6 Best Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs | 2024

In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the demand for specialized care tailored to women's unique health needs is more pronounced than ever. 

Recognizing this, educational institutions have introduced innovative programs that merge two critical areas of women's health: Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). Designed to equip students with the expertise to serve women across various life stages, these programs offer a blend of rigorous academic learning and practical clinical experience.

Learn more about online Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs as we outline the best available options in 2024, highlighting their curriculums, prerequisites, requirements, salary expectations, and more. Whether you're a prospective student, a healthcare professional, or someone keen on understanding the nuances of this program, you've come to the right place.

What Is a Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Program?

A dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP program is a specialized educational program designed to train students to become both certified midwives and women's health nurse practitioners. This dual certification allows graduates to provide a wide range of healthcare services to women throughout their lifespan, from adolescence to post-menopause. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training to ensure that students are well-prepared for their roles in women's health.

Coursework

The coursework in a dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of women's health, reproductive health, and midwifery. Some of the key areas covered in the coursework include:

• Foundations of Midwifery and Women's Health: This introductory course provides an overview of the history, philosophy, and principles of midwifery and women's health nursing.
• Reproductive Health: Students learn about the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system, common reproductive health issues, and preventive care measures.
• Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care: This course covers the care of pregnant women before, during, and after childbirth, including monitoring fetal development, managing labor and delivery, and postpartum recovery.
• Primary Care for Women: This course focuses on the primary care needs of women throughout their lifespan, including routine check-ups, health screenings, and disease prevention.
• Pharmacology: Students learn about the medications commonly used in women's health and midwifery, including their indications, contraindications, and potential side effects.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: This course emphasizes the importance of using evidence-based practices in midwifery and women's health nursing and teaches students how to critically evaluate and apply research findings to their practice.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is a crucial component of dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs. It provides students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in the classroom to real-world clinical settings. Key aspects of clinical training include:

• Supervised Clinical Rotations: Students complete a series of clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and birthing centers. These rotations expose students to a wide range of clinical scenarios and patient populations.
• Skills Labs: Some online programs may offer in-person skills labs where students can practice specific clinical skills, such as suturing, fetal monitoring, and pelvic exams, under the supervision of experienced instructors.
• Simulation Training: Simulation training uses high-fidelity manikins and simulated clinical scenarios to allow students to practice their skills in a controlled environment.
• Clinical Preceptorships: In the latter part of the program, students may be paired with experienced midwives or WHNPs who act as preceptors. These preceptors provide one-on-one mentoring and guidance, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and confidence in their clinical abilities.

Best Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH

The MSN Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP program at The Ohio State University is meticulously designed to prepare students as primary healthcare providers for women. A significant emphasis is placed on care during pregnancy and childbirth, including primary care for the normal newborn up to 28 days, reproductive-gynecologic health, and male reproductive health. Graduates of this dual specialty are eligible to take national certifying exams to become credentialed as both a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and WHNP.

Program Overview:

• 2024 Annual Tuition: $13,452 (Ohio residents); $41,182 (non-residents)
• Duration: 1 year (full-time MSN); 2 years (part-time MSN); 3 years (full-time DNP)
• Credit Hours: 78 (MSN), 119 (DNP)
• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) 

Program Highlights:

• Core Courses: The program includes core courses such as Innovation Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice, Quality Improvement and Informatics, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention across the Life Span, Health Policy and Advocacy, and Evidence-Based Nursing Scholarship.
• Specialized Courses: The curriculum offers specialized courses like Concepts and Issues in Advanced Family Nursing, Conceptual Frameworks for Nurse-Midwifery, Advanced Reproductive Dynamics, Labor & Birth Clinical Immersion, and more.
• Clinical Practicum: Students undergo extensive clinical practicum experiences, ranging from 187.5 to 375 precepted clinical hours, across different semesters.
• Duration: The program offers sample curriculum plans for full-time, part-time, and graduate entry options, ensuring flexibility for students based on their needs.
• Self-audit Checklist: A self-audit checklist is provided to help students ensure they have taken all the required courses for their specialty.

2. University of Illinois at Chicago - Chicago, IL

The DNP Nurse-Midwifery/Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing is a dual program designed to prepare clinicians who can provide comprehensive healthcare throughout women's lives. The program emphasizes health promotion through education, advocacy, support, and healthcare services. By completing this program, students will be eligible to sit for both nurse-midwifery and WHNP certification exams.

Program Overview:

• 2024 Tuition: $18,815 per semester (Illinois residents); $33,858 per semester (non-residents)
  • Based on a 12 credit hour or greater course load per semester
• Duration: Varies on pathway and plan of study
• Credit Hours: 95 (BSN to DNP)
• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) 
  • National Certification Corporation (NCAA)

Program Highlights:

• Comprehensive Training: The program offers a blend of academic and clinical training, ensuring students are well-equipped to provide healthcare services emphasizing health promotion throughout women's lives.
• Clinical Experience: The program provides practicum sites and preceptors for students, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.

3. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey - Newark, NJ

The Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery DNP program at Rutgers School of Nursing is meticulously designed to prepare students for a comprehensive scope of practice at the highest level. As WHNPs, graduates are equipped to provide primary and reproductive care to women across their lifespans. Additionally, as CNMs, they are trained to offer holistic health care throughout the labor, birth process, and postpartum period to essentially healthy women and their newborns. The program places a strong emphasis on a wellness paradigm and ensures that students implement a scientific, evidence-based rationale for practice within diverse practice and healthcare delivery settings.

Program Overview:

• 2024 Tuition: $1,400 per credit (NJ residents); $1,523 per credit (non-residents)
• Duration: 4-5 years
• Credit Hours: 82
• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) 

Program Highlights:

• Credits: The program comprises 82 credits.
• Scope of Practice: The program prepares students for a full scope of practice, enabling them to function both as a women's health nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife.
• Wellness Paradigm: The dual program emphasizes a wellness paradigm, focusing on the overall well-being and health of women.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Students are trained to implement a scientific, evidence-based rationale for their practice.

4. University of Utah - Salt Lake City, UT

The Dual Women's Health/Midwifery track at the University of Utah College of Nursing is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to provide primary care to women across various stages of their lives. This includes offering reproductive care during the childbearing years and managing the care of newborns. The program emphasizes the unique conditions related to women's health, from menarche through the rest of their lives, with a particular focus on the childbearing years and childbirth.

Students enrolled in the CNM/WHNP track will be exposed to a comprehensive curriculum that includes:

• Developing skills to influence public policy through participation in professional organizations and health policy activities at local, national, and global levels.
• Courses centered on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership.
• Mentorship opportunities within the unique faculty practice, BirthCare HealthCare.
• Interaction with diverse patient populations.
• Participation in innovative high-fidelity simulation and interprofessional training.

Program Overview:

• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

Program Highlights:

• Certification Eligibility: Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for national certification exams from the National Certification Corporation (NCC) and the AMCB. Successful completion of these exams qualifies candidates for certification or licensure to practice.
• Focus: The program emphasizes care for conditions unique to women from menarche through the remainder of their lives, with a special focus on the childbearing years and childbirth.
• Training: Students will benefit from high-fidelity simulation and interprofessional training, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world scenarios.
• Mentorship: The program offers mentorship opportunities within the BirthCare HealthCare faculty practice, allowing students to gain practical insights and experience.

5. Georgetown University - Washington, DC

Georgetown University offers an online master of science dual CNM and WHNP program designed to prepare advanced practice registered nurses to provide comprehensive care across various aspects of women's health. This includes primary care for individuals throughout their lifespan, reproductive healthcare during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum periods, sexual and gynecologic healthcare, family planning, preconception care, and care for newborns up to one month. The program also emphasizes the provision of safe, comprehensive, and culturally responsive health care to transgender and gender non-binary individuals and people of all sexual orientations.

In line with Georgetown University School of Nursing's mission and values, the NM/WHNP program integrates a robust health equity curriculum throughout its specialty courses. This ensures students are equipped with the skills to provide trauma-informed, person-centered care that promotes health equity, addresses racism and biases, and offers structurally competent care.

Program Overview:

• 2024 Annual Tuition: $2,452 per credit 
• Duration: 27 months
• Credit Hours: 49
• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) 

Program Highlights:

• Certification Rates:
  • AMCB School First-Time Certification Rate Average: 85% (National average: 81.3%)
  • NCC School First-Time Certification Rate Average: 100% (National average: 93%)
• Curriculum: Grounded in the "Jesuit ideal of cura personalis," meaning care for the whole person, the program at Georgetown fosters a holistic view of individual and family health.
• Format: Online with required Objective Clinical Intensives (OCIs).
• Special Focus: Health equity curriculum integrated throughout specialty courses.

6. California State University-Fullerton - Fullerton, CA

The MSN Nurse-Midwife/Women's Health NP Program at California State University, Fullerton is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to address the primary ambulatory health care needs of women. The program emphasizes collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals and prepares students to work in various settings, including outpatient offices, hospitals, and community agencies.

Program Overview:

• 2024 Annual Tuition: $8,508
  • Based on 7 or more units per semester
• Duration: 2 years or 5 semesters at a full-time pace; 3 years or 7 semesters at a part-time pace
• Credit Hours: 59
• Accreditation:  
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) 

Program Highlights:

• Choice of Emphasis: Applicants can choose between two emphases—WHNP only or Nurse-Midwife & WHNP.
• Comprehensive Training: The program offers a holistic approach to women's health, covering various aspects from primary care to specialized gynecological care.
• Collaborative Approach: The curriculum emphasizes collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals, ensuring a well-rounded approach to patient care.
• Diverse Settings: Graduates are equipped to work in a wide variety of settings, from outpatient offices to hospitals and community agencies.

Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Prerequisites & Requirements

To ensure that students are adequately prepared for the rigors of the program and can succeed in their future roles, there are specific prerequisites and requirements that must be met before admission to dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs. Here's a breakdown:

Prerequisites

Prerequisites are foundational courses or experiences that prospective students must complete before entering the program. They ensure that students have the necessary background knowledge to understand and engage with the program's advanced coursework. Typical prerequisites include:

• Bachelor's Degree: Most programs require applicants to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a related field. Some programs may accept a bachelor's degree in another discipline if the applicant has a strong nursing background.
• Registered Nurse (RN) License: Applicants must possess an active and unencumbered RN license in the state where they plan to complete their clinical rotations.
• Basic Science and Health Courses: These may include anatomy and physiology, Microbiology, statistics, and nutrition. Some programs may also require courses in psychology, sociology, or human development.
• Professional Experience: Some programs may require applicants to have a certain number of years of professional nursing experience, especially in areas related to women's health or maternity care.
• Grade Point Average (GPA): A minimum GPA, often around 3.0 or higher, in previous academic work may be required.

Requirements

Requirements refer to the additional criteria or documentation that applicants must provide during the application process. These requirements help the admissions committee assess the applicant's suitability for the program and their potential for success. Common requirements include:

• Application Form: A completed application form that provides personal information, educational background, and professional experience.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters of recommendation from professional or academic references who can attest to the applicant's abilities and potential for success in the program.
• Personal Statement or Essay: An essay that outlines the applicant's reasons for pursuing the dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP program, their career goals, and any relevant experiences that have prepared them for the program.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed document that highlights the applicant's educational background, professional experience, certifications, and any other relevant achievements.
• Interview: Some programs may require applicants to participate in an interview, either in-person or via video conference, to further assess their suitability for the program.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Given the sensitive nature of the work, many programs require applicants to undergo a criminal background check and drug screening to ensure patient safety.
• Health Requirements: These may include immunizations, tuberculosis testing, and other health screenings to ensure that students are fit for clinical practice.

Pros & Cons of Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs

While dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs offer numerous benefits, potential students should carefully consider the challenges and ensure that the program aligns with their career goals and personal circumstances.

Pros

1. Comprehensive Training: These programs provide students with a holistic education in both midwifery and women's health nursing, allowing graduates to offer a wide range of services and care to women throughout their lifespan.
2. Flexibility: Being online, these programs often offer greater flexibility in terms of study schedules, making it easier for working professionals or those with family commitments to pursue advanced education.
3. Increased Career Opportunities: With dual certification, graduates can work in various settings, from hospitals and clinics to private practices and birthing centers, and can choose to specialize in either midwifery or women's health or both.
4. Cost-Effective: Instead of enrolling in two separate programs, students can often save time and money by pursuing a dual program that integrates both fields of study.
5. Networking Opportunities: These programs often provide students with opportunities to connect with professionals in both the midwifery and WHNP communities, expanding their professional network and opening doors for future collaborations or job opportunities.

Cons

1. Intensity: Given that students are essentially pursuing two specializations, the workload can be intense, and the program may be more demanding than a single-focus program.
2. Longer Duration: While dual programs can be cost-effective, they might take longer to complete than a single specialization program due to the comprehensive nature of the curriculum.
3. Limited Face-to-Face Interaction: As with many online programs, there might be limited opportunities for in-person interactions with instructors and peers, which some students find essential for their learning experience.
4. Clinical Placement Challenges: Depending on the region, finding local clinical placements that align with the dual focus of the program can be challenging, potentially requiring students to travel or relocate for portions of their training.
5. State Regulations: Not all states recognize or have clear regulations for dual-certified professionals. Graduates might face challenges in some regions when seeking licensure or practicing in both capacities.

Costs & Salary Expectations

The costs and salary expectations of dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs will vary based on numerous factors including location, institution, and more. Nonetheless, below are important considerations when gauging whether or not these programs will be worth it for you.

Costs

• Tuition and Fees: This encompasses the primary program cost, potential registration, enrollment, and technology fees associated with online learning platforms.
• Course Materials: Students may need to budget for textbooks, specialized software, online resource subscriptions, and essential medical equipment or supplies.
• Clinical Training Expenses: These can include travel and accommodation for non-local placements, clinical site fees, and the purchase of uniforms or personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Miscellaneous Costs: After program completion, there are fees for licensing and certification exams. Additionally, costs may arise from required background checks, drug screenings, health screenings, immunizations, and professional liability insurance. Membership in professional organizations, while beneficial, may also have associated fees.
• Financial Aid Considerations: Some scholarship or loan applications might have fees, and if loans are taken out, interest accumulation should be considered.

Salary Expectations

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for NPs is $124,680 or $59.94 hourly.

Top-Paying States for NPs:

• California: $158.130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

Unfortunately, the BLS does not specify between different types of NP specialties. However, ZipRecruiter reports that the national average salary for WHNPs is $114,532, or $55 per hour. 

As for nurse midwives, the BLS reports an annual average salary of $122,450, or $58.87 hourly.

Top-Paying States for Nurse Midwives:

• California: $169,530
• West Virginia: $165,780
• Hawaii: $156,020
• Massachusetts: $143,870
• Oregon: $136,150

WHNP and Nurse Midwife Program Accreditation

When choosing a Nurse Midwife or WHNP education program, accreditation plays a crucial role that significantly impacts the educational journey for several compelling reasons:

• Nursing Education Standards: Accreditation ensures adherence to national nurse practitioner educational standards. Accredited programs consistently maintain excellence in curriculum, faculty qualifications, access to student resources, and the quality of clinical training through regular evaluations.
• NP Skill Development: Accredited programs prioritize comprehensive skill development beyond meeting minimum requirements. Graduates are equipped to navigate the dynamic challenges within the healthcare landscape effectively.
• Clinical Hour Mandate: Meeting the minimum clinical hour requirement, typically ranging from 750 to 1000 hours depending on the MSN or DNP pathway, is pivotal within accredited programs.
• NP Certification & Licensure: Graduating from an accredited program is imperative for obtaining various advanced practice nursing certifications and fulfilling state licensure requirements. Accreditation is a prerequisite for eligibility for specific certifications and state licenses essential for APRN practice.
• Career Opportunities: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited WHNP and Nurse Midwife programs due to the assurance of receiving a top-tier education aligned with nationally recognized standards. Accredited programs not only impart knowledge but also open up diverse career opportunities.
• Credit Transfer: Credits earned within accredited programs are more readily accepted by reputable nursing institutions, making it easier for students to pursue further education, whether it's a Post-Graduate Certificate, Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD), or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• Credibility: Completion of an accredited WHNP or Nurse Midwife program enhances professional credibility, signaling to employers, peers, and patients that the individual has met national standards for advanced nursing practice.
• Financial Aid: Accreditation often serves as a prerequisite for eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans, crucial for students seeking financial support for their educational endeavors.

Given these considerations, aspiring WHNP students should ensure their chosen programs are accredited by esteemed organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). While prospective nurse midwives should evaluate for accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).

Scope of Practice & State Regulations

The roles of Nurse-Midwives and Women's Health NPs come with varying degrees of autonomy and professional responsibilities, dictated by state regulations governing their practice. While some states afford Nurse Midwives and WHNPs independence in their practice, others require supervision by a healthcare provider or MD.

For prospective Nurse Midwives and WHNPs, it's crucial to delve into these state-specific regulations when considering enrollment in a program. It's worth noting that certain APRN Nurse Midwife and WHNP programs may not qualify graduates for practice in certain states.

Aligning your career goals with the most suitable Nurse Midwife or WHNP position demands a deep understanding of scope of practice regulations in your intended work state. This means grasping the specific responsibilities associated with the Nurse Midwife or WHNP specialty you plan to pursue. Anticipating these nuances ensures that your chosen Nurse Midwife or WHNP program seamlessly aligns with your envisioned professional landscape post-graduation. Here's what you need to know about NP state scope of practice:

• State Licensure: To practice as a Nurse Midwife or WHNP in a specific state, you must obtain licensure there. If you plan to relocate or practice in another state, you'll typically need to apply for licensure in the new state.
• Practice Restrictions: The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) categorizes states based on their practice environment for Nurse Midwives and WHNPs:
  • Full Practice: Nurse Midwives and WHNPs can independently evaluate patients, diagnose, order, and interpret diagnostic tests, initiate treatment plans, and prescribe medications without physician oversight. Examples include states like Oregon, New York, Utah, and Maine. 
  • Reduced Practice: Nurse Midwives and WHNPs have limited autonomy in at least one aspect of their practice. State laws mandate a regulated collaborative agreement with another healthcare provider throughout their career or necessitate supervision, direction, or mandated collaboration for patient care provision. Examples include states like Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Illinois, and New Jersey. 
  • Restricted Practice: Nurse Midwives and WHNPs face limitations in at least one aspect of their practice. State laws mandate career-long supervision, delegation, or team management by another healthcare provider for patient care provision. Examples include states like California, Florida, Texas, and North Carolina. 
• Certification: While state licensure permits Nurse Midwives and WHNPs to practice, certification is specialty-specific. Practitioners must practice within the scope of their certified specialty (e.g., Women's Health and Nurse Midwifery) unless they obtain additional certification.
• Continuing Education and Renewal: Each state has different requirements for license renewal and continuing education. Staying informed about these requirements is crucial for maintaining active licensure.
• Prescriptive Authority: NPs have prescriptive authority in all 50 states, but regulations vary. Some states grant full prescriptive authority upon licensure, while others impose additional requirements or restrictions, such as restricted practice.

For those planning to practice as Nurse Midwives or WHNPs in a state different from where they intend to complete their program, thorough research on that state's Board of Nursing or equivalent regulatory body is essential. This will provide insights into the specific requirements and scope of practice for Nurse Midwives and WHNPs in that state.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What areas of women's health care are covered in dual Nurse-Midwife and WHNP coursework?

Programs provide a comprehensive exploration of women's health care. They delve into the intricacies of pathophysiology, ensuring students understand the physiological changes and disorders specific to women. Curriculums emphasize wellness and health promotion, teaching students strategies to encourage healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases. Gynecologic care is a significant focus, covering everything from routine check-ups to addressing specific reproductive health issues. Prenatal care equips students with knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Additionally, these programs cover the broader scope of primary health care for women, ensuring students are prepared to address a wide range of health concerns throughout a woman's life.

Q: How does a dual Nurse-Midwife and WHNP program prepare students for roles in advanced practice nursing?

Dual Nurse-Midwife and WHNP programs are meticulously designed to mold students into competent advanced practice nurses. The academic coursework is rigorous, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for midwifery and women's health nursing. This is complemented by hands-on clinical training, where students get the opportunity to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced professionals. By merging these two critical components, the program ensures that students are not only knowledgeable but also adept at handling the complexities of midwifery and women's health in their professional roles.

Q: Do dual Nurse-Midwife and WHNP programs emphasize health promotion and advocacy?

Health promotion and advocacy are foundational pillars of these programs. Students are taught the importance of proactive health measures, guiding patients in making informed decisions about their health, and leading a healthy lifestyle. Beyond just medical care, the program instills the importance of advocating for patients, ensuring they have access to the resources and care they need. This advocacy extends to broader community and policy levels, where graduates can champion women's health issues and drive positive change.

Q: How does full-time differ from part-time enrollment?

Full-time enrollment is designed for students who wish to dedicate the majority of their time to their studies. They take a full course load each semester, which allows them to immerse themselves in the program and complete it in the shortest possible time. On the other hand, part-time enrollment is tailored for those who might have other significant commitments, such as work or family. They take fewer courses each semester, providing them with a more flexible schedule. However, this flexibility means that the overall duration of the program is extended compared to full-time enrollment.

Q: Which pathway is preferable: DNP or MSN, for dual Nurse-Midwife and WHNP programs?

Both the DNP and MSN pathways can effectively prepare you to become a Nurse-Midwife or Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your individual preferences, career goals, and educational needs. For further insights into the differences between an MSN and a DNP, we recommend exploring the 10 Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs | 2024 and the 10 Best Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in 2024.