11 Fastest Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs in 2025

Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are vital healthcare team members who specialize in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to infants, children, and adolescents. They have advanced nursing education and training that enables them to function as primary care providers for young patients.

If you're interested in kickstarting your career as a PNP, read more to discover the fastest programs available in 2025.

These fast-paced educational pathways aim to prepare competent and confident practitioners in a shorter timeframe, empowering nurses to transition into their PNP roles swiftly, equipped with the theoretical and clinical foundations of pediatric care, and fostering a deep understanding of the holistic needs of young patients and their families.

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.

Pediatric NP Program Overview 

A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program is a specialized educational pathway designed for Registered Nurses who aim to focus on the healthcare of children from infancy through adolescence. This program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare services, including the assessment, diagnosis, and management of various pediatric conditions. PNPs are essential in environments such as pediatric clinics, hospitals, and specialty care units.

Pediatric NP Coursework

Coursework in a PNP program includes specialized subjects vital for advanced pediatric care, such as:

• 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 training is fundamental to the PNP program, offering hands-on experience in pediatric care:

• 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

Requirements during the PNP program focus on both academic and practical training essentials for specialized pediatric care.

• 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. 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.
• Maintaining RN Licensure: Students must keep their RN license active throughout their studies.

Pediatric NP Admission Requirements

To ensure readiness for the challenging role of an PNP, prospective students must meet designated prerequisites and fulfill program requirements. Admission prerequisites and requirements are established to ensure that candidates possess a solid nursing foundation and relevant experience. The minimum requirements for most PNP programs are:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Typically required from an accredited nursing school.
• RN Licensure: Candidates must hold a current RN license without encumbrances.
• Pediatric Clinical Experience: Prior experience in pediatric settings is often required, emphasizing direct care of children across a range of health conditions.
• Undergraduate Coursework: This may include subjects such as statistics, research methods, and physical and behavioral sciences.
• Minimum GPA: A GPA of typically 3.0 or higher is required for entry into most programs.

Pediatric NP Job Description

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) are vital professionals within the healthcare community, providing specialized and comprehensive care to children from infancy through adolescence. Their work extends across various settings including hospitals, pediatric clinics, and community health centers. By working closely with families and a diverse team of healthcare professionals, PNPs ensure a holistic approach to pediatric health.

Specializations within Pediatric Nursing:

PNPs may specialize in either primary care or acute care, each catering to different aspects of pediatric health:

1. Primary Care PNPs focus on long-term health monitoring and preventive care. They manage the overall health needs of children, including routine check-ups, immunizations, and managing common childhood illnesses. Their role emphasizes ongoing health maintenance and monitoring developmental milestones throughout a child's growth.
2. Acute Care PNPs are trained to manage acute, critical, and chronic health conditions that require immediate attention. They often work in hospital settings including emergency rooms or specialized intensive care units where quick decision-making and intensive treatments are required.

Pediatric NP Responsibilities

PNP responsibilities can vary depending on the setting and their scope of practice but typically include:

• Conducting Physical Assessments: Performing comprehensive physical assessments of pediatric patients, including vital signs, growth measurements, and developmental assessments. They evaluate children's health and well-being and identify abnormalities or concerns.
• Obtaining Medical History: Gather detailed medical histories from patients and their families. This information helps understand the child's health background, previous illnesses, medications, allergies, and family medical history, enabling them to provide appropriate care and make informed clinical decisions.
• Diagnosing and Treating Illnesses: They assess symptoms, order diagnostic tests when necessary, interpret results, and develop treatment plans. PNPs may prescribe medications, provide treatments, and offer guidance on managing illnesses at home.
• Performing Procedures: Depending on their specialty and scope of practice, PNPs may perform various procedures such as administering immunizations, suturing minor wounds, performing minor surgeries, conducting in-office tests, or providing specialized treatments.
• Providing Preventive Care: Focusing on preventive health care, disease prevention, and early intervention. They educate patients and families about healthy lifestyles, growth and development milestones, immunizations, nutrition, safety, and disease prevention strategies. PNPs play a crucial role in well-child visits and routine health screenings.
• Monitoring Chronic Conditions: For children with chronic illnesses or complex health conditions, PNPs provide ongoing monitoring, management, and coordination of care. They collaborate with other healthcare providers, develop care plans, and educate patients and families about managing chronic conditions effectively.
• Counseling and Support: Offer counseling and support to patients and families, addressing concerns related to growth and development, behavior, mental health, and family dynamics. They provide guidance on parenting, emotional well-being, and addressing common challenges children and adolescents face.
• Collaborating and Referring: PNPs collaborate with physicians, nurses, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and coordinated patient care. They may refer patients to specialists when necessary, ensuring that children receive appropriate and specialized care.

PNPs contribute to a holistic approach to pediatric healthcare, focusing on children's physical, emotional, and social well-being. Their role extends beyond clinical practice to include health promotion, education, counseling, and advocating for the needs of pediatric patients and their families.

Fastest PNP Program Costs

Investing in a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program entails various financial considerations.

• Tuition Costs: These can vary widely, with differences across public and private colleges, and may depend on residency status for tuition rates.
• Additional Institutional Fees: Students may encounter extra costs for applications, enrollments, and facility use.
• Materials and Supplies: Outlays for textbooks, medical instruments, and specialized pediatric attire can be considerable.
• Clinical Placement Expenses: Travel and associated costs for clinical rotations, especially if distant from home or campus, are often borne by the student.
• Certification and Licensure: Fees for pediatric-specific certification exams and state licensure are necessary post-graduation expenses.
• Living Costs: Day-to-day expenses can be substantial for full-time students, especially when the ability to work is limited.

Financial Aid Options:

• Varied Financial Aid Sources: Aid may come from grants, loans, scholarships, or work-study programs, with early applications being advantageous.
• Scholarships and Grants: Actively seeking and applying for scholarships from healthcare entities can substantially defray costs.
• Understanding Loan Terms: It's crucial to comprehend loan conditions, especially as federal loans generally offer more favorable terms than private options.

With strategic financial planning, PNP students can navigate their educational investment effectively.

PNP Salary Expectations

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for NPs, including PNPs, is $124,680 per annum or $59.94 per hour. However, it's important to note that this figure is an average and may not reflect the exact salary for a PNP in a specific area.

PNPs working in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living may earn higher salaries than those in rural or less densely populated areas. Specialty areas like acute care or specialized pediatric practices may also impact salary potential.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

While the BLS doesn't provide a breakdown of the pay of NPs by specialty, ZipRecruiter reports a national average annual salary of $135,161 for Pediatric NPs, which equates to a total of $65 per hour. 

The top-paying states for PNPs are:

• New Jersey: $148,540
• Wisconsin: $145,152
• Alaska: $142,023
• Massachusetts: $142,913
• Washington: $141,670

Furthermore, the level of education can influence earning potential. PNPs with an MSN degree may have a different salary range than those with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, as higher degrees and specialized certifications can command higher salaries.

It's crucial to research salary data specific to the region and practice area of interest to get a more accurate understanding of earning potential. Consulting resources such as salary surveys, nursing organizations, and professional networks can provide valuable insights into the salary ranges for PNPs in different areas of the country.

PNP Job Outlook 

The outlook for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) is promising, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 38% growth in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles from 2022 to 2032. This growth highlights the increasing demand for PNPs, who play a vital role in pediatric health services.

PNPs have long been instrumental in improving access to pediatric care. Their specialization in children's health is particularly crucial in today's climate, marked by a growing population and a focus on preventive health measures. As healthcare continues to evolve, PNPs are increasingly recognized for their role in providing primary pediatric care, addressing a wide range of routine and complex health needs.

Are the Fastest PNP 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 PNP 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 PNP Cons: 

1. Demanding Schedule: The pace can be overwhelming, potentially compromising work-life balance.
2. Clinical Depth: May provide less hands-on training time compared to 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.

PNP Scope of Practice 

The extent of autonomy and responsibilities within the professional roles of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners is shaped by state regulations governing the scope of practice. While certain states permit NPs to practice independently, others mandate supervision by a healthcare provider or MD.

When selecting an NP school, it becomes imperative to consider these state-specific regulations, as some APRN NP programs may not qualify graduates to work in specific states. 

Key considerations include:

• State Licensure: Obtaining a state-specific license is a mandatory requirement for PNPs. If you plan to practice in multiple states, you must meet the varying licensure requirements of each state.
• Practice Authority Levels: The AANP classifies states based on the practice environment they offer for PNPs:
  • Full Practice States: PNPs have the autonomy to provide comprehensive patient care, including diagnosis, management, and prescription, without physician supervision. Examples include New York and Montanna.
  • Reduced Practice States: These states impose restrictions, requiring PNPs to enter into collaborative agreements with physicians or other healthcare providers. Examples include New Jersey and Pennsylvania. 
  • Restricted Practice States: States like Georgia and Texas have stringent rules mandating PNPs to work under physician collaboration or supervision at all times.

To align your career goals with the most suitable NP position, it is crucial to comprehend the scope of practice regulations in the state in which you plan to work and the specific responsibilities associated with the NP specialty you intend to pursue. This foresight ensures that your chosen NP Program aligns with the practice environment you aim to enter upon graduation.

Fastest PNP Program Accreditation

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What distinguishes a PPC-NP from a PAC-NP?

A: PPCNPs provide comprehensive, long-term care in primary care settings, addressing common and complex health issues in children from birth to young adulthood. PACNPs, on the other hand, focus on managing acute, critical, and chronic illnesses in inpatient and outpatient settings for patients from birth to young adulthood. If you are interested in both the acute and primary care PNP pathways, consider entering a Dual PNP Program that focuses on both specialties. 

What skills are essential for PNPs?

A: PNPs require clinical proficiency and strong communication skills to interact with children and their families effectively. Compassion, patience, and the ability to handle stressful situations are essential qualities. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills enable PNPs to make informed decisions about patient care. Additionally, leadership skills are valuable as PNPs often work in leadership roles and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

What are the available pathways to becoming a PNP?

• MSN to PNP: MSN students chose this pathway for more specialized training in pediatrics.
• Post-Master's Certificate: For nurses who have an existing master's degree in other areas of nursing, but would like to pursue a pediatric training certificate.
• BSN to PNP: BSN graduates who pursue specialized training in pediatric nursing.
• DNP:  Certain PNPs opt for a doctoral degree to advance their clinical skills, take on leadership positions, and gain comprehensive expertise in pediatric nursing.
• RN to PNP: These are for RNs holding an ADN or diploma. However, they need to pursue a BSN degree before proceeding to the PNP specialization.