Education · 1 of 4
The path
In the United States the main route runs through nursing first. Expect six to eight years from high school.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Biology, chemistry and any health science course. Volunteer or work somewhere that puts you near patients.
- 2
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
4 years
Four years, with clinical placements from year two. Nursing programs are competitive, so grades count.
- 3
Pass the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) and get licensed
A few months
This makes you a registered nurse, which is the entry ticket for the next step.
- 4
Work as a nurse
1 to 2 years
Most graduate programs want real experience, and labor and delivery experience is the obvious choice.
- 5
Graduate midwifery program
2 to 3 years
A master's or doctorate accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. Classroom work plus hundreds of supervised clinical hours.
- 6
Certify and get your state license
A few months
Pass the national examination from the American Midwifery Certification Board, then apply for advanced practice licensure in your state.