Most Affordable Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs in 2025

Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) play a vital role in delivering specialized care to children from infancy through adolescence. From clinical assessments to guiding families, their impact is felt at every stage of development—and it all starts with strong, focused training.

If you're pursuing this path and cost is a top concern, you're in the right place. We've rounded up the most affordable PNP programs of 2025 to help you advance your nursing career without breaking the bank.

Top Affordable Pediatric NP Programs 2025 | Online & On-Campus

1. University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama's MSN program prepares graduates for advanced nursing practice and doctoral study. Graduates can synthesize and apply advanced knowledge, theories, and research to a specialized area of nursing practice and function as leaders in practice.

• MSN – Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (post-BSN pathway)
• MSN – Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (post-BSN pathway)

The online MSN program in Acute and Primary Care Pediatric Nursing prepares graduates for advanced nursing practice and potential doctoral studies. Graduates become capable of applying advanced knowledge to provide care for pediatric patients with complex medical conditions and injuries.

Program Overview

• Tuition: The online graduate nursing program charges a fixed rate of $594.00 per credit hour.
• Credit Hours: 45 (PPCNP & PPACNP)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

ADN RNs can also complete either Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program at the University of South Alabama for an additional 12 credits. 

2. Maryville University

Maryville University's PNP program teaches students what it takes to care for children and young adults, with their advanced degrees being designed to help students pursue one of the most rewarding NP specialties available today. It's 100% online with no campus visits and no waiting list once you are accepted.

Pathways and tuition

• BSN-DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration: $64,784 for 40 months
• Doctor of Nursing Practice - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration: $57,242 at 36 months
• Master of Science in Nursing - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration: $39,386 - $41,900 for 20-32 months
• Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: $15,084 - $29,330 for 12-24 months

Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. University of Missouri - Columbia

MU's Sinclair School of Nursing PNP program prepares students to provide comprehensive healthcare from birth through young adulthood by assessing, diagnosing, managing, and evaluating care. These students also learn how to act as advisors and consultants, offering expert advice to nursing staff and healthcare professionals while implementing evidence-based practices to enhance healthcare delivery systems and improve patient outcomes.

Program Overview

• Tuition: $600 tuition per credit hour and an estimated program cost of $28,200
• Credit Hours: 47
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. University of Missouri – Kansas City

The University of Missouri - Kansas City's PNP program offers both acute and primary care PNP programs with the core courses providing a solid foundation in using evidence-based practice guidelines and theory to diagnose and treat pediatric illness and promote wellness.

The Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (AC PNP) specializes in caring for patients with rapidly changing and often critical medical conditions. They primarily work in acute care settings, providing care to patients with unstable chronic, complex acute, and critical conditions. The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program (PC PNP) primarily focuses on providing comprehensive primary care for pediatrics, typically in outpatient clinics, primary care offices, or community health centers.

Program Overview

• Tuition: $707 
• Pathways & Credit Hours: 
  • BSN-MSN AC PNP; 52 credit hours & 660 clinical hours
  • BSN-MSN PC PNP; 45 credit hours & 660 clinical hours 
  • BSN-DNP PNP; 74 credit hours & 1,237.5 clinical hours
  • Post-MSN AC PNP; 21 credit hours & 660 clinical hours 
  • Post MSN PC PNP; 18 credit hours & 660 clinical hours
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

5. Texas Tech University

The PNP-PC track at Texas Tech University offers an MSN designed to equip graduates with the skills to become dedicated healthcare providers for children. The online program, which requires occasional in-person visits to their Lubbock campus, is focused on enhancing children's health and wellness.

Program Overview

• Tuition: $994.50 per credit hour for residents and $1,414.50 for non-residents.
• Credit Hours: 49
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Job Description

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses specialized in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. They work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and specialty pediatric settings—often serving as key providers in primary and acute care environments.

PNPs may specialize in either primary care or acute care, with each pathway designed to serve distinct pediatric populations.

• Primary Care PNPs provide long-term, comprehensive care for children, including well-child visits, routine health screenings, and management of chronic conditions.
• Acute Care PNPs focus on children with complex, critical, or acute conditions, delivering care in settings such as pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) or emergency departments.

A Pediatric NP's responsibilities include conducting physical exams, collecting family health histories, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, and implementing treatment plans using advanced monitoring technologies.

Depending on state regulations, PNPs may practice independently, managing their own patient panels without physician oversight. This level of autonomy underscores their vital role in meeting pediatric healthcare needs.

Learn more about responsibilities, qualifications, and career opportunities for PNPs here: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Job Description, Salary, and How to Become One. Prospective Pediatric NPs can also explore Dual PNP Programs offering specialization in both pediatric acute and primary care. 

Affordable Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program Overview

Affordable Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs offer a cost-effective path for registered nurses to earn an MSN or DNP with a pediatric focus. These programs combine advanced coursework with clinical training, preparing graduates for certification and licensure as pediatric NPs.

Budget-conscious students can find accredited PNP programs that reduce tuition costs through per-credit pricing, in-state tuition, or fully online options that minimize relocation and commuting expenses. Many also offer financial aid, scholarships, or part-time enrollment to support working nurses.

Pediatric NP Coursework

Affordable PNP programs cover essential pediatric-focused topics through advanced coursework. While curricula vary by school, common areas of study include:

• Advanced Pediatric Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation techniques for infants, children, and adolescents
• Pediatric Pharmacology: Safe medication management for pediatric patients
• Child Growth and Development: Key developmental stages and milestones
• Pediatric Pathophysiology: Pediatric-specific disease processes and how they differ from adults
• Primary Care Pediatrics: Preventive care and management of common pediatric conditions
• Pediatric Emergency Care: Acute care approaches for urgent and emergent situations
• Family-Centered Care: Strategies to engage and support families in the child's treatment
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Pediatric-focused wellness and prevention practices
• Legal and Ethical Issues: Principles unique to pediatric healthcare settings

Pediatric NP Clinical Training

Clinical training in affordable PNP programs provides hands-on experience in real-world pediatric settings. Students complete supervised rotations in primary care clinics, hospitals, and specialty practices, gaining exposure to patients across the pediatric age spectrum.

Key training components include:

• Clinical Rotations: Direct care experience across diverse pediatric environments
• Patient Exposure: Care for infants, children, and adolescents with both acute and chronic conditions
• Diagnostic & Treatment Skills: Development of core competencies in pediatric evaluation and intervention
• Health Education: Emphasis on family education and preventive care strategies
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Working alongside pediatricians and healthcare teams
• Mentorship: Supervision by experienced pediatric nurse practitioners

PNP programs must meet clinical training standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), which requires a minimum of 500 direct care hours for all MSN-level nursing students and 1,000 post-baccalaureate hours for DNP students. Additionally, the National Task Force for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education recommends 750 direct patient care hours for all nurse practitioner students, regardless of degree level, to ensure adequate preparation for advanced clinical practice.

Affordable Pediatric NP Program Admission Requirements

Admission to an affordable Pediatric NP Program typically requires a strong nursing background and relevant pediatric experience. Common requirements include:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): From an accredited nursing program
• Unencumbered RN License: Active and in good standing
• Pediatric Clinical Experience: Direct patient care in pediatric settings is often preferred or required
• Undergraduate Coursework: Including subjects like statistics, research methods, and sciences
• Minimum GPA: Typically 3.0 or higher
• Other Requirements: May include interviews, personal statements, background checks, drug screening, physical health screening, and immunization requirements.

Costs of Affordable Pediatric NP Programs

The costs associated with PNP programs can vary based on several factors such as the institution, location, and program length. Here's a general breakdown of what to expect:

• Tuition: Typically ,the largest cost, charged per credit hour or per 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.

Pediatric NP Salary Expectations in 2025

According to theU.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 through health insurance, bonuses, incentive pay, retirement benefits, and paid time off. Salary may vary depending on setting—such as private practice, academic institutions, or hospital-based roles—and some employers offer differential pay for nights, weekends, or holidays.

Keep in mind that salaries can shift over time based on factors like demand, geographic location, and healthcare policy changes. Prospective PNPs should research local job markets and consult updated salary reports and professional organizations for the most accurate data.

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 Cheap Pediatric NP Programs Worth It?

Whether an affordable Pediatric NP Program is the right choice depends on your goals, priorities, and circumstances. While cost-effective options can open doors, it's important to weigh both the benefits and potential trade-offs.

Pros of Choosing an Affordable PNP Program

1. Lower Financial Burden: Reduced tuition means less student debt and a faster return to financial stability after graduation.
2. Greater Accessibility: Lower-cost programs make advanced education more attainable, especially for those with financial constraints.
3. Strong ROI: Despite the lower price tag, many graduates see meaningful career and salary growth.
4. Quality Education: Many affordable programs meet accreditation standards and are led by experienced faculty.
5. Community Health Focus: State and public university programs often emphasize serving underserved populations, aligning well with students interested in public or rural health.

Cons of Choosing an Affordable PNP Program

1. Fewer Resources: Budget-friendly programs may have limited technology, larger class sizes, or fewer specialty electives.
2. Competitive Admission: Lower cost often means higher demand, which can make acceptance more difficult.
3. Limited Networking: Pricier programs may offer stronger alumni networks and clinical connections.
4. Perceived Prestige: Some employers may (rightly or wrongly) favor graduates of more well-known or expensive institutions.
5. Geographic Barriers: Affordable programs may not be available locally, requiring relocation or limiting clinical site options.

Why an Affordable Pediatric NP Program Should be Accredited

Choosing an accredited Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program is paramount for a variety of important reasons:

• Quality education
• Skill development
• Emphasis on research and innovation
• Required clinical practice hours
• Eligibility for national certification
• Eligibility for state licensure 
• Improved job opportunities
• Transferable credits
• Professional credibility
• Financial aid eligibility

With these considerations in mind, aspiring Pediatric Nurse Practitioners should choose programs accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Pediatric NP Scope of Practice & State Regulations

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.

Pediatric NP 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 are the pathways to becoming a PNP?

• BSN to Pediatric NP: For BSN-prepared RNs pursuing an MSN with a pediatric NP specialization
• Direct Entry MSN: For non-nursing bachelor's degree holders entering a combined BSN and MSN PNP program
• RN to PNP: For ADN/ASN RNs bridging directly to an MSN with a PNP focus
• Post-Master's Certificate: For MSN-prepared nurses seeking a PNP post-master's certificate
• Doctor of Nursing Practice PNP: For nurses who wish to pursue a DNP with a pediatric nurse practitioner concentration

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.

What are the essential skills for a PNP?

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).