Top Pediatric Nursing Programs: Best Universities 2025

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing (USA)

• Programs Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care (PNP-AC), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Hybrid learning model combining online coursework with in-person clinical practicums.

  • Strong affiliation with Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, providing extensive hands-on experience.

  • Ranked among the top nursing schools in the U.S. .

2. Rush University College of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Fully online program culminating in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

  • Includes on-campus simulation experiences and health assessment training.

  • Emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership in pediatric care .

3. University of Washington School of Nursing (USA)

• Programs Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care (PNP-AC)

• Highlights:

  • DNP programs with a mix of online and in-person coursework.

  • Clinical rotations at Seattle Children's Hospital and other affiliated facilities.

  • Focus on community health and pediatric nursing leadership .

4. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Emphasis on underserved populations and global health.

  • Strong research opportunities in pediatric nursing.

  • Access to UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital for clinical placements .

5. University of Florida College of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Offers both in-person and online learning options.

  • Clinical placements at UF Health Shands Hospital and other pediatric care centers.

  • Focus on rural and community-based pediatric nursing .

6. Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • High rankings for MSN and BSN programs.

  • Clinical experiences at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

  • Strong focus on pediatric nursing research and leadership .

7. Boston College Connell School of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Clinical placements at Boston Children's Hospital and affiliated community health centers.

  • Emphasis on family-centered care and pediatric nursing education .

8. University of Michigan School of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Access to C.S. Mott Children's Hospital for clinical training.

  • Strong focus on pediatric nursing research and policy.

  • Opportunities for leadership roles in pediatric nursing .

9. Ohio State University College of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Clinical training at Nationwide Children's Hospital.

  • Emphasis on pediatric nursing leadership and community health.

  • Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric care .

10. University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing (USA)

• Program Offered: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)

• Highlights:

  • Clinical placements at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital.

  • Focus on urban pediatric nursing and health disparities.

  • Opportunities for research in pediatric nursing .

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Additional Considerations for Prospective Students

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

• Clinical Placements: Consider programs with strong affiliations with reputable pediatric hospitals for hands-on experience.

• Program Length and Flexibility: Evaluate the duration of the program and the availability of part-time or online options to fit your schedule.

• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Research available scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to support your education.

• Licensure Preparation: Choose programs that adequately prepare you for the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner certification exams.

Selecting the right pediatric nursing program is crucial for advancing your career in pediatric healthcare. The universities listed above offer comprehensive programs that combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical experience. By considering factors such as accreditation, clinical placements, program length, and financial support, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your professional goals and personal circumstances.