Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

The University of Texas at Arlington offers an online RN to MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This CCNE-accredited program combines BSN and MSN coursework in an accelerated pathway, saving time and eliminating redundancy. With 76 credit hours and a duration as few as 42 months, the curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and pediatric primary care management. Clinical preceptorships in pediatric settings provide hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared to deliver comprehensive care to children and adolescents, from wellness to complex conditions. Career opportunities include pediatric primary care clinics, school-based clinics, and palliative care. The program features pay-by-the-course tuition, a tuition lock guarantee, and multiple start dates with 8-week courses, offering flexibility for working nurses. Upon completion, you are eligible for national pediatric nurse practitioner certification.

• CCNE accredited
• $35,038 total program tuition
• 42-Month program
• Locked tuition rate
• 76 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-24
• Starts summer/fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certification
• Pay-by-the-course tuition

The University of Texas at Arlington offers an online Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate for MSN-prepared nurses. This post-master's program focuses on pediatric primary care, with a concentration in that area. It requires 18 credit hours and can be completed in as few as five courses. Tuition is $654 per credit hour. Admissions require an MSN from an accredited program, an active RN license, a 3.0 GPA, and an undergraduate statistics course. The program includes clinical placements and prepares graduates for certification and roles in pediatric clinics.

• Online program format.
• Post-master's certificate.
• Pediatric primary care concentration.
• 18 credit hours required.
• As few as five courses.
• $654 per credit hour.
• MSN from accredited program needed.
• Active RN license required.
• 3.0 GPA in MSN program.
• Undergraduate statistics course required.

The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Post Master's) at UTA is a 100% online program designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking PPCNP-BC certification. Through a curriculum tailored by gap analysis, you'll study advanced pediatric primary care, chronicity, and clinical practice across 18 credit hours. Courses cover health promotion, disease management, and case management for children from infancy through adolescence. You'll complete clinical practicums in settings like pediatric clinics, school-based health centers, and palliative care. The program offers multiple start dates, 8-week terms, and a tuition guarantee. UTA's College of Nursing and Health Innovation is CCNE accredited, and clinical placement assistance is available. This certificate prepares you for expanded roles in pediatric primary care, emphasizing leadership and evidence-based practice.

• CCNE accredited
• $654 per credit
• Locked tuition rate
• 18 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-05-22
• Starts summer/fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PPCNP-BC)
• 100% online program

The online Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Post Master's) at the University of Texas at Arlington equips MSN-prepared nurses to become board-certified pediatric acute care nurse practitioners. Designed for experienced RNs, the program uses a gap analysis to create an individualized curriculum of as few as five courses. You'll study advanced management of complex, acute, and chronic pediatric conditions, with clinical placements in settings like the PICU and subspecialty clinics. Taught by the same faculty as on-campus, the program offers flexible 8-week courses and multiple start dates. Benefit from a tuition guarantee and pay-by-the-course pricing. Accredited by CCNE, this certificate prepares you for the CPNP-AC exam and advanced roles improving children's health.

• CCNE accredited
• $654 per credit
• Locked tuition rate
• 5 total courses
• Apply by 2026-05-22
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for CPNP-AC
• 100% online program

Baylor University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PNP) program prepares registered nurses to deliver expert primary and acute care to children and adolescents. The curriculum covers advanced pediatric health management, from normal growth and development to complex acute and chronic conditions, with a strong emphasis on patient-and-family centered care. You can choose between a primary care track or a dual primary/acute care track, allowing you to tailor your training to your career goals. The program combines 100% online coursework with on-campus immersions, providing flexibility for working nurses while fostering meaningful faculty and peer connections. With dedicated clinical placement support and a student success advisor, you'll receive personalized guidance throughout your journey. Graduates are equipped to lead in pediatric settings such as hospitals, intensive care units, and primary care clinics, shaping patient outcomes and policy. Baylor's DNP-PNP is CCNE-accredited and ranked among the top programs, offering a rigorous yet supportive pathway to the highest level of nursing practice.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in Just over 3 years to completion
• 75 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours

Baylor University's online DNP-Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) track prepares RNs to deliver comprehensive primary care to children and adolescents. The curriculum emphasizes patient-and family-centered care, normal growth and development, health promotion, and management of common pediatric health issues. Students complete 75 credits and 1,125 clinical hours, with courses delivered online and supported by on-campus immersions. Graduates are equipped for careers in pediatric clinics, community health centers, and other primary care settings. The program is CCNE accredited, offers clinical placement support, and features dedicated student success advisors. With no GRE required and a cohort-based model, it provides a supportive pathway for busy nurses to advance to the highest level of nursing practice.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Complete in Just over 3 years to completion
• 75 total credit hours
• 3 start dates per year
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours
• Work experience required

Baylor University's online DNP-Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program, with an Acute Care concentration, prepares RNs to deliver advanced care to children with complex acute, critical, or chronic illnesses. The dual Primary/Acute Care track combines 1,725 clinical hours, with coursework covering pediatric acute care management, clinical judgment, and procedural skills. Graduates are equipped for roles in hospitals, intensive care units, and emergency departments as pediatric nurse leaders. The 100% online curriculum features 15-week courses, three terms per year, and on-campus immersions. Baylor's CCNE-accredited program offers clinical placement support and a dedicated student success advisor, with no GRE required. The program is ranked #3 by Nurse.org and featured in U.S. News Best DNP Programs.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1725 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available

The University of Texas at El Paso offers an MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) through a hybrid format designed for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, child development, and management of well, acute, and chronic conditions across pediatric populations. Didactic courses are delivered in seven-week online sessions, with three on-campus intensives per semester during specialty coursework. Students complete 49 credit hours and 675 clinical clock hours, gaining hands-on experience through simulation labs and diverse clinical placements. Graduates are eligible for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PCNB). The program aligns with AACN Essentials and NONPF standards, preparing nurses to become primary care providers in ambulatory and sub-specialty settings. With two start dates per year and a focus on flexibility, this program supports career advancement in pediatric primary care.

• 7-Semester program
• 49 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-10
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 675 clinical hours
• Prepares for PCNB
• Flexibility for working professionals
• Innovative simulation lab experiences
• Eligible for PCNB certification

The University of Texas at El Paso offers a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN concentration. This hybrid program prepares nurses to care for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical conditions. The 49-credit hour program spans two calendar years with 765 clinical hours. It features flexible seven-week didactic courses for working professionals. Graduates qualify for PACNP certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. Tuition is $552 per credit hour for Texas residents and $782 for non-residents. The program follows AACN and NONPF standards and requires travel up to 200 miles for clinical placements.

• Pediatric Acute Care concentration
• Hybrid program format
• 49 credit hours
• Two-year completion time
• 765 clinical clock hours
• Flexible seven-week courses
• For working professionals
• Two admission cycles yearly
• Fall and Spring starts
• Simulation lab experiences

The University of Texas at El Paso offers a Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate with a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This hybrid program requires 28-40 credits and 630-775 clinical hours. Applicants need a Master's in Nursing, current RN or NP license, resume, and a professional statement. The program prepares nurses for advanced pediatric care roles, focusing on primary care competencies. Admissions require submission through the Graduate School, with specific criteria for applicants with or without APRN recognition.

• Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate.
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• Hybrid program format.
• 28-40 total credit hours.
• 630-775 clinical practicum hours.
• Requires Master's in Nursing degree.
• Current RN or NP license needed.
• Submit resume or curriculum vitae.
• 500-word professional statement required.
• Online application to Graduate School.

The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner post-master's certificate at UTEP prepares registered nurses with an MSN for advanced practice in acute care pediatrics. This concentration focuses on managing acutely ill children across healthcare settings, from hospitals to specialty clinics. Students build clinical expertise through coursework and supervised practicum hours, covering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex pediatric conditions. Graduates are equipped for roles in pediatric intensive care, emergency departments, and subspecialty practices. The program is designed for both APRNs seeking a new specialty and non-APRN MSN holders, offering a flexible pathway to expand clinical skills. UTEP's curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, preparing nurses to meet the growing demand for pediatric acute care providers.

• 6 concentration options
• Designed for nurses with MSN degree
• Accepts APRN and non-APRN applicants
• Clinical hours range 630-775

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care for MSN-prepared nurses. This campus-based program provides specialized training in pediatric primary care, allowing experienced nurses to expand their clinical expertise. The program requires varying semester credit hours depending on the track. Admissions occur every spring with an August 1 deadline. Applicants must submit materials through NursingCAS and follow specific School of Nursing application procedures. This certificate prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in pediatric healthcare settings.

• Post-Graduate Certificate program.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care concentration.
• For MSN-prepared nurses.
• Campus-based learning format.
• Multiple specialization areas available.
• Varies by track credit hours.
• Spring admissions only.
• August 1 application deadline.
• NursingCAS application required.
• Follow School of Nursing instructions.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio offers a BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care concentration. This doctoral program prepares RNs for advanced practice in pediatric primary care. The hybrid format combines online coursework with on-campus experiences. Students gain skills in health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice focused on children. Graduates work in clinics, hospitals, and community health settings. The program requires 2,000 hours of RN experience and a 3.0 GPA. It is CCNE-accredited and offers four NP specializations. With a supportive learning environment and rigorous clinical training, this DNP program equips nurses to provide high-quality pediatric care.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• $45 application fee
• BSN to DNP pathway
• Minimum 1 year RN experience required
• Online interview required
• Application deadline: April 1

The University of Texas at Austin's Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to care for pediatric patients from birth to age 21 with acute, complex, chronic, and critical conditions. This campus-based DNP program features hands-on skills labs, simulation experiences, and expert-led lectures. Clinical rotations provide real-world acute care experience. Applicants need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and two years of full-time RN experience before enrollment. The program meets national curriculum guidelines and prepares graduates for certification exams.

• Focuses on pediatric acute care.
• Covers birth to age 21 patients.
• Includes skills labs and simulations.
• Expert-led lecture components.
• Clinical rotation requirements.
• Prepares for quality improvement projects.
• Doctorally prepared faculty guidance.
• Leads to PNCB certification eligibility.
• Meets national curriculum guidelines.
• Aligns with Texas Board requirements.

The MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) track at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center prepares registered nurses to become expert providers dedicated to children's health. The curriculum covers well-child exams, developmental screenings, diagnosis and treatment of common childhood illnesses, immunizations, and health maintenance. Graduates are eligible to sit for the PNCB and ANCC certification exams. The program is delivered online with occasional visits to the Lubbock campus, offering flexibility for working nurses. You will gain advanced skills in patient assessment, pharmacology, and clinical decision-making tailored to pediatric populations. Career paths include pediatric clinics, schools, community health centers, and private practices. Distinctive features include a holistic admissions process and a requirement of two years of pediatric RN experience, ensuring a cohort ready for advanced practice. With 49 credit hours and support from financial aid and scholarships, this track offers a focused path to becoming a pediatric primary care provider.

• 49 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Online with occasional campus visits
• Requires two years pediatric RN experience

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This hybrid program prepares nurses to care for children with acute and chronic conditions. It requires 51 credit hours and costs vary based on tuition rates. Applicants need a BSN, valid RN license, 3.0 GPA, and two years of pediatric experience. The program leads to eligibility for the Pediatric Nursing Credentialing Board Acute Care CPNP exam. Financial aid options are available for admitted students.

• 51 credit hour program
• Hybrid online/campus format
• Requires BSN and RN license
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• Two years pediatric experience needed
• PALS certification required
• Eligible for CPNP exam
• Tuition information available online
• Financial aid options available
• Holistic admission review process

The MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center prepares registered nurses to become advanced practice providers dedicated to improving children's health. The curriculum equips graduates with skills in well-child examinations, developmental screenings, diagnosis and treatment of common childhood illnesses, immunizations, and health maintenance. Students learn to deliver comprehensive primary care across diverse pediatric settings. The program blends online coursework with occasional on-campus experiences at the Lubbock campus, offering flexibility for working nurses. Graduates are eligible for national certification through the PNCB and ANCC. Admission requires a BSN, an unencumbered RN license, two years of pediatric RN experience, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students.

• 49 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• 2 years pediatric experience required
• PALS certification required

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso offers an MSN in Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This hybrid program prepares nurses for advanced pediatric care. It requires 51 credit hours. Applicants need a BSN, RN license, and two years of pediatric experience. PALS certification is required. The program leads to eligibility for the Acute Care CPNP exam. Costs vary, with tuition details available online. Fall applications open November 1 and close February 15. Spring applications open May 1 and close August 1. Financial aid options include loans and scholarships.

• Hybrid program format.
• 51 semester credit hours.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• Two years pediatric experience needed.
• PALS certification required.
• Eligible for CPNP exam.
• Tuition information online.
• Financial aid available.
• Fall and spring admissions.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.

Texas Woman's University offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care concentration. This hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical placements across Texas. Students learn to provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children and adolescents dealing with common acute and chronic conditions. The curriculum integrates physiological, behavioral, and family theories, preparing graduates to manage health maintenance and illness prevention in primary care settings. Graduates are equipped to work in pediatric clinics, community health centers, and private practices. The program requires a BSN, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of pediatric experience. Designed for Texas residents, it offers flexible start terms in fall, spring, and summer. With a focus on primary care, this track prepares advanced practice nurses to fill critical gaps in pediatric healthcare access. Graduate assistantships and transfer credit options provide additional support.

• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Texas residents only
• Online coursework, Texas clinicals

The Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care at Houston Christian University prepares registered nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to children from infancy through adolescence. The 38-credit curriculum integrates advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment with specialized courses in pediatric health, growth and development, and advanced diagnostics. Students complete clinical practicums to gain hands-on experience in primary care settings. Graduates are equipped to sit for national certification and pursue roles in pediatric clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy to improve outcomes for pediatric populations. With a focus on holistic care and family-centered approaches, this degree plan provides a structured pathway to advanced practice nursing in pediatric primary care.

• 38 total credit hours
• No grade below B allowed
• Transfer up to 6 credits
• Complete degree in five years