Nurse Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner FAQ

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Why become a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner?

Women's Health Nursing is a rapidly growing field of advance practice nursing, offering a variety of career advancement options. As a nurse practitioner specializing in women's health, you will have an opportunity to expand your knowledge and practice of women's health care spanning a female's life cycle.

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Why choose University of Cincinnati's College of Nursing?

The University of Cincinnati's College of Nursing offered the first baccalaureate in nursing in the country in 1916 and is nationally respected for its high-quality nursing programs. The College is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).*

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What if I don't meet the admissions requirements?

There are a variety of admissions options available to prospective students. Contact an Enrollment Advisor at 1-866-225-6764 to discuss admissions opportunities.

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I have read the Web site. What if I have more questions?

For more detailed information about the program, contact a University of Cincinnati Enrollment Advisor toll-free at 1-866-225-6764. Enrollment Advisors will answer your questions about the program and help you prepare for a new and exciting education opportunity.

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What is the current job market for Nurse Midwives and Women's Health Nurse Practitioners?

The job market is very strong. Certified Nurse-Midwives and Women's Health Nurse Practitioners can work in a variety of practice settings, including research laboratories, hospitals, clinics, public health facilities and industry.

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Why is accreditation important?

Accreditation is important for obtaining certification and licensure in nurse midwifery and women's health nursing. Certification makes it possible for nurse-midwives to obtain licensure to practice. Certification is required to obtain a licence to practice as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner.

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What kind of accreditation should I look for?

In the United States, the most widely recognized form of accreditation for degree-granting programs comes from the regional accreditation commissions and professional accrediting bodies. The University of Cincinnati is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org).∞ The UC College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) (www.aacn.nche.edu/accreditation).* The Nurse Midwifery program is accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM).†

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What should I look for in a distance learning program?

We recommend you search for a program that has extensive experience delivering distance learning, low student attrition, dedicated full-time faculty, high student satisfaction and minimal travel. Unlike correspondence courses, UC distance learning programs are not self-paced or independent study. They have the benefit of traditional education with faculty-led, structured curriculum and the convenience and interactivity of online technologies.

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I have a busy work and family life and cannot attend classes each week. Is this program for me?

Yes. You can complete your studies at your convenience in the comfort of your own home or workplace. There are no campus meetings or residency requirements to attend. You have access to your courses 24 hours a day.

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I am not computer savvy; can I do this?

Yes. We realize that many new students are computer novices; therefore, technical support and a full-time Program Manager will be available to support you throughout the program. As a new student, you will also have an orientation to online courses prior to starting classes.

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Do I earn the same degree that on-campus students earn?

Yes. University of Cincinnati awards the same degrees regardless of the delivery method: the traditional campus-based program or the distance learning program for working professionals.

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What are the computer requirements for participation in the Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs?

To participate in either program you will need a computer system with current specifications as specified in the Distance Learning section. It is advisable to call your Enrollment Advisor at 1-866-225-6764 for the most up to date specifications required.

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How many hours per week will I need to study?

Of course, this is individually based. On an average, 15-20 hours per week should ensure completion of each course on time. In your second year, you will need to allow for sufficient time to complete your clinical work; for Nurse-Midwifery students, this means that students should plan to work part-time while completing their clinicals.

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What if I can't keep up?

One of the benefits of studying in a small learning community is the special support you will receive from your peers and faculty. Students typically find this greatly helps them stay on track. Your UC faculty is composed of professional educators in nurse midwifery and women's health nursing who recognize your challenges and want to help you succeed.