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Becoming a Midwife After a Nursing Degree: Education and Experience Requirements

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To become a midwife after obtaining a nursing degree, one needs to pursue additional education and training. This process involves several steps, each designed to build the necessary skills and experience for the practice of midwifery.

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Obtain a Nursing Degree

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The first step in this journey is obtaining a nursing degree. This typically takes 2-4 years, depending on the educational pathway chosen. You can pursue either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

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Get Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN)

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Once your nursing degree is complete, the next step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Upon successful completion, you will be licensed as an RN and authorized to practice as a registered nurse.

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Pursue Midwifery Education

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The pathway to becoming a midwife from a nursing background involves enrolling in a graduate program in nurse-midwifery. This program typically takes 2-3 years to complete and requires at least one year of nursing experience before applying.

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Here’s a summary of the total time required:

" "" "Obtaining a Nursing Degree: 2-4 years" "Licensing as an RN: Upon completion of your undergraduate nursing degree" "Midwifery Graduate Program: 2-3 years" "Total Time After Nursing Degree: Approximately 2-3 years for a master’s program in midwifery plus any additional time for RN experience if required." "" "

This means that in total, you might expect around 2-4 years of additional schooling and experience after obtaining your nursing degree to become a midwife.

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Alternative Pathways and Experience

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In most places, nurse midwives fall under the umbrella of nurse practitioners. The requirements for these roles are similar. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, you will need clinical experience, then a master’s degree in nursing. Planning for at least four years for the bachelor’s degree, at least three years as an RN in a relevant setting like obstetrics (OB), labor and delivery, followed by at least two years for the master’s degree, you could complete this in nine years.

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There are accelerated programs that rush through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) then start the master’s program (MSN) without any clinical experience. However, I would discourage you from this path. Clinical experience is invaluable and can prevent potential hazards to yourself and others.

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My suggested path to advanced practice that I wish I had followed is as follows:

" "" "Begin a ladder program at a community college" "After one semester of clinicals, take the Certified Entry-Level Neonatal Resuscitation Program (CEN) exam" "Work in a hospital or nursing home part-time while completing the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program" "Take the LPN boards" "Work in a hospital or clinic part-time in your desired specialty while completing the RN program" "Take the RN boards" "Work full-time in your desired specialty as an RN for three to five years. Save up a living expenses fund" "Complete an RN completion program if not already BSN prepared" "Find an NP program in your desired specialty and dedicate two to three years full-time to complete it, treating it like a job" "" "

By following this path, you will gain the training and experience needed to excel in your role. Additionally, you will have multiple chances to see exactly what you are getting into, and at each stage, you will set up a safe off-ramp career so that any changes of heart or life events cannot derail your journey.

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Remember, becoming a midwife is a comprehensive and rigorous process. It requires not only advanced education but also dedicated clinical experience. By taking the time to perfect your clinical skills at each step, you will be well-prepared to provide the best care for your clients and maintain a safe environment for all.