Support and Guidance for the Student Midwife

Discover how the American College of Nurse-Midwives helps every student midwife succeed—from your first course to clinical experience, certification, and beyond.

Jones and Barlett Learning have partnered with ACNM to help lighten the load of being a midwifery student by offering a first-year ACNM Student Membership ($100 value) when you buy a print copy of Varney’s Midwifery, Seventh Edition.

What Is a Student Midwife?

A student midwife is someone currently enrolled in an accredited midwifery education program. Student midwives are preparing to become certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) or certified midwives (CMs), two nationally recognized roles in midwifery.

Student midwives receive academic instruction and supervised clinical experience in areas such as reproductive health, prenatal care, birth, postpartum support, and primary care. Their education prepares them to provide evidence-based, person-centered care across the lifespan.

how to become a midwife without a nursing degree
CNM Continuing Education | Certified Nurse Midwife Degree

How Does ACNM Support the Student Midwife?

The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) supports the student midwife by offering:

  • Access to current, evidence-based clinical and academic resources
  • Opportunities for leadership, mentorship, and networking
  • A professional community committed to improving health through midwifery care

ACNM connects every student midwife with the tools and relationships needed for success in school and in practice.

Benefits of ACNM for the Student Midwife

Academic and Clinical Resources

Student midwives gain access to up-to-date midwifery research, clinical tools, and practice guidelines that support learning and enhance training.

Mentorship and Career Support

As a student midwife, you can join a mentorship program, attend national events, and engage with midwives across the country.

Advocacy and Policy Engagement

ACNM actively advocates for policies that protect and promote student midwives, including education funding, equitable clinical placement access, and pathways to certification.

How to Become a Student Midwife

Becoming a student midwife starts by enrolling in a midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). These programs lead to eligibility for either the CNM or CM credential.

Every student midwife participates in:

  • Didactic learning (coursework on midwifery theory and science)
  • Clinical practice (hands-on experience under supervision)
  • Competency-based assessment (ensuring readiness for certification)

ACNM provides resources, directories, and expert guidance to help every student midwife navigate this path.

the midwife first assist | Certified Nurse Midwife Degree

A Professional Home for Every Student Midwife

ACNM is more than a professional association—it’s a lifelong community for midwives at every stage. As a student midwife, you’re building the future of midwifery care. ACNM is here to support you with advocacy, education, and connection.

Whether you’re exploring the field or preparing for national certification, every student midwife benefits from being part of a strong, unified voice for midwifery in the U.S.

Why Should You Join ACNM as a Student Midwife?

Joining ACNM as a student midwife provides unique opportunities to:

  • Stay informed on licensure, legislation, and midwifery news
  • Build professional connections early in your career
  • Gain access to exclusive tools and events that support your success

Membership benefits for student midwives include:

  • Scholarships and awards
  • Discounts on national conferences
  • Involvement in student leadership initiatives
  • A dedicated support network for academic and clinical growth

Common Questions from Student Midwives

What does a student midwife do?

A student midwife participates in both classroom and clinical education to become a certified nurse-midwife or certified midwife. Student midwives provide care under supervision and gain experience in reproductive, pregnancy, and primary care services.

Yes. ACNM offers student memberships with benefits tailored to midwifery students, including access to resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

ACNM maintains a list of ACME-accredited programs across the United States that prepare students for certification as CNMs or CMs.