15 Best MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Are you a bachelor’s-prepared nurse desiring to move your career to the next level? Do you enjoy nursing care focused on women? Does caring for women in their childbearing years interest you? If you answered yes to these questions, MSN nurse-midwifery programs are excellent options to help you make those dreams come to fruition.
If you thought of earning your MSN and becoming a nurse midwife but do not know where to begin, you may question, “What are the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs?” In this article, I will share information with you that answers that question and others about this degree program. As you continue reading, you will learn what it takes to get into the 15 best MSN nurse-midwifery programs for 2025, find information about curriculum plans and schedules, and discover answers to some frequently asked questions.
What Exactly is the Goal of an MSN Nurse Midwifery Program?
The goal of the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs is to prepare nurses for an advanced practice career providing care for women and their families during their adolescent and reproductive years. This includes care during pre-conception, pregnancy, childbirth, post-partum, and the care of newborns. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will give you the clinical skills and experience needed to sit for applicable national certification exams and start your career.
Is an MSN Nurse Midwifery Program Hard to Complete?
Because they are graduate-level programs, MSN nurse-midwifery programs can be challenging. The upper-level nursing coursework, as well as specialized classes and clinical practice experiences, require solid dedication to the program. If you choose to work while enrolled, you may face additional challenges. Good time management and prioritization skills can help alleviate some of the stress and improve your chance of success.
7 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an MSN Nurse Midwifery Program
MSN nurse-midwifery programs will teach you many new skills and abilities. Here are the seven most important ones you can look forward to:
1. You will learn to deliver babies!!:
This may seem obvious, but learning how to deliver babies safely and effectively is a hallmark skill of nurse midwives and one of the most important skills you will learn in MSN nurse-midwifery programs. By the time you graduate from one of these programs, you will have attended a significant number of births and will be prepared to attend deliveries on your own. You may have assisted with or witnessed deliveries as an RN, but being the responsible provider will be a whole different level of excitement.2. You will learn to identify risks and reduce complications in post-partum patients:
Women can experience any number of complications during delivery and in the post-partum period. Knowing what to look for and how to educate patients on what to look for is a critical skill that can save lives. A significant skill you will develop in MSN nurse-midwifery programs is the ability to assess patients to identify potential post-partum risks and reduce their occurrence.3. You will learn to implement evidence-based practice in midwifery care:
As a nurse midwife, you will care for a diverse patient population. Staying abreast of current research findings is crucial to providing quality patient care. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will teach you the critical skills needed to understand and implement evidence-based practice and promote positive patient outcomes. Examples of evidence-based practice in midwifery care include determining whether to use medication during labor and what type or deciding whether to offer nutritional options during labor based on the patient’s status and needs.4. You will learn to utilize advanced health assessment skills:
As a registered nurse, you understand the importance of thorough assessments and how findings impact patient care decisions. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will prepare you with advanced knowledge of assessing patients. You will learn to identify normal health to assist in recognizing deviations from normal health in midwifery patients, including assessing hematologic and cardiovascular, breast, endocrine, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, neurologic, respiratory, and mental health.5. You will develop the ability to integrate cultural safety into all patient care encounters:
Nurse midwives care for patients from diverse backgrounds with different beliefs and cultures. Some common differences you will find when caring for patients is their approach to pregnancy and childbirth. As a nurse midwife, you must show respect for your client's culture and decisions regarding care while providing a safe environment conducive to positive patient outcomes. In MSN nurse-midwifery programs, students learn about ways culture influences patient choices and impacts decisions for health care. When you learn to integrate cultural safety into practice, your patients feel valued, which promotes healthy practitioner/patient relations.6. You will learn to collaborate with other healthcare providers to promote continuity of care:
Continuity of care models have been shown to increase the likelihood of patient compliance, including utilizing preventive and maintenance care. It has also been proven to reduce the risk of preterm and other birth complications and maternal/fetal loss of life. Although you will make autonomous decisions about patient care, you must still collaborate with other professionals to support the continuity of care and promote positive outcomes. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will teach you about important issues that require collaboration and how to promote effective collaboration across healthcare specialties.7. You will develop the ability to identify social determinants of health to promote high-quality patient care:
In midwifery care, social determinants of health may be reflected in the amount or type of support a patient receives from family or friends, her knowledge of available prenatal care, and social issues such as religious or cultural barriers. As a nurse midwife, you will assess all aspects of your patient's well-being, including identifying social determinants that could impact their outcomes. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will prepare you with the knowledge needed to identify these determinants and implement plans to overcome them.7 Main Advantages of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs
Becoming a nurse midwife is an exciting decision with many benefits. As you consider whether to pursue your degree through MSN nurse-midwifery programs, weigh the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide. The following are the five main advantages of pursuing your degree through one of these programs.
1. You get to be part of intimate birth experiences:
One of the biggest advantages of MSN nurse-midwifery programs is you get to share in one of the most intimate life experiences, bringing new life into this world. You can work in various settings, but some of the most intimate birth experiences occur in birthing centers or patient homes, where there is less commotion than in busy hospitals. Either way, MSN nurse-midwifery programs prepare you for the role of a midwifery practitioner so you can enjoy these experiences.2. MSN nurse-midwifery programs prepare you to be a leader in an interdisciplinary healthcare team:
As a nurse midwife, you will work with specialized teams dedicated to providing safe, effective care to clients. Your degree and experience will create opportunities for you to become a leader in midwifery care, which means you can set the pace for the type of care your clients receive.3. You can earn your degree as a nurse midwife in a reasonable amount of time:
Most MSN nurse-midwifery programs can be completed in around two years. You will build off your undergraduate nursing knowledge and skills to expand into this new role. Many students continue to work part-time while in this program, which means they can gain further professional experience and a new degree at the same time.4. You can be instrumental in addressing health disparities in midwifery:
Despite efforts to improve access to care, ethnic and racial minorities historically receive lower quality healthcare than non-minority populations. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to address health disparities among these populations. You could offer your services in underserved areas and help reduce these disparities and improve patient outcomes.5. You will develop strong relationships with clients:
One of the greatest benefits of becoming a nurse midwife is you have opportunities to develop strong relationships with your clients. The compassion and empathy you show to your clients coupled with your professional knowledge and skills, are instrumental in creating trusting practitioner/patient relationships. Many midwifery clients continue to see the same midwife for later pregnancies, which means you can develop long-term relationships.6. MSN nurse-midwifery programs will prepare you to advocate for patients on a level relevant to them:
Advocacy is a crucial tool all nurses can use to promote access to care and improve patient outcomes. In nurse-midwifery programs, you will learn about issues impacting patient populations and discover ways to become an effective advocate on their behalf. You may work on safety and quality initiatives or create resources for practitioners, healthcare administrators, and nursing staff to learn how to support clients during pregnancy, birth, and post-partum care.7. You may be able to open your own practice:
One of the greatest benefits of MSN nurse-midwifery programs is they prepare you with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to open a private practice. Having your own practice means you determine your work hours and the type of patients you serve.3 Main Disadvantages of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs
MSN nurse-midwifery programs are full of advantages. However, like any college or career path, there are also disadvantages to consider. The following are three main disadvantages you may face associated with these programs.
1. Not all Pregnancies and Births End Well:
Despite your best efforts and every precaution a mother takes, not all pregnancies and births have positive outcomes. Women experience miscarriages, stillbirths, hemorrhage, and other complications during delivery. You will experience the sadness, grief, and trauma of your patients firsthand. Your compassion will leave you vulnerable to feeling their pain, as well. The emotions that run rampant in these situations are one of the biggest disadvantages of MSN nurse-midwifery programs and careers.2. The role of a nurse midwife is physically and emotionally demanding:
As a nurse midwife, you may work shifts that require you to be on your feet for several hours each day. You may need to move heavy equipment and patients. To top off the physical demands of the role, being a nurse midwife is also emotionally demanding. Even on days when you escape physical exhaustion, you may feel emotionally overwhelmed or drained.3. Your schedule may be unpredictable:
One of the benefits of becoming an advanced practice nurse is that you can typically find jobs with better schedules. While some nurse midwife jobs offer typical office hours, others do not. Even if you find a job in an outpatient clinic, if your patient goes into labor in the evening or on the weekend, you may be assigned to on-call duty and need to work that delivery. If you have a family or other obligations that require you to have flexible scheduling, you may feel disadvantaged.Who Accredits MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
There are three agencies that accredit the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs, the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
| S.NO. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) |
| 2 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 3 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
When Do MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs Start?
MSN nurse-midwifery programs have start dates one to three times per year. Online programs tend to have more options available than on-campus programs. Here are the start dates at five of the best schools to give you a better idea:
• At the University of Pennsylvania, your start date for the MSN nurse-midwifery program is determined by whether you choose the part-time or full-time path. The part-time program has three start dates in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The full-time program offers two start dates with fall and summer entry options.
• You can choose to begin Georgetown University’s MSN nurse-midwifery program in January, May, and September each year.
• Emory University admits students to its MSN nurse-midwifery program in the fall semester year.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Texas Tech University starts twice each year in the fall and spring.
• The University of Cincinnati offers summer, fall, and spring start dates for its MSN nurse-midwifery program.
• You can choose to begin Georgetown University’s MSN nurse-midwifery program in January, May, and September each year.
• Emory University admits students to its MSN nurse-midwifery program in the fall semester year.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Texas Tech University starts twice each year in the fall and spring.
• The University of Cincinnati offers summer, fall, and spring start dates for its MSN nurse-midwifery program.
How Many Credits are There in MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
MSN nurse-midwifery programs can have anywhere from 45-105 credits. The number of credits you need to earn the degree is higher if you enter the program as a non-nursing major. The following are examples of the credit requirements for five of the nation’s top programs.
• There are 47-48 credits in the MSN nurse midwifery curriculum offered at the University of Michigan.
• Students enrolled in the Ohio State University MSN nurse-midwifery program complete 72-105 credits. The traditional MSN pathway features a 72-credit curriculum. Students with a non-nursing bachelor’s may pursue the Graduate Entry MSN pathway and complete 105 credits.
• The curriculum for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University consists of 57 credits. Students lacking an advanced health assessment course must complete an additional three-credit class, Advanced Health Assessment for the Registered Nurse.
• At George Washington University, MSN nurse-midwifery students complete 47 credits.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University requires students to complete 53 credits.
• Students enrolled in the Ohio State University MSN nurse-midwifery program complete 72-105 credits. The traditional MSN pathway features a 72-credit curriculum. Students with a non-nursing bachelor’s may pursue the Graduate Entry MSN pathway and complete 105 credits.
• The curriculum for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University consists of 57 credits. Students lacking an advanced health assessment course must complete an additional three-credit class, Advanced Health Assessment for the Registered Nurse.
• At George Washington University, MSN nurse-midwifery students complete 47 credits.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University requires students to complete 53 credits.
How Long are MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
The time it takes to complete MSN nurse-midwifery programs ranges from 16 months to three years, on average. The amount of time it takes depends on whether you choose a part-time or full-time degree plan. The following list gives examples of the length of some of the nation's best programs featured in this article.
• The University of Michigan offers two MSN nurse-midwifery program pathways. Part-time students typically complete the program in three years, while full-time students take two years.
• At the University of Pennsylvania, students pursuing the MSN nurse-midwife degree can complete the program in seven semesters or a little over two years part-time. Full-time students typically graduate in five semesters or 16 months.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University is designed in a full-time format, with students graduating in two years or four semesters. This plan is based on spring and fall attendance with no summer classes. Students who need the Advanced Health Assessment for RNs class complete that course the summer before the first fall semester of full-time enrollment.
• At Georgetown University, the MSN nurse-midwifery program can be completed in 27 months, which is about two years and three months.
• Texas Tech University’s MSN Nurse Midwifery degree has three options for scheduling, allowing students to complete the program in two, two and a half, or three years.
• At the University of Pennsylvania, students pursuing the MSN nurse-midwife degree can complete the program in seven semesters or a little over two years part-time. Full-time students typically graduate in five semesters or 16 months.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University is designed in a full-time format, with students graduating in two years or four semesters. This plan is based on spring and fall attendance with no summer classes. Students who need the Advanced Health Assessment for RNs class complete that course the summer before the first fall semester of full-time enrollment.
• At Georgetown University, the MSN nurse-midwifery program can be completed in 27 months, which is about two years and three months.
• Texas Tech University’s MSN Nurse Midwifery degree has three options for scheduling, allowing students to complete the program in two, two and a half, or three years.
How Much Do MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs Cost?
As you search for the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs, one important factor to consider is the cost of earning your degree. The cost of programs varies, ranging from around $30,000 to more than $150,000. The following are examples of the cost of some of the programs featured in this article.
• The University of Michigan charges tuition on a per-credit basis. In-state students enrolled in the MSN nurse-midwifery program pay $1,834 per credit, and out-of-state students pay $3,339. The program features a 47-48 credit curriculum, which means in-state students pay approximately $86,198, and out-of-state students pay $156,933.
• At Frontier Nursing University, tuition for the 55-credit MSN nurse-midwifery program costs $646 per credit. Therefore, the average cost of the program is $35,530.
• Tuition for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Texas Tech University Health Science Center is calculated per credit at a rate of $994.50 for state residents and $1,402.50 for non-residents. The program, which requires students to complete 51 credits, costs in-state students approximately $50,719.50. Out-of-state students pay an average of $71,527.50.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at the University of Cincinnati costs $46,817 for non-resident students. In-state students pay approximately $45,962.
• The estimated tuition for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Bethel University is $48,621.
• At Frontier Nursing University, tuition for the 55-credit MSN nurse-midwifery program costs $646 per credit. Therefore, the average cost of the program is $35,530.
• Tuition for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Texas Tech University Health Science Center is calculated per credit at a rate of $994.50 for state residents and $1,402.50 for non-residents. The program, which requires students to complete 51 credits, costs in-state students approximately $50,719.50. Out-of-state students pay an average of $71,527.50.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at the University of Cincinnati costs $46,817 for non-resident students. In-state students pay approximately $45,962.
• The estimated tuition for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Bethel University is $48,621.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
MSN nurse-midwifery programs typically have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0. Some schools will consider a GPA as low as 2.75, but you may need to submit additional supporting documents. Here are the GPA requirements at five of the best schools.
• At George Washington University, candidates with a scholastic GPA of at least 3.0 from a regionally accredited college university are preferred for admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program.
• Applicants seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in undergraduate studies and a minimum of 3.0 in any nursing major.
• The University of California San Francisco requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 for their previous degree program.
• Candidates seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Frontier Nursing University must have at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale based on their cumulative bachelor’s program grades.
• The University of Cincinnati has a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 earned during your undergraduate nursing degree.
• Applicants seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in undergraduate studies and a minimum of 3.0 in any nursing major.
• The University of California San Francisco requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 for their previous degree program.
• Candidates seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Frontier Nursing University must have at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale based on their cumulative bachelor’s program grades.
• The University of Cincinnati has a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 earned during your undergraduate nursing degree.
What are the Admission Requirements For MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
Admission requirements for MSN nurse-midwifery programs are determined by each school. Most programs have standard admission requirements, but you may find a few that have unique or additional criteria. You can use the admission requirements at some of the top programs provided below as a guide to get you started.
• Admission requirements for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Vanderbilt University include the following. Applicants must be graduates of an accredited BSN program with a cumulative college GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and possess an unencumbered, active license to practice as a registered nurse. In addition to an admission application, you must submit official transcripts from any college or university you previously attended, three letters of professional or academic recommendation, and a Statement of Purpose. Candidates must answer application questions, which are reviewed for writing style and content of responses.
• At the University of Michigan, applicants seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program must possess a BSN degree or be in the process of earning one and have a grade point average of at least 3.0 from your BSN program. You must complete your BSN before the MSN start date. In addition to filling out an online application, you must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary schools you attended, a Personal Statement, a professional resume, and three letters of recommendation. After review of your application, you may be asked to participate in a video interview. International applicants who are not native English speakers must submit a TOEFL or IELTS score.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University has the following admission requirements. Candidates must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing with a minimum GPA of 2.7 for all undergraduate studies and a GPA of 3.0 in nursing courses. You will need to submit your GRE score unless you hold a previous graduate degree, have completed nine or more hours of graduate coursework with a grade of B or above, or have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.2. Applicants must have an active and unrestricted RN license in North Carolina or an NCSBN compact state license and one year of work experience as a registered nurse. You must submit a Statement of Purpose, three letters of recommendation, a professional resume, or curriculum vitae and participate in an admissions interview.
• To qualify for admission consideration to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Emory University, candidates must be registered nurses with an active, unrestricted license to practice in Georgia or a Compact State and possess a BSN degree from an accredited nursing program. Applicants must submit official transcripts from any college or university attended, a Personal Statement, and two or three letters of recommendation.
• To be eligible for admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at the University of Cincinnati, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a 3.0 BSN grade point average. Applicants must have a current, unencumbered RN license and one year of work experience as a registered in the United States. Candidates with labor and delivery experience are favored. Candidates must submit an online application through NursingCAS, submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, and provide three letters of reference, a professional resume, and a Goal Statement.
• At the University of Michigan, applicants seeking admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program must possess a BSN degree or be in the process of earning one and have a grade point average of at least 3.0 from your BSN program. You must complete your BSN before the MSN start date. In addition to filling out an online application, you must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary schools you attended, a Personal Statement, a professional resume, and three letters of recommendation. After review of your application, you may be asked to participate in a video interview. International applicants who are not native English speakers must submit a TOEFL or IELTS score.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at East Carolina University has the following admission requirements. Candidates must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing with a minimum GPA of 2.7 for all undergraduate studies and a GPA of 3.0 in nursing courses. You will need to submit your GRE score unless you hold a previous graduate degree, have completed nine or more hours of graduate coursework with a grade of B or above, or have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.2. Applicants must have an active and unrestricted RN license in North Carolina or an NCSBN compact state license and one year of work experience as a registered nurse. You must submit a Statement of Purpose, three letters of recommendation, a professional resume, or curriculum vitae and participate in an admissions interview.
• To qualify for admission consideration to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Emory University, candidates must be registered nurses with an active, unrestricted license to practice in Georgia or a Compact State and possess a BSN degree from an accredited nursing program. Applicants must submit official transcripts from any college or university attended, a Personal Statement, and two or three letters of recommendation.
• To be eligible for admission to the MSN nurse-midwifery program at the University of Cincinnati, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a 3.0 BSN grade point average. Applicants must have a current, unencumbered RN license and one year of work experience as a registered in the United States. Candidates with labor and delivery experience are favored. Candidates must submit an online application through NursingCAS, submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, and provide three letters of reference, a professional resume, and a Goal Statement.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
The curriculum for MSN nurse-midwifery programs includes a mixture of core MSN and specialty courses. This means you will cover important information that all advanced practice nurses need as well as midwifery-relevant classes and clinicals. The following are examples of the course offerings from a few of the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs in the nation.
• The curriculum for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at the University of Pennsylvania includes classes such as Current Issues in Health and Social Policy, Introduction to Research Methods and Design, Health Care of Women and Primary Care, Well Women Health Care Theory, Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology, Advanced Physical Assessment, and Clinical Decision Making, and Professional Issues in Midwifery.
• At Ohio State University, students enrolled in the MSN nurse-midwifery program take classes, including Concepts in Advanced Family Nursing, Conceptual Frameworks for Nurse Midwifery, Pathophysiology of Altered Health States, Advanced Reproductive Dynamics, Advanced Pharmacology in Nursing, Advanced Health Assessment, and Evidenced Based Nursing Scholarship.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University offers a robust curriculum. Students take classes such as Mental Health Management for Advanced Practice Nurses, Advanced Pathophysiology, Statistics & Research for Evidence-based Practice Nursing, Advanced Midwifery & Women’s Health Pharmacology, Childbearing Care I, II, and III, and Transitions to Professional Practice.
• At George Washington University, the MSN nurse-midwifery program features classes, including Concepts in Population Health, Evidence-Based Practice for Health Care Researchers, Primary Care of Women, Comprehensive Antepartal Care, Perinatal Complications, and Women’s Health.
• Courses for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at New York University include Professional Issues and Role Development in Midwifery, Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics Across the Lifespan, Population Focused Care, Nursing Issues & Trends, Introductory Statistics for the Health professions, and Primary Care for Midwifery Practice.
• At Ohio State University, students enrolled in the MSN nurse-midwifery program take classes, including Concepts in Advanced Family Nursing, Conceptual Frameworks for Nurse Midwifery, Pathophysiology of Altered Health States, Advanced Reproductive Dynamics, Advanced Pharmacology in Nursing, Advanced Health Assessment, and Evidenced Based Nursing Scholarship.
• The MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University offers a robust curriculum. Students take classes such as Mental Health Management for Advanced Practice Nurses, Advanced Pathophysiology, Statistics & Research for Evidence-based Practice Nursing, Advanced Midwifery & Women’s Health Pharmacology, Childbearing Care I, II, and III, and Transitions to Professional Practice.
• At George Washington University, the MSN nurse-midwifery program features classes, including Concepts in Population Health, Evidence-Based Practice for Health Care Researchers, Primary Care of Women, Comprehensive Antepartal Care, Perinatal Complications, and Women’s Health.
• Courses for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at New York University include Professional Issues and Role Development in Midwifery, Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics Across the Lifespan, Population Focused Care, Nursing Issues & Trends, Introductory Statistics for the Health professions, and Primary Care for Midwifery Practice.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
MSN nurse-midwifery programs require students to participate in practical training. This training may occur in a variety of settings and involves all aspects of midwifery care. The number of hours you need to complete varies slightly depending on the school. Here is an overview of the training you will receive at some of the programs featured in this article.
• The practical training for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Yale University includes 1,024 clinical hours. Clinical experiences take place in various healthcare settings offering midwifery care to women and their families. Initially, clinicals are scheduled in practices across Connecticut and neighboring states. The final semester of the program includes clinical experiences in practices nationwide, where you will work full-time under the supervision of an approved preceptor. Students enrolled in this program collaborate with clinical advisors to determine appropriate clinical sites and preceptors.
• At Frontier Nursing University, students in the MSN nurse-midwifery program complete at least 675 clinical hours over the course of 16 weeks. Clinical hours can be completed near where you live but must include specific criteria. You will need to complete a specified number of visits in areas such as pre-conception care, new antepartum care, labor management, births, breastfeeding support, and many more. The university encourages students to plan two or three 11-week clinical terms. Working with more than one preceptor is encouraged. Frontier Nursing University offers clinical outreach and placement services to assist you in identifying clinical sites and prospective preceptors.
• The practical training for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Bethel University includes on-campus intensives and clinical rotations. On-campus intensives occur once each academic year and focus on simulation lab and assessment skills. Clinical rotations will occur near where you live and include 750 hours. You will complete four separate rotations, including two in general nurse-midwifery, one in intrapartum, and a final clinical integration or capstone rotation.
• Vanderbilt University’s MSN nurse midwifery practical training is fulfilled with a variety of clinical placement experiences. The school of nursing locates and assigns clinical sites and preceptors. One or more of your rotations may be outside of the Nashville area to ensure exposure to a variety of practice settings. Clinicals begin in the spring semester of your first year. You will participate in outpatient and inpatient care settings and provide care to patients requiring intrapartum, post-partum, and newborn care.
• Practical training at Emory University includes the completion of 620 to 680 clinical hours. The areas of clinical focus include an introduction to clinical specialty, extended role transition practicum experience, and three nurse midwifery-focused rotations. The office of clinical placement will work with the program faculty to find placements and preceptors for each student. Practice locations can include outpatient and hospital settings.
• At Frontier Nursing University, students in the MSN nurse-midwifery program complete at least 675 clinical hours over the course of 16 weeks. Clinical hours can be completed near where you live but must include specific criteria. You will need to complete a specified number of visits in areas such as pre-conception care, new antepartum care, labor management, births, breastfeeding support, and many more. The university encourages students to plan two or three 11-week clinical terms. Working with more than one preceptor is encouraged. Frontier Nursing University offers clinical outreach and placement services to assist you in identifying clinical sites and prospective preceptors.
• The practical training for the MSN nurse-midwifery program at Bethel University includes on-campus intensives and clinical rotations. On-campus intensives occur once each academic year and focus on simulation lab and assessment skills. Clinical rotations will occur near where you live and include 750 hours. You will complete four separate rotations, including two in general nurse-midwifery, one in intrapartum, and a final clinical integration or capstone rotation.
• Vanderbilt University’s MSN nurse midwifery practical training is fulfilled with a variety of clinical placement experiences. The school of nursing locates and assigns clinical sites and preceptors. One or more of your rotations may be outside of the Nashville area to ensure exposure to a variety of practice settings. Clinicals begin in the spring semester of your first year. You will participate in outpatient and inpatient care settings and provide care to patients requiring intrapartum, post-partum, and newborn care.
• Practical training at Emory University includes the completion of 620 to 680 clinical hours. The areas of clinical focus include an introduction to clinical specialty, extended role transition practicum experience, and three nurse midwifery-focused rotations. The office of clinical placement will work with the program faculty to find placements and preceptors for each student. Practice locations can include outpatient and hospital settings.
3 Major Challenges Students Face in MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs and How to Overcome
All college programs, especially graduate nursing programs, come with challenges. Knowing what to expect before enrolling can help you prepare mentally for any challenges that may arise. While everyone's experience is different, the following are three major challenges students face in MSN nurse-midwifery programs.
CHALLENGE #1: Balancing School, Clinical Requirements, and Work or Personal Responsibilities
About the Challenge:
Figuring out how to balance school, clinicals, and work or other responsibilities can be challenging. Graduate nursing programs, like MSN nurse-midwifery programs, involve in-depth curricula and clinicals. To succeed, you must find balance.How to Overcome:
Learning to prioritize is the first step in overcoming this challenge. Start by getting organized. You may use a pocket calendar or planner or use a calendar app on your phone or tablet to create to-do lists and schedules. Staying on top of your deadlines and keeping a schedule will help prevent you from falling behind. Managing time wisely is essential to completing school assignments and clinicals and accomplishing other obligations. Overcoming this challenge may mean sacrificing some things in the short term, but it will be well worth it overall.CHALLENGE #2: Transitioning from Nurse to Practitioner Mentality
About the Challenge:
A nurse midwife is an advanced practice registered nurse. However, your role will take on the transformation from being a bedside nurse to a full-fledged healthcare provider. You will perform assessments, diagnose, and treat patients, and collaborate with other providers. It can feel challenging to transition your mindset to that of a provider.How to Overcome:
The simple truth is that the best way to overcome the challenge of changing your mentality is to apply yourself in your new role. MSN nurse-midwifery programs prepare you for your new role with various clinical experiences designed to help you learn about your new role and apply your skills as a practitioner. Take advantage of every opportunity offered to you in your clinical practicum while enrolled in your program. Ask questions and allow yourself to be challenged. The more experience you gain, the more comfortable you will become, and your mentality will change.CHALLENGE #3: Ensuring you Find Enriching Clinicals
About the Challenge:
While some MSN nurse-midwifery programs will help you with clinical placements, others will leave the bulk of the work up to you. This can vary quite a bit based on if your program is online or on-campus. Either way, ensuring your clinical placements will provide you with the necessary experience and skills can be a challenge.How to Overcome:
Start early by finding out if clinical placements are the responsibility of your school or not. If the responsibility lies with you, then you can begin researching possible clinical locations. Use your current nursing network to make connections with current nurse midwives or OBGYNs in your area. They may be willing to precept you or know someone else who can. This challenge can be overcome with some hard work and early research.What are the Best MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 15 Best Online and Campus-Based MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs in the nation for the year 2025.)1. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN
2. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI
3. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA
4. Ohio State University - Columbus, OH
5. Yale University - Orange, CT
6. George Washington University - Washington, DC
7. East Carolina University - Greenville, NC
8. Georgetown University - Washington, DC
9. Emory University - Atlanta, GA
10. University of California San Francisco - San Francisco, CA
11. New York University - New York, NY
12. Frontier Nursing University - Versailles, KY
13. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock, TX
14. University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH
15. Bethel University - St. Paul, MN
Where Do Graduates of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs Mostly Work?
There are many settings where graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs can work. The following are three of the main settings where you may find nurse midwifery jobs.
1. OB-GYN Clinics:
Many women’s health clinics hire nurse midwives to manage low-risk pregnancies or provide routine care for patients. In this role, you can also have a hospital or birthing center privileges and see your patients through the birthing and post-partum process as well.2. Birthing Centers:
These clinical settings most often hire nurse midwives. It is one of the most common places where graduates of these programs will work. Since they are focused on providing holistic patient-centered care, they are an obvious and well-suited environment for nurse midwives.3. Hospitals:
Many hospitals and large health systems have recognized the benefit of having nurse midwives on staff. They can provide many of the same services for pregnant and post-partum women that OBGYNS can provide. Yet, they typically charge less for their services and can be preferred by some patients due to their caring nature.5 Best Jobs For Graduates of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs
Any job you qualify for after completing one of these MSN nurse-midwifery programs will be wonderful, and there are many choices. The following list reflects five of the best jobs for nurse midwives.
1. Certified Nurse Midwife:
This is the most obvious job choice as it will utilize all the skills learned during your degree program. You can work in a private or public setting which can include inpatient, outpatient, or birthing center locations. You will provide care to women during their pregnancy, childbirth, and post-partum, as well as routine well care for the mother and newborn.2. Nurse Midwife Instructor:
One of the great things about becoming a nurse midwife is you will have the credentials, knowledge, and experience needed to teach others in the field. You could work as an instructor in a college or university setting, preparing future generations of nurses and nurse midwives. As a nurse midwife instructor, you can turn your passion for nursing and midwifery care into a rewarding education position.3. Lactation Consultant:
MSN nurse-midwifery programs provide students with lactation training and experiences through lectures and clinical practicum. You can turn this foundation into a full-time career by earning lactation certification. This is one of the best jobs because you can provide lactation consultant services as well as post-partum exams.4. Public Health Midwife:
You can work for government agencies providing prenatal and post-partum care to low-income women and their families. You can find this job through local WIC programs or even through your local health department. This is considered one of the best jobs for MSN nurse midwives because it can be very rewarding and ensures access to care for everyone.5. Travel Nurse Midwife:
Another great option for working as a nurse midwife that is growing in popularity is travel nursing. As a travel nurse midwife, you can choose the assignments that interest you most. You may prefer to work in areas close to your home or travel nationally or internationally. Most travel nurse contracts are 12-week assignments. However, you may choose shorter assignments or renew your contract and remain in the same area for an extended time. An excellent benefit of this type of job is you not only receive generous compensation but also stipends to cover travel and lodging while on assignment.What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
Graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs earn an average starting salary of $81,640. This salary breaks down to $6,800 per month, $1,570 per week, and $39.25 an hour.
| Hourly | $39.25 |
| Weekly | $1,570 |
| Monthly | $6,800 |
| Annual | $81,640 |
| (Source: Ziprecruiter.com) | |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs Expect?
The average annual income for graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs is $121,262 per year. This payment is equivalent to $10,110 per month, $2,332 per week, and $58.30 per hour.
| Hourly | $58.30 |
| Weekly | $2,332 |
| Monthly | $10,110 |
| Annual | $121,262 |
| (Source: Ziprecruiter.com) | |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs
The 10-year job outlook for graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs shows a positive increase of 7.41%. Although this percentage of increase is not as high as some other healthcare jobs, it is still promising. The moderate projected increase reflects the ongoing need for midwifery care to address the needs of women and their families.
| 2021-31 | |
| +7.41% | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
Is the Cost of an MSN Nurse Midwifery Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
The cost of MSN nurse-midwifery programs ranges from $30,000 to $150,000. The average income for nurse midwives is a little more than $121,000 per year. Depending on the program you choose, even if you use the starting salary of $81,640, you could see a positive return on your investment within a short time. If you consider the cost of a program carefully, choose one within your budget, and reduce the number of education loans you take out to fund your degree, this will also help increase the rate of return.
Bonus! 5 Important Personality and Character Traits the Best MSN Nurse-Midwifery Programs Look For in Applicants
MSN nurse-midwifery programs look for candidates with certain character and personality traits. These traits are important, as they help schools determine which applicants are likely to be a good fit with their program and have a good chance of success. The following are five of the most important traits admissions faculty will be looking for in candidates.
1. Compassion.
An important character trait for all nurses is compassion, especially those working in the nurse midwife capacity. As a nurse midwife, you will provide care for women and their families during a joyful but stressful time in their life. Demonstrating compassion is crucial when attempting to meet the emotional needs of your patients. When applying to MSN nurse-midwifery programs, you can illustrate your ability to show compassion by providing concrete examples of when you have acted compassionately to patients during your career.2. Leadership.
Advanced practice nurses must have strong leadership skills, which is why admissions teams for MSN nurse-midwifery programs look for this trait in applicants. The ability to be a strong leader is something that will help you in your program and throughout your career. Leadership comes naturally to some people, but it can also be learned and developed in academic and professional settings. When you prepare your resume to submit with your school application, it is good to include any examples of when you had leadership roles. Keep in mind that although nursing leadership is helpful, any leadership experience is a plus.3. Dedication.
Success in MSN nurse-midwifery programs requires dedication. Therefore, admissions faculty look for prospective students who demonstrate dedication in their work and career choices. You can show your dedication to nursing and your program choice by providing examples of times you went above and beyond the basic requirements of an assignment, either in school, work, or both.4. Confidence.
Another important trait admissions faculty of MSN nurse-midwifery programs look for is confidence. When you are confident in your knowledge and abilities, patients are more likely to feel at ease trusting you with their care. Granted, confidence is something that is cultivated, and it will grow as you increase in knowledge and experience. During the admissions process, you can demonstrate confidence by having concrete, well thought answers to written or verbal questions asked during the admission process.5. Reliability.
Reliability is a vital character trait for nurses. MSN nurse-midwifery programs want candidates who are dependable and accountable. You must be present for classes and clinicals, complete assignments on time, and take ownership of your actions. One way to show a history of reliability is to have letters of recommendation from previous college instructors and current or former employers that mention that you were a reliable student or employee.My Final Thoughts
Searching for the right college and career path can feel a bit overwhelming. It is normal to have questions. For example, your most pressing question before reading this article may have been, "What are the best MSN nurse-midwifery programs?" In this article, I shared the 15 best MSN nurse-midwifery programs for 2025 and provided information to give you some insight into making your decision. If becoming a nurse midwife is your dream, I encourage you to start today!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best MSN Nurse Midwifery Program In The Nation?
Based on the current information and rankings, the best MSN Nurse-Midwifery program in the nation is offered at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN.| Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN |
2. Is It Easy To Get Admission Into MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
Admission to MSN nurse-midwifery programs can be competitive. Many programs accept a limited number of students with each new cohort, and admission criteria are often based on high standards.3. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
The minimum GPA to gain admission to MSN nurse-midwifery programs ranges from 2.75 to 3.0. The higher your GPA, the better chance you have of gaining admission.4. Can I Get Into MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs With A Low GPA?
If your GPA is on the lower end, 2.7-2.99, there are some MSN nurse-midwifery programs that may consider you for admission. Consider submitting a GRE score or additional references to strengthen your application.5. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
The typical cost-per-credit for MSN nurse-midwifery programs ranges between $500 and $1200. The large variance is typically related to the difference in cost between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates.6. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?
It is possible to work part-time and be successful in MSN nurse-midwifery programs.7. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?
Although it is possible, working full-time while completing MSN nurse-midwifery programs can be challenging. Carefully consider your financial obligations and how much money you need to earn while in school. If cutting your work hours to part-time is impossible, you may find a part-time program could be a better fit. Talk to your employer and academic advisor to see if there is a way to meet requirements for both work and school without stretching yourself too thin.8. What Are The 3 Hardest Classes In MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs?
Students in MSN nurse-midwifery programs often report the three hardest classes are Advanced Pharmacology, Complications During Post-partum care, and Fetal Assessment.9. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make Per Year?
New graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs can expect to make around $81,640 a year.| $81,640 |
10. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour With Experience?
The average hourly wage for graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs is $58.30.| $58.30 |
11. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month With Experience?
On average, graduates of MSN nurse-midwifery programs earn approximately $10,110 monthly.| $10,110 |
12. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN Nurse Midwifery Programs Make Per Year With Experience?
The average yearly income after graduating from MSN nurse-midwifery programs and gaining some experience is $121,262.| $121,262 |
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).