Paths to CNM - Streamlined Options?

There are several schools that offer this option of going straight through, but they tend to be extremely expensive. Columbia and Vanderbilt come to mind as initial examples.

All of the midwifery education programs in the country are listed with more specific details about their programs on the ACNM website: Midwifery Education Programs - ACNM.

Additionally, if you reside in NY, NJ, DE, MO, or RI, you can skip the nursing portion and become a Certified Midwife, who are licensed in those states, and have the same scope of practice and level of autonomy as CNMs in those states. However, your credentials wouldn't be recognized in any other states (as of this time). More info here: Why AMCB Certification

It'll be pricey but UPenn has a 2nd degree BSN to MSN in Midwifery. I think it's roughly 28 months.

Hi!

Pathway Results

This link should show you all of the programs that are approved by the ACNM, which allows people who hold non-nursing baccalaureate degree to enter a CNM program. The programs are usually 3 years long. 1 year to earn an RN licensure and 2 years to earn an MSN.

Good luck!

There are a number of streamlined options - and the best place to find those are on the ACNM website under education.

There are a few progams that allow a streamlined progression from RN to MSN (or DNP). It is efficient - but it also is costly. If cost is no barrier to you, then it is a good option.

I originally thought that this was the way I wanted to become a midwife - because I had *NO* interest in becoming a nurse.

Now, I find my experience as a RN irreplaceable and invaluable. I will be a better midwife, and have stronger midwifery skills, because of my OB and L&D experience as an RN.

Just want to offer that up, because I really felt that nursing was unneccessary for a long time. I've changed my tune.

I also had experience as a Midwife's apprentice and went to a MEAC accredited CPM school. These were all good experiences - don't get me wrong. And these non-nursing birth experiences also help me in learning midwifery.

If you want to be a CNM that works in a hospital environment, nursing experience will be incredibly valuable for you.

Nurse-midwifery programs are designed as advance practice nursing programs - so they really build on existing nursing knowledge and skills. My classmates who do not have L&D experience have a much steeper learning curve.