UB School of Nursing launches upstate New York’s first Midwifery DNP program

BUFFALO, N.Y. — As maternal mortality cases and maternity care shortages persist across New York and the nation, the University at Buffalo School of Nursing has launched a Midwifery Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program to prepare certified nurse-midwives who can expand access to care and improve outcomes across New York state.

“As someone with deep clinical and personal roots in Western New York, and experience supporting the maternity health workforce in low- and middle-income countries, I’ve seen firsthand how gaps in access, equity and workforce capacity impact outcomes for families, says Peter Johnson, clinical professor and former chief nursing and midwifery officer of Jhpiego, a nongovernmental organization affiliated with Johns Hopkins University.

“By preparing highly skilled midwives who are rooted in the communities they serve, this program represents a critical investment in building a more responsive, equitable and sustainable maternity care system for Western New York and across New York state.”

Johnson and Jennifer Guay, clinical associate professor at UB School of Nursing and certified nurse-midwife with over 20 years of experience, were instrumental in developing the program.

The program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice as certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), equipping them to deliver primary, reproductive and maternity care across the lifespan. Nurse-midwives play a critical role in improving maternal and newborn outcomes while strengthening continuity of care.

The eight-semester curriculum emphasizes clinical excellence, health equity and evidence-based practice. Students complete clinical placements in hospitals and midwifery practices throughout Western New York, along with on-campus intensives focused on simulation, skills development and interprofessional learning.

Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education, the program is one of only five nurse-midwifery programs in New York State and the only program preparing certified nurse-midwives in upstate New York.

“Our midwifery program is built on strong clinical training and meaningful community partnerships,” says Guay. “Our students will train alongside experienced providers in real-world settings, gaining the skills to provide safe, compassionate, evidence-based care while learning to meet the needs of diverse and vulnerable populations. We’re preparing midwives who are committed to improving access, advancing health equity and supporting better outcomes for families across our region.”

Applications will open in the coming weeks for Spring 2027 admission.