Texas is one of the largest healthcare markets in the country, making it a prime location to earn a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) degree. With major pediatric hospital systems, rural health initiatives, and a rapidly growing child population, the state offers robust training opportunities for both Primary Care PNP (PNP-PC) and Acute Care PNP (PNP-AC) students.

Whether you're pursuing an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate, Texas offers flexible pathways—online, hybrid, and campus-based—to meet the needs of working nurses.

This article will cover:

  • The differences between acute and primary care PNP tracks
  • What to expect from Texas-based MSN, DNP, and certificate programs
  • Typical tuition costs and salary ranges in Texas
  • Examples of clinical training sites across the state
  • How to choose the right PNP program for your career goals

2026 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

Finding the best pediatric nurse practitioner programs in Texas helps aspiring nurses start their careers with strong education. RegisteredNursing.org ranks these programs to guide students toward quality options. We evaluate factors like curriculum, clinical opportunities, and graduate success. Our rankings highlight schools that prepare nurses for pediatric care effectively. Explore our list to discover top programs across Texas. Learn more about how we create these rankings at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Baylor University

Waco, TX - Private 4-year - baylor.edu

MSN to DNP - DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care, Acute Care)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Baylor University's Online DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program offers both Primary Care and Acute Care concentrations for advanced nursing professionals. This doctoral-level program requires no GRE and features 100% online coursework with on-campus immersions. Students complete 1,125 clinical practicum hours over approximately 3-4 years, gaining specialized skills to care for children from birth through adolescence. The CCNE-accredited program provides clinical placement support and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

  • 100% Online Coursework
  • 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
  • Two Specialized Tracks Available
  • No GRE Required
  • 3.0 Minimum GPA
  • BSN to DNP Pathway
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Baylor University's DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program with a Primary Care concentration prepares registered nurses to deliver comprehensive pediatric healthcare. This online program requires no GRE and offers a BSN-to-DNP pathway with 1,125 clinical hours. Students develop expertise in patient-centered care for children and adolescents, supported by clinical placement assistance and nationally recognized faculty. The CCNE-accredited program takes approximately 3-4 years to complete.

  • 100% Online Coursework
  • 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
  • BSN to DNP Pathway
  • No GRE Required
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • Two Track Options Available
  • Primary and Acute Care Focus

MSN to DNP - DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Baylor University's DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program with an Acute Care concentration focuses on preparing nurses for critical pediatric settings like ICUs and emergency departments. This online program requires no GRE but mandates one year of pediatric experience. Students complete 1,125 primary care hours plus 600 acute care hours over approximately four years. The CCNE-accredited program provides robust clinical placement support and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

  • 100% Online Coursework
  • 75 Total Credits
  • 1,125 Clinical Hours
  • No GRE Required
  • BSN to DNP Pathway
  • 3.0 GPA Minimum
  • One Year Pediatric Experience Required
  • CCNE Accredited
  • Clinical Placement Support
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX - Public 4-Year - utexas.edu

Graduate Certificate - Advanced Practice Nursing - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Austin's campus-based Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP program trains nurses to manage acute, complex, and critical conditions in pediatric patients from birth through age 21. This concentration emphasizes hands-on learning through skills labs, simulations, and clinical rotations, guided by doctorally prepared faculty. Admission requires a BSN degree and two years of full-time RN experience. The program prepares graduates for PNCB certification and meets national curriculum guidelines. As a doctoral-level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE unless explicitly waived.

  • 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.
#3

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX - Public 4-Year - uthscsa.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care)

Campus Based - Visit Website

UT Health San Antonio's Post-Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care offers MSN-prepared nurses specialized campus training in pediatric primary care. This program requires no entrance exam and focuses on developing advanced clinical expertise through varying credit hour tracks. With spring admissions and an August 1 deadline via NursingCAS, it prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in pediatric healthcare settings with specialized clinical training.

  • 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.

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice at UT Health San Antonio features a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care concentration in a hybrid format for BSN graduates. This doctoral program requires no entrance exam but mandates a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and clinical experience. CCNE-accredited, it prepares nurses for complex clinical leadership through evidence-based practice and advanced pediatric care training, offering multiple specialization options.

  • Doctoral degree for BSN graduates
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • 1-year clinical experience needed
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple specialization options
  • Hybrid program format
  • Professional references required
  • NursingCAS application process
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - utep.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at The University of Texas at El Paso prepares nurses for comprehensive healthcare of children and adolescents through a hybrid format. Spanning seven semesters with 49 online credit hours and 675 clinical hours, it offers flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum focuses on health promotion, developmental assessments, and managing pediatric conditions, meeting national standards. Graduates become eligible for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board certification. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's-level program.

  • 49 credit hours online
  • 675 clinical clock hours
  • Innovative simulation lab
  • Two admission cycles yearly
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Curriculum meets national standards
  • Pediatric nursing certification eligible

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN concentration at The University of Texas at El Paso is a hybrid program preparing nurses to care for infants to young adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical conditions. It requires 49 credit hours over two years with 765 clinical hours, featuring flexible seven-week courses. Graduates qualify for PACNP certification, with tuition at $552 per credit for residents and $782 for non-residents. The program follows AACN and NONPF standards and may require travel up to 200 miles for clinical placements. No entrance exam is specified as required.

  • 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

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at El Paso's Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate with a Pediatric Primary Care concentration is a hybrid program requiring 28-40 credits and 630-775 clinical hours. Designed for nurses with a Master's in Nursing, it prepares graduates for advanced pediatric primary care roles through specialized coursework and clinical practice. Applicants must hold current RN or NP licensure, submit a resume, and provide a 500-word professional statement. The program focuses on developing competencies in pediatric primary care, with admissions processed through the Graduate School. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

  • 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.

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate at The University of Texas at El Paso enhances skills for managing acute pediatric conditions. The hybrid program requires 28-40 credit hours and 630-775 clinical hours, tailored to nurses with existing master's degrees. Applicants with APRN recognition must provide licensure proof, while non-APRN applicants need an active RN license. All candidates submit transcripts and a statement of professional purpose. The curriculum emphasizes acute care competencies for pediatric populations. No entrance exam is specified as required.

  • Post-Master's Certificate
  • Pediatric Acute Care
  • For existing MSN holders
  • 28-40 credit hours
  • 630-775 clinical hours
  • APRN applicants need licensure proof
  • Non-APRN applicants need RN license
  • Statement of Purpose required
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#5

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX - Public 4-Year - uta.edu

RN to MSN - Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing – Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The RN to MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at The University of Texas at Arlington offers registered nurses an accelerated online pathway to earn both BSN and MSN degrees in approximately 42 months. With total tuition of $35,038 for 76 credit hours, this program focuses on pediatric primary care, preparing graduates for national certification and roles in pediatric clinics and school-based settings. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.

  • CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • Online accelerated format
  • 42-month program duration
  • Total tuition $35,038
  • 76 total credit hours
  • Pediatric primary care focus
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • Advanced pathophysiology training
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum

Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Pediatric Primary Care)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Arlington offers an online Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate for MSN-prepared nurses. This post-master's program requires 18 credit hours and focuses specifically on pediatric primary care, preparing graduates for PPCNP-BC certification. With tuition at $654 per credit hour and multiple start dates, it includes clinical placements and emphasizes preventative care and health promotion for pediatric patients. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level certificate program.

  • 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.

Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Pediatric Acute Care)

Online Learning - Visit Website

This online Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate from The University of Texas at Arlington provides MSN-prepared nurses with specialized training in managing complex pediatric health challenges in critical care settings. The accelerated program requires as few as five courses and includes clinical preceptorship, with tuition priced at $654 per credit hour. Designed for experienced RNs with two years of clinical experience, it prepares graduates for advanced roles in pediatric acute care without requiring an entrance exam.

  • 100% online certificate program
  • As few as 5 courses
  • MSN-prepared RNs eligible
  • $654 per credit hour
  • Two years clinical experience required
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Advanced pediatric acute care focus
  • Clinical preceptorship included
  • Specialized healthcare settings preparation
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso

El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - elpaso.ttuhsc.edu

BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso's MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for comprehensive pediatric healthcare through a 49-credit hybrid format. This CCNE-accredited program requires two years of pediatric RN experience, PALS certification, and a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Graduates gain expertise in well-child care, developmental screenings, and illness management, preparing them for PNCB and ANCC certification exams. The program does not require an entrance exam. With on-campus hospital access, it offers flexible online learning with occasional visits, focusing on advanced clinical skills and leadership development for diverse pediatric settings.

  • 49 semester credit hours
  • Online with campus visits
  • Two years pediatric RN experience required
  • PALS certification needed
  • Prepares for PNCB and ANCC exams
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • CCNE accredited program

BSN to MSN - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso's MSN Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program provides specialized training for managing critically ill children through a 51-credit hybrid curriculum. This CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN, RN license, two years of pediatric experience, PALS certification, and a 3.0 GPA. It prepares graduates for the Acute Care CPNP exam without requiring an entrance exam. With fall and spring admissions, the program emphasizes acute pediatric care through a holistic admissions process that includes prerequisites in research and statistics, offering financial aid options and potential transfer credits.

  • 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.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care) (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing program specializes in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care, training nurses to manage acute and chronic conditions in children and adolescents through integrated physiological and family health approaches. This program requires an unencumbered RN license, BSN degree, and minimum 3.0 GPA, with one year of pediatric clinical experience preferred. Currently limited to Texas residents, it combines remote learning with in-state clinical placements. No entrance exam is explicitly required for this master's level program, focusing instead on practical pediatric primary care skills development.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Texas residents only
  • Pediatric primary care focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • One year pediatric experience preferred
  • Remote and clinical learning
  • Advanced pediatric health management
#8

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Lubbock, TX - Public 4-Year - ttuhsc.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program focuses on comprehensive pediatric healthcare across all ages. This hybrid program requires 49 semester credits with occasional campus visits and prepares graduates for national certification. Applicants need two years of pediatric nursing experience, a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, valid RN license, and PALS certification. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes well-child examinations, developmental screenings, and childhood illness management in primary care settings.

  • Online with campus visits
  • 49 semester credit hours
  • Two years pediatric RN experience required
  • PALS certification needed
  • National certification exam eligible
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Valid unencumbered RN license
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Professional references required
  • Computer literacy test mandatory

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers an MSN Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration for managing children with acute and chronic conditions. This 51-credit hybrid program requires a BSN, RN license, 3.0 GPA, two years of pediatric experience, and PALS certification. The program prepares students for the Pediatric Nursing Credentialing Board Acute Care CPNP exam and emphasizes critical care experience. No entrance exam is required, but applicants must submit professional references, a personal statement, and demonstrate computer literacy.

  • 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
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Houston Christian University

Houston, TX - Private 4-year - hc.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Houston Christian University's hybrid MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care program focuses specifically on primary care concentration, preparing advanced nurses for pediatric healthcare roles. This 38-credit program emphasizes pediatric health assessment, diagnostics, and patient management through a blend of online coursework and clinical practicum. Designed for experienced nurses with a minimum 3.0 GPA, the curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and leadership skills. The program requires completion within five years and accepts up to 6 transfer credits. As a master's level program, entrance exam requirements should be verified directly with the university for current admission criteria.

  • 38-credit hybrid MSN program
  • Pediatric primary care focus
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Advanced clinical skills training
  • Five-year degree completion
  • No grade below B
  • 6 transfer credits maximum
  • Advanced pathophysiology courses
  • Leadership and health policy
  • Clinical practicum included
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024 survey data.

Why Become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Texas?

Texas consistently ranks among the top states for healthcare employment growth. The state's diverse population (urban, suburban, and rural) creates a strong demand for pediatric providers.

Key Advantages of Studying in Texas:

  • Large pediatric hospital systems and specialty centers
  • Opportunities in underserved and rural communities
  • Competitive nurse practitioner salaries
  • No state income tax (important for long-term ROI)
  • Strong healthcare hubs in Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio

Major pediatric employers in Texas include:

These systems often serve as clinical placement partners for Texas-based PNP programs.

Explore nurse practitioner schools in Texas.

Primary Care vs. Acute Care PNP Tracks

Before applying, it's essential to understand the difference between the two main pediatric tracks.

FeaturePNP – Primary CarePNP – Acute Care
Patient FocusWell-child care, prevention, chronic managementCritically ill or medically complex children
SettingsPediatric clinics, family practices, schoolsHospitals, ICUs, specialty units
Certification ExamPNCB or ANCC (Primary Care)PNCB (Acute Care)
Clinical Hours500–700+600–800+ (often higher acuity focus)

Some Texas universities offer both tracks, while others specialize in one. A few programs allow dual certification.

Program Pathways in Texas

Texas PNP programs are offered in three main formats:

1. MSN – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Ideal for: BSN-prepared RNs seeking advanced practice entry
Length: 2–3 years
Credits: 40–55 (varies by track)

MSN programs focus on clinical preparation and certification eligibility. Many Texas MSN-PNP programs offer:

  • Hybrid formats with limited on-campus intensives
  • Part-time study for working nurses
  • Local clinical placement support

2. DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Ideal for: Nurses seeking leadership, policy, or academic roles
Length: 3–4 years (BSN to DNP)
Credits: 65–90+

DNP programs include:

  • Evidence-based practice projects
  • Healthcare systems leadership training
  • Expanded clinical hour requirements
  • Population health and policy coursework

Texas DNP graduates may pursue roles in hospital leadership, academic teaching, or system-wide pediatric program development.

3. Post-Master's PNP Certificate

Ideal for: Already certified NPs adding pediatric specialization
Length: 1–2 years
Credits: 15–30

PNP Post-Master’s Certificate programs are especially common for:

  • FNPs adding pediatric specialization
  • Acute care NPs expanding into pediatrics
  • NPs transitioning from adult specialties

Online, Hybrid, and Campus Options

Texas programs increasingly offer flexible delivery models.

FormatBest ForTypical Structure
Fully OnlineWorking RNs statewideOnline coursework + local clinical placement
HybridNurses near campusOnline theory + on-campus intensives
Campus-BasedFull-time studentsIn-person lectures + simulation labs

Many online programs require brief on-campus visits for skills intensives or orientation. Clinical hours are typically arranged near the student's home community.

Clinical Training Opportunities in Texas

One of Texas's greatest advantages is its extensive pediatric clinical infrastructure.

Examples of Clinical Settings:

  • Major children's hospitals
  • Pediatric primary care clinics
  • Neonatal ICUs (for acute care students)
  • Pediatric specialty practices (cardiology, oncology, endocrinology)
  • School-based health clinics
  • Rural health clinics in West and South Texas

Large metropolitan hubs such as Houston and Dallas provide exposure to high-acuity pediatric populations, while rural placements offer broad-scope experience.

Tip: If you live in a rural region, confirm whether the program assists with clinical placements outside major metro areas.

What You'll Study in a Texas PNP Program

Coursework varies slightly between tracks, but most include:

Core Courses

  • Advanced pediatric pathophysiology
  • Advanced pharmacology
  • Advanced health assessment
  • Pediatric diagnostic reasoning
  • Evidence-based practice

Primary Care Track Additions

  • Preventive pediatric health
  • Chronic childhood conditions
  • Behavioral and developmental pediatrics

Acute Care Track Additions

  • Pediatric critical care
  • Complex pediatric conditions
  • Emergency stabilization
  • Inpatient management

DNP students also complete a scholarly project focused on system-level pediatric healthcare improvement.

Tuition and Cost Considerations

Tuition varies widely depending on residency and program format.

Degree TypeEstimated Tuition Range (Texas Residents)
MSN-PNP$18,000 – $40,000 total
DNP-PNP$28,000 – $65,000+ total
Post-Master's Certificate$10,000 – $25,000

Additional costs may include:

  • Clinical fees
  • Simulation lab fees
  • Certification exam fees
  • Travel for campus intensives

Public Texas universities often offer lower in-state tuition compared to private institutions.

Salary Outlook For Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in Texas

Nurse practitioner salaries in Texas are competitive, particularly in metropolitan areas.

Average NP Salary in Texas:

  • Approximate statewide average: $115,000–$130,000 annually
  • Higher earnings possible in specialty pediatric acute care roles
  • Urban markets often offer higher compensation

Pediatric NPs working in hospital-based acute care settings or specialty clinics may command higher salaries than those in primary care settings.

Licensing and Certification in Texas

After graduation, PNP students must:

  1. Pass national certification (PNCB or ANCC, depending on track)
  2. Apply for APRN licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing
  3. Meet prescriptive authority requirements

Texas is currently a restricted practice state, meaning physician collaboration agreements are required for prescribing authority.

How to Choose the Right Texas PNP Program

Rather than focusing only on rankings, consider these factors:

Clinical Placement Support

  • Does the school arrange placements?
  • Are sites available near your home?

Track Availability

  • Does the school offer both acute and primary care?
  • Is dual certification possible?

Delivery Format

  • How often are on-campus visits required?
  • Can you complete clinical hours locally?

Certification Pass Rates

  • What is the first-time certification exam pass rate?

Long-Term Career Goals

  • Are you aiming for hospital leadership (DNP)?
  • Do you prefer outpatient pediatric practice (Primary Care)?

Career Settings After Graduation

Texas PNP graduates work in:

  • Pediatric primary care clinics
  • Specialty practices (cardiology, neurology, oncology)
  • Children's hospitals
  • Neonatal and pediatric ICUs
  • School-based clinics
  • Community health centers

High-demand areas include Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, and border communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are acute care PNPs paid more than primary care PNPs in Texas?

A: In many cases, yes. Hospital-based acute care roles often offer higher compensation due to the complexity and acuity of patients.

Q: How competitive are Texas PNP programs?

A: Admissions can be competitive, particularly for acute care tracks. Strong GPAs, pediatric RN experience, and professional references improve chances.

Q: Can I switch from FNP to PNP through a certificate?

A: Yes. Many Texas schools offer post-master's certificates allowing FNPs to add pediatric specialization.

Q: Do Texas PNP programs require pediatric RN experience?

A: Some strongly prefer or require pediatric clinical experience, especially for acute care tracks.

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