Updated August 12, 20266 min read

Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

With its diverse population, New York is one of the most dynamic states in the country to train to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). From high-acuity children's hospitals in NYC to pediatric primary care and community health programs across Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Upstate, and Western NY, the state offers a wide range of patient populations and clinical settings.

In this article, you'll learn:

  • The difference between MSN, DNP, and post-master's PNP certificates
  • How New York programs structure online, hybrid, and campus learning
  • New York-specific clinical training examples (primary care, specialty, and acute care)
  • How PNP certification works (including PNCB exams) and how that connects to NY practice
  • What to look for when comparing "best" PNP programs in New York

2027 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

Finding the right pediatric nurse practitioner program in New York can feel overwhelming. That is why registerednursing.org ranks the best programs in the state. Every year, we compare schools on important factors like accreditation, clinical training, faculty credentials, and student outcomes. These rankings give future PNPs a clear, data-driven way to see which programs stand out. New York offers many solid options, including traditional campus programs and flexible online tracks. With this list, students can narrow down choices and focus on programs that fit their career goals. We take pride in our fair, transparent approach. For a full explanation of the scoring process, check out our methodology at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

New York University

New York, NY - Private 4-year - nyu.edu

BSN to MSN - Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Primary Care/Acute Care (Primary Care/Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The MSN in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with a Primary Care/Acute Care dual concentration at NYU Meyers is designed for RNs with at least one year of acute care pediatric experience. This hybrid program integrates interactive synchronous online classes, on-campus immersions, and clinical placements in primary, specialty, and acute care settings. The curriculum covers growth and development, evidence-based guidelines, and management of complex conditions, enhanced by simulation and interprofessional education. Graduates are eligible for dual certification as a CPNP-PC and CPNP-AC, positioning them for advanced leadership roles. This dynamic program requires work experience and prepares students to excel in diverse pediatric healthcare environments, from community clinics to PICUs.

  • 2 concentration options
  • Work experience required
  • Prepares for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
  • Hybrid model with on-campus immersions
  • Eligible for dual CPNP-PC and CPNP-AC certification
  • Clinical placements with expert PNPs
  • Simulation with Standardized Patients
  • Interprofessional education opportunities
  • Prepares for leadership in pediatric healthcare

BSN to MSN - Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Primary Care

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

New York University's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care program offers both MS and DNP degrees in a hybrid format, providing flexibility for working nurses. The curriculum combines advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and pediatric primary care coursework with hands-on clinical placements in primary and specialty settings. Students develop skills in evidence-based practice, leadership, advocacy, and quality improvement, with simulation and interprofessional education enhancing the learning experience. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can pursue licensure with prescriptive privileges. Admission requires a BSN and pediatric nursing experience. Financial aid is available, and the program emphasizes family-centered, culturally sensitive care across diverse populations.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • MS or DNP degree options.
  • Prepares for national certification.
  • Clinical placements arranged.
  • Requires BSN and experience.
  • Core and advanced courses.
  • Focus on pediatric primary care.
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis.
  • Interactive educational experiences.
  • Expert faculty support.

Graduate Certificate - Advanced Certificate: Pediatric NP Acute Care (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing offers a post-master's Advanced Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care, designed for NPs seeking to transition into acute care. This hybrid program blends online synchronous coursework with two on-campus intensives, allowing completion in just one year (11–13 credits). The curriculum covers acute, complex, and chronic illness management through problem-based learning, simulation with standardized patients, and interprofessional education. Clinical placements are arranged with expert PNPs in specialty settings. Graduates are eligible for the CPNP-AC certification and meet New York State licensure requirements. Admission requires a master's degree and at least one year of pediatric experience, with a gap analysis determining credit needs.

  • Post-master's advanced certificate program.
  • Hybrid model with online and on-campus components.
  • 11-13 credits required.
  • Can be completed in one year.
  • Spring semester entrance.
  • Distance learning with two on-campus intensives.
  • Prepares for CPNP-AC certification exam.
  • Meets New York State licensure requirements.
  • Clinical placements arranged by faculty.
  • Individualized attention and goals.

Graduate Certificate - Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (Advanced Certificate) (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

NYU's Advanced Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care prepares experienced RNs with master's degrees to deliver comprehensive care to infants, children, and adolescents. This hybrid program combines online learning with on-campus immersions, covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, and pediatric clinical management. Admission is competitive: applicants must hold a New York State RN license, have at least one year of pediatric RN experience, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and submit two letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL or IELTS. The curriculum includes PALS certification and a practicum sequence, with 18–39 credits determined by a gap analysis. Graduates are eligible for national certification and are prepared for roles in primary care clinics, community health centers, and hospitals.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TOEFL, IELTS
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Work experience required
  • $85 application fee
  • Financial aid available
  • For nurses with a master’s degree
  • One year pediatric RN experience required
  • PALS certification required before clinicals

Graduate Certificate - Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Acute Care (Advanced Certificate) (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

NYU's post-master's Advanced Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care is tailored for Primary Care Pediatric NPs and Family NPs seeking to expand their scope into acute care. This one-year hybrid program, with spring admission, combines synchronous online classes and two on-campus intensives. The curriculum focuses on acute, complex, and critical illness management in emergency departments and PICUs, using problem-based learning, simulation with standardized patients, and interprofessional education. Clinical placements are arranged with expert PNPs. Graduates are eligible for CPNP-AC certification. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and at least one year of RN experience; an $85 application fee applies, with military waivers available. The program's gap analysis tailors credit requirements to individual backgrounds.

  • 1-Year program
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts spring
  • Synchronous online classes
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Work experience required
  • $85 application fee
  • Prepares for Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (CPNP-AC)
  • Military benefits accepted

MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP)

Campus Based - Visit Website

  • 72 total credit hours
  • 3.5 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • 1000 clinical hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • $85 application fee
  • Three entry pathways available
  • Pediatric primary care practica series
  • NYS RN license required
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY - Private 4-year - rochester.edu

BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At the University of Rochester School of Nursing, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care track (available in a hybrid format) trains nurses to care for children from infancy through adolescence. Coursework emphasizes well-child visits, developmental assessments, and managing common pediatric conditions. The curriculum also addresses behavioral health concerns such as ADHD, bullying, and risk-taking behaviors, with a strong focus on family collaboration. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board exam. Career paths include primary care practices, school-based clinics, hospitals, specialty centers, and pediatric emergency departments. The program prepares clinicians to deliver evidence-based, developmentally appropriate care. Entrance exam requirements are not specified by the university for this master's-level program.

  • Prepares for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
  • Performs well-child care and screening
  • Careers in primary care, schools, hospitals
  • Addresses behavioral health: ADHD, bullying
  • Available as Master's or Advanced Certificate

BSN to MSN - Pediatric/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (Neonatal)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This hybrid master's program at the University of Rochester combines pediatric and neonatal nurse practitioner education, with a dedicated concentration in neonatal care. Students focus on managing low- and high-risk neonates and infants, particularly within NICU environments. Clinical rotations at the Gosnell Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit provide hands-on experience with this vulnerable population. The curriculum is tailored to neonatal specialties and prepares graduates for dual national certification. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing and relevant clinical experience. This pathway is designed for nurses seeking advanced roles in both pediatric and neonatal settings. The university does not list entrance exam requirements for this option, and tuition information is available on its website.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Neonatal concentration available.
  • Master's degree option.
  • Clinical experience at Gosnell NICU.
  • Dual national certification eligibility.
  • Prepares for NICU settings.
  • Focus on low- and high-risk infants.
  • Pediatric and neonatal specialties combined.
  • Advanced nursing care training.
  • Curriculum includes neonatal pathways.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Molloy University

Rockville Centre, NY - Private 4-year - molloy.edu

BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Molloy University offers a Master of Science in Nursing for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care, delivered in a hybrid format blending online coursework with on-campus simulations. The 42-credit curriculum focuses on health maintenance, illness prevention, and patient education for children from infancy through young adulthood. Multiple practicum courses provide hands-on clinical experience across diverse settings, supported by INACSL-endorsed simulation training. Graduates are prepared for national certification and achieve nearly 100% pass rates. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and at least one year of clinical experience. This Roman Catholic institution's program equips working nurses with advanced pediatric primary care expertise.

  • 42 total credit program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced clinical training
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • One year clinical experience required
  • INACSL Clinical Simulation endorsement
  • Multiple practicum courses
  • National certification preparation
  • Primary care pediatric focus
#4

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY - Public 4-Year - stonybrook.edu

BSN to MSN - Nursing MS: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Stony Brook University's Nursing MS with a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track prepares registered nurses to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare to children and families. The 45-credit curriculum integrates distance education with required on-site experiences, covering advanced health assessment, clinical pharmacology, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Coursework emphasizes health promotion, risk identification, and management of acute and chronic illnesses, with clinical practice courses in pediatric nursing. Graduates are ready for certification and roles as educators, advocates, and consultants in outpatient settings. While the program overview does not specify a graduate entrance examination, applicants should verify current admission requirements with the university.

  • 45 total credit hours
  • Primary care for children and families
  • Distance education with on-site requirements
  • Health promotion and illness management
  • Prepares as educator, leader, consultant
  • Elective credit available

BSN to MSN - Nursing, MS (Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Campus Based - Visit Website

This Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration within the Nursing, MS program at Stony Brook University trains advanced practice nurses to serve as expert providers for children and families. The 45-credit program uses a distance-education model with on-site requirements, focusing on health promotion, illness prevention, and management of common acute and chronic conditions. Core coursework spans advanced health assessment, clinical pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for leadership, advocacy, and quality improvement roles. The curriculum includes clinical practice experiences in pediatric primary care. The university does not list a graduate entrance exam requirement in this program information; prospective students are advised to check the official admissions page for policies.

  • Pediatric Primary Care concentration.
  • 45 total credits required.
  • Distance education format.
  • On-site requirements included.
  • Prepares expert healthcare providers.
  • Focuses on children's health.
  • Covers acute and chronic illnesses.
  • Includes clinical practice courses.
  • Advanced health assessment training.
  • Clinical pharmacology coursework.

BSN to MSN - Nursing MS: Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Stony Brook University's Nursing MS with a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track prepares advanced practitioners to manage acute, critical, and complex chronic conditions in pediatric patients. The 45-credit program is delivered through distance education with mandatory on-site components. Coursework includes advanced health assessment, clinical pharmacology, and evidence-based practice, with clinical practice courses in pediatric acute care settings. Graduates are prepared for certification and roles as clinical experts, leaders, and advocates in hospitals and intensive care units. This program's overview does not mention a graduate entrance exam requirement; applicants should consult the university for current admission requirements.

  • 45 total credit hours
  • Offered through distance education with on-site requirements
  • Prepares for pediatric acute care
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY - Public 4-Year - lehman.edu

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Lehman College offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration, tailored for working NPs aspiring to advanced clinical leadership. This 39-credit, CCNE-accredited program builds on a master's in nursing and emphasizes evidence-based practice, transcultural nursing, epidemiology, genomics, financial management, and health policy, complemented by three practicums. Classes meet one day weekly, accommodating professionals. Admission requires an unencumbered New York RN license, national certification, at least one year of NP experience, a 3.2 GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a nursing essay, and an interview. No entrance exam is required. Graduates are equipped to improve child health outcomes across diverse healthcare settings.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 2 concentration options
  • $620 per credit
  • 39 total credit hours
  • 3.2 GPA minimum
  • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Work experience required
  • Classes meet one day weekly
  • Personal statement required
  • Nursing essay required
#6

Upstate Medical University

Syracuse, NY - Public 4-Year - upstate.edu

MSN to DNP - Bachelor of Science to Doctor of Nursing Practice (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Upstate Medical University's Bachelor of Science to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BS-DNP) program offers a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track that prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration, with more clinical hours than a master's program. Students gain expertise in pediatric care while developing skills to improve population health. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse healthcare settings, from primary care to specialized pediatric clinics, and to become leaders in nursing practice. The comprehensive training ensures readiness for the dynamic healthcare field. The program does not list a specific entrance exam requirement for admission.

  • 4 concentration options
  • Enhanced leadership and evidence-based practice
  • More clinical hours than a master's degree
  • Interprofessional collaboration skills
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
#7

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY - Private 4-year - columbia.edu

MSN to DNP - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Columbia University's DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs to deliver comprehensive primary care to children and adolescents. Curriculum integrates advanced assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and primary care with health policy, informatics, genetics, and evidence-based practice. Clinical rotations at tri-state hospitals, clinics, and schools supplement simulation-based learning. A final practicum and DNP portfolio project demonstrate competencies. Graduates are eligible for NY licensure and PNCB certification. The program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, health promotion, and culturally competent care for roles in community health, private practice, and chronic care. This campus-based, 85-credit, two-year program offers rigorous doctoral training. Entrance exam requirements are not disclosed.

  • 2-Year program
  • 85 total credit hours
  • Prepares for primary care pediatric nurse practitioner certification exam
  • Clinical sites in tri-state area
  • Simulation-based learning experiences
  • Eligible for NY state licensure
  • Focus on children and adolescents
  • Final intensive practicum
  • Faculty advisor for portfolio guidance
  • Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
*IPEDS 2025 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

PNP Roles in New York: Primary Care vs Acute Care

Most PNP programs align to one of two tracks:

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC)

Focused on outpatient and longitudinal care, including:

  • Well-child visits, immunizations, screenings
  • Common pediatric illnesses and chronic conditions (asthma, ADHD, diabetes)
  • Growth/development, school and behavioral concerns
  • Family education and care coordination

Common New York Settings: pediatric primary care offices, school-based health centers, FQHC/community health clinics, pediatric specialty outpatient practices.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-AC)

Focused on high-acuity and hospital-based pediatrics, including:

  • Inpatient pediatrics, ED/urgent consults, specialty services
  • Complex conditions, acute deterioration, post-op care
  • PICU/NICU-aligned team care (program-dependent)
  • Rapid diagnostics, procedures (scope varies), discharge planning

Common New York Settings: children's hospitals, academic medical centers, specialty inpatient units, pediatric EDs, complex care programs.

New York PNP Pathways: MSN vs DNP vs Post-Master's Certificates

MSN PNP Programs

Best for BSN-prepared RNs seeking the most direct path to advanced pediatric practice.

Typical outcomes:

  • Graduate NP education in a pediatric population focus
  • Preparation for national certification aligned to your track
  • Strong fit for students seeking faster entry into clinical practice

DNP PNP Programs

Best for students who want pediatric NP preparation plus doctoral-level training in:

  • Evidence-based practice and outcomes improvement
  • Leadership, quality/safety, and systems thinking
  • Population health and program development

Why New York students choose DNP: strong alignment with large, complex health systems and pediatric specialty networks across NYC and major Upstate metros.

Post-Master's PNP Certificates

Best for MSN-prepared nurses or APRNs changing or adding a pediatric population focus (PC or AC).

Common reasons NY nurses choose this route:

  • Transitioning from another NP population (e.g., family) into pediatrics
  • Expanding into pediatric specialty or hospital-based practice
  • Aligning credentials to a pediatric role requirement

Explore nurse practitioner schools in New York.

Quick Comparison Table: Which PNP Degree Makes Sense?

PathwayBest ForTypical TimeframeEnd Result
MSNBSN RNs entering pediatric advanced practice~2–3 yearsPNP track prep + certification eligibility
BSN to DNPRNs wanting doctoral training + pediatrics~3–4 yearsPNP track prep + DNP credential
Post-Master's PNP CertificateMSN/APRN adding pediatrics~1–2 yearsNew pediatric population focus + certification eligibility
Post-MSN DNPCertified APRNs who want the DNP~1–2+ yearsDNP credential (role typically stays aligned with existing cert)

Online, Hybrid, and Campus PNP Options In New York

Most New York students will see one of these formats:

Online Coursework + In-Person Clinicals

  • Didactic courses online (case work, discussions, exams)
  • Clinicals completed in-person at approved New York sites with qualified preceptors

Hybrid Programs

  • Online learning with required on-campus intensives (skills, simulation, assessments)
  • Often a strong fit for nurses balancing shifts across NYC/Long Island/Upstate

Campus-Based Programs

  • In-person classes and labs
  • Clinical rotations commonly supported through regional partnerships

Scheduling Tip: If you're commuting (e.g., Westchester ↔ NYC, Long Island ↔ Manhattan, or Capital Region ↔ Hudson Valley), confirm how often intensives occur and whether dates are published far in advance.

New York Clinical Training Examples for PNP Students

New York offers unusually broad pediatric clinical variety. Strong clinical planning typically includes multiple settings to meet age-range and acuity requirements.

Primary Care Clinical Examples (PNP-PC)

  • Pediatric primary care practices (well-child + acute visits)
  • School-based health centers (adolescents, behavioral screening, chronic disease support)
  • Community clinics/FQHCs serving diverse families and languages
  • Pediatric specialty clinics (endocrine, pulmonary, GI, developmental pediatrics)

Acute Care Clinical Examples (PNP-AC)

  • Inpatient pediatrics and specialty units
  • Pediatric ED consult experiences (program-dependent)
  • Children's hospital service lines (cardiology, neuro, hem/onc)
  • Complex care and medically fragile pediatrics programs

Clinical Placement Tip: Ask programs exactly how they support affiliation agreements and preceptor approvals in New York. Even when students find sites, schools often require formal contracts and credential verification; start outreach early.

Certification Basics: What PNP Students Typically Prepare For

PNP certification is typically administered through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for primary care (CPNP-PC) and acute care (CPNP-AC), aligned with your educational track.

PNCB also outlines eligibility requirements and time-limited eligibility policy updates (important for planning exam timing).

Choosing Programs with Certification in Mind:
When comparing PNP programs, confirm that the curriculum and clinical experiences align with the certification exam you plan to take (PC vs. AC).

New York NP Practice and Licensure Considerations

New York's NP credentialing is handled through the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Office of the Professions, which outlines NP certification requirements and application steps, including that applicants must be licensed as an RN in NY (or apply for NY RN licensure first).

New York also describes NP practice requirements, including written practice protocols and a written practice agreement with a collaborating physician until the NP completes 3,600 hours of experience as a licensed/certified NP.

NY Planning Tip: If you're early-career, ask programs how they prepare students for New York's practice agreement/protocol expectations and how employers typically structure onboarding for new NPs.

Salary and Outlook: Why PNP Demand Remains Strong

Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 35% employment growth for nurse practitioners (and related APRN roles) from 2024–2034. While PNP earnings vary by region and setting, New York's pediatric demand is driven by a blend of high-volume metro care, specialty pediatrics, and access needs in many Upstate communities.

FAQs

Q: Do New York PNP Programs Offer Online Options?

A: Many programs offer online or hybrid coursework, but clinicals are always in-person and must be completed at approved sites, often within New York for students planning to work in-state.

Q: What's the Difference Between PNP-PC and PNP-AC?

A: PNP-PC focuses on outpatient and long-term pediatric care, while PNP-AC focuses on inpatient and high-acuity pediatrics (children's hospitals, specialty units, complex care).

Q: Can I Become a PNP if I Already Have an MSN?

A: Often, yes. Many nurses pursue a post-master's PNP certificate to add a pediatric population focus without completing another full degree.

Q: What Should I Ask Programs About Clinical Placements In New York?

A: Ask whether the school places, assists, or expects you to secure all preceptors, and how they handle affiliation agreements and timeline realities across NYC/Long Island/Upstate.

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