6 Best Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs | 2025

As healthcare needs continue to evolve, the demand for specialized care focused on women's health is growing. In response, many educational institutions now offer innovative programs that combine two key areas of women's health: Nurse Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). These programs equip students with the skills to care for women throughout all stages of life, blending rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experience.

Explore the top in-person and online Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP programs in 2025, where we detail their curriculums, prerequisites, salary expectations, and more. Whether you're a prospective student or a healthcare professional, this guide will help you navigate the best options available.

Best Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs — Online & On-Campus

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 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:

• 202 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:

•  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.

It has been a little difficult because the classes I am able to take online are not necessarily the most exciting. Having said that, I feel like I made the right decision. It made less practical sense, but it just felt like the right place for me to be. They have been really flexible which is something I needed.

by cookiemonday. Join the conversation at CNM Program Comparison

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:

•  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:

• 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 distance learning Online 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.
• Online Distance Learning: U Health College of Nursing offers a distance learning option with on-campus requirements, including five in-person simulations and clinical shifts with faculty practice in Salt Lake City.

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:

•  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.

Georgetown IS ridiculously expensive, but it's also extremely rigorous and definitely has name recognition. I can't tell you how many times I've heard from preceptors that they like working with GU students because we're so well prepared for clinical rotations.

by RockyMtnHi-ya, BSN, MSN, RN, NP. Join the conversation at Frontier or Georgetown

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:

•  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.

What Is a Dual Nurse-Midwifery WHNP Program?

A dual Nurse-Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) program is a specialized educational pathway that trains students to become certified nurse-midwives and women's health nurse practitioners. This dual certification prepares graduates to offer a wide range of healthcare services for women, including childbearing, pregnancy, birth, and care across all life stages from adolescence to post-menopause. The program integrates rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training, ensuring students are equipped to provide comprehensive care in women's health, including prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

CNM/WHNP Coursework

The coursework in a dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of women's health, reproductive health, and midwifery. Key areas covered include:

• Introduction to Midwifery: Introduces the history, philosophy, and core principles of midwifery. Focuses on prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for women.
• Introduction to Advanced Nursing Practice in Women's Health: Provides an overview of women's health nursing across the lifespan, including preventive care, reproductive health, and common health conditions.
• Reproductive Health and Wellness: Covers the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system, family planning, and preventive care strategies for reproductive health.
• Maternal Care: Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum: Focuses on care during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum recovery, including fetal monitoring and birth management.
• Primary Care for Women: Provides comprehensive care for women, focusing on routine check-ups, health screenings, chronic disease management, and preventive measures.
• Advanced Pharmacology in Women's Health: Teaches medications used in women's health and midwifery, including indications, contraindications, and side effects for maternal and reproductive care.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Focuses on the use of evidence-based practices to improve care in midwifery and women's health nursing, with an emphasis on research application to clinical practice.

CNM/WHNP 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.

Clinical hour requirements for advanced nursing programs vary by degree. All master's level MSN programs require a minimum of 500 practice hours, including both direct and indirect experiences. However, Nurse Practitioner (NP) education mandates 750 direct patient care hours as outlined in the 2022 National Task Force Standards. For DNP programs, the Essentials require 500 hours, while CCNE-accredited programs mandate at least 1,000 hours of clinical training for comprehensive hands-on experience.

Dual CNM/WHNP Admission Requirements

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

Admission Prerequisites

Admission 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). 
• Registered Nurse (RN) License: Applicants must typically possess an active and unencumbered RN license in the state where they plan to complete their clinical rotations. 
• Prerequisite Coursework: Typically includes anatomy and physiology, Microbiology with lab, chemistry with lab, statistics, psychology, and nutrition. 
• Professional Experience: Most programs may require a certain amount of nursing experience, especially in women's health or maternity care.
• Grade Point Average (GPA): A minimum GPA, often around 2.7-3.0 or higher, in previous academic work is often required.

Additonal Admission 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 admission 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.

Costs of Dual CNM/WHNP Programs

• 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.

Dual CNM/WHNP Salary Expectations 2025

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: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

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: $183,740
• Hawaii: $161,820
• Massachusetts: $154,080
• Maine: $140,440
• Oregon: $139,490

Are Dual CNM/WHNP Programs Worth It?

Dual Nurse-Midwifery/WHNP programs offer a unique opportunity to specialize in two critical areas of women's health, but potential students should carefully weigh the benefits against the challenges. These programs require a significant commitment, and it's essential to ensure the program aligns with both your career goals and personal circumstances.

Before deciding if a dual CNM/WHNP program is the right fit for you, it's important to consider both the advantages and potential challenges. Below, we've outlined the key pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs

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 of Dual Nurse-Midwifery and WHNP Programs

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.

Why Dual CNM/WHNP Program Accreditation Matters

Accreditation is a critical factor when selecting a dual CNM/WHNP program, as it directly influences the quality of education and career outcomes for several key reasons:

• APRN Education Standards: Accreditation ensures adherence to national educational standards, maintaining quality curriculum, faculty, and clinical training.
• CNM/NP Skill Development: Accredited programs go beyond minimum requirements, effectively preparing graduates for healthcare challenges.
• Clinical Hour Mandate: Accredited programs meet clinical hour requirements necessary for APRN certification and licensure.
• CNM/NP Certification & Licensure: Graduation from an accredited program is required for advanced practice certifications and state licensure eligibility.
• Career Opportunities: Employers prefer graduates from accredited programs for their assurance of high-quality education and readiness.
• Credit Transfer: Accredited programs make it easier to transfer credits to other reputable institutions for further education.
• Credibility: Accreditation enhances professional credibility, signaling competence and adherence to national standards.

Considering these factors, aspiring WHNP students should ensure their programs are accredited by reputable organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Meanwhile, prospective Nurse Midwives should seek accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).

Scope of Practice and State Regulations for CNM & WHNP

The roles of Nurse-Midwives and Women's Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) are shaped by state-specific regulations, which can vary significantly. Some states allow full autonomy, while others require supervision or collaboration with healthcare providers or MDs.

For CNMs and WHNPs, it's essential to understand state practice regulations, as certain programs may not qualify graduates for practice in all states. The American College of Nurse-Midwices (ACNM) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners provide general state practice guidelines, but the state board of nursing is the final authority on APRN scope of practice in each state.

Key Considerations: 

• State Licensure: To practice as a Nurse Midwife or WHNP in a specific state, you must obtain licensure for each practice specialty there. If you plan to relocate or practice in another state, you'll typically need to apply for both CNM and NP licensure in the new state, unless part of the APRN Compact License. 
• Practice Restrictions: States vary in their level of autonomy for Nurse-Midwives and WHNPs. Some states allow full practice autonomy, where practitioners can independently evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients. Others require a supervisory or collaborative agreement for certain aspects of practice, while some mandate supervision, delegation, or team management for specific duties.
• APRN Certification: While state licensure permits CNMs and WHNPs to practice, certification is specialty-specific. Advanced Nursing Practitioners must practice within the scope of their certified specialty unless they obtain additional certification.
  • Nurse Midwifery Certification: American Midwifery Certification Board
  • Women's Health NP Certification:  National Certification Corporation
• 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.

• 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.

Before committing to a program, it's crucial to research state-specific regulations from the Board of Nursing to understand how they may impact your practice post-graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 | 2025 and the 10 Best Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in 2025.