So, you want to become a Certified Nurse Midwife in Alaska?
Becoming a CNM in Alaska can be a compelling thought.
After all, it’s where the Mother of Midwifery, Ina May Gaskin, was from!
It’s also a very rewarding and fulfilling career.
Regardless, there’s a process to becoming a midwife that most people find difficult to navigate.
All the processes and requirements can get a little confusing, especially since they differ per state.
But our guide shows you exactly how to become a nurse midwife (CNM) in Alaska in just 5 steps.
We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions from aspiring CNMs.
Ready to take the first step toward becoming a CNM?
Let’s dive right into the article!
How to Become a Nurse Midwife (CNM) in Alaska in 5 Easy Steps
Becoming a CNM in Alaska will take some time and determination.
But the information below should help make the application process easier for you.
These are the five steps to becoming a CNM in Alaska:
Step #1: Find Out the Requirements of CNM Programs
Step #2: Earn a Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse Midwifery
Step #3: Pass the National Certification Exam
Step #4: Complete Your CNM License Application
Step #5: Begin Your Career as a CNM in Alaska
Let’s learn more about each step in detail.
Step #1: Find Out the Requirements of CNM Programs
Each nursing school has different requirements for admission.
You need to find out the requirements of the specific school you are interested in to ensure a seamless application process.
However, these are the most basic requirements:
- Must have a BSN or a related education that includes the completion of nursing prerequisites
- Must hold a current RN license
- Must complete at least one year of work experience as an RN
Some other requirements may include a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, immunization records, etc.
If you are not yet a registered nurse (RN) in Alaska, you can find out how to become one by reading this simple guide.
After receiving your RN license, you need to work for at least one year as an RN before you can apply to a nurse-midwifery program.
The experience will make you more equipped to enter into advanced practice.
Step #2: Earn a Master’s Degree or Higher in Nurse Midwifery
CNMs in Alaska are considered Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs).
RNs seeking licensure in nurse-midwifery must finish at least a one-year graduate program that includes 500 hours of supervised clinical practice – according to Alaska Nursing Statutes and Regulations.
Only schools accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) are acceptable for master’s and doctoral degrees.
Programs can be taken both online and in-person, making it easier for working RNs to complete their CNM requirements.
Additionally, it allows Alaska-based students to remain in-state for their education even if no CNM programs are being offered in Alaska itself. Most students have to relocate to an out-of-state facility to complete their studies.
You’ll be assigned a faculty adviser at the beginning of your online program. He or she will help you identify sites where you can continue to complete your clinical training hours.
A few facilities that we know work closely with online nurse-midwifery master’s programs include:
- Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage
- Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage
- Alaska Regional Hospital in Anchorage
- Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
Step #3: Pass the National Certification Exam
After completing your classroom and clinical training requirements, the next step is to pass the National Certification Exam.
The Certified Nurse Midwife Exam is sponsored by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). You can send your exam application to the address below or submit it online.
AMCB
849 International Drive, Suite 120
Linthicum, MD 21090
You’ll be provided with a Candidate Handbook, which you must read to prepare for the exam.
The test is computer-based and is composed of 175 multiple-choice questions. You’ll have four hours to complete everything.
Topics of the test will include the following:
- Antepartum – 21%
- Intrapartum – 21%
- Postpartum – 18%
- Gynecology – 19%
- Women’s health and primary care – 11%
- Newborn – 10%
Those who complete the exam will be provided with a Certificate in Nurse Midwifery and will be permitted to move on to the next step.
Step #4: Complete Your CNM License Application
Now that you have your certification, it’s time to finalize your application for a CNM license in Alaska, which is under the APRN licensure.
You must have an active Alaska RN license to apply for an APRN license.
Take note that Alaska is not part of the Nursing Licensure Compact so multi-state RN licenses are not credited.
You can find the application form on the Alaska Board of Nursing website. You can do a paper application or an online application.
You will also be asked to submit:
- Official transcripts from your CNM program
- Proof of current national certification
- Professional references
- Proof of 60 hours of continuing education within the past 2 years
- Notarized signature page
You can find more details on each requirement here.
It may take anywhere between four to six weeks to finalize the application. You’ll be notified about the board’s decision via your contact details.
Step #5: Begin Your Career as a CNM in Alaska
After receiving your license, you’re finally free to practice as a CNM in Alaska – congratulations!
CNMs typically work in:
- offices of physicians
- general hospitals
- outpatient clinics
- offices of other healthcare practitioners
- local government units
But don’t forget to keep your RN license and your national certification active to be able to keep practicing as a CNM in Alaska.
Your CNM certificate from AMCB has a five-year renewal cycle, so make sure to update your credentials before the renewal deadline comes around.
Familiarize yourself with AMCB’s Certificate Maintenance Program to stay on top of your requirements.
You can also learn more about the CE requirements in Alaska by reading this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNM in Alaska
How much do CNMs in Alaska get paid?
According to Salary.com, CNMs in Alaska make an average yearly salary of $131,399.
Rates may vary depending on various factors, including the person’s education, additional skills, certifications, and number of years in service.
How long is a CNM program in Alaska?
A CNM program in Alaska takes at least one year. This includes at least 500 hours of supervised clinical training to qualify for licensing.
Is midwifery school difficult?
Midwifery school is not for everyone. Some people may find it easy while others might find it hard. Ultimately, the answer to whether it’s difficult is influenced largely by your determination to finish the program.
How many hours do midwives work?
The standard working hours of midwives are around 37.5 hours per shift. This may include nights, early starts, weekends, evenings, and bank holidays.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a CNM in Alaska can be a rewarding career choice.
If you have a knack for helping expecting mothers learn more about their bodies and babies, this field of work is for you.
Use our guide to plan for your journey and to keep track of your progress throughout the application process.
If you just take it one step at a time, you’ll be a nurse midwife before you know it!
We hope you found this guide helpful!