt Lake City – Baby-Friendly® designated hospital with waterbirth suites
- Madsen Health Center – University of Utah Health Care, Salt Lake City
MountainStar Healthcare facilities include:
- St. Mark’s Hospital, Salt Lake City
- Lone Peak Hospital, Draper
- Brigham City Community Hospital, Brigham City
Additional practice opportunities include:
- Utah Valley Women’s Center, Provo
- Avenue Women’s Center, Salt Lake City
- Jordan River Women’s Health, West Jordan
- American Fork Hospital Women’s Center, American Fork
- Salt Lake Regional Women’s Clinic, Salt Lake City
- Rocky Mountain Women’s Health Center, West Valley City
Professional Resources
Nurse-midwives in Utah looking to open a birth center or start a private midwifery practice may find assistance through state professional associations:
- Utah Midwives Organization – Offers “Find a Midwife” directory, peer review meetings, annual conference, NRP classes, and student membership, including BIPOC scholarships
- Utah Nurses Association
- Utah Small Business Development Centers
- Utah Small Business Administration
Salaries for Certified Nurse-Midwives in Utah
Understanding the earning potential is an important consideration when learning how to become a nurse midwife in Utah. Utah offers competitive compensation for midwives, with salaries exceeding national medians. According to 2024 data, the mean annual salary for nurse-midwives in Utah is $133,930, surpassing the national mean of $129,650.
The salary ranges below reflect the latest available data for nurse-midwives in Utah:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,050 | $38.97 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,040 | $46.17 |
| Median | $114,450 | $55.02 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,060 | $65.89 |
| 90th Percentile | $165,250 | $79.45 |
| Mean (Average) | $133,930 | $64.39 |
In the Ogden-Clearfield metropolitan area, nurse-midwives earn an average of $135,850 annually with a location quotient of 3.38, indicating a significantly higher concentration of CNM employment compared to the national average. When adjusted for Utah’s cost of living (approximately 4% below the national average), the purchasing power of these salaries is even more favorable.
Career Outlook and Job Growth
The employment outlook for certified nurse-midwives in Utah is exceptionally strong. The U.S. Department of Labor projects a 16.7% increase in job projections for nurse-midwives in Utah from 2022 to 2032, significantly exceeding the national average growth rate of 11% for the same period. Nationally, the combined APRN category (which includes CNMs, CRNAs, and NPs) is projected to grow by 35% from 2024 to 2034, adding approximately 134,000 new positions.
The prevalence of nurse-midwives in women’s healthcare in Utah, both in-hospital and out-of-hospital settings, demonstrates strong career potential. Utah maintains one of the nation’s highest birth rates at 13.0 per 1,000 population (compared to 10.7 nationally), with approximately 13% of all Utah births attended by midwives in 2023. Utah had the fourth-highest percentage of at-home births in the United States, with more than 1.5% of all births annually taking place in the home.
However, significant workforce distribution challenges persist. Twelve Utah counties currently have no CNM coverage, and 22 of Utah’s 29 counties are designated as primary care shortage areas. This creates exceptional opportunities for CNMs willing to practice in rural and underserved communities, often with competitive compensation packages and loan forgiveness programs.
(Salary data for nurse-midwives reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2024. Figures represent state data for Utah, 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 2026.)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a nurse midwife in Utah?
The complete pathway typically takes 7-9 years: 4 years for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), 1 year of nursing experience (recommended), and 2-3 years for a graduate degree in nurse-midwifery. The University of Utah’s DNP program requires 8 semesters (approximately 3 years) for full-time students. Part-time programs may extend this timeline to 3-4 years for the graduate degree portion.
Can nurse midwives practice independently in Utah?
Yes, Utah is an independent practice state where CNMs can practice without physician oversight for core midwifery services. However, certain prescriptive authority functions may require physician collaboration, particularly for Schedule II controlled substances.
What is the average salary for a CNM in Utah?
As of 2024, the mean salary for nurse-midwives in Utah is $133,930 statewide, exceeding the national mean of $129,650. The median salary is $114,450. Entry-level positions start around $81,050, while experienced CNMs can earn up to $165,250 or more.
Are there online nurse midwifery programs available for Utah residents?
Yes, many ACME-accredited programs offer online or hybrid didactic coursework for residents of Utah. However, clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved sites, often arranged near your location. The University of Utah also offers a highly ranked on-campus DNP program with hybrid learning components.
Do I need a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to become a nurse midwife in Utah?
Not currently, though the trend is moving toward doctoral-level preparation. Most programs now offer DNP degrees, and the University of Utah has transitioned its program to the DNP level. However, graduates of master’s-level ACME-accredited programs are still eligible for AMCB certification and Utah licensure.
Do I need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to become a nurse midwife in Utah?
Most programs require a BSN, but some offer RN-to-MSN or RN-to-DNP bridge programs for those with an associate degree in nursing. All candidates must be licensed RNs with at least one year of clinical experience (recommended) before starting a graduate midwifery program.
Where can I take the AMCB certification exam in Utah?
The AMCB certification exam is administered by PSI Services at testing centers throughout Utah. PSI has over 300 testing locations across the United States. You can schedule your exam at any PSI testing center once you receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) from AMCB.
How often do CNMs need to renew their license in Utah?
CNM licenses in Utah expire every two years on January 31 of even-numbered years. The next renewal deadline is January 31, 2026. The renewal fee for 2025-2026 is $73 for standard licenses and $151 for those with controlled substance privileges.
What continuing education is required for CNMs in Utah?
CNMs must maintain AMCB certification, which requires completing three Certificate Maintenance Modules and 20 CE hours every five years. Those with controlled substance licenses need an additional 4 hours of CE per licensing period (3.5 hours controlled substance-related plus 0.5 hours DOPL tutorial), plus mandatory suicide prevention training.
Can I transfer my Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) license from another state to Utah?
Yes, Utah offers licensure by endorsement for Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) with active licenses in good standing from equivalent jurisdictions. The license must have been issued for at least one year, and you must verify current AMCB certification.
What is the cost to become licensed as a CNM in Utah?
The application fee for CNM licensure in Utah is $100 (updated for 2025-2026). If you plan to prescribe controlled substances, there’s an additional $100 fee. You’ll also need to pay for the AMCB certification exam ($500 initial payment), fingerprinting fees ($12 FBI + $20 BCI), and any required training courses (SBIRT and DEA MATE Act training).
Does Utah participate in the APRN Compact?
Utah signed the APRN Compact into law in March 2022 under Governor Spencer Cox. However, as of January 2026, the compact has not yet been implemented. The compact requires seven participating states before it becomes operational, and currently only four states have enacted the necessary legislation (North Dakota, Delaware, Utah, and South Dakota). Once implemented, CNMs will be able to practice in other compact states with a single multistate license, greatly enhancing telehealth and cross-border practice opportunities.
What clinical sites are available for midwifery students in Utah?
Utah offers diverse clinical placement opportunities, including McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden, MountainStar Maternal-Fetal Services in Millcreek, Gardner Women’s Center in Salt Lake City, University of Utah’s BirthCare HealthCare, and various other hospitals, birth centers, and private practices throughout the state. The University of Utah program primarily places students at sites in the Salt Lake City area with faculty preceptors.
What are the new training requirements for prescribing controlled substances in Utah?
As of 2024, CNMs seeking controlled substance prescribing privileges must complete two mandatory training programs: a one-time 3.5-hour SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) training class (required since January 2024), and 8 hours of DEA MATE Act training on opioid and substance use disorder treatment (required since June 2023).