How to Find Accredited Midwifery Schools

What are midwifery schools? Where can you find them? Once you have decided you want to pursue a career as a midwife, it can be confusing to figure out where to go to pursue your education. There is so much variation from state to state in the necessary requirements to become a midwife, and so many different paths for entering the field. However, gaining the necessary education is not as elusive as it seems.

For those who seek to achieve certification for a career in this ancient art, it is necessary to find an accredited school to complete their midwife education. When trying to decide which school's program is best for you, it's helpful to start with the different types of midwife certification that is available.

• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): If you want become a CNM, you must first complete a nursing program. In some states, only a Bachelors degree is required, although many states now require a Masters degree. Once you have completed your nursing degree, you must then complete additional training in midwifery. A list of schools with accredited nurse midwife education programs is available at the American College of Nurse Midwifery's Web site at http://www.acnm.org
• Certified Midwife (CM) or Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) You do not need to hold a nursing degree to earn CM or CPM designations. Many Certified Midwives and Certified Professional Midwives begin their training by studying with an experienced midwife in an apprenticeship.  In order to receive certification, you must complete a midwifery program accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council. A list of accredited schools is available on the MEAC website at http://www.meacschools.org

Because laws for practicing midwifery vary from state to state, it is a good idea to find out what is required in the state where you will be practicing before you decide on a midwife education program.