Fastest Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs in 2025

Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) deliver advanced, compassionate care to children from infancy through adolescence. Trained to serve as primary and/or acute care providers, PNPs play a critical role in pediatric healthcare.

If you're ready to launch your career quickly, this guide highlights the fastest PNP programs for 2025—designed to accelerate your path through rigorous training, hands-on clinicals, and pediatric-focused coursework.

Fastest Pediatric NP Programs — Online & On-Campus

The following programs are selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying readers to understand their priorities, along with factors like graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, tuition fees, mode of learning, length of the program, and admission rates across hundreds of prominent nursing schools.

1. Vanderbilt University  – Nashville, TN

Vanderbilt University offers Hybrid Online MSN programs in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care (PNP-PC) and Acute Care (PNP-AC). Designed for BSN-prepared RNs, these programs can be completed in just 12 months at a full-time pace. Vanderbilt's PNP programs prepare nurses with advanced clinical skills and specialized knowledge to provide high-quality care for pediatric patients across acute and primary care settings.

Students receive rigorous training in managing prevalent pediatric conditions, promoting health and wellness, and collaborating within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. The program integrates online coursework with brief on-campus sessions, ensuring flexibility while maintaining hands-on learning experiences.

PNP Program Overview: Both the PNP-PC and PNP-AC programs, accredited by CCNE, require 40 credit hours, 385-420 didactic hours, and 630-700 clinical hours over three full-time semesters. Flexible 2-3 year study plans are available, with tuition set at $1,939 per credit hour.

2. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelpha, PA 

The University of Pennsylvania's School of Nursing in Philadelphia offers specialized Primary and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs, preparing graduates to provide comprehensive care for children from infancy through adolescence. While primarily in-person, the program also offers online and hybrid options for added flexibility. Students can enroll full-time, completing the program in 12 months, or part-time, finishing in two to three years.

The Primary Care PNP track focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and pediatric illness management, incorporating leadership development. The Acute Care PNP track offers specializations in Acute/Chronic Care, Critical Care, and Oncology, allowing students to customize their education and prepare for diverse roles in Pediatric Acute Care.

PNP Program Overview: Both the PNP-PC and PNP-AC tracks are CCNE-accredited and require 12 course units. Tuition is $56,262 per year for full-time students and $6,392 per credit for part-time enrollment.

3. University of South Alabama – Mobile, AL

The University of South Alabama offers online PNP Acute Care and PNP Primary Care programs, designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice in pediatric healthcare. Completed over 24 months, these programs emphasize evidence-based practice, health promotion, disease management, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve patient outcomes. Students also develop leadership, administrative, and quality improvement skills essential for transforming care delivery.

PNP Program Overview: The USA College of Nursing MSN NP programs are CCNE-accredited. The PNP-PC and PNP-AC tracks require 45 credit hours for BSN to MSN students and 57 credit hours for RN to MSN students. All coursework is delivered online, allowing students to continue working while completing their degrees. Faculty support is available through various online communication methods. Tuition is set at a flat rate of $594 per credit hour for all students.

4. University of Missouri – Kansas City, MO

The University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) offers a Pediatric Acute Care NP Program with primary and acute care tracks, designed to be completed in 24 months full-time. Part-time students can take one or two courses per semester, finishing in three years. The program follows a blended learning approach with occasional mandatory campus visits.

UMKC's program prepares students for advanced practice roles in pediatric primary or acute care, focusing on health assessment, evidence-based practice, health promotion, and disease prevention. Students gain hands-on clinical experience in various healthcare settings.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited PNP-AC and PNP-PC programs require 46-52 credit hours, 600 clinical hours, and 90 lab hours. Tuition is $707 per credit hour, regardless of residency.

5. Yale University - New Haven, CT

The Yale School of Nursing offers BSN to MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs in Primary Care and Acute Care, preparing students for advanced roles in pediatric healthcare. The Acute Care PNP track focuses on managing complex conditions in acute settings, while the Primary Care PNP track emphasizes community health, child development, and evidence-based practice. Both tracks integrate comprehensive clinical experiences to ensure graduates are well-prepared for their specialized pediatric roles.

The curriculum combines research, nursing principles, and community health, providing a strong foundation for clinical practice. With a 6:1 class size ratio, students receive individualized support and mentorship. Yale's PNP program maintains a 100% first-time pass rate since 2014, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited BSN to MSN PNP track requires 48 credit hours and 665-680 clinical hours, depending on the chosen specialty. The program is completed in two years (four terms) full-time, with tuition set at $24,150 per term.

6. The University of Alabama at Birmingham – Birmingham, AL

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) offers a 24-month hybrid online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program with Primary Care and Acute Care tracks designed to align with students' career goals. The curriculum focuses on comprehensive pediatric healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic conditions. The program is delivered in a distance-accessible format, combining synchronous online classes with on-campus intensives for hands-on training. Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the program to develop essential hands-on skills.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited PNP program requires 45 credit hours, consisting of 35 didactic credits and 10 clinical practice credits, completed over six to seven semesters. Tuition is $682 per credit hour, regardless of residency. 

7. Thomas Jefferson University – Philadelphia, PA

Thomas Jefferson University's 24-month hybrid online PNP-PC master's program prepares students for advanced practice in primary pediatric healthcare. The program consists of 12 courses totaling 36 credits, with students required to dedicate at least 16 hours per week during three clinical courses. Students also have the flexibility to take more than two classes per term. Before starting the program, all students attend a mandatory on-campus orientation to develop an individualized plan of study.

The curriculum focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and family-centered care, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to provide comprehensive primary care to children from birth through young adulthood. Clinical experiences in various pediatric settings enhance hands-on learning and skill development.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited program requires 45 credit hours and 750 clinical hours to complete. Tuition is $1,396 per credit hour.

8. Old Dominion University – Virginia Beach, VA

Old Dominion University offers a 24-month online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program with Primary Care and Acute Care tracks. Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the curriculum to enhance hands-on skills and clinical decision-making. Students are required to visit ODU's School of Nursing in Virginia Beach at key stages for essential training and testing. To facilitate clinical placements, a Student Clinical Services Coordinator collaborates with the PNP Program Director and students, ensuring appropriate sites are secured and required agreements are established. ODU's PNP programs are recognized for their 100% degree completion rate, 100% certification pass rate, and 97% graduate employment rate over the past three years.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited program requires 49 credit hours, with tuition set at $599 per credit hour for residents and $623 per credit hour for out-of-state students.

9. Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University offers an online MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) program with required on-campus and virtual intensives. The program follows an accelerated quarter-term system, consisting of four 10-week quarters per year, allowing students to progress through coursework at a faster pace.

The curriculum prepares students to provide primary healthcare to infants, children, and adolescents, emphasizing health assessment, health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based practice. Clinical experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in diverse pediatric settings. The program features synchronous online lectures designed to be highly interactive and engaging.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited program requires 52 quarter credit hours to complete. Every standard semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits. Tuition is $1,101 per credit, with financial aid options available. 

10. University of Colorado – Aurora, CO

The University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus offers two hybrid online MSN PNP tracks: PNP-PC or PNP-AC. Ranking on the best fastes PNP programs for their Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care program which can be completed in just  2.5 years. It is primarily offered online with some required monthly in-person classes. 

These PNP programs prepare nursing students to provide advanced care to pediatric patients across various healthcare settings. The curriculum focuses on clinical decision-making, family-centered care, and pediatric health promotion.

PNP Program Overview: The tuition fee is $770 per credit for residents and $1,248 for non-residents. CCNE accredited  PNP PC track consists of 47 credits and

11. Maryville University – St. Louis, MO

Maryville University offers an MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) online program, designed for flexibility and convenience with a 24/7 online learning model. The program can be completed in 20 to 32 months, allowing students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments.

Graduates are prepared to provide comprehensive primary care to children from birth through young adulthood, with a curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, health promotion, and disease prevention. Students engage in clinical inquiry courses that challenge assumptions and foster research, while clinical experiences build critical thinking and advanced clinical skills. The program is led by expert nursing faculty who share their insights into public health, leadership, and the evolving nursing profession.

PNP Program Overview: The CCNE-accredited program requires 47 credit hours, with total tuition ranging from $35,383 to $40,561.

Fastest Pediatric NP Program Overview 

Accelerated Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs are designed for Registered Nurses ready to specialize in child and adolescent care, without spending extra years in school. These fast-track MSN or DNP pathways prepare nurses to assess, diagnose, and manage a wide range of pediatric conditions, equipping them to practice in clinics, hospitals, and specialty care settings in as little as 12 to 24 months.

Pediatric NP Specialization Options

Even in accelerated programs, PNP students choose between two core specialties—Primary Care and Acute Care—each tailored to specific patient needs:

• Primary Care PNPs offer ongoing, comprehensive care through well-child visits, developmental screenings, immunizations, and chronic condition management.
• Acute Care PNPs are trained to manage urgent, complex, or critical conditions, often working in hospitals, emergency departments, and intensive care units.

For a deeper look into responsibilities, qualifications, and salaries, visit: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Job Description, Salary, And How to Become One

Pediatric NP Coursework

Coursework in accelerated Pediatric NP programs focuses on the essential knowledge and clinical skills needed to provide expert pediatric care in a condensed timeframe. Some of the core courses in a PNP program include:

• Pediatric Pathophysiology: Understanding the unique physiological processes and potential disorders in children.
• Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practices: Techniques for addressing complex pediatric health issues.
• Pediatric Pharmacology: Considerations specific to medication administration in children.
• Developmental Care: Approaches to support the developmental milestones of children in healthcare settings.
• Ethics in Pediatric Care: Addressing ethical issues that specifically arise in pediatric healthcare settings.

Pediatric NP Clinical Training

Clinical experience is a central component of Pediatric NP programs, offering direct, supervised practice in real-world pediatric environments:

• Direct Patient Care: Supervised direct care of children, focusing on acute and chronic condition management, developmental support, and family education.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Opportunities in pediatric units, outpatient clinics, and specialized healthcare facilities.
• Care for Diverse Populations: Training spans the care of children with a wide range of health statuses, from routine developmental checks to managing complex chronic conditions.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside a team of healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, family doctors, and specialists in child health.

This structured approach ensures that PNPs are well-equipped to meet the healthcare needs of children and support their families effectively.

Pediatric NP Graduation Requirements

To graduate from an accelerated Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program, students must meet a series of academic and clinical milestones, including:

• Course Completion: Successful completion of all required advanced pediatric nursing courses.
• Clinical Hours: Pediatric MSN programs mandate a minimum of 500 postgraduate clinical hours, with 750 hours being the preferred standard by the National Task Force for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education. DNP programs typically require a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours.
• Capstone or Thesis Project: Some programs require a culminating project that demonstrates a thorough understanding of a complex pediatric nursing issue.
• Certification Exam: Graduates must pass a certification exam to practice as a board-certified PNP.
• Maintain RN Licensure: Students must keep their RN license active throughout their studies.

Fastest Pediatric NP Admission Requirements

Admission to accelerated Pediatric NP programs typically requires a solid academic foundation and relevant pediatric nursing experience. Standard requirements include:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): From an accredited institution
• Active RN Licensure: Must be unencumbered and current
• Pediatric Clinical Experience: Direct care experience with infants, children, or adolescents is often preferred
• Undergraduate Coursework: May include statistics, research methods, and behavioral or physical sciences
• Minimum GPA: Usually a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale

Fastest Educational Pathways to Become a Pediatric NP

The prerequisites and admission requirements for a Pediatric NP Program will vary depending on your chosen educational pathway. Here are some of the fastest pathways to consider:

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs: For BSN-prepared nurses, these are the most direct and common route, typically completed in 12 to 24 months full-time.
• Post-Graduate Certificate Programs: Designed for nurses with an MSN or DNP in another specialty. These focused programs take around 12 to 18 months to complete.

For those without a BSN or MSN, longer educational tracks are available:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs: For BSN or MSN-prepared nurses seeking a terminal degree. Most full-time DNP programs span 3 to 4 years.
• Direct Entry NP Programs: For students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These combine RN and NP training, usually taking 3+ years.
• RN to NP Programs: For ADN or diploma RNs. These bridge programs, which often include BSN coursework, can take 2.5 to 4 years, depending on structure and pace.

No matter your starting point, each path offers a route to advanced pediatric practice—it's just a matter of how fast you're ready and able to get there.

Fastest Pediatric NP Program Costs 

The cost of fast-track Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs varies widely depending on the school, location, program format, and whether you're attending part- or full-time. Here's what to expect:

• Tuition: Typically, the most significant cost and charged per credit hour or semester. Public, in-state, and online programs are often more budget-friendly.
• Institutional Fees: Application, registration, technology, and lab fees can add significantly to total expenses.
• Books and Supplies: Includes textbooks and clinical tools like stethoscopes and lab coats.
• Clinical Costs: Some programs require students to arrange their own clinical sites or travel, which may lead to additional costs.
• Licensing and Certification: Fees apply for certification exams and state licensure upon graduation.
• Living Expenses: Full-time students should account for housing, food, transportation, and other personal costs.
• Health Insurance: Coverage is often required and may need to be purchased separately.
• Continuing Education: Ongoing costs after graduation for maintaining licensure and certifications.

Planning ahead and comparing tuition models can help students manage costs. Many affordable programs also offer scholarships, tuition assistance, and part-time options to ease the financial burden. To further reduce overall costs consider exploring the Most Affordable Pediatric NP Programs in 2025.

Pediatric NP Salary Expectations in 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for nurse practitioners—including Pediatric NPs—was $132,000 or $63.46 per hour. However, this national average may not reflect the specific salaries Pediatric NPs earn as the BLS does not differentiate NP specialties.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $173,190
• New York: $148,410
• Oregon: $148,030
• Massachusetts: $145,140
• Washington: $143,620

While the BLS does not separate NP salaries by specialty, ZipRecruiter estimates that Pediatric NPs earn an average annual salary of $135,161, or about $65 per hour.

The top-paying states for PNPs are:

• Washington: $153,083
• District of Columbia: $152,735
• New York: $147,871
• Massachusetts: $147,612
• Alaska: $145,561

PNPs may also receive additional compensation such as health insurance, bonuses, incentive pay, retirement benefits, and paid time off. Salary can vary based on the work setting—whether in private practice, academic institutions, or hospital systems—and some employers offer differential pay for nights, weekends, or holidays.

Salaries are also influenced by factors like regional demand, cost of living, and healthcare policy shifts. It's essential for prospective PNPs to explore local job markets and consult the latest salary data from reliable sources, including nursing associations and workforce reports.

Education level can further impact earnings. PNPs with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degreee may command higher salaries than those with an MSN, due to their advanced clinical expertise and leadership training.

Pediatric NP Career Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% growth in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles from 2023 to 2033. Pediatric Nurse Practitioners are expected to be a vital part of this trend, particularly as the demand for specialized pediatric care continues to rise.

• Physicians Offices or Primary Care Practices: 47%
• General Medical & Surgical Hospitals: 25%
• Outpatient Care Centers: 9%

PNPs are increasingly essential in expanding access to child-focused healthcare, especially in underserved areas. As population growth and preventative health initiatives drive the need for pediatric services, PNPs will continue to play a leading role in addressing both routine and complex health conditions in children.

Are the Fastest Pediatric NP Programs Worth It?

Accelerated PNP programs are structured for those wanting to fast-track their pediatric-focused nursing careers. Here's a quick look at what to consider when choosing this path:

Fastest Pediatric NP Program Pros:

1. Quick Entry to Practice: Ideal for students eager to become Pediatric Nurse Practitioners sooner.
2. Cost-Effective: Reduces overall tuition and expenses compared to traditional programs.
3. Intensive Learning: Offers a focused, immersive study experience.
4. Career Acceleration: Faster path to career advancement and higher salaries.
5. Efficient Curriculum: Streamlined coursework focuses on essential PNP skills and knowledge.

Fastest Pediatric NP Program Cons: 

1. Demanding Schedule: The pace can be overwhelming, potentially compromising work-life balance.
2. Clinical Depth: This may provide less hands-on training time than traditional programs.
3. Learning Style Fit: The quick pace may not align with all students' learning preferences.
4. Networking Shortfall: May offer fewer opportunities for building professional connections.
5. Burnout Potential: The demanding nature of the program could lead to increased stress.

Whether these programs are suitable depends on individual goals and the ability to manage the rigorous pace.

Why Accrediation Matters for the Fastest Pediatric NP Programs

Accreditation is a hallmark of excellence for PNP programs, serving as a beacon for educational quality and professional acceptance. Furthermore accreditation ensures:

• Standards Compliance: Validates adherence to high academic and clinical standards.
• Skill Mastery: Cultivates specialized skills for pediatric care.
• Current Practices: Incorporates the latest in healthcare advancements.
• Clinical Proficiency: Guarantees the completion of essential clinical hours.
• Certification Readiness: Prepares graduates for PNP certification exams.
• State Licensure: Required by states for licensure, ensuring program quality.
• Employment Preference: Graduates from accredited programs are sought after by employers.
• Educational Progression: Facilitates credit transfer for further education.
• Professional Credibility: Signifies a graduate's dedication to high standards in pediatric nursing.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Allows students to access government financial assistance.

Choosing a PNP program accredited by established organizations such as the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or  the Accreditation Commission of Education in Nursing (ACEN) is essential for ensuring a credible and effective pathway into the pediatric nursing profession.

Pediatric NP Scope of Practice 

The scope of practice for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) is defined by state-specific regulations that determine how independently they can diagnose, treat, and prescribe. Some states allow full autonomy, while others require physician oversight or collaborative agreements.

Before choosing a PNP program, it's essential to understand the regulations in the state where you plan to practice. Not all programs prepare students for licensure or autonomous practice in every state, so aligning your education with your career goals and local laws is critical.

Key factors to consider:

• State Licensure: You must be licensed in the state where you plan to practice. Relocating typically requires applying for licensure in the new state.
• Levels of Practice Authority: Defined by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), states fall into three categories:
  • Full Practice: PNPs can assess, diagnose, order tests, and prescribe independently (e.g., Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico).
  • Reduced Practice: Requires a collaborative agreement or partial supervision (e.g., Alabama, Oklahoma).
  • Restricted Practice: Requires full physician oversight for one or more elements of care (e.g., California, Texas, Florida).

Understanding your intended state's practice laws ensures your chosen PNP program supports your professional goals and prepares you to meet certification and licensure requirements at the APRN level. 

PNP National Certification

While licensure requirements may vary by state, national certification is universally required for all NPs, including Pediatric NPs. This certification validates the specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric care necessary for practice.

For PNPs, national certification can be obtained by:

• PPCNP-BC through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• CPNP-Acute Care or CPNP-Primary Care certifications by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNBC).

National certification typically precedes state licensure and is a prerequisite in most states, confirming a PNP's readiness to provide high-quality care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I complete a Pediatric NP Program online?

Yes, many accredited PNP programs offer online coursework combined with in-person clinical requirements. These hybrid models provide flexibility for working nurses while still meeting certification and licensure standards.

Do I need pediatric nursing experience before applying to a PNP program?

While not always required, many programs prefer or strongly recommend that applicants have 1-2 years of pediatric nursing experience. Direct experience with infants, children, or adolescents can strengthen your application and prepare you for pediatric-focused clinical training.

What is the difference between a pediatric primary care NP (PPCNP) and a pediatric acute care NP (PACNP)?

• PPCNPs, or Primary Care Pediatric NPs, provide long-term, comprehensive care in primary care settings, managing common and chronic conditions in children from birth through young adulthood.
• PACNPs, also known as Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, treat children with acute, critical, or complex illnesses in inpatient and specialty settings.

Join other nurses in discussing which PNP specialty is best for you or explore Dual PNP Programs that focus on both specialties. 

What are the essential skills for a Pediatric NP?

PNPs need strong clinical judgment and excellent communication skills to interact effectively with children and families. Compassion, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are key. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills are also important, especially when coordinating care with interdisciplinary teams.

What certification do I need to practice as a Pediatric NP?

Graduates must pass a national certification exam to practice as a PNP. The most common pediatric certifications are the CPNP-Acute or Primary Care through the PNCB (Pediatric Nursing Certification Board), or the PPCNP-BC through the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center).

Edited May 5 by Erin Lee