2026 Most Affordable Online Graduate Certificate Nurse Midwifery Programs
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
As of January 2024, there were a total of 14,067 certified nurse midwives in the US, according to the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). Despite this number, demand for skilled professionals in nurse midwifery continues to grow, especially in underserved areas.
For registered nurses (RNs) seeking to advance their careers without the financial burden of a full degree, an online graduate certificate in nurse midwifery offers a cost-effective and flexible alternative.
What are the benefits of getting an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- A graduate certificate in nurse midwifery can lead to roles such as certified nurse midwife, women’s health nurse practitioner, or maternal care specialist in hospitals, birthing centers, and clinics.
- The median annual wage for nurse midwives was $128,790 in May 2024, making it a lucrative career path.
- Studying online allows working nurses to balance their current responsibilities while advancing their education, often at a lower cost and with greater schedule control.
What can I expect from an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
An online nurse midwifery graduate certificate program is designed for RNs who already hold a master's degree in nursing or an equivalent qualification. The program typically includes a mix of theoretical coursework and clinical practice components, focusing on areas such as prenatal and postnatal care, reproductive health, advanced pharmacology, and primary care for women across the lifespan.
Most programs are offered in a part-time format to accommodate working professionals and may take one to two years to complete. Online platforms often offer asynchronous classes, allowing students to study on their own time, while supervised clinical placements must be completed in person, typically in a student’s local area.
Where can I work after completing a nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Graduates of an online nurse midwifery certificate program are well-equipped to work in a wide range of healthcare environments. These include hospitals, labor and delivery units, birth centers, OB-GYN clinics, and private practices. Some may also work in community health settings, particularly in rural or underserved areas where access to women’s healthcare is limited.
In addition to direct clinical care, some nurse midwives find employment in academic or public health roles. Universities and colleges may hire certified nurse midwives as educators or clinical instructors. Others work for public health organizations, nonprofit maternal care initiatives, or government programs focused on improving maternal and infant health outcomes. This diversity of settings makes the certificate a valuable and adaptable credential.
How much can I make after completing a nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Salaries for nurse midwives are generally high, reflecting their advanced scope of practice and specialized expertise. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse midwives earned a median annual wage of $128,790 in May 2024. The top 10% of earners made more than $170,000, while those in the lower 10% earned around $84,000, depending on experience, location, and employer type.
Geographic location can play a major role in salary expectations. For example, nurse midwives in California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts tend to earn higher-than-average wages. Additionally, those working in private practices or specialized birthing centers may receive bonuses or profit-sharing arrangements, further boosting their earnings. Even entry-level roles following certification tend to offer salaries significantly above the national median wage across all occupations.
Table of Contents
- List of the Most Affordable Online Graduate Certificate Nurse Midwifery Programs for 2026
- How long does it take to complete an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- How does an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate compare to an on-campus program?
- What is the average cost of an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- What courses are typically in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- What types of specializations are available in online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs?
- How does an online nurse midwifery certificate complement additional nursing credentials?
- What accreditation and regulatory considerations should you verify?
- How does an online nurse midwifery certificate differ from direct entry MSN nurse practitioner programs?
- What challenges might I face in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate program?
- How do you choose the most affordable online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
- What career paths are available for graduates of online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs?
- What is the job market like for graduates who completed an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
List of the Most Affordable Online Graduate Certificate Nurse Midwifery Programs for 2026
How do we rank schools?
We understand that paying for a degree is a major financial and personal investment. That’s why this ranking was carefully developed to help prospective students make an informed decision based on transparent and comprehensive data. The team of experts at Research.com evaluated schools based on affordability, accessibility, and academic rigor to highlight the most budget-friendly online graduate certificate programs in nurse midwifery.
To prepare this list, we relied on trusted and publicly available data sources, including the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database, including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set, College Scorecard, and the National Center for Education Statistics. Each source provided valuable insight into tuition rates, accreditation, online delivery models, and more.
Our ranking methodology prioritizes affordability, program accessibility, and academic quality. We assessed each school based on cost per credit, required credits for graduation, accreditation status, and availability of online delivery. We also considered whether the institution offers flexible learning formats, concentration options, and evidence of support for adult learners or working professionals. For more details, visit our full methodology page.
1. Frontier Nursing University
Frontier Nursing University has a long-standing commitment to community-based and distance education in nurse midwifery. Its online graduate certificate program is designed specifically for advanced practice RNs (APRNs) seeking to specialize in nurse midwifery. The program was one of the first in the country to offer distance learning for midwifery and is structured to be accessible to working professionals. Students participate in didactic online coursework combined with clinical experiences in their own communities.
- Program Length: 24 to 30 months
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery only
- Cost per Credit: $646
- Required Credits to Graduate: 33
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)
2. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Texas Tech’s nurse midwifery graduate certificate is available through a hybrid online model, making it convenient for practicing nurses in rural and urban Texas. Launched in response to increasing maternal healthcare needs, the program emphasizes both academic rigor and cultural sensitivity. It is open to RNs with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and includes both synchronous and asynchronous components, along with precepted clinical rotations.
- Program Length: Two years
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $300 (in-state); $680 (out-of-state)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 36
- Accreditation: ACME
3. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers a flexible, part-time online nurse midwifery certificate for advanced practice nurses. Designed for professionals who already hold graduate nursing degrees, the program can be completed in under two years. The university is known for integrating evidence-based practice and patient-centered care across its online health programs.
- Program Length: 18 to 24 months
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $693
- Required Credits to Graduate: 34
- Accreditation: ACME
4. East Carolina University
East Carolina University’s College of Nursing offers an affordable online graduate certificate in nurse midwifery that serves both rural and urban communities in North Carolina. The program is grounded in a strong foundation of primary care and women’s health, with an emphasis on underserved populations. It offers online coursework paired with local clinical placements.
- Program Length: Six semesters
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $278 (in-state); $893 (out-of-state)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 36
- Accreditation: ACME
5. Rutgers University–Camden
Rutgers University–Camden provides a post-master’s certificate in nurse midwifery through its School of Nursing. The program is offered in a hybrid format, allowing students to complete the majority of coursework online while participating in occasional on-campus immersions. It is best suited for nurses in the Northeast who want to specialize without relocating or leaving their jobs.
- Program Length: 20 to 24 months
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $756
- Required Credits to Graduate: 35
- Accreditation: ACME
6. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
This program is offered entirely online with clinical requirements arranged in the student’s local area. The University of Colorado’s graduate certificate in nurse midwifery is designed for MSN-prepared nurses and includes a comprehensive curriculum focused on reproductive health, newborn care, and patient advocacy.
- Program Length: 18 to 24 months
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $525
- Required Credits to Graduate: 32
- Accreditation: ACME
7. Shenandoah University
Shenandoah University’s online nurse midwifery graduate certificate is offered in partnership with Inova Health System. It combines online courses with intensive clinical training in Virginia. The university emphasizes interprofessional education and community-focused care.
- Program Length: Six to seven semesters
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $865
- Required Credits to Graduate: 34
- Accreditation: ACME
8. University of Utah
The University of Utah’s nurse midwifery certificate is a hybrid program targeted at MSN-prepared nurses. The curriculum includes online coursework and on-site clinical intensives. The program’s structure supports students across the western US, especially those in rural areas.
- Program Length: Two years
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $518
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30
- Accreditation: ACME
9. Georgetown University
Georgetown offers a rigorous online graduate certificate in nurse midwifery through its School of Nursing. Though one of the more expensive options, Georgetown’s program is known for its high clinical placement success and a curriculum aligned with Jesuit values of social justice and community service.
- Program Length: 24 months
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $2,278
- Required Credits to Graduate: 36
- Accreditation: ACME
10. Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University delivers its online graduate certificate in nurse midwifery with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient safety. The program features fully online coursework with scheduled clinical experiences at approved sites. It’s designed for RNs with prior graduate education.
- Program Length: Five to six semesters
- Tracks/concentrations: Nurse Midwifery
- Cost per Credit: $1,000
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30
- Accreditation: ACME
How long does it take to complete an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Most online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs take between 12 and 30 months to complete, depending on the student’s academic background and whether they study part-time or full-time. For students who already hold an MSN and are licensed APRNs, these programs are often shorter and more focused, with minimal foundational coursework required.
While some programs can be completed in as little as a year, particularly if the student already meets many prerequisites, the average completion time tends to be closer to two years. Those looking for fast-track routes to advanced practice roles may also explore a 12-month FNP program online as a related alternative, especially if primary care rather than midwifery is the intended focus.
How does an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate compare to an on-campus program?
When comparing online and on-campus nurse midwifery certificate programs, the primary differences revolve around delivery format, flexibility, and student support. However, both formats generally follow similar curricula and require completion of clinical hours to meet certification and licensing requirements.
Key Differences
- Flexibility: Online programs are ideal for working nurses or individuals with family obligations. They offer asynchronous lectures, virtual labs, and local clinical placements. On-campus programs may require relocation or commuting, with fixed class schedules.
- Learning Environment: On-campus students benefit from in-person interaction and structured classroom discussions. Online students rely more on discussion boards, video conferencing, and digital platforms for collaboration.
- Access to Resources: Online students must proactively seek virtual advising and digital academic resources. In contrast, campus-based students can often access labs, libraries, and peer networks more easily.
Both options prepare students for national certification and clinical practice, with outcomes depending largely on the student’s learning style and time constraints. If you're considering switching specialties, you might also ask, “What is an ER nurse?”
What is the average cost of an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
The cost of an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate varies significantly by institution, residency status, and whether the school is public or private. According to Data USA, the median in-state tuition for nursing school at public institutions is $11,228, while the median out-of-state tuition at private institutions is $55,510.
Based on these figures, we can estimate:
- Median Out-of-State Tuition for Public Schools: approximately $22,000 to $30,000
- Median In-State Tuition for Private Schools: around $35,000 to $45,000
Some programs cost considerably less, making them more accessible for nurses seeking specialization without incurring substantial debt. For those seeking other affordable post-master’s certifications, check out the cheapest online PMHNP certificate programs for comparison.
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Students pursuing online nurse midwifery certificates often qualify for a range of financial aid options, though eligibility varies by school and program type. Here are some of the most common forms of assistance:
- Federal Student Aid: Graduate certificate students may be eligible for unsubsidized federal loans through the FAFSA.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many hospitals and health systems offer tuition reimbursement for employees seeking advanced clinical roles.
- State Grants and Scholarships: Some states offer funding for nurses who commit to working in underserved areas post-graduation.
- Private Scholarships: Numerous professional nursing associations offer targeted scholarships to midwifery students.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Nurses working in public service or rural areas may qualify for loan forgiveness after meeting specific criteria.
Exploring financial aid is a crucial step toward reducing the cost of advanced education. For those looking into adjacent roles, understanding what is a post-anesthesia care unit nurse and the education pathways involved can help clarify funding options.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Admission requirements for online nurse midwifery certificate programs vary, but most institutions expect applicants to meet several key criteria before enrolling:
- MSN: A graduate degree is typically required. According to AMCB, 97% of AMCB-certified midwives hold a master’s degree—a strong indicator of academic expectations across the field.
- Current RN or APRN License: Most programs require a valid and unrestricted nursing license in the state where the student will complete clinical hours.
- Minimum GPA: Many schools have GPA cutoffs, often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Professional Experience: Some programs prefer or require at least one year of clinical nursing experience.
- Prerequisite Coursework: Applicants may need recent coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and health assessment.
Prospective students should also review role-specific requirements, such as those found in flight nurse job requirements, which often mirror the academic and clinical foundations needed for nurse midwifery training.
What courses are typically in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs offer advanced coursework designed to prepare students for independent clinical practice, certification, and leadership in maternal and reproductive healthcare. The curriculum may vary by institution, but typically includes a combination of didactic and clinical education.
Just as affordable data analytics online bootcamps are structured to provide practical, job-ready skills in a short timeframe, these certificate programs are designed to deliver targeted, high-level clinical training efficiently.
Common Courses
- Advanced Health Assessment for Women and Newborns - Focuses on developing diagnostic reasoning and assessment skills specific to pregnant and postpartum populations.
- Midwifery Care During Pregnancy and Birth - Covers prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care, including evidence-based practices and cultural sensitivity.
- Gynecologic and Reproductive Health - Encompasses family planning, contraception, infertility, and routine gynecologic care.
- Pharmacology for Midwives - Examines drug therapies commonly used in midwifery practice, including labor induction, pain management, and hormonal treatment.
- Clinical Practicum/Residency - Hands-on, supervised experience in labor and delivery units or women's health clinics.
Each course is designed to meet the academic and professional competencies required for certification and safe, holistic midwifery practice.
What types of specializations are available in online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs?
While nurse midwifery is already a specialized area of advanced nursing practice, some programs offer further specialization to align with professional goals or address specific healthcare needs. This mirrors broader trends in education and healthcare, where professionals are pursuing focused credentials—such as the cheapest online EdS degree in special education—to meet evolving demands in high-need areas.
Available Specializations
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) Dual Certification - Allows students to gain broader expertise in non-pregnancy-related care such as menopause management, infertility, and gynecologic disorders.
- Global or Rural Midwifery - Focuses on providing maternal care in low-resource settings, ideal for those seeking international work or public health roles.
- Midwifery Education Track - Prepares experienced midwives to become educators or preceptors for future generations, similar to how professionals in nursing consider the cheapest graduate certificate in nursing education online to step into teaching roles affordably.
- Integrative Health and Holistic Midwifery - Includes training in complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and mindfulness.
This diversification reflects broader trends in the profession. According to AMCB, the largest proportion of AMCB-certified midwives—46.7%—have been certified for 10 years or less, suggesting a growing interest in the field. In comparison, 23% have been certified for 11 to 20 years, and 30.3% for over 20 years, showing both sustained experience and an influx of new professionals exploring emerging specialization pathways.
How does an online nurse midwifery certificate complement additional nursing credentials?
Integrating an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate with other advanced nursing qualifications can broaden career prospects without redundancy in clinical training. Specialized midwifery skills enhance patient care while further academic paths strengthen leadership, research, and administrative competencies. This balanced approach can facilitate transitions into roles that require both clinical expertise and managerial insight. For instance, pursuing complementary education—such as RN to BSN online programs no clinical—can offer an expanded academic portfolio that appeals to employers seeking versatile professionals.
What accreditation and regulatory considerations should you verify?
Prospective students should confirm that the online nurse midwifery graduate certificate program is accredited by recognized bodies to ensure compliance with clinical standards and state licensure requirements. Verifying accreditation not only guarantees the integrity and quality of the curriculum but also supports eligibility for certification exams and enhances career competitiveness. It is advisable to review these regulatory details alongside other cost comparisons, such as those provided by affordable online RN-BSN programs.
How does an online nurse midwifery certificate differ from direct entry MSN nurse practitioner programs?
An online nurse midwifery certificate is designed to develop specialized skills focused on women’s reproductive health, including prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care, with clinical experiences tailored to manage childbirth and women’s health challenges. In contrast, direct entry MSN nurse practitioner programs offer a broader primary care education that encompasses various specialties beyond midwifery, providing a diverse range of clinical placements. Each pathway demands rigorous academic preparation and practical experience, yet the midwifery certificate emphasizes targeted expertise in maternal care while MSN routes prepare graduates for a wider spectrum of advanced practice roles.
What challenges might I face in an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate program?
Online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs offer significant flexibility; however, they may also present distinct challenges. Students often need to manage self-directed study schedules, which can demand strong time management and proactive engagement with course materials. Securing consistently high-quality, locally available clinical placements that meet accreditation standards is another common hurdle. Additionally, technical issues with digital platforms and the limited immediacy of remote instructor support can impact the learning experience. Evaluating each program’s student support services and technological infrastructure is essential when weighing these challenges. If a more structured, in-person environment is preferred, consider exploring a direct entry NP program for non nurses as an alternative pathway.
How do you choose the most affordable online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
Affordability is a major factor for many students when selecting a graduate certificate program. Beyond tuition, you should consider various components that contribute to the true cost and value of a program.
Key Considerations
- Total Tuition and Fees: Look at cost per credit, additional fees, and total program length. Public schools often offer lower in-state rates.
- Accreditation: Verify the program is accredited by ACME to ensure eligibility for certification.
- Financial Aid Availability: Choose schools with access to scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs for nurse practitioners.
- Flexible Learning Formats: A fully online or hybrid format can reduce commuting or relocation expenses.
- Clinical Placement Support: Some schools assist students in finding local clinical sites, which can significantly cut costs and logistics challenges.
Evaluating both direct and indirect costs can help you find a program that fits your career goals without compromising your financial well-being.
What career paths are available for graduates of online nurse midwifery graduate certificate programs?
Graduates of online nurse midwifery certificate programs are qualified to work as certified nurse midwives in a wide range of healthcare settings. These roles involve not only attending births but also providing primary and gynecologic care across a woman’s lifespan.
Common Career Settings
- Outpatient Care Centers
- Hospitals (General Medical and Surgical)
- Local Government Health Clinics
- Private OB-GYN Practices
- University Health Systems
According to BLS as of May 2023, the top-paying industries for nurse midwives include:
- Outpatient Care Centers: $164,080
- General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $135,900
- Local Government (excluding schools and hospitals): $132,190
- Offices of Physicians: $127,550
- Colleges and Universities: $121,260
For those considering broader roles in care coordination, such as nurse case manager salary insights, may offer additional career options that align with a nurse midwife's clinical expertise and patient advocacy skills.
What is the job market like for graduates who completed an online nurse midwifery graduate certificate?
The job outlook for nurse midwives is favorable, reflecting the growing demand for holistic, patient-centered maternal and reproductive healthcare. Graduates of online programs, provided they are accredited and meet clinical requirements, are equally qualified for these roles. Similar flexibility and affordability can also be seen in the cheapest online ESL degree programs, which aim to expand access to specialized fields by reducing cost barriers.
According to BLS, employment of nurse midwives is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033. By the end of that period, total employment is expected to reach 7,700 positions. This steady growth reflects continued interest in midwifery care as a cost-effective and satisfying alternative to traditional OB-GYN services.
Graduates can expect opportunities across a variety of settings, especially in underserved areas where access to maternal health services remains limited. Online programs, by offering flexible access to education, help address these workforce shortages by expanding the pipeline of qualified certified nurse midwives.
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Online Graduate Certificate Nurse Midwifery Programs
Studying online allowed me to balance full-time work and family life without sacrificing the quality of my education. I gained hands‑on clinical skills in my local community while keeping up with lectures virtually. The curriculum was rigorous but flexible, letting me apply lessons in real time. It felt empowering to know I could become a Certified Nurse Midwife without relocating or pausing my career. I now feel confident leading births and providing comprehensive women’s health care. Sara
I entered the program feeling underprepared for advanced practice, but the online format’s interactive seminars and case‑based learning changed that. I connected with faculty and peers from across the country via virtual platforms, which enriched my learning experience. Completing clinicals in my hometown strengthened community ties while enabling continuity of care. Emotionally, earning the certificate online gave me a huge confidence boost—I did it on my terms. Trisha
After years in hospital nursing, I wanted to specialize without uprooting my life. The online program’s structure—a mix of self‑paced modules and real‑world clinical placements—was exactly what I needed. I appreciated the constant support from mentors through discussion boards and video calls. Transitioning to midwifery felt seamless, and I now offer women a meaningful, evidence‑based birthing experience. It’s the best investment I’ve made in my career. Jasmine
Key Findings
- As of January 2024, the US had 14,067 certified nurse midwives.
- Nurse midwives earned a median annual wage of $128,790 in May 2024.
- Median nursing school tuition is $11,228 for in-state public, and $55,510 for out-of-state private programs.
- Most programs take 12 to 30 months.
- Employment of nurse midwives is expected to grow 7% between 2023 and 2033, adding around 7,700 jobs.
- Top-paying industries for nurse midwives include outpatient centers ($164,080), hospitals ($135,900), local government clinics ($132,190), physicians’ offices ($127,550), and universities ($121,260).
References:
- AMCB. (2024, January 15). Demographic Report. AMCB.
- BLS. (2025, April 18). Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. BLS.
- BLS. (2023, April 25). Nurse midwives. BLS.
- Data USA. (n.d.). Nurse Midwife. Data USA.
Other Things You Should Know About the Most Affordable Online Graduate Certificate Nurse Midwifery
Most programs require at least one year of RN or APRN clinical experience, with many setting one to two years as preferred. This ensures that students have foundational nursing judgment and patient-care skills before entering the advanced midwifery track. Clinical experience may also impact placement options—hospitals and birth centers often prioritize candidates with proven local practice history. If you lack experience in women’s health, programs may require prerequisite courses to build necessary knowledge. Ultimately, your real-world experience enhances your learning and patient care capabilities during the program.
Yes. Accredited online graduate certificate programs are designed to meet AMCB eligibility requirements. These include a set number of didactic credits and supervised clinical hours. Students must pass the AMCB national exam to earn certification. Once certified, graduates can legally practice as Certified Nurse Midwives in states that license CNMs. Online program graduates should verify state licensure rules, as they may vary.
Many US online programs accept international applicants, but there are eligibility requirements. Prospective students must hold a U.-equivalent MSN, current RN license (often US-based), and meet clinical placement eligibility. Language proficiency tests and credential evaluations are commonly required. International students must also confirm they can complete clinical hours in the US. Some schools partner with international institutions to support placements abroad. Always consult the program for specific licensure and visa guidelines.
Leading programs offer a range of support tailored to distance learners:
- Academic advisors and dedicated midwifery mentors
- Virtual peer cohorts and study groups
- Simulated clinical labs online, followed by in-person practice
- Flexible scheduling and asynchronous access to lectures
Career services with assistance for certification exams and job placement
These resources ensure online learners receive personalized guidance, professional development, and a strong support network—even when they study remotely.
