Direct-Entry Programs

• Direct-entry midwives are independent practitioners who have taken self-study courses in midwifery or attended a college or university-based program outside of a nursing field. Direct-entry midwives are eligible to enter into the field through apprenticeships. The Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC) recommends that direct-entry students enroll in an accredited program. Attending an accredited midwifery program ensures that candidates will be eligible to be certified by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM).
  
  

Nurse Midwives

• Nurse midwives have advanced practical nurse degrees; they are registered nurses with a specialization in prenatal and postpartum care. In addition to assisting women during childbirth, nurse midwives also consult patients on birth control methods and gynecological care. Nurse midwives are qualified to conduct breast exams, pap smears and preventive health services; they are also licensed to prescribe medications. Nurse midwives must pass a written qualifying examination that is administered by the American College of Nurse Midwives.
  
  

Certification

• Direct-entry midwives are eligible to become certified professional midwives (CPM) by fulfilling specific educational requirements that have been established by NARM. CPMs must fulfill classroom and clinical training; the clinical training includes one year of practical coursework or 1,350 contact hours under the supervision of qualified faculty. CPMs must fulfill three to five years of apprenticeship training. Clinical training includes prenatal, intrapartal, postpartal and newborn baby care. Preceptors for CPMs are required to have three years of experience or 50 births. CPMs are eligible to perform out-of-hospital births. Certified nurse midwives (CNM) are credentialed by the American College of Nurse Midwives.
  
  

Consideration

• Midwives can enhance their credentials by obtaining a license and fulfilling state-specific requirements. Some states require midwives to have advanced practical nursing degrees. The length of training that is necessary for midwifery certification varies by institution. Most programs run for three years and include classroom and clinical training. Registered nurses who specialize in midwifery must complete additional years of coursework. Several online programs offer flexible self-study programs in midwifery, including apprenticeship opportunities and a chance to explore the field by taking independent-study courses.