How to Go From Midwife to NP

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Midwife,

Yes, a nurse midwife can become a nurse practitioner (NP).

Nurse midwives and nurse practitioners are both Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and have similar educational backgrounds but different specialized training.

If you are a certified nurse midwife (CNM) and want to become a nurse practitioner in a different specialty, you will need to pursue a post-master certificate or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in the specific nurse practitioner specialty you are interested in.

The number of courses needed to make the change will depend on several factors, including the specialty you want to pursue, the program you choose, and your previous coursework and experience as a nurse midwife.

The post-masters certificate programs typically require 15-30 credit hours, depending on the specialty and the individual program's requirements. If you decide to pursue a DNP program, it will generally require more credits, as it includes advanced practice coursework and courses in leadership, research, and health policy.

It's essential to research different schools and programs to find the one that best fits your career goals and interests. Some programs may offer credit for coursework completed during your nurse midwife training, which can help reduce the number of courses needed to complete the nurse practitioner program.

Before making any decisions, I recommend contacting schools with nurse practitioner programs and speaking with admissions counselors or academic advisors. They can provide specific information about their program requirements and help you determine the best path forward based on your background and career goals.

Additionally, talking to nurse practitioners who have made a similar transition can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

[Sandra Ritcherson]

Thank you Nurse Beth!