Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Pennsylvania
- 2026 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Pennsylvania
- Understanding PNP Education Pathways in Pennsylvania
- Choosing Your Program Format: Online, Campus-Based, or Hybrid
- What to Look for in a PNP Program
- Cost Considerations
- Clinical Training in Pennsylvania Pediatric Healthcare Settings
- Certification and Licensure Requirements in Pennsylvania
- Career Outlook and Salaries for PNPs in Pennsylvania
- Choosing Between MSN, DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Latest Articles & Guides
Pennsylvania’s diverse healthcare landscape creates abundant opportunities for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs). As the nation’s fifth most populous state, Pennsylvania faces growing demand for pediatric healthcare providers who can serve children from birth through young adulthood across varied settings and communities.
For registered nurses seeking to specialize in pediatric care, Pennsylvania offers multiple program formats to fit different learning styles and schedules: traditional campus-based programs with immersive clinical experiences, fully online programs for maximum flexibility, and hybrid models that combine the benefits of both. Pennsylvania’s collaborative practice model for nurse practitioners, combined with the state’s strong pediatric healthcare infrastructure and competitive salaries, makes it an attractive location for PNP practice.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The top PNP programs available to Pennsylvania residents (MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificates)
- Differences between online, campus-based, and hybrid program formats
- Clinical placement opportunities and costs
- Career outlook and salary expectations for PNPs in Pennsylvania
2026 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Pennsylvania
Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, PA - Private 4-year - gmercyu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Gwynedd Mercy University's Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for children from birth to age 21. This online graduate program equips students with advanced clinical skills to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications. Graduates enter a rapidly growing field with exceptional job opportunities, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 46% growth rate for nurse practitioners through 2031.
- Online graduate nursing program
- Pediatric care from birth to 21
- Advanced clinical skills training
- 46% job growth projected
- Median salary around $94,841
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's online MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients from infancy through adolescence. With a focus on evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, students develop critical skills in clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and healthcare technology. The program offers flexible part-time online learning with essential on-campus intensives, enabling nurses to advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments. Students can earn certification through ANCC or PNCB upon completion, with competitive tuition rates and potential financial aid opportunities.
- Online part-time MSN program
- 52 total credit hours
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Synchronous online lectures
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Tuition $1,134 per credit
- Clinical hours required
- Board-certified faculty
- Four 10-week quarters annually
BSN to MSN - MSN Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's online MSN Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents with acute and critical health conditions. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. Students gain expert skills in acute and specialty clinical settings, with a rigorous 57-credit program that balances theoretical knowledge and practical training. With competitive tuition at $1,134 per credit and flexible online learning, this program offers a strategic pathway for nurses seeking to elevate their pediatric acute care expertise.
- Online part-time graduate program
- 57 total credit hours
- Accredited by CCNE
- Requires 1+ year pediatric experience
- PALS certification required
- BSN GPA minimum 3.0
- Synchronous online lectures
- Mandatory on-campus intensives
- Prepares for PNCB certification
BSN to MSN - MSN Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Option)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's MSN Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive dual-track online degree for advanced nursing professionals. Designed for ambitious nurses seeking specialized pediatric expertise, this 62-credit program prepares students to provide expert care to infants, children, and adolescents. With competitive tuition at $1,134 per credit and a quarter-based curriculum, students can complete coursework flexibly while gaining advanced clinical skills. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program requires a BSN, minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of pediatric acute care experience.
- Dual Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Option
- Online Part-Time Format
- 62 Total Credit Hours
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Synchronous Online Lectures
- State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab
- 3.0 GPA Minimum Requirement
- One Year Pediatric Experience
- Current PALS Certification Needed
Villanova University
Villanova, PA - Private 4-year - villanova.edu
BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Villanova University's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) track provides comprehensive advanced practice training through a rigorous 45-credit program. Students gain extensive clinical expertise in pediatric primary care, preparing them to deliver high-quality, specialized healthcare services. The hybrid program combines online core courses with in-person clinical training, enabling graduates to secure positions across various healthcare settings. Practitioners develop advanced skills in pediatric health management, patient advocacy, and collaborative care delivery, positioning themselves as respected healthcare professionals.
- 45-credit advanced practice program
- Core courses offered online
- Clinical placements in PA/NJ/DE
- Physician and NP preceptors
- Post-master's DNP option available
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu
BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for children in diverse healthcare settings. Students develop expertise in managing pediatric health through a hybrid learning format that combines online and on-campus instruction. The 45-credit MSN degree equips graduates to work in clinical practices, schools, home health, and public health environments. Candidates who complete the program are eligible to take the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care Examination, positioning them for specialized pediatric healthcare roles.
- 45-credit MSN degree
- Hybrid learning format
- 2-5 year completion time
- Center City campus location
- Advanced pediatric care training
- CPNP-PC exam preparation
- Multiple healthcare settings
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University offers a comprehensive Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner that prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver specialized pediatric healthcare. This rigorous 18-credit online program equips graduates to provide direct care for infants and children across diverse clinical settings. Students gain advanced skills in evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and comprehensive pediatric healthcare management. Graduates are academically prepared to sit for the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (CPNP-PC) Examination, enhancing their professional credentials and career opportunities in pediatric healthcare.
- 18 graduate certificate credits
- Online program format
- Center City campus
- Prepares for CPNP-PC exam
- Advanced pediatric nursing practice
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Comprehensive patient care focus
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Interprofessional collaboration skills
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA - Public 4-Year - pitt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Concentration: Pediatric Acute Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers advanced nursing professionals a targeted pathway to specialize in pediatric acute care. Designed for MSN or DNP-prepared nurses, this non-degree program equips participants with comprehensive skills to manage critically ill children from birth through emerging adulthood. Graduates gain expertise in clinical decision-making, health promotion, and complex pediatric care across various healthcare settings. The program requires a minimum of 500 clinical hours, providing robust hands-on training and preparing students for national certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
- Non-degree post-graduate certificate
- Minimum 500 clinical hours
- For MSN/DNP-prepared nurses
- National certification eligible
- Onsite clinical placements provided
- GPA requirement 3.0
- 18-21 total credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- Pediatric acute care focus
MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers an advanced pathway for nurses seeking specialized pediatric healthcare expertise. This comprehensive doctoral program prepares nurses to provide high-quality, holistic care for children from infancy through adolescence. Students will develop advanced clinical skills, learn comprehensive pediatric assessment techniques, and gain expertise in managing complex pediatric health conditions. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and leadership in pediatric healthcare settings. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners ready to make significant contributions to children's health and wellness.
- Doctoral-level pediatric nursing
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Comprehensive pediatric healthcare training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Leadership in pediatric care
Understanding PNP Education Pathways in Pennsylvania
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners specialize in providing primary and acute care to infants, children, and adolescents. Pennsylvania offers three educational pathways with PNP concentrations: MSN, DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate.
MSN in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- For RNs with a BSN seeking first advanced practice certification
- Available in two tracks: Primary Care PNP (PNP-PC) or Acute Care PNP (PNP-AC)
- Typically 2-3 years of part-time study
DNP with PNP Specialty
- Terminal degree combining clinical practice with leadership
- BSN to DNP programs: 3-4 years
- Increasingly preferred by major Pennsylvania health systems like UPMC and Penn Medicine
Post-Master’s PNP Certificate
- For nurses who already hold an MSN in another specialty
- Typically 1-2 years to complete
- Popular among FNPs wanting to specialize in pediatrics
Pennsylvania Context: Pennsylvania requires nurse practitioners to have collaborative agreements with physicians, though NPs have significant autonomy in practice. Most Pennsylvania pediatric practices and health systems have standardized collaborative agreement protocols.
Check out nurse practitioner schools in Pennsylvania.
Choosing Your Program Format: Online, Campus-Based, or Hybrid
Online Programs
Best for: Working nurses who need maximum flexibility, those living far from major universities, or students balancing family commitments.
Characteristics:
- Primarily asynchronous coursework accessible anywhere with internet
- Clinical placements arranged locally in Pennsylvania
- Occasional virtual synchronous sessions for case discussions
- May require 1-2 brief on-campus intensives for labs
- Self-directed learning requires strong time management
Considerations: Students must secure their own clinical preceptors in many programs, which can be challenging in competitive markets like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
Campus-Based Programs
Best for: Students who prefer structured in-person learning, those who can relocate or commute, and new graduates seeking immersive academic experiences.
Characteristics:
- Regular on-campus classes (typically 1-2 days per week for part-time)
- Face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers
- Easier access to simulation labs and learning resources
- University often facilitates clinical placements through established partnerships
- Built-in networking with Pennsylvania pediatric healthcare community
Considerations: Requires commuting to campus locations in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or other cities. Less flexible for nurses working full-time or irregular shifts.
Hybrid Programs
Best for: Students seeking balance between flexibility and in-person interaction.
Characteristics:
- Combination of online coursework and periodic on-campus sessions
- Some courses fully online, others require campus attendance
- Clinical seminars may be in-person while theory courses are online
- Offers flexibility while maintaining connection to campus community
- Growing in popularity as universities adapt to student needs
Considerations: Requires planning around scheduled campus sessions but offers more flexibility than fully campus-based programs.
What to Look for in a PNP Program
Accreditation Status
Verify that any program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing requires graduation from an accredited program for Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) licensure.
Primary Care vs. Acute Care Track
Primary Care PNP (PNP-PC)
- Focus on well-child care, developmental assessments, immunizations, and common childhood illnesses
- Work settings: pediatric offices, community health centers, school-based clinics
- Most common PNP specialty in Pennsylvania
Acute Care PNP (PNP-AC)
- Focus on hospitalized children with acute, critical, and chronic conditions
- Work settings: children’s hospitals, pediatric ICUs, emergency departments, specialty clinics
- Higher demand at major Pennsylvania children’s hospitals (CHOP, UPMC Children’s)
Clinical Hour Requirements and Placement Support
PNP programs require 600-720 clinical hours for MSN programs and 1,000+ hours for DNP programs. For Pennsylvania students, consider:
- Clinical Placement Assistance: Campus-based and hybrid programs often arrange placements through university partnerships. Online programs may require self-placement.
- Geographic Coverage: Can you complete clinical hours near your Pennsylvania location?
- Specialty Exposure: Ensure rotations include well-child care, acute illness management, and developmental assessments
Cost Considerations
Cost Ranges:
| Program Type | Typical Total Cost Range | Time to Complete |
| MSN PNP | $35,000 – $75,000 | 2-3 years |
| BSN-to-DNP PNP | $55,000 – $110,000 | 3-4 years |
| Post-Master’s Certificate | $20,000 – $45,000 | 1-2 years |
Financial Aid for Pennsylvania Students:
- Federal student loans and grants (FAFSA)
- Pennsylvania State Nurses Association scholarships
- Pennsylvania Primary Health Care Loan Repayment Program
- Employer tuition reimbursement
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia nursing scholarships
- Graduate assistantships (often available in campus-based programs)
Cost-Saving Tip: Pennsylvania residents attending Pennsylvania public universities may qualify for in-state tuition rates. Campus-based programs may offer graduate assistantships that provide tuition waivers and stipends. Loan repayment programs exist for PNPs working in Pennsylvania’s underserved communities.
Clinical Training in Pennsylvania Pediatric Healthcare Settings
Pennsylvania offers exceptional pediatric clinical training opportunities:
Major Children’s Hospitals:
- Philadelphia: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), St. Christopher’s Hospital, Nemours Children’s Hospital
- Pittsburgh: UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
- Other Regions: Penn State Children’s Hospital (Hershey), Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital
Primary Care and Community Settings:
- CHOP Care Network and UPMC Children’s Community Pediatrics practices
- Independent pediatric practices throughout Pennsylvania
- Community health centers with pediatric services
- School-based health centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and rural areas
Campus-based programs typically have established relationships with these facilities, making clinical placement coordination smoother. Online students often arrange their own placements but have flexibility to complete rotations near their homes.
Certification and Licensure Requirements in Pennsylvania
After completing your PNP program, you must obtain national certification and Pennsylvania CRNP licensure:
Step 1: National Certification Pass the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner certification exam from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB):
- PNP-PC exam: For primary care graduates
- PNP-AC exam: For acute care graduates
Step 2: Pennsylvania CRNP Licensure Apply through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Requirements include:
- Current Pennsylvania RN license
- Graduation from accredited PNP program
- National PNP certification
- Collaborative agreement with Pennsylvania-licensed physician (within 6 months of beginning practice)
Step 3: Prescriptive Authority Pennsylvania CRNPs obtain prescriptive authority automatically with CRNP licensure once a collaborative agreement is established. DEA registration is required for prescribing controlled substances.
Career Outlook and Salaries for PNPs in Pennsylvania
Demand for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in Pennsylvania is strong, driven by physician shortages in pediatric primary care and expansion of pediatric specialty services.
Average PNP Salaries in Pennsylvania:
- Entry-level PNPs: $95,000 – $110,000
- Mid-career PNPs: $110,000 – $130,000
- Experienced PNPs: $130,000 – $150,000+
- Acute care/specialty PNPs: $125,000 – $160,000+
Salary Variations by Pennsylvania Region:
| Metro Area/Region | Average PNP Salary | Cost of Living Factor |
| Philadelphia Metro | $115,000 – $135,000 | High |
| Pittsburgh Metro | $110,000 – $130,000 | Moderate |
| Lehigh Valley | $105,000 – $125,000 | Moderate |
| Central PA | $100,000 – $120,000 | Low-Moderate |
| Rural Pennsylvania | $105,000 – $130,000 | Low |
Higher salaries are typically found in acute care positions at major children’s hospitals, pediatric specialty practices, NICUs, and underserved rural areas with incentive packages.
Choosing Between MSN, DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates
Choose MSN PNP if:
- You have a BSN and want the fastest route to practice
- You’re primarily interested in direct patient care
- Cost and time efficiency are priorities
Choose DNP PNP if:
- You aspire to leadership, education, or policy roles
- You work for a health system that prefers doctoral preparation
- You’re comfortable with a longer program commitment
Choose Post-Master’s Certificate if:
- You already hold an MSN in another specialty
- You want to specialize specifically in pediatrics
- You want the most efficient pathway to PNP certification
Pennsylvania Trend: While MSN-prepared PNPs remain highly employable, major academic medical centers increasingly prefer DNP preparation for leadership and specialty roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need pediatric nursing experience before applying?
A: Most programs prefer at least one year of pediatric nursing experience. Experience in pediatric units, PICUs, NICUs, or pediatric offices strengthens your application and provides valuable foundational knowledge for graduate study.
Q: What if I can’t find a preceptor in Pennsylvania?
A: Campus-based programs typically arrange placements through established partnerships. Online programs often require self-placement; start searching 3-6 months before rotations. Network through your current employer, contact Pennsylvania children’s hospitals and pediatric practices directly, and consider less saturated areas like central or rural Pennsylvania.
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