30 Best Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in the Nation – 2024

Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you a registered nurse with a passion for caring for infants, children, and adolescents? Do you dream of having a job where you have a high level of autonomy, or you can lead an interprofessional healthcare team? Does opening your own practice sound like something you would love to do? If so, have you considered becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner?

Maybe the idea of being a PNP sounds good, but you worry about the time commitment of going to and from school. In that case, an online pediatric nurse practitioner program could be an excellent option!

In this article, I share some information with you about becoming a PNP, including answering questions, like, “What are the best online PNP programs in the nation?” As you read further, you will learn where to find the 30 best accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs in the nation for 2024 and find information about how to start your journey to the career of your dreams!

WHAT EXACTLY IS THE GOAL OF AN ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER (PNP) PROGRAM?

The goal of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs is to prepare registered nurses with an advanced master’s or doctoral nursing degree specializing in the care of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. The programs offer in-depth curriculum plans focused on acute or primary pediatric care and help students develop the skills and abilities needed to be leaders in pediatric care.

11 TOP ADVANTAGES OF ONLINE PNP PROGRAMS

If you are considering pursuing your degree from any of the available pediatric nurse practitioner online programs, it is normal to wonder about the pros and cons. The following are eleven of the top advantages of earning your degree through one of these specialized programs.

1. You can save money:

Any college degree can be expensive. However, by enrolling in an online PNP program, you can cut down expenses significantly. The costs associated with staying in dorms, classroom fees, or meal plans on campus may be eliminated entirely. Additionally, there will be fewer expenses related to traveling to and from campus and car maintenance.

2. You can keep your job:

In today’s society, many families are faced with the need to have more than one income to help meet their family’s needs. By pursuing a degree online, students can often work at least part-time, some full-time, which means they can continue to contribute to their families.

3. You can have a flexible schedule:

Students who attend school online often find that there is a great deal more flexibility with their schedules. This means you can study when and where it is most convenient for you. Additionally, some professors or instructors may offer more lenient deadlines for online students.

4. You will improve collaboration and communication skills:

As a PNP, you will need to exercise effective communication skills and know how to collaborate with others to provide care to your patients. Online learning creates an opportunity for you to develop good communication skills and improve your collaboration skills, both of which will be a plus for you long after graduation.

5. You can impact the health outcomes for one of the most vulnerable patient populations:

Online pediatric nurse practitioner programs will prepare you with the skills required to make informed decisions about patient care. The knowledge you acquire in these programs will help you design and implement individualized care plans aimed at improving the health and well-being of pediatric patients experiencing varying degrees of illness or disease.

6. With a degree from one of the best pediatric nurse practitioner online programs, you could open your own practice:

If you have dreamed of opening your own business caring for pediatric patients, you can turn that dream into a reality with a degree from an online PNP program. Depending on where you live and your state’s NP practice authority guidelines, you may open a practice in collaboration with a physician or work independently.

7. You can help reduce the shortage of pediatric care providers in the United States:

In recent years, the U.S. has seen a reduction in the number of physicians, including pediatric care providers. When you earn your degree through an online PNP program, you will have the knowledge and credentials needed to help reduce the physician shortage while pursuing your dream of providing care to pediatric populations.

8. You can choose a subspecialty relevant to pediatric care:

When you enroll in online pediatric nurse practitioner programs, you will usually have the option of choosing acute care, primary care, or a combination of both (primary/acute). One of the great things about this career path, though, is that you do not have to settle on just one specialty. You can actually choose to specialize further, offering care to a specific patient population. For example, you can specialize in cardiology, oncology, neurology, or other specialty areas, depending on your interests.

9. You can participate in research aimed at helping find cures for pediatric diseases:

Accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs will provide you with the tools you need to gather and evaluate evidence through research and determine how those findings affect your clients. You can collect data and perform further research focused on specific pediatric illnesses or diseases and work to find cures.

10. You will likely develop lasting relationships with your patients:

Pediatric nurse practitioner online programs will prepare you to care for children from birth to age 21. If you choose a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner role, you may care for the same patients from the time they are born until they become adults and move their care to an adult physician. Building these types of relationships with clients can be emotionally rewarding because you not only see the negative side of illness or disease, but you also get to celebrate milestones and accomplishments as your patients grow.

11. You can earn a generous income:

When you graduate from an online pediatric nurse practitioner degree program, you will have excellent income potential. In fact, according to ZipRecruiter, pediatric nurse practitioners earn an average yearly salary of more than $121,000. The more experience you have, the greater your earning potential. Additionally, if you work for another healthcare provider or healthcare organization, you will probably be offered a nice benefits package as well. Depending on where you work, some benefits packages can be worth tens of thousands of dollars!

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

There are two different types of pediatric nurse practitioner online programs currently being offered.

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program:

With particular emphasis on pediatric-aged patients, a pediatric primary care nurse practitioner program includes a focus on pediatric pharmacology, health assessment from infancy to adolescence, and advanced pathophysiology. They also involve education regarding well-child care, as well as the management and prevention of both acute and chronic illnesses spanning across various clinical settings.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program:

Pediatric acute care NP programs prepare advanced practice pediatric nurses to meet the needs of clients from infancy to early adulthood who have acute, critical, or chronic health conditions. These programs educate pediatric nurse practitioners to recognize and meet the psychological and physiological needs of their patients who require specialized care.

PEDIATRIC PRIMARY CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAM VS. PEDIATRIC ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAM: WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

When choosing between primary care or acute care online pediatric nurse practitioner programs, it's essential to understand that the difference in roles is based on patient needs, not practice settings. Therefore, knowing what type of care you prefer to provide will be helpful. For example, acute care pediatric NPs focus on providing care that is necessary following acute or sudden illness, critical illness, injury, or for patients who are medically unstable. Primary care pediatric nurse practitioners typically provide care that emphasizes the promotion and maintenance of one's health, prevention of disease, and management of chronic and/or minor health issues.

HOW LONG ARE ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

A few factors affect how long it will take you to complete online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. Enrolling full or part-time and the level of degree you have when entering the program will determine its length. For example, a BSN registered nurse typically completes the program in three or four years. Registered nurses with an MSN degree may earn the Doctor of Nursing Practice in two or three years.

• The online PNP program at Duke University takes an average of two and a half years to complete.

• The University of Cincinnati offers part-time and full-time options for its online pediatric nurse practitioner program. Full-time students typically complete the program in three years, and part-time students usually take four years.

• At Texas Tech University, students enrolled in the Acute Care PNP and Primary Care PNP programs can complete the master’s-level tracks in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.

• The online PNP program at Johns Hopkins University is designed in a four-year format, which includes three summer semesters.

HOW MUCH DO ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS COST?

Pediatric nurse practitioner online programs can cost as little as $30,000 to more than $200,000. Your total cost will be determined by various factors, including whether you must pay out-of-state tuition, the number of credits you need, and if you have any scholarships or grants to help with program costs. The following are examples of the cost of some of the nation’s top programs.

• At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, tuition is charged at a rate of $682 per credit hour. The university offers Primary and Acute Care online pediatric nurse practitioner programs that require 45 credits to complete. Therefore, the cost of each program comes to around $30,690.

• The University of Michigan charges tuition based on your residency status. In-state students pay $1,834 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $3,339 per credit hour. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner program online is a 44-credit program, which means tuition costs between $80,696 and $146,916, depending on where you live.

• At Rush University, the online PNP program costs $1,286 per credit hour. The university offers a BSN to DNP option, which requires 68 credits and costs $87,448. The MSN to DNP pathway for APRNs is a 29-credit program costing $37,294. The school also offers an MSN to DNP option for students who are not currently APRNs. That option requires completing 56 credits and costs approximately $72,016.

• The University of Iowa offers BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP pediatric nurse practitioner online programs with tuition ranging from $35,780 to $168,777. The BSN to DNP pathway offers three- and four-year study plans and ranges from $79,520 to $168,777. The MSN to DNP option is a three-year program that costs between $35,780 and $54,752. Tuition is calculated based on whether you live in the state or out-of-state.

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

Admission guidelines for the top online pediatric nurse practitioner programs are determined by the school offering the program, which means you could see some variation in criteria. Although you will find some differences, the general guidelines for admission are similar and include the following.

• Have a BSN or MSN in nursing earned at an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited nursing program
• Possess a current, unrestricted RN license
• Have a minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience in pediatric care, intensive or emergency care is preferable
• A minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale
• Completion of an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of at least “C.”
• Many schools require candidates to participate in an admissions interview with program faculty, as well.

You will likely be asked to provide the following supplemental documents.

• Two to three professional or academic letters of recommendation
• A current resume or curriculum vitae
• An admissions essay
• A Statement of Intent
• An in-person or online face-to-face interview

HOW MANY CREDITS ARE THERE IN ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

The number of credits needed to complete pediatric nurse practitioner online programs varies, with many programs offering curriculum plans that require 25 to 80 credits. Whether you enter the program with a baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing is the main determining factor of how many credits you will need to graduate. The following are a few examples of the credit requirements for some of the nation’s top programs.

• At the University of Pittsburgh, the Primary Care online PNP is a 40-credit option. The Acute Care online pediatric nurse practitioner program is a 37-credit program.

• The BSN to DNP Primary Care PNP online program at Rush University is a 68-credit program. The university also offers two MSN to DNP pathways. APRNs can complete the DNP with 29 credits. Non-APRNs must complete 56 credits. You’ll need 68 credits to graduate from Rush University’s program if you enter with a BSN.

• The University of Iowa offers BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. The BSN to DNP Primary Care PNP program requires students to complete 77 credits, and the Acute Care pathway requires 78 credits. The MSN to DNP pathways require 43 credits for Primary Care and 44 credits for Acute Care.

• At the University of Missouri-Kansas City, prospective students can choose from post-baccalaureate to MSN or DNP and post-master's to DNP options when enrolling in an online pediatric nurse practitioner program, depending on their current degree level. The MSN Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program online is a 52-credit program. The MSN Primary Care PNP online program requires students to complete 46 credits. The MSN to DNP program is a 31-credit hour pathway. The BSN to DNP program includes 74 credits.

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL COURSES YOU’LL TAKE IN ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

Online pediatric nurse practitioner programs offer content-rich curriculum plans. The class you must take may vary depending on whether you previously earned a BSN or MSN and whether you are pursuing an MSN or DNP. Additionally, acute care and primary care pathways have some variation in course offerings. The following are a few examples of classes you will take in some of the best programs.

Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning:

In this class, you will learn to differentiate normal findings from abnormal findings using advanced clinical assessment techniques. You will learn to interpret diagnostic tests and use your clinical judgment to diagnose culturally diverse pediatric populations.

Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics:

This class is designed to equip you with the knowledge of pharmacotherapeutics so you can safely select medication regimens for pediatric patients. You will learn about drug groups, indications for use, how to titrate dosages, and monitor therapy in pediatric clients.

Health Promotion of Behavior Development- Birth Through Adolescence:

In this course, you will learn about the development of children and adolescents within their contextual role in the family and society. The faculty will guide you as you learn a family-centered approach to pediatric care, including factors, research, and techniques which may impact health development.

Advanced Pathophysiology:

This class focuses on the concepts and theories related to disorders of the body’s physiological processes which result in health alterations in pediatric patients. You will learn to use the framework of human body systems, inferences and research from theories and concepts of pathophysiology and apply them to clinical nursing practice.

Management of Complex Pediatric Conditions:

The purpose of this course is to provide you with the specialized knowledge required to manage complex acute and chronic illnesses in children. You will also learn to make age-appropriate assessments and use culturally appropriate strategies in creating and implementing care plans.

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL PRACTICAL TRAINING LIKE IN ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

The number of clinical hours you'll need to complete in pediatric nurse practitioner programs online varies based on which degree you plan to pursue and your current level of nursing education. MSN students usually complete between 500 and 750 clinical hours. DNP students must complete a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The school you plan to attend will usually perform a GAP analysis of coursework and verify your previous clinical hours to determine how many hours of clinical training you need to satisfy graduation criteria.

• At the University of Iowa, students pursuing a primary care online PNP program must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours. Students in the acute care PNP track complete 1,090 clinical hours. Students enrolled in the MSN to DNP pathways will have clinical hours from their master’s program evaluated to determine how many may be credited toward the clinical hour requirements. Currently, all clinicals for the pediatric nurse practitioner online programs at the University of Iowa must be completed in that state. The university offers clinical placement assistance to ensure you have adequate clinical experiences with qualified preceptors.

• The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers students in its online pediatric nurse practitioner programs rich clinical experiences. The university has partnerships with more than 5,000 clinical affiliates and clinical coordinators help to secure clinical sites and preceptors. At UAB, there are options for post-baccalaureate and post-master's entry into both the acute care and primary care pediatric nurse practitioner programs online. All students must achieve a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours to meet graduation criteria. MSN to DNP students may receive credit for up to 500 clinical hours from their master’s nursing program credited toward the 1,000-hour clinical requirement.

• Johns Hopkins University offers BSN to DNP and Entry-Level MSN to DNP online PNP programs. Students may choose a Pediatric Primary Care or Pediatric Dua Primary/Acute Care pathway. The curriculum for each pathway includes 784 clinical hours and 224 DNP project practicum hours, giving students 1,008 clinical hours. In some cases, hands-on clinical hours may be reduced for post-MSN to DNP students based on an evaluation of previous MSN clinical hours. Johns Hopkins has a Clinical Placement Team and Track Coordinator who work with you to help locate clinical sites and preceptors.

• At Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, the online PNP program requires students to complete 525 clinical hours. The university offers clinical placement in settings, including Franciscan Health, Eskenazi Health, and Ascension St. Vincent – all local to the area. Additionally, the university has clinical partnerships with an additional 200 clinical sites located in central Indiana. Your clinical coordinator will work with you to identify appropriate clinical sites and preceptors.

WHAT ARE THE BEST ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN THE NATION FOR 2024?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 30 best accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs in the nation for the year 2024.)

1. Duke University - Durham, NC

Programs Offered:

MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

At the University of Missouri-Kansas City, you can choose from three online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. The programs feature a mixed hybrid format with synchronous and asynchronous online didactic work and in-person clinical hours.

The MSN pathway can be completed in seven to eight semesters based on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. Both options include required summer study. The MSN Primary Care curriculum includes 46 credits of coursework and a minimum of 660 clinical hours plus 90 lab hours. The MSN Acute Care PNP curriculum features a 52-credit curriculum and 660 clinical hours.

The BSN-to-DNP primary and acute programs are 74-credit pathways that can be completed in four years if you enroll full-time or five years if you study part-time. Post-baccalaureate DNP students complete at least 1,237.50 clinical hours to meet graduation criteria.

The MSN-to-DNP pathways take two to three years, based on whether you choose part-time or full-time study. The post-master's DNP primary care nurse practitioner program requires you to complete 50 credits, and the acute care pathway requires 66 credits. The credit requirements include core 31 credits of core DNP coursework and either acute care PNP or primary care PNP coursework. Each pathway also includes 500 clinical hours.

Admission Requirements:

To gain admission to the pediatric nurse practitioner online programs at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, you must possess a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Nursing degree earned from an accredited nursing program and have an active RN license. Candidates must provide college transcripts reflecting a minimum 3.2 grade point average calculated on their last 60 BSN credit hours or for the MSN cumulative average. A minimum of one year of work experience as a registered nurse within the last three years is required for both the MSN and DNP programs.

You must provide a Personal Goals Statement, a copy of your RN license, three evaluation forms (one each from an immediate supervisor, faculty professor from your nursing program, and a professional reference). Applicants must complete a graduate-level statistics course and an undergraduate health assessment course, each with a minimum grade of “B.”

Why Choose University of Missouri-Kansas City Online PNP

• U.S. News ranks the University of Missouri-Kansas City as one of the Best Nursing School: Master’s and Best Nursing Schools” Doctor of Nursing Practice.
• The school offers clinical placement assistance to help locate clinical sites and preceptors as close to your home as possible.
• The online pediatric nurse practitioner programs offer a low faculty-to-student ratio making it easier for you to schedule time with instructors, when needed.
• The School of Nursing boasts an alumni network of more than 135,000 nurses to motivate and help you on your journey to becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner.

15. Maryville University - St. Louis, MO

Programs Offered:

MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

19. University of Kentucky College of Nursing - Lexington, KY

Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

The University of Kentucky offers opportunities for baccalaureate- and master’s-prepared RNs to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree specializing in acute or primary pediatric care. The BSN-to-DNP pathways can be completed in three years of full-time study or in four to five years part-time. The MSN-to-DNP pathway takes two to three years, depending on whether you enroll full-time or part-time.

The BSN-to-DNP pathways feature 74 credit hours and 1,020 clinical hours. The MSN-to-DNP AC-PNP and PC-PNP programs require 39 to 45 credits and 840 clinical hours. In both programs, you will experience clinical practicum in various pediatric settings, preparing you for advanced clinical practice as a pediatric acute or primary nurse practitioner.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants for the BSN- and MSN-to-DNP online pediatric nurse practitioner programs must have a current, unencumbered RN license and one year of clinical nursing experience before beginning the first DNP clinical course. Post-master's applicants must have an APRN license, as well. Post-baccalaureate candidates must have a BSN, and post-master's candidates must have a BSN and MSN from CCNE- or ACEN-accredited programs. A minimum college GPA of 3.0 is required of all applicants.

All applicants must submit a Goal Statement, an example of scholarly written work, a current CV or resume, and three letters of reference. Prospective students who meet all other admission criteria will be asked to participate in an admission interview.

Why Choose University of Kentucky College of Nursing Online PNP

• The University of Kentucky offers state-of-the-art facilities where you will participate in faculty-supervised intensives to prepare you for clinical practicums and professional practice.
• The School of Nursing is recognized by the National League for Nursing as an NLN Center of Excellence, a prestigious designation recognizing educational excellence and leadership
• The university has its own chapter of the Delta Psy Sigma Honor Society of Nursing, which is dedicated to promoting nursing excellence and advancing world health.
• The School of Nursing launched the first DNP program in the nation, which remains a top-ranked program, a testament to the university’s dedication to graduate nursing education.

20. Old Dominion University - Virginia Beach, VA

Programs Offered:

MSN

MSN Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

At Old Dominion University, you will find another of the country’s top online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. This distance-learning program is primarily online but also includes classroom and laboratory experiences on campus. Forty-nine credit hours and 560 clinical practicum hours are needed to complete this hybrid PNP online program. The full-time schedule is typically completed within two years, and the part-time schedule takes approximately three years.

In Old Dominion’s PNP program, you will complete 49 credits, which includes 21 MSN core course credits and 28 pediatric nurse practitioner specialty courses. The program also includes 560 clinical practicum hours. Clinical hours are divided into three practicum experiences with corresponding clinical courses. You will work with the Clinical Services Coordinator to identify clinical sites and preceptors and to secure contracts for your clinical practicums.

Admission Requirements:

Acceptance to the pediatric nurse practitioner program requires an active RN license and one year of experience as a registered nurse. You must have a BSN from a regionally accredited college or university and must have completed an undergraduate physical/health assessment course and statistics course. Candidates with a 3.0-3.4 GPA must submit GRE or GMAT scores. If your GPA is 3.5 or higher, test scores are not required.

Candidates must provide a written statement addressing career goals and the reason for choosing the pediatric nurse practitioner role. You must also provide three letters of recommendation, with at least one from a former RN supervisor and one from a former nursing faculty member. Additionally, official college transcripts, an admissions essay, and an interview are required. Three letters of recommendation also must be submitted, along with written statements outlining your career goals and why you are seeking this particular certification.

Why Choose Old Dominion University Online PNP

• Old Dominion University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Rankings in its Best Nursing Schools: Master’s category.
• You will learn from doctorally-prepared nurse practitioners who remain active clinicians.
• The university has a chapter of the Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society, which offers scholarships and grant opportunities to students.
• Old Dominion reports high retention rates among students in the online pediatric nurse practitioner program, which is a strong indication of student satisfaction and success.

21. University of Rochester - Rochester, NY

Programs Offered:

MSN and BSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (PNP/NNP)

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (PNP/NNP)

Program Details:

At the University of Rochester, you can earn a Master of Science in Nursing or post-baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing as a pediatric nurse practitioner. The school offers a primary PNP pathway and a Pediatric/Neonatal NP dual pathway for both degree levels.

The MSN primary care PNP program is a 45-credit pathway that includes 616 clinical hours. The MSN Pediatric/Neonatal dual degree program requires between 54 and 58 credits and 976 to 1,216 clinical hours. The MSN programs can be completed in two to three years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

The BSN-to-DNP primary pediatric nurse practitioner pathway requires 84 credits, 45 credits from MSN content, and 39 DNP course credits. The dual degree program is a 93 to 97-credit program. All DNP students complete a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The programs can be completed in three to four years.

Admission Requirements:

To be admitted into the pediatric nurse practitioner programs online at the University of Rochester, you need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited nursing program, and a current New York State RN license. You must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 from your most recent nursing degree and complete a college-level statistics course with a minimum grade of “C.”

Students seeking admission to the dual Pediatric/Neonatal pathways must have at least two years of work experience as a registered nurse in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Applicants must provide transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, two letters of academic or professional recommendation, a current resume or CV, a 500-word essay, and a copy of their RN license. You may receive an invitation for an admission interview, as well.

Why Choose University of Rochester Online PNP

• The university is ranked in two categories by U.S. News, Best Nursing Schools: Master’s and Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice.
• The School of Nursing offers several awards, grants, and scholarships to students each year, including the FULD Scholar Program and Robert Wood Johnson Grant.
• You will learn from experienced, professional staff. Faculty and staff members have received prestigious awards, including the Most Promising New Investigator Award presented to Yingzi Zhang, Ph.D., RN for advances in cancer research.
• As a student in the University of Rochester’s online pediatric nurse practitioner programs, you will complete clinicals at top pediatric healthcare facilities, including the Gosnell Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which is part of Golisana Children’s Hospital.

22. University of South Alabama - Mobile, AL

Programs Offered:

MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

The University of South Alabama offers opportunities for registered nurses to earn either a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and specialize as primary or acute care nurse practitioners.

The MSN AC-PNP requires bachelor’s-prepared registered nurses to complete 45 credits of coursework. If you are an RN with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you may earn the MSN in the primary PCP pathway by completing 57 credits. The MSN PC-PNP includes 47 credits for RNs with a bachelor’s degree. RNs with a non-nursing bachelor’s complete 59 credits. MSN students complete 600 clinical hours.

Students in the BSN-to-DNP acute and primary care pathways complete 69 credits and 1,140 clinical hours. The program can be completed in four years, or you may take up to seven years to earn the post-baccalaureate DNP.

MSN-to-DNP students complete 36 DNP core, DNP Project Planning & Development, and DNP Residency credits and 600 hours of clinical practicum. You can earn the post-master’s DNP in as little as two years or up to five years.

Clinicals for the PNP tracks include a combination of Pediatric ICU, Pediatric Emergency Care, and Pediatric General Inpatient Care. All didactic coursework is offered exclusively online, making the programs convenient for distance learning students and working nurses.

Admission Requirements:

Prospective students seeking admission to the pediatric nurse practitioner online programs must have a current RN license with no restrictions and two years of nursing experience in pediatric care as a registered nurse.

You must complete Primary and Supplemental Applications and provide transcripts from any college or university you have attended. Candidates must have a 3.0 cumulative nursing GPA and either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing school, depending on which program they choose to pursue.

Why Choose University of South Alabama Online PNP

• The University of South Alabama has taught more than 21,000 nursing students in its 50 years of existence, a true testament to the school’s dedication to nursing education.
• You will learn from highly-qualified, experienced nursing faculty, like Rebecca Graves, Ph.D., NP-C, who is a member of the Fellows of American Association of Nurse Practitioners program.
• The School of Nursing reports high retention rates, which is a good indicator that students are satisfied with the education they receive.
• As a graduate of the University of South Alabama’s pediatric nurse practitioner programs online, you will join a community of alumni that support one another professionally after graduating.

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers one of the best online pediatric nurse practitioner programs for baccalaureate-prepared nursing desiring to earn a DNP and is one of the top schools for NP programs in Arkansas. The program features a hybrid format and distance-learning modalities, allowing you to attend school close to your home. Laboratory intensives are held on campus a few times throughout the program. Experiential learning opportunities are completed at diverse pediatric care clinical sites.

The BSN-to-DNP Primary and Acute Care PNP programs are designed in three or four-year formats. The programs feature a 73-credit curriculum that includes 1,080 clinical hours. You will work collaboratively with a Clinical Specialty Coordinator to develop an individualized clinical plan and locate clinical sites and preceptors.

Admission Requirements:

Candidates seeking admission to the DNP pediatric nurse practitioner programs must have a BSN from an accredited nursing program and have a minimum 3.0 college GPA. You must provide a copy of your RN license and CPR certification, a Statement of Intent, three letters of reference, official post-secondary transcripts, and an admissions essay.

Two years of clinical nursing experience is preferred before admission. However, some students are admitted with less experience but must complete a minimum of 2,000 hours of work experience before progressing to the Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning course.

Why Choose University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Online PNP

• The university offers great scholarship opportunities for DNP and nurse practitioner students.
• The school is consistently ranked by U.S. News for having the Best Grad Schools: Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice.
• Program faculty are published authors and researchers with in-depth clinical experience, which means you will learn from some of the best in the industry!

27. University of Missouri-Columbia - Columbia, MO

Programs Offered:

MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

30. Saint Louis University – Saint Louis, MO

Programs Offered:

MSN and BSN-to-DNP

MSN Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations Offered:

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Program Details:

Whether you want to earn an MSN or become a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Saint Louis University has a pediatric nurse practitioner program for you! The MSN program can be completed in two to three years, and the DNP program takes four to five years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

The Master of Science in Nursing Primary Care online pediatric nurse practitioner program is a 38-credit program. The program is primarily online with two campus visits required. You will also complete 600 clinical hours.

BSN-to-DNP students complete between 67 and 73 credits. The post-baccalaureate pathway requires four campus visits, one of which is a three-day residency at the School of Nursing. You will complete 1,125 clinical hours and a DNP Scholarly Project.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants to Saint Louis University’s online pediatric nurse practitioner programs must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally recognized accrediting organization and a current RN license with no restrictions. MSN applicants must have a 3.2 college GPA, and DNP applicants must have a 3.5 college GPA.

DNP candidates must complete an undergraduate descriptive and inferential statistics course. All candidates must hold a current American Heart Association CPR certification and have completed a basic health assessment course. You must provide official college transcripts, a resume or CV, Professional Goals Statement, and a copy of your RN license.

Why Choose Saint Louis University Online PNP

• Saint Louis University is consistently ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools for Master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice.
• At SLU, you will be assigned a faculty advisor who will support and mentor you throughout the program, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
• Saint Louis University was the first university in Missouri to offer online nurse practitioner degrees, making it a pioneer in NP education.

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WHAT ARE THE BEST GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR ONLINE PNP STUDENTS?

One of the main concerns for prospective students considering earning a graduate degree is the cost. While there are several types of student loans that you can use, I always recommend putting forth effort and applying for grants and loans. There are many grants and scholarships available for individuals who want to become pediatric nurse practitioners. The following are some of the best grant and scholarship opportunities I found.

Acute Care PNP SIG Student Award ($500):

This grant is given by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Applicants must be a current member of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in good academic standing, currently enrolled in an Acute Care PNP program full-time, and a member of the Acute Care PNP Special Interest Group.

Maryland Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program ($1,000-$5,000):

To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be a Maryland resident enrolled in a master’s nursing program. There is no stipulation as to whether you must be enrolled part-time or full-time.

Alabama Board of Nursing Graduate Scholarships (Amounts vary):

Alabama residents enrolled and in good standing in a graduate nursing program are eligible for this scholarship funded by the Alabama Nursing Resource Center.

Ida W. Casey Memorial Scholarship ($2,000):

RNs currently in a graduate nursing program living within or attending a school within a 65-mile radius of Cincinnati’s downtown area can apply for this scholarship. Recommendations from faculty are also taken into consideration.

Geraldine “Polly” Bednash Scholarship ($5,000):

Two candidates are awarded this scholarship annually. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in an AACN-accredited graduate nursing program and have a minimum 3.2 GPA.

District of Columbia Nursing Scholarship ($2,500):

This scholarship is awarded to Washington D.C. residents pursuing a graduate nursing degree. Two recipients are chosen annually. You must have a 3.25 GPA to be eligible.

Michigan Nurses Foundation Scholarships (Four $1,000 awards):

This scholarship is for students attending a school of nursing in Michigan that grants a baccalaureate or higher degree. Applicants must also be in good academic standing and show significant progress toward completing the program.

Nursing Incentive Scholarship Fund ($1,500 per semester, $3,000 maximum per year):

Graduate students of nursing programs who reside in Kentucky are eligible for this award. One year of full-time nursing work must be completed for every year you receive this award.

Nurse Practitioner Council of Palm Beach County (NPCPBC) Scholarship ($1,000):

This is for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who are active members of the NPCPBC and seeking a doctoral or post-graduate degree in nursing.

WHAT ARE SOME USEFUL RESOURCES FOR ONLINE PNP STUDENTS?

In addition to school faculty, preceptors, and study groups, there are many useful resources to help students in online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. The internet has an extensive pool of information you can utilize to expand your education, give you insight into being a PNP, and help you through your program and career. The following are a few examples.

YouTube Videos

What does it take to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner?:

In this video, you can listen to Dr. Parke, DNP, RN, as she talks about her experiences at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and explains what you need to successfully complete any PNP program.

Pediatric Nursing Tips for Success:

This former pediatric registered nurse turned family nurse practitioner provides an overview of the best practices she learned while working with children.

Pediatric Assessment, Vital Signs, and Pain – Pediatric Nursing – Principles - @LevelUpRN:

The host of this video provides the key components of pediatric assessments and how to relate to your patients and their caregivers.

Podcasts

The Peds NP: Pearls of Pediatric Evidence-Based Practice:

This podcast offers real stories, cases, and personal experiences from healthcare providers working as pediatric nurse practitioners.

Pediatric Nursing Podcast Series:

This is a podcast version of the Pediatric Nursing Journal and offers information about current trends and updates in pediatric care, continuing education information, and professional nursing tips.

TeamPeds Talks:

This podcast is brought to you by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP). Pediatric experts discuss pertinent issues affecting pediatric health and the role of pediatric nurse practitioners in patient care.

Books

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Exam Secrets Study Guide:

Brush up on your knowledge when it’s time to pass the PC-PNP exam. Written by exam experts, this study guide promises success on your exam.

Fast Facts Handbook for Pediatric Primary Care:

A Guide for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants: This book was co-written by an NP and Physician Assistant (PA) and serves as a reference guide for diagnosing and managing the pediatric environment.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certification Review Guide:

This book is considered an essential resource for those taking the PNP primary care exam. The newest edition always contains the most current nursing guidelines and standards for NPs.

HOW MUCH DO GRADUATES OF ONLINE PNP PROGRAMS MAKE?

What Is The Starting Salary For New Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Graduates?

New graduates of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs start out with a generous salary of $81,580 annually. The annual salary breaks down to $6,800 monthly, $1,569 weekly, or $39.22 hourly.

Starting Online PNP Salary
Hourly	$39.22
Weekly	$1,569
Monthly	$6,800
Annual	$81,580

What Is The Average Salary For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Holders?

According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for pediatric nurse practitioner programs online graduates is $58.25 per hour, $2,330 per week, or $10,100 per month. This pay is equal to $121,170 annually.

Average Online PNP Salary
Hourly	$58.25
Weekly	$2,330
Monthly	$10,100
Annual	$121,170
(Source: ziprecruiter.com)

How Much Does The Salary Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Holders Grow With Experience?

The more experience you gain as a pediatric nurse practitioner, the greater your earning potential. For example, hourly pay rates for pediatric nurse practitioners range from $39.22 for entry-level PNPs to $80.62 for PNPs with 20 years or more experience.

While entry-level PNPs earn a little more than $81,000, with just one to four years, you can see an increase of more than $20,000 per year and earn approximately $102,180 yearly! With five to nineteen years of experience, you can earn from $123,880 to $133,120 yearly. The most experienced PNPs earn nearly $168,000 per year!

Level of Experience	Hourly	Weekly	Monthly	Annual
Entry-Level	$39.22	$1,569	$6,800	$81,580
1-4 Years of Experience	$49.13	$1,965	$8,520	$102,180
5-9 Years of Experience	$59.56	$2,382	$10,320	$123,880
10-19 Years of Experience	$64.00	$2,560	$11,090	$133,120
20 Years or More Experience	$80.62	$3,225	$13,970	$167,680

What Is The Total Average Annual Compensation (Salary + Benefits) For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Holders?

One of the great things about being a pediatric nurse practitioner is you not only earn a good salary, but the benefit packages are usually worth tens of thousands of dollars! Benefits packages usually include things like dental, vision, and health insurance, supplemental pay, paid sick leave, paid vacation, and retirement and savings plans.

Graduates of online PNP programs who work in the private industry typically receive benefits packages worth around $51,234, and those who work for state and local governments have packages worth $73,836. When you add the benefits packages to the average salary, pediatric nurse practitioners earn total compensations of $172,504 and $193,796 in private industries and state and local governments, respectively.

Component	Private Industry	State and Local Government
Paid Leave	$12,765	$14,729
Supplemental Pay	$6,038	$1,938
Insurance	$13,455	$22,674
Retirement and Savings	$5,865	$24,031
Legally Required	$13,110	$10,659
Total Benefits	$51,234	$73,836
Average Annual Salary	$121,270	$119,960
Total Compensation	$172,504	$193,796

AVERAGE SALARY BY STATE FOR GRADUATES OF ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS

The average salary by state for graduates of online Pediatric NP programs varies, ranging from around $97,000 to nearly $156,000 annually. Tennessee and Alabama report the lowest annual incomes for PNPs, with salaries of $97,640 and $105,130, respectively. New York and California offer the highest wages with pediatric nurse practitioners in those states bringing in approximately $137,490 and $155,860.

State	Hourly	Weekly	Monthly	Annual
Alabama	$50.54	$2,022	$8,760	$105,130
Alaska	$56.17	$2,247	$9,740	$116,840
Arizona	$59.18	$2,367	$10,260	$123,090
Arkansas	$52.85	$2,114	$9,160	$109,920
California	$74.93	$2,997	$12,990	$155,860
Colorado	$55.56	$2,223	$9,630	$115,570
Connecticut	$59.44	$2,378	$10,300	$123,640
Delaware	$57.36	$2,294	$9,940	$119,310
Florida	$51.74	$2,069	$8,970	$107,610
Georgia	$54.07	$2,163	$9,370	$112,470
Hawaii	$62.92	$2,517	$10,910	$130,870
Idaho	$51.96	$2,078	$9,010	$108,080
Illinois	$59.45	$2,378	$10,310	$123,660
Indiana	$56.01	$2,240	$9,710	$116,500
Iowa	$59.90	$2,396	$10,380	$124,590
Kansas	$53.65	$2,146	$9,300	$111,590
Kentucky	$52.35	$2,094	$9,070	$108,890
Louisiana	$55.60	$2,224	$9,640	$115,640
Maine	$57.43	$2,297	$9,960	$119,460
Maryland	$57.10	$2,284	$9,900	$118,770
Massachusetts	$63.93	$2,557	$11,080	$132,970
Michigan	$53.68	$2,147	$9,300	$111,650
Minnesota	$62.68	$2,507	$10,870	$130,380
Mississippi	$55.15	$2,206	$9,560	$114,710
Missouri	$51.07	$2,043	$8,850	$106,230
Montana	$57.11	$2,284	$9,900	$118,780
Nebraska	$55.61	$2,224	$9,640	$115,660
Nevada	$61.04	$2,442	$10,580	$126,960
New Hampshire	$59.58	$2,383	$10,330	$123,930
New Jersey	$67.62	$2,705	$11,720	$140,640
New Mexico	$58.47	$2,339	$10,140	$121,620
New York	$66.10	$2,644	$11,460	$137,490
North Carolina	$55.63	$2,225	$9,640	$115,720
North Dakota	$55.63	$2,225	$9,640	$115,710
Ohio	$55.51	$2,221	$9,620	$115,470
Oklahoma	$57.57	$2,303	$9,980	$119,740
Oregon	$63.26	$2,531	$10,970	$131,590
Pennsylvania	$57.87	$2,315	$10,030	$120,370
Rhode Island	$62.56	$2,502	$10,840	$130,120
South Carolina	$50.76	$2,030	$8,800	$105,580
South Dakota	$55.43	$2,217	$9,610	$115,300
Tennessee	$46.94	$1,878	$8,140	$97,640
Texas	$58.18	$2,327	$10,090	$121,020
Utah	$55.73	$2,229	$9,660	$115,910
Vermont	$55.54	$2,222	$9,630	$115,520
Virginia	$55.43	$2,217	$9,610	$115,300
Washington	$64.57	$2,583	$11,190	$134,310
West Virginia	$51.70	$2,068	$8,960	$107,530
Wisconsin	$57.74	$2,309	$10,010	$120,090
Wyoming	$56.52	$2,261	$9,800	$117,570

HIGHEST-PAID ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER GRADUATES

What Are The 10 Highest-Paying States For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Holders

The states that pay graduates of pediatric nurse practitioner online programs most are California, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Massachusetts, Oregon, Hawaii, Minnesota, Rhode Island, and Nevada. PNPs in these states earn between $126,960 and $155,860.

Rank	State	Average Annual Salary
1	California	$155,860
2	New Jersey	$140,640
3	New York	$137,490
4	Washington	$134,310
5	Massachusetts	$132,970
6	Oregon	$131,590
7	Hawaii	$130,870
8	Minnesota	$130,380
9	Rhode Island	$130,120
10	Nevada	$126,960

What Are The 10 Highest-Paying Metros For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Holders

The highest-paying metros in the nation for graduates of pediatric nurse practitioner programs online are all found in California. Pay in these metros ranges from $151,680 in Fresno, to $203,120 in the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara metro.

Rank	Metro	Average Annual Salary
1	San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA	$203,120
2	Napa, CA	$189,600
3	Vallejo-Fairfield, CA	$185,160
4	San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA	$181,860
5	Yuba City, CA	$163,480
6	San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA	$157,360
7	Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA	$157,110
8	Santa Rosa, CA	$156,180
9	Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA	$154,260
10	Fresno, CA	$151,680

WHAT ARE THE TOP ORGANIZATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS FOR GRADUATES OF ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS?

Nursing associations and organizations offer excellent benefits to members. You can excel in your career and increase your earning potential by utilizing career development opportunities. As a member of a nursing organization or association, you can also expand your professional network, which means you could hear about potential job openings and get involved in community health events. The following are some of the top organizations and associations for graduates of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs.

1. National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners:

The National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners is a professional association for all pediatric advanced practice registered nurses and pediatric nurse practitioners. The association was established in 1973 and has more than 8,000 members. The association’s mission is “to empower pediatric-focused advanced practice registered nurses and key partners to optimize child and family health.”

2. National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Partners:

The NAPNAP Partners is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the mental and physical health and “well-being of vulnerable infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.” The association supports initiatives for children at risk or impacted by human trafficking, children at risk for committing suicide or self-harm, and children in the foster care system.

3. Association of Faculties of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners:

The Association of Faculties of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners is a nationwide organization comprised of nurse educators who collaborate on pediatric-relevant education and practice issues and teach family, school, and pediatric nurse practitioner programs.

4. Institute of Pediatric Nursing:

The Institute of Pediatric Nursing is a nonprofit committed focused on identifying and addressing issues faced by pediatric healthcare providers.

BONUS! 7 EXPERT TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING ACCEPTED INTO THE BEST ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN THE NATION

Getting into one of the best pediatric nurse practitioner online programs can be a competitive process. Knowing what you are up against and preparing to become a viable candidate is essential if you want to gain a spot in a program. The following are seven tips I believe will help improve your chances of getting into a top program.

1. Strive for a High GPA:

When it comes to getting into a good PNP program, grades really do matter. While most schools require a minimum 3.0 college grade point average, you should not settle for the minimum. If you genuinely want to be a competitive candidate, work to get your GPA to at least a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. If you are not currently enrolled in school and feel your GPA is lacking, consider taking a few courses to help improve your overall average.

2. Get relevant work experience:

One of the criteria for admission to online Pediatric NP programs is to have at least one year of relevant work experience. While some programs accept pediatric experience from any pediatric care setting, experience in critical care, pediatric intensive care, or emergency care is always a plus. Getting this kind of experience can really make your application stand out!

3. Find ways to showcase your leadership skills and abilities:

As a pediatric nurse practitioner, you will be a leader within your healthcare team. You can show your potential by taking on leadership roles now. Talk to your current supervisor at work and ask if there are any tasks you can help with or consider spearheading a project that would benefit your facility or unit. Anything you can do that shows your ability to lead others and take on challenges looks great on a graduate nursing program application.

4. Understand why you want to become a PNP and be ready to explain that to the admissions faculty:

When you apply to pediatric nurse practitioner programs online, you will be asked to submit a Goals Statement or admissions essay and may be required to participate in an admissions interview. You should be able to articulate why becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner is important to you and explain how the school and program to which you are applying can help you achieve your goals.

5. Find opportunities to shadow other pediatric nurse practitioners:

Shadowing PNPs actually has more than one benefit. First, you will gain insight into what pediatric nurse practitioners do firsthand. Also, as you get to know PNPs and other healthcare providers they work with, you can develop a good rapport and may be able to use them as references when you submit your application. Some of the best people to write letters of recommendation for PNP program applicants are currently licensed and practicing pediatric nurse practitioners.

6. Write a stand-out Statement of Intent:

Your Statement of Intent is one of the first things admission faculty see that tells them about you. Be intentional about preparing a well-written, thought-provoking statement. Share clear goals and how you plan to achieve them. Also, share why you chose the school and what you feel you bring to the table as a nursing professional.

7. Get your application in on time!:

One of the fastest ways to have your application rejected is to turn it in late. Start working on your application early. Gather essential documents like your resume or CV and make sure they are up-to-date. Have someone proofread any written work you submit. Most of all, turn everything in BEFORE the deadline.

MY FINAL THOUGHTS – IS AN ONLINE PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAM WORTH IT?

If you want to become a pediatric nurse practitioner but do not have time for campus-based learning, it is normal to wonder, “What are the best online PNP programs in the nation?” In this article, I shared the 30 best accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs in the nation for 2024 with you. You learned about the top schools, what it takes to get accepted into their programs and what to expect as a student and a PNP program graduate.

With a high demand for pediatric health professionals and so many excellent schools to choose from, there is no time like today to get started and earn your degree to become a pediatric nurse practitioner!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT

GENERAL

1. Is Pediatric Nurse Practitioner A Good Degree?

If you have a passion for children and the nursing profession, a PNP degree will give you the skills, knowledge, and autonomy to use what you have learned to help others and earn a comfortable living. Therefore, yes; pediatric nurse practitioner is an excellent degree!

2. Can I Get My Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Online?

Yes, there are many online pediatric nurse practitioner programs to choose from, like those featured in this article.

3. Are Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Well-Respected?

Accredited pediatric nurse practitioner online programs are well-respected. They offer quality education and clinical practice experiences to prepare students for professional practice.

4. Do Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Have To Be Accredited?

Not all online pediatric nurse practitioner programs are accredited. However, you must be a graduate of an accredited PNP program to take the certification exam. So, I highly recommend finding a program that is accredited.

5. Who Accredits Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs In The U.S.?

The best online Pediatric NP programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

S.NO	Accrediting Agency
1	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
2	Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

6. How Many Accredited Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Are There In The U.S.?

There are currently 53 accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs in the U.S.

7. Are Campus Visits Required For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Students?

Each university sets its requirements for campus visits. Some online PNP programs require no campus visits, and others have mandatory visits at different intervals throughout the program.

8. Are There Any Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs With 100% Online Classes And No Campus Visits?

Yes, there are some pediatric nurse practitioner programs online that are 100% online with no campus visits required.

9. Can I Become A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner By Attending Online Classes Part-Time?

Yes, you can complete a PNP program while attending school part-time. In fact, many professionals opt to attend classes part-time while continuing to work their regular jobs or care for families. The amount of time it takes you to complete the program and become a pediatric nurse practitioner will, of course, be lengthened since you will not be attending school full-time. However, it is still possible to obtain your degree on a part-time basis.

10. Are Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Hard To Complete?

The level of difficulty will depend on your prior training. Those with nursing degrees will have an easier time understanding the medical coursework in accredited pediatric nurse practitioner online programs than those with no medical training.

ADMISSION

1. Are Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Hard To Get Into?

Admission to online Pediatric NP programs can be extremely competitive.

2. How Many Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Should I Ideally Apply To?

There is no limit to the number of applications you may submit to online PNP programs. Because admission is competitive, I suggest applying to at least four or five programs.

3. When Is The Application Deadline For Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs?

Each school determines the deadline for applying to its pediatric nurse practitioner programs online. Most schools set deadlines at least a few months before the projected start date.

4. Do Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Accept Late Applications?

Some online PNP programs accept late applications for extenuating circumstances. However, it is important to remember that admission is competitive, and if the class is already full, you may be waitlisted.

5. What Is The Admission Rate For Online PNP Programs?

The admission rate for online Pediatric NP programs varies. Some schools have admission rates as low as 12% while others admit up to 75% of their applicants.

6. Will Applying Early Increase My Chances Of Admission Into Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs?

Applying early certainly does not hurt your chances of admission into online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. When you apply early, you show admission teams you are serious about getting into their programs.

7. Is There A Waiting List For Online Pediatric NP Programs?

Many of the top-ranked online PNP programs have waiting lists. The number of students each school accepts depends on several factors, such as how many available faculty and clinical sites are available.

8. Are GRE Or GMAT Scores Required For Admission Into Online Pediatric NP Programs?

Some online pediatric nurse practitioner programs require GRE and GMAT scores, and others do not. If you have taken the tests and scored well, it does not hurt to submit your scores with your application, even if they are not required.

9. What Is The Minimum GPA Required To Get Into Online PNP Programs?

The minimum GPA for acceptance into most online PNP programs is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, the higher your grade point average, the more competitive an applicant you become.

10. Can I Get Into Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs With A Low GPA?

Some online pediatric nurse practitioner programs offer conditional admission to applicants with a low GPA who demonstrate other strengths and a likelihood of success. The competitive nature of the programs suggests, though, that the higher your GPA, the better your chances of getting accepted.

11. Is Work Experience Required To Be Accepted Into Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs?

Most online PNP programs require you to have at least one year of work experience in a pediatric setting.

12. Is There An Interview For Admission Into Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?

An admission interview is typically the final step in the admission process for online pediatric nurse practitioner programs.

13. How Many Prerequisite Courses Should I Complete To Get Into Online PNP Programs?

The prerequisites you need vary from one online Pediatric NP program to the next. Most applicants have completed the required prerequisites in their undergraduate nursing program. You will find the most common prerequisites needed are Statistics, Health Assessment, Chemistry, and Human Anatomy and Physiology.

14. When Do I Need To Complete The Required Prerequisites For Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Online Programs: Before Or After I Apply?

It is best to complete prerequisites before applying to pediatric nurse practitioner programs online.

15. What Are The Do's And Dont’s Of Getting Accepted Into Any Of The Top Online Pediatric NP Schools?

If being accepted into a top pediatric nurse practitioner online program is essential to you, take a look at these "Do's and Do Not's" for a little extra advice.

Things You Should Do to Help You Get Accepted:

1. Make sure you have at least three letters of recommendation available in your portfolio at all times. These letters should be from recent professional acquaintances, and at least one should be from someone with at least a master’s degree. If the letters you have are old or outdated, ask for updated letters or get letters from people who have recently worked with you.

2. Apply to several nursing schools. Although you may have your heart set on a specific school, applying to multiple schools could improve your chances of acceptance.

3. Practice for your admissions interview. Before acceptance into a graduate program, you will be expected to take part in an admission interview. Some of the frequent questions prospective students are asked include:

a. How much time do you plan to dedicate to studying?
b. Why do you want to become a pediatric nurse practitioner?
c. What is something that challenges you?

Things You Should NOT Do If You Want to Be Accepted:

1. Do not let your nursing license lapse. Even if you do not plan to continue working while in school, you need to be sure your RN license remains active and unencumbered to be eligible to enroll in any pediatric nurse practitioner program.

2. Do not wait until the last minute. Putting things off until there is little time left before the deadline means that you could forget things in the rush. Instead, take the time to plan ahead and show your interest and dedication by being intentional.

3. Do not ever give up! Deciding to become a pediatric nurse practitioner is a big step. If you face some obstacles along the way, remember to stay focused on your goal and don’t give up!

SCHEDULE

1. Typically, When Do Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Start?

Start dates for online PNP programs vary, depending on the school. Some schools offer one start date, usually in the spring or fall semester. Other schools offer multiple start dates throughout the year.

2. Are There Any Online Pediatric NP Programs With Multiple Start Dates?

Yes, some online Pediatric NP programs offer multiple start dates. For instance, the University of Texas at Arlington offers three start dates each academic year.

3. Are Online PNP Programs Part-Time Or Full-Time?

Many schools offer both part-time and full-time options for their pediatric nurse practitioner programs online. Each school is different, though, so it is important to verify enrollment options before committing to a program.

4. Can I Work Part-Time And Successfully Complete My Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Online?

It is possible to work part-time and successfully complete online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. In fact, most online programs are designed with the working nurse in mind.

5. Can I Work Full-Time And Successfully Complete My Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Online?

It can be challenging to work full-time while enrolled in a pediatric nurse practitioner program online, but it is possible. If you feel you need to work full-time, you may find that enrolling in a part-time program is best.

LENGTH

1. Typically, How Long Does It Take To Get My Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Online?

It can take two to four years or longer to complete online PNP programs, depending on whether you pursue a master’s or doctorate and if you enroll part-time or full-time.

2. How Long Is Each Class In An Online PNP Program?

Class lengths in online Pediatric NP programs vary. Some schools stretch classes out to last a whole semester while others last six to eight weeks.

COST

1. Typically, How Much Does It Cost To Get My Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Online?

The cost of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs varies significantly, with costs ranging from $25,000 to nearly $200,000.

2. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For Online PNP Programs?

The per-credit cost of online PNP programs typically ranges from $600 to $2,000, depending on the school and whether you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition.

3. Is The Cost Of An Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Worth The Return On Investment (ROI)?

When you consider the income potential for graduates of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs compared to the cost of earning a degree, the cost is worth the return on investment.

4. Are Online PNP Students Eligible For Scholarships?

Yes, there are many scholarships available for students in online Pediatric NP programs.

5. Are Online PNP Students Eligible For Grants?

There are several public and private grants available for online pediatric nurse practitioner programs.

6. Are Online PNP Students Eligible For Student Loans?

Federal and private student loans are available to students in online PNP programs.

7. Are Online PNP Graduates Eligible For Loan Forgiveness Programs?

Graduates of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs are eligible for some loan forgiveness programs.

PROGRAM DETAILS

1. What Is The Best Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program In The Nation?

The best online pediatric nurse practitioner program in the nation is offered at Duke University.

Duke University - Durham, NC

2. What Is The Average Class Size In Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs?

The average class size varies, depending on the school. Most online PNP programs limit the class size to 30 students.

3. Do Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Follow A Cohort Model?

Some online Pediatric NP programs follow a cohort model, but all do not.

4. Typically, How Many Credits Do I Need To Earn To Get My Online PNP Degree?

The number of credits you need to graduate from online pediatric nurse practitioner programs varies, depending on whether you are pursuing an MSN or DNP and the number of credits you have that can transfer from your previous degree. MSN students typically complete between 40 and 50 credits. DNP students may complete an average of 70 to 80 credits.

5. What Are The Total Number Of Courses In An Online PNP Program?

The number of courses you need to take in online PNP programs varies from one school to the next and depends on which degree you are pursuing (MSN or DNP).

6. What Are The Hardest Classes In An Online PNP Program?

Some of the most challenging courses in pediatric nurse practitioner programs online are Human Physiology and Pathophysiology and Statistics.

7. Will My Online PNP School Help Me Find Internship Placements?

Most online PNP programs offer clinical practicum and internship placement assistance.

8. Will My Online PNP School Help Me Find Job Placements?

Many online pediatric nurse practitioner programs offer career readiness and job placement opportunities.

SALARY

1. How Much Do New Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs Make?

New graduates of accredited online pediatric nurse practitioner programs can expect a starting salary of $81,580.

$81,580

2. On Average, How Much Do Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs Make Per Hour?

The average hourly pay for online PNP program graduates is $58.25.

$58.25

3. On Average, How Much Do Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs Per Month?

The average monthly salary for graduates of online Pediatric NP programs is $10,100.

$10,100

4. On Average, How Much Do Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs Make Per Year?

Graduates of online PNP programs earn an average of $121,170 per year.

$121,170

5. What Is The Highest-Paying State For Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs?

California is the state with the highest wage for graduates of online pediatric nurse practitioner programs. The yearly salary there for PNPs averages $155,860.

California

$155,860

6. What Is The Highest-Paying Metro For Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs?

The San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California metro is the highest-paying metro in the nation for online PNP program graduates. In this metro, PNPs earn an average of $203,120 per year.

San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA

$203,120

7. What Is The Highest-Paying Work Setting For Graduates Of Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs?

Pediatric intensive care units, private group practices, and emergency departments are the highest-paying work settings for graduates of online PNP programs.

CAREER

1. What Does A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Do?

Pediatric nurse practitioners provide care to infants, children, and adolescents. This includes performing assessments, ordering tests and reviewing results, prescribing medications or other therapies, educating parents and caregivers, and providing on-going follow-up care, as needed.

2. What Essential Skills Are Required To Be A Successful Pediatric Nurse Practitioner?

Most people who are asked this question automatically think of skills such as the ability to figure medication dosages or perform assessments. While these are essential skills for a successful pediatric NP to possess, there are other skills that are just as important. For example, strong observation and communication skills are a must. The ability to show empathy and compassion and to think quickly are important, as well. It’s important to remember that children do not communicate the same way adults do, so having these strong interpersonal skills first and then building upon them with clinical skills will improve your chances of becoming successful as a PNP.

3. What Is The Difference Between A Pediatric Nurse And A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner?

Pediatric nurses are registered nurses who possess either an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing and hold a license to practice as a registered nurse. Pediatric nurse practitioners hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing with a pediatric specialty track. While pediatric nurses must only possess an active RN license to practice, PNPs must have a current license to practice and must become certified.

4. How To Become Certified As A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner?

Pediatric Nurse practitioners must be both licensed and certified in their chosen specialty. While a license gives a PNP permission to practice, obtaining certification shows that you are proficient to provide care in your chosen specialty.

What Certification Options are Available: Two organizations have been offering certifications for pediatric nurse practitioners.

1. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) administers examinations for Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (CPNP-PC) and Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care (CPNP-AC).

2. The American Nurses Credentialing Center previously offered the Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner board certification exam but retired the examination in December 2018. Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioners who took the exam before the retirement date can still maintain and renew their certification by fulfilling renewal requirements. However, those wishing to pursue initial certification should consider certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.

Certifying Body	Certification
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)	Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (PPCNP-BC) (This certification is currently retired)
The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)	Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (CPNP-PC)
The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)	Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (CPNP-AC)

Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).