Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Pennsylvania
- 2027 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
2027 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Pennsylvania
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 in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs for advanced practice with children from infancy through adolescence. The 52-credit, part-time curriculum, delivered via synchronous online lectures and on-campus intensives, integrates evidence-based practice, advanced pathophysiology, and pediatric pharmacology. Students complete clinical concentration courses in primary, episodic, and special-needs care. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or PNCB certification and enjoy a 100% board pass rate. CCNE-accredited, the program costs $1,169 per credit and requires a 3.0 GPA, two recommendations, and work experience. No entrance exam is listed as a requirement. Flexible clinical site coordination and military benefits are available.
- CCNE accredited
- $1,169 per credit
- 3-Year program
- 52 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-08-01
- Part-time available
- Starts fall/winter/spring
- Synchronous online classes
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 3.0 GPA minimum
BSN to MSN - MSN: Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Dual Option Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Drexel University's hybrid MSN program offers a dual option in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care, preparing nurses to manage the full pediatric health continuum. This 62-credit, 1,000-clinical-hour program blends online coursework with mandatory on-campus intensives featuring state-of-the-art simulation and mentoring. Students gain mixed inpatient/outpatient experience and study topics such as advanced health assessment, pharmacology, research methods, and ethical decision-making. Graduates are eligible for both PNCB primary and acute care certifications. CCNE accreditation underscores quality, while experienced faculty and a clinical orientation seminar support success. Admissions require a BSN and relevant clinical experience. The program does not list an entrance exam requirement.
- 62.0 credits required.
- 1000 clinical hours.
- Hybrid program format.
- Quarter calendar system.
- Dual certification eligibility.
- Mandatory on-campus intensives.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for PNCB exams.
- Mixed inpatient/outpatient experience.
- State-of-the-art simulation lab.
BSN to MSN - MSN Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Option)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's online MSN in Pediatric Primary Care and Acute Care dual option is a CCNE-accredited, 62-quarter-credit program at $1,169 per credit. Designed for part-time study over roughly four years, it combines synchronous online classes with mandatory on-campus intensives and self-coordinated clinical placements. Eligibility requires a BSN with 3.0 GPA, one year of pediatric acute care experience, an unrestricted RN license, and current PALS certification. Graduates achieve dual certification eligibility through PNCB, backed by a 100% board pass rate. Board-certified faculty and a simulation lab enhance learning. The program is ranked #45 nationally and #12 for veterans. Applications require recommendations, a personal statement, resume, and transcripts; no entrance exam is required.
- 62 quarter credits.
- $1,169 per credit.
- Online with residency requirement.
- Average duration 4 years.
- CCNE-accredited program.
- 100% board pass rates.
- Board-certified faculty.
- State-of-the-art simulation lab.
- Dual certification eligibility.
- Synchronous online lectures.
Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, PA - Private 4-year - gmercyu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Gwynedd Mercy University's online Master of Science in Nursing program offers a Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration tailored for advanced practice nurses. The curriculum focuses on delivering comprehensive healthcare to children from birth through age 21, with advanced clinical skills in diagnosing, treating, and prescribing. The program aligns with a rapidly growing field, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 46% increase in nurse practitioner jobs through 2031 and a median salary of approximately $94,841. This Roman Catholic, military-friendly institution offers a flexible online format for working nurses. No standardized entrance exam requirement is explicitly stated for this graduate program.
- Online graduate nursing program
- Pediatric care from birth to 21
- Advanced clinical skills training
- 46% job growth projected
- Median salary around $94,841
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu
BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at Thomas Jefferson University is a 45-credit hybrid program that can be completed in two to five years, combining online learning with sessions at Philadelphia's Center City or Dixon campuses. The curriculum covers comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents in clinical, school, home health, and acute settings, integrating nursing science, evidence-based practice, leadership, and health equity. Graduates are eligible for CPNP-PC certification and can pursue roles in primary care, public health, and specialty clinics. Faculty mentorship is provided by Program Director Laura Roettger, PhD. Entrance exam requirements are not specified, offering flexibility for working nurses.
- Complete in 2 - 5 Years
- 45 total credit hours
- Prepares for CPNP-PC
- Hybrid online and on-campus format
- Program director Laura Roettger, PhD
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University offers an 18-credit Post-Graduate Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for nurses holding a master's or doctorate. This hybrid program blends online coursework with clinical experiences at its Center City campus, focusing on direct care management for infants and children across diverse settings. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, family-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration, the curriculum prepares graduates for the CPNP-PC certification exam. Students gain skills in holistic care planning, quality improvement, leadership, and cultural responsiveness. No entrance exam requirement is listed. Ideal for advancing expertise in pediatric primary care.
- 18 credit hours
- Hybrid format delivery
- Center City campus location
- Graduate certificate degree
- Online coursework available
- Prepares for CPNP-PC exam
- Focuses on pediatric primary care
- For master's or doctoral nurses
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Clinical practice integration
Villanova University
Villanova, PA - Private 4-year - villanova.edu
BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Villanova University's hybrid MSN in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in pediatric primary care. The 47-credit curriculum integrates online didactic coursework with in-person clinical experiences across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. The university arranges clinical placements, ensuring students gain hands-on training in diverse settings such as pediatric offices, clinics, and community health centers. Core subjects cover health promotion, disease management, and healthcare leadership. Graduates are eligible for certification and can pursue careers in primary care, pediatric acute care, or community health. The program also offers a seamless transition to a Post-Master's DNP. Emphasizing holistic, family-centered care, Villanova combines academic rigor with strong community partnerships, making it a top choice for aspiring pediatric nurse practitioners.
- 47 total credit hours
- Core courses offered online
- Clinical courses completed in-person
- Clinical placement secured in PA, NJ, DE
- Option to continue in Post-master's DNP
- Prepares for pediatric primary care
- Access to wide variety of clinical agencies
- Graduates employed in primary care settings
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - upenn.edu
BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pennsylvania's MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to children, encompassing well-child visits, sick exams, health counseling, and behavioral management. The curriculum integrates graduate core coursework, research methods, theory, and six clinical courses taken in sequence, along with two graduate NURS electives. Students learn to practice autonomously or lead interdisciplinary teams. Offered in full-time and part-time formats, the part-time track can be completed in two years. As a nationally recognized leader in NP training, Penn equips graduates to improve pediatric health outcomes in diverse primary care settings and develop skills in research, education, and policy.
- 2-Year program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Nationally recognized leader in NP training
- Primary care practice focus
- Well-child and sick exam training
- Six clinical courses taken together
- Practice autonomously or as team leader
- Two graduate NURS electives required
- Research methods course included
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA - Public 4-Year - pitt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Pediatric Acute Care)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh offers a Post-graduate Certificate in Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, designed for MSN- or DNP-prepared NPs seeking specialization in acute care. This 18-21 credit program includes 500-600 clinical hours, with placements arranged by the school. Coursework focuses on managing acutely, critically, and chronically ill children from birth through emerging adulthood. Graduates are eligible for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. The program is delivered onsite with full- and part-time schedules, and requires a BSN, valid RN license, prior NP preparation, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. A comprehensive exam and pre-admission interview are required. Spring and summer courses include a role practicum.
- Post-graduate certificate program.
- Pediatric Acute Care concentration.
- 18-21 total credits.
- 500-600 clinical hours.
- Full-time or part-time options.
- Onsite program delivery.
- Clinical placements provided.
- BSN required for admission.
- Valid RN license required.
- MSN or DNP preparation required.
MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (Pediatric Primary Care)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Pittsburgh prepares nurses to become leaders in pediatric primary care. The curriculum emphasizes developmental and health assessment, and the diagnosis and management of well, acutely ill, and chronically ill children from birth to emerging adulthood. Students complete clinical hours in primary care and subspecialty settings, and lead quality improvement projects. Graduates are eligible for national certification and CRNP licensure. The program offers full-time and part-time study, with selected courses available remotely. It is available via BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP pathways, and prepares students for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. This onsite program is based in Pittsburgh.
- Full-time and part-time options
- Prepares for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PCNB)
- Offers BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP pathways
- Onsite campus in Pittsburgh
- Selected courses available remotely
- Eligible for national certification
- Emphasis on developmental health assessment
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.
Latest Articles & Guides
One of the keys to success as a registered nurse is embracing lifelong learning. Our articles and guides address hot topics and current events in nursing, from education to career mobility and beyond. No matter where you are on your nursing journey, there’s an article to help you build your knowledge base.
Browse our latest articles, curated specifically for modern nurses.
