How to Become a Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Guide patients through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care as an advanced practice nurse specializing in the whole birthing process. It typically requires a master's degree, with a median salary of $134,040 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$134,040/yr
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
500
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Obstetric Care
- Patient Education
- Clinical Judgment
- Monitoring
- Communication
Helpful certifications
- CNM (AMCB Certified Nurse-Midwife)
- RN licensure
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a Nurse Midwife (CNM) make?
The median pay for a Nurse Midwife (CNM) is $134,040 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Nurse Midwife (CNM)?
The usual entry point is a master's degree. Common majors are Nursing and Public Health.
Is Nurse Midwife (CNM) a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 500 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Nurse Midwife (CNM) use most?
Common skills for this role are Obstetric Care, Patient Education, Clinical Judgment, Monitoring, and Communication.
Planning to become a Nurse Midwife (CNM)?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.