Last Updated: June 2025 | Reviewed by Abbie Jacobs
Wyoming offers two distinct pathways for midwifery practice: becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) through Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure, or pursuing Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification. The CNM pathway provides the most comprehensive scope of practice, including prescriptive authority and the ability to practice independently in hospitals, birth centers, and home settings. This guide focuses on the CNM route through master’s degree programs in nurse midwifery.
As a rural state with significant healthcare shortages, Wyoming desperately needs qualified nurse midwives. More than 200,000 residents live in areas the Wyoming Department of Health identifies as having inadequate access to primary care. The National Women’s Law Center reported that only 72% of expectant mothers in Wyoming received prenatal care in their first trimester as of recent data. Certified nurse midwives can address these critical gaps while practicing within their full scope of training, without requiring physician oversight.
CNMs in Wyoming are licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with independent practice authority, allowing them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications without collaborative agreements. This autonomy positions Wyoming nurse midwives to provide essential reproductive healthcare services in underserved rural communities where access to obstetric care is limited.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife in Wyoming
Registered nurses in Wyoming seeking CNM certification must complete a comprehensive process involving advanced education, national certification, and state licensure through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing:
Step 1. Choose Your CNM Degree Program: Master’s and Doctoral Options in Nurse-Midwifery
The foundation of nurse midwifery practice begins with completing a master’s degree or higher from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). Currently, there are 39 ACME-accredited nurse midwifery programs nationwide, including fully online and hybrid options that accommodate working nurses.
CNM Degree Requirements in Wyoming: Master’s, DNP, and Post-Graduate Options
Wyoming’s APRN licensure requirements mandate completion of a qualifying graduate degree in nurse midwifery. Prospective CNMs can choose from several degree pathways, each designed to meet ACME accreditation standards while accommodating different educational backgrounds and career goals.
| CNM Degree Type | Credit Hours | Clinical Requirements | Target Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nurse Midwifery | 45-60 credits | 700-1000 clinical hours | BSN-prepared RNs seeking entry-level CNM preparation |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Midwifery | 75-90 credits | 1000+ clinical hours | RNs seeking a terminal practice degree with a leadership focus |
| Post-Master’s CNM Certificate | 25-35 credits | 500-700 clinical hours | MSN-prepared NPs transitioning to midwifery specialty |
| RN-to-MSN Bridge Programs | 60-75 credits | 700-1000 clinical hours | ADN/Diploma RNs completing BSN and MSN simultaneously |
CNM Programs Available to Wyoming Residents: Online and Regional Options
While Wyoming does not currently host an on-campus nurse midwifery program, residents have access to numerous accredited CNM programs through online and hybrid delivery models. Wyoming’s rural geography makes distance education particularly valuable for working nurses seeking advanced practice preparation.
Recommended Online CNM Programs for Wyoming Students
| Institution | Program Format | Clinical Placement Support | Wyoming Student Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frontier Nursing University | 100% Online MSN/DNP | National clinical coordination | Rural healthcare focus, flexible scheduling |
| Georgetown University | Hybrid MSN | Regional coordinator assistance | Strong alum network, research opportunities |
| University of Cincinnati | Online MSN | Western states’ clinical partnerships | Competitive tuition, dual-focus options |
| Marquette University | Hybrid DNP | Dedicated clinical coordinators | Terminal degree preparation, leadership focus |
Students enrolling in these accredited nurse midwifery programs can complete clinical rotations at Wyoming hospitals, including Wyoming Medical Center (Casper), Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, and other approved healthcare facilities throughout the Mountain West region.
Educational Prerequisites and Program Selection
Wyoming requires all APRNs to hold a master’s degree with an advanced practice nursing focus and preparation specific to a population. Registered nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees can apply directly to traditional MSN programs in nurse midwifery. RNs without BSN credentials may complete both bachelor’s and master’s requirements through ACME-accredited RN-to-MSN bridge programs specifically designed for working nurses.
| Program Type | Prerequisites | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional MSN | BSN, RN license, 1+ years experience | 18-24 months | 700-1000 hours |
| RN-to-MSN Bridge | ADN/Diploma, RN license, 2+ years experience | 24-36 months | 700-1000 hours |
| Post-Master’s Certificate | MSN in a related field, RN license | 12-18 months | 500-700 hours |
| DNP Programs | BSN, RN license, 1+ years experience | 36-48 months | 1000+ hours |
Selecting the Right CNM Program Format for Wyoming Practitioners
For working nurses in Wyoming, online and hybrid nurse midwifery programs offer essential flexibility. Hybrid programs combine online coursework with intensive on-campus sessions lasting 1-2 weeks per semester. Both formats allow students to complete required clinical rotations at hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Wyoming and surrounding states, making quality education accessible to rural practitioners.
“Choosing the online nurse midwifery program allowed me to continue working as an RN in rural Wyoming while pursuing my CNM. The flexibility was incredible, and I was able to complete my clinical rotations at local hospitals. Now I’m providing essential maternal care in communities that desperately need it.” – Anita S., CNM Graduate, Wyoming
Dual-Focus and Specialized Programs
Dual-focus nurse midwife/women’s health nurse practitioner programs have gained popularity among nurses seeking broader primary care responsibilities for women across the lifespan. These comprehensive programs prepare graduates for both Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (WHNP-BC) credentials, significantly expanding practice opportunities and career versatility.
| Core CNM Coursework | Additional NM/WHNP Coursework |
|---|---|
| Advanced Human Pathophysiology | Well Woman Health Care |
| Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics | Primary Care for Women |
| Nurse-Midwifery Care During Labor and Birth | Women’s Health Issues |
| Advanced Health Assessment | The Childbearing Family |
| Theoretical Concepts for Advanced Practice | Advanced Women’s Health Assessment |
For nurses specifically interested in accredited nurse midwifery programs in Wyoming and surrounding states, numerous online CNM programs accept students from Wyoming and provide clinical placement assistance. MSN, DNP, and post-master’s CNM degree options ensure that nurses with diverse educational backgrounds can pursue nurse midwifery specialization through pathways that align with their career goals and circumstances.
Step 2. Take and Pass the National Certification Examination to Become a CNM
Upon graduation from an ACME-accredited program, candidates must achieve national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) Certification Examination in Nurse-Midwifery. This computer-based examination has been modernized through collaboration with PSI Services LLC, providing immediate official results and access to more than 120 testing sites nationally.
AMCB Certification Examination Details
The AMCB examination is a comprehensive 175-question, computer-based test designed to assess entry-level midwifery practice competencies. Candidates must schedule their examination within 24 months of completing the program. The four-hour exam covers six critical categories of midwifery practice, reflecting the full scope of reproductive healthcare services provided by certified nurse midwives.
| Examination Category | Percentage of Questions | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Antepartum Care | 19%-26% | Prenatal assessment, complications, counseling |
| Intrapartum Care | 17%-26% | Labor management, delivery, and emergency care |
| Postpartum Care | 15%-18% | Recovery, breastfeeding, complications |
| Newborn Care | 7%-16% | Assessment, routine care, complications |
| Well Woman/Gynecology | 15%-18% | Annual exams, contraception, and screening |
| Women’s Health/Primary Care | 8%-16% | Common conditions, referrals, and health promotion |
In Wyoming, AMCB examinations are available at testing centers in Casper, Cheyenne, and Green River through PSI Services LLC. The $500 examination fee includes application processing, and candidates receive immediate results upon completion through the computer-based testing (CBT) format, eliminating traditional waiting periods associated with paper-based examinations.
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Certification Option
Graduates of dual-focus programs may also pursue certification as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (WHNP-BC) through the National Certification Corporation. This three-hour, computer-based examination costs $325 and covers five major categories: gynecology (35-40%), obstetrics (25-35%), primary care (10-15%), diagnostic testing and physical assessment (10-15%), and pharmacology (5-10%).
Step 3. Apply for APRN Licensure as a Nurse-Midwife through the Wyoming Board of Nursing
After achieving national certification, CNM candidates must obtain APRN licensure through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. Wyoming is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, requiring specific state licensure for all APRNs practicing within Wyoming boundaries.
Application Requirements and Documentation
The APRN licensure application requires comprehensive documentation and must be submitted by mail to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. The application process typically takes 45-60 days to complete, although timelines vary based on the completeness of documentation and the processing of background checks.
| Required Documentation | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security Card Copy | Valid, legible copy required | Must be current and official |
| Lawful Presence Verification | Birth certificate or driver’s license | One additional form is required |
| Official Program Transcript | From an ACME-accredited program | Must show degree completion |
| National Certification Documentation | AMCB certification verification | Current and valid certification |
| License Fee | $190 for a license | $215 if a temporary permit is requested |
| Background Check Fee | $60 | Federal background check required |
Applications must be mailed to: Wyoming State Board of Nursing, 130 Hobbs Avenue, Suite B, Cheyenne, WY 82002. The board does not accept faxed or emailed applications; all materials must be submitted simultaneously to prevent processing delays.
Scope of Practice and Prescriptive Authority
Wyoming APRNs operate under the scope and standards established by national professional organizations and the Wyoming Nurse Practice Act. The Wyoming State Board of Nursing recognizes APRN core competencies as defined by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, ensuring nurse midwives can practice to their full educational scope while maintaining consistency with national standards.
APRNs seeking prescriptive authority must obtain a Wyoming Controlled Substance Registration through the Board of Pharmacy, which is renewed biennially and is subject to additional fees. All prescriptions must comply with state and federal laws and be signed with “APRN” or the specific role designation. Beginning with DEA registrations after June 27, 2023, practitioners must complete eight hours of education on treating patients with opioid or substance use disorders.
Step 4. Explore Nurse-Midwife Career Options in Wyoming and Maintain Credentials
Upon receiving APRN licensure notification, certified nurse midwives are qualified to begin independent practice throughout Wyoming. The state’s independent practice authority enables CNMs to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare services without requiring collaborative physician agreements, thereby positioning them as essential providers in underserved rural communities.
Employment Opportunities and Practice Settings
Wyoming’s 14 hospitals, numerous physician practices, freestanding birth centers, and women’s health clinics offer diverse employment opportunities for certified nurse midwives. Many CNMs also establish independent practices, capitalizing on Wyoming’s favorable regulatory environment and significant healthcare workforce shortages.
| Practice Setting | Services Provided | Practice Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital-Based Practice | Labor/delivery, high-risk consultations, emergency care | Collaborative environment, comprehensive resources |
| Birth Centers | Natural birth services, prenatal/postpartum care | The midwifery model focuses on personalized care |
| Independent Practice | Full scope midwifery and women’s health services | Practice autonomy, community-focused care |
| Physician Group Practice | Integrated obstetric and gynecologic care | Shared resources, referral relationships |
Geographic Opportunities in Underserved Areas
More than 40% of Wyoming counties lack OB-GYN physicians, creating significant opportunities for nurse midwives to serve as primary healthcare providers for reproductive needs. Counties without OB-GYN services include Big Horn, Carbon, Crook, Hot Springs, Johnson, Lincoln, Niobrara, Sublette, Washakie, and Weston Counties. These areas particularly benefit from CNMs’ ability to provide comprehensive care without the need for physician oversight.
Continuing Education and License Maintenance
Wyoming nursing licenses operate on biennial renewal cycles during even-numbered years. APRNs must maintain current licensure through 400 hours of active nursing practice and proof of current national certification. Those with prescriptive authority must complete three hours of responsible prescribing education related to controlled substances every two years, plus eight hours of substance abuse education as required by federal DEA regulations.
The state utilizes CE Broker for electronic continuing education reporting, streamlining renewal processes, and ensuring accurate record-keeping. License verification is available through nursys.com, and practitioners are encouraged to register for E-notify to receive automated licensure status notifications.
CNM Education Market Analysis: Program Trends and Degree Outcomes
The nurse midwifery education landscape continues evolving, with 89% of new CNMs completing master’s degree programs and 11% pursuing entry-level DNP preparation. Wyoming residents typically choose online or hybrid programs, with 78% of rural students preferring distance education formats that accommodate work schedules and geographic constraints.
| Program Metric | National Average | Online Programs | Wyoming Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMCB Exam Pass Rate (First Attempt) | 87.3% | 89.1% | Excellent outcomes for distance learners |
| Average Program Completion Time | 22 months | 24 months | Slightly longer for working professionals |
| Employment Rate at Graduation | 94.7% | 96.2% | High demand in rural markets |
| Average Educational Debt | $89,500 | $82,300 | Lower costs for online education |
Wyoming Nurse-Midwife Salary Information and Career Outlook
As of 2023, certified nurse midwives in Wyoming can expect competitive compensation reflecting the high demand for their specialized services in underserved areas. National data indicate strong growth potential for the profession, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 31% growth for nurse midwives between 2022 and 2032, significantly higher than the average occupational growth rate.
Salary Data and Employment Projections
While Wyoming-specific salary data for nurse midwives is limited due to the small number of practitioners, national averages provide helpful context for career planning. The median annual salary for nurse midwives nationally was $112,830 in 2023, with experienced practitioners in the 75th and 90th percentiles earning $138,320 and $169,790, respectively.
| Experience Level | National Median Salary (2023) | Wyoming Projection | Practice Setting Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $95,000-$105,000 | $90,000-$100,000 | Rural premium potential |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $110,000-$125,000 | $105,000-$120,000 | Independent practice growth |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $130,000-$170,000 | $125,000-$160,000 | Leadership roles, consultation |
| Independent Practice Owners | $140,000-$200,000+ | $135,000-$190,000+ | Business ownership benefits |
Regional Healthcare Market Analysis
Wyoming’s nurse midwife delivery rate remains below 7% of total births, indicating substantial growth opportunities for new practitioners. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists identified significant geographic disparities in OB-GYN physician distribution, with counties such as Laramie, Campbell, and Teton having physician concentrations above the national average, while vast rural areas remain underserved.
CNMs in Wyoming benefit from independent practice authority, allowing them to establish practices in underserved areas without collaborative agreements. This regulatory advantage, combined with significant healthcare workforce shortages, positions nurse midwives for strong salary growth and career advancement opportunities.
(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 Wyoming
How long does it take to become a nurse midwife in Wyoming?
The timeline varies based on your starting education level. RNs with BSN degrees typically complete MSN programs in 18-24 months, while those needing RN-to-MSN bridge programs require 24-36 months. Add 3-6 months for certification and licensing processes.
Can I practice as a nurse midwife in Wyoming with online education?
Yes, Wyoming accepts graduates from ACME-accredited online and hybrid nurse midwifery programs. Clinical requirements must be completed at approved healthcare facilities, which can be arranged throughout Wyoming and neighboring states.
Does Wyoming require collaborative agreements for nurse midwives?
No, Wyoming grants full independent practice authority to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), including certified nurse-midwives (CNMs). Nurse midwives can practice, prescribe medications, and establish independent practices without physician oversight or collaborative agreements.
What is the difference between CNM and CPM certification in Wyoming?
CNMs are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses with master’s degrees and national AMCB certification, allowing hospital and clinical practice with prescriptive authority. CPMs are licensed through the Wyoming Board of Midwifery for out-of-hospital births without prescriptive privileges.
How often must nurse midwives renew their licenses in Wyoming?
APRN licenses renew biennially during even-numbered years. Renewal requires maintaining current national certification and completing continuing education requirements, including substance abuse education for those with prescriptive authority.
Are there loan forgiveness programs for nurse midwives in Wyoming?
Yes, the National Health Service Corps and Wyoming Health Professional Loan Repayment Program offer loan forgiveness for healthcare providers serving in Health Professional Shortage Areas, which include many rural Wyoming communities.
Can nurse midwives attend home births in Wyoming?
Yes, certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) in Wyoming are authorized to attend home births as part of their independent practice. However, practitioners should verify malpractice insurance coverage and maintain hospital affiliations for emergency transfers when necessary.
What CNM degree programs are available to Wyoming residents?
While Wyoming doesn’t have on-campus programs, residents can access numerous ACME-accredited online and hybrid MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate programs. Popular options include Frontier Nursing University, Georgetown University, the University of Cincinnati, and Marquette University.
Do I need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to pursue a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) degree in Wyoming?
Not necessarily. RNs with BSN degrees can enter traditional MSN programs directly. At the same time, those with ADN or diploma preparation can complete RN-to-MSN bridge programs that fulfill both bachelor’s and master’s requirements simultaneously.
What clinical sites are available for CNM students in Wyoming?
CNM students can complete clinical rotations at Wyoming Medical Center (Casper), Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Banner Health facilities, and other approved hospitals throughout Wyoming and neighboring Mountain West states. Program coordinators assist with arranging clinical placements.
For comprehensive information about nurse midwifery education options, visit our complete guide to midwifery schools and explore career pathways that match your professional goals and geographic preferences.