Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: I have an RN license and an ADN degree. How can I apply to the midwifery program?
Answer:To apply for the midwifery program, applicants need to have a minimum of a BSN degree. The easiest route to the MSN program in nurse-midwifery is to complete an accelerated RN to BSN program (not available at Case Western Reserve University) before applying to our program.
Q: I have a bachelor's degree but not in nursing. Can I apply to the nurse-midwifery program?
A: The graduate entry, MN program, at Case Western Reserve is a two-year program for those with a bachelor's degree not in nursing to complete requirements to become an RN. The MN application process includes automatic admission to the MSN program, and graduates complete 15 credits of the MSN program during their MN program. Read more about the MN program.
Q: I am a midwife educated in another country. How can I become certified in the U.S. to practice midwifery?
A: The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) has prepared a document to help midwives prepared in other countries understand the certification process in the U.S.
Additional expenses to anticipate:
Q: What are the costs for textbooks?
A: While some texts are available at no charge through the Health Sciences Library on campus, students should budget for additional required texts.
Q: Are there any lab fees?
A: Lab fees are included with the general University tuition and do not require additional payment.
Q: Is malpractice insurance provided during clinical courses?
A: Yes, malpractice insurance is provided at no cost to students during clinical courses through the University.
Q: What costs are associated with the requirements for starting the Labor & Birth clinical course outside of the University?
- Doula Course
- Neonatal Resuscitation Certification (NRP) & Electronic Fetal Monitoring Course: Many hospital employers offer these courses at no cost to their employees.
Q: What are the anticipated housing and travel expenses for the final Advanced Midwifery clinical course?
- Housing: Students will need to budget for housing expenses during the final clinical semester - a 10-week out-of-state immersion experience, which can vary greatly depending on the location. We work closely with students to select integration sites near family or friends, which can sometimes help defer housing costs.
- Travel: Travel expenses, primarily for driving to the clinical site, should also be anticipated. Depending on the distance traveled students should plan for costs related to fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance.
Fun Fact: We have clinical site relationships in California, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and various places in between. We are always open to working with students to find new and enriching educational opportunities in exciting locations.
Q: Are students allowed to work during the 10-week Advanced Midwifery clinical immersion experience?
A: No. Students are not allowed to work during this 10-week immersion period. This policy is in place to ensure full commitment and focus on their clinical training, as well as for health and safety reasons. It allows students to have adequate rest between clinical experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared and capable of handling the demands of this final clinical immersion.
Q: What other expenses should I anticipate?
- Professional Memberships and Conferences: Joining professional organizations and attending relevant conferences can enhance learning and networking opportunities.
- Health and Immunization Requirements: Students can obtain health insurance through the University. All students registered for at least one credit hour will be automatically enrolled in the Student Medical Plan unless a waiver is submitted. The Student Medical Plan fee is automatically billed each fall and spring semester and will appear on the student's tuition bill. The plan payment is due per the University's tuition schedule.
- Uniforms and Equipment: Students may need to purchase scrub uniforms or clinical equipment.
By planning ahead for these expenses, students can better manage their finances throughout the Nurse-Midwifery MSN program.