Pediatric NP Programs Near Philadelphia, PA: Best Schools, Accreditation & Admission Tips

Philadelphia stands as one of America’s premier destinations for pediatric healthcare education and practice. Home to the world-renowned Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), consistently ranked among the nation’s top children’s hospitals, the region offers unparalleled opportunities for aspiring Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. With multiple prestigious universities offering both MSN and DNP pathways, students can choose from diverse program formats while gaining clinical experience at some of the country’s most advanced pediatric facilities.

The Philadelphia metropolitan area’s rich healthcare ecosystem includes not only CHOP but also Nemours Children’s Health, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, and numerous specialty pediatric practices throughout the region. This concentration of pediatric expertise creates an ideal learning environment for PNP students, offering exposure to complex cases, cutting-edge treatments, and collaborative care models that define modern pediatric healthcare.

Whether you’re considering the traditional MSN route for faster entry into practice or the comprehensive DNP pathway for leadership preparation, Philadelphia’s programs provide the clinical depth and academic rigor necessary for success in pediatric nursing.

Philadelphia Pediatric Healthcare Quick Facts

• Home to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, ranked #1 in multiple pediatric specialties
• Over 15 major pediatric healthcare facilities in the metro area
• Average Pediatric NP salary: $95,000-$125,000 annually
• Projected 45% job growth for NPs in Pennsylvania through 2031
• More than 20 pediatric subspecialty training opportunities

2026 Best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Philadelphia, PA

Looking for the best pediatric nurse practitioner programs near Philadelphia, PA? Nursepractitioneronline.com has you covered with our expert rankings. We carefully review schools in the area to help you find top options that fit your needs. Our list highlights programs with strong clinical training and supportive faculty. Whether you are starting your career or advancing, our rankings make it easy to compare. Learn more about how we create these rankings at https://www.nursepractitioneronline.com/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu

Master's - MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Drexel University's online MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program, ranked #4 by U.S. News, offers a part-time, flexible path for BSN-prepared nurses to specialize in comprehensive care from infancy to adolescence. The 52-credit, CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical skills, and technology, with synchronous online lectures and on-campus intensives. Requiring a 3.0 GPA minimum and clinical hours, it prepares graduates for ANCC or PNCB certification. Tuition is $1,134 per credit, with financial aid available. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's-level program.

• Online part-time MSN program
• 52 total credit hours
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Synchronous online lectures
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• Tuition $1,134 per credit
• Clinical hours required
• Board-certified faculty
• Four 10-week quarters annually

Master's - MSN Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Drexel University's online MSN Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program, ranked #41 for online nursing, focuses on acute and critical care for pediatric patients. This 57-credit, CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, one year of pediatric experience, and PALS certification. Featuring synchronous online lectures and mandatory intensives, it develops skills in evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Tuition is $1,134 per credit, and it prepares for PNCB certification. No entrance exam is specified as required for this master's-level program.

• Online part-time graduate program
• 57 total credit hours
• Accredited by CCNE
• Requires 1+ year pediatric experience
• PALS certification required
• BSN GPA minimum 3.0
• Synchronous online lectures
• Mandatory on-campus intensives
• Prepares for PNCB certification

Master's - MSN Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Option)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Drexel University's dual MSN option in Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner provides a comprehensive 62-credit online program for nurses seeking broad pediatric expertise. CCNE-accredited and ranked #41 online, it requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, one year of pediatric acute care experience, and PALS certification. The part-time format includes synchronous lectures and simulation lab use, emphasizing clinical skills for diverse pediatric settings. Tuition is $1,134 per credit. No entrance exam is indicated as required for this master's-level program.

• Dual Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Option
• Online Part-Time Format
• 62 Total Credit Hours
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Synchronous Online Lectures
• State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab
• 3.0 GPA Minimum Requirement
• One Year Pediatric Experience
• Current PALS Certification Needed

Show 2 More Programs ˅

#2

Villanova University

Villanova, PA - Private 4-year - villanova.edu

Master's - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Villanova University offers a hybrid Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program that blends online core courses with in-person clinical training, requiring 45 credits for completion. This Roman Catholic-affiliated, military-friendly program focuses on pediatric primary care, equipping students with advanced skills in health management and patient advocacy. Clinical placements are available in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, supervised by physician and NP preceptors. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam like the GRE, though specifics should be verified with the university. Graduates are prepared for diverse healthcare roles, with a post-master's DNP option available for further advancement.

• 45-credit advanced practice program
• Core courses offered online
• Clinical placements in PA/NJ/DE
• Physician and NP preceptors
• Post-master's DNP option available

#3

Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Valley, PA - Private 4-year - gmercyu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: 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, focusing on healthcare for children from birth to age 21. This graduate program develops advanced clinical skills in diagnosis, treatment, and medication prescription, preparing nurses for a field with a projected 46% job growth. As a Roman Catholic institution that is military-friendly, it emphasizes comprehensive pediatric care without requiring an entrance exam, leading to strong career prospects and a median salary around $94,841.

• Online graduate nursing program
• Pediatric care from birth to 21
• Advanced clinical skills training
• 46% job growth projected
• Median salary around $94,841

#4

Thomas Jefferson University

Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu

Master's - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Thomas Jefferson University offers a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program in a hybrid format, blending online coursework with on-campus sessions at its Center City location. This 45-credit master's program, which can be completed in 2 to 5 years, prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive pediatric care across diverse settings like clinics, schools, and public health agencies. Graduates are eligible for the CPNP-PC certification exam. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, unless otherwise stated. The university is military-friendly and features an on-campus hospital for practical training.

• 45-credit MSN degree
• Hybrid learning format
• 2-5 year completion time
• Center City campus location
• Advanced pediatric care training
• CPNP-PC exam preparation
• Multiple healthcare settings

*Source: IPEDS 2023 survey results, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Why Enroll in a PNP Program in the Philadelphia Region?

The Philadelphia region’s pediatric healthcare landscape offers PNP students unmatched clinical training opportunities. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has been recognized as one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation, providing students access to world-class clinical experiences in virtually every pediatric subspecialty.

Beyond CHOP’s reputation, the region’s healthcare network creates diverse learning environments. Nemours Children’s Health offers extensive experience in both primary and specialty care, while St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children provides urban pediatric experience serving diverse populations. The Philadelphia area also hosts numerous community pediatric practices, school-based health centers, and specialty clinics that round out clinical training.

Clinical Training Advantages:

• Exposure to rare pediatric conditions and complex cases
• Interprofessional collaboration with pediatric specialists
• Research opportunities in pediatric nursing and healthcare
• Urban and suburban practice settings
• Strong job market with competitive salaries post-graduation

The region’s academic medical centers foster innovation in pediatric care delivery, ensuring PNP graduates are prepared for the evolving landscape of children’s healthcare. From telehealth initiatives to precision medicine approaches, Philadelphia-area programs integrate cutting-edge practices into their curricula.

Find out more about Pennsylvania Nurse Practioner Schools.

Philadelphia Pediatric NP Programs Overview

The Philadelphia region hosts several highly regarded Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs, each offering unique strengths and clinical partnerships. The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is globally known for educating dynamic nurses through evidence-based science and health equity, while Villanova University’s program enables students to build on existing skills and gain knowledge essential to independent or collaborative practice in primary care settings.

When evaluating programs, prioritize CCNE or ACEN accreditation, clinical site partnerships, and faculty expertise in pediatric nursing. Most clinical rotations at major facilities like CHOP require current affiliation agreements between hospitals and nursing programs, making established partnerships crucial for optimal clinical experiences.

Essential Questions to Ask Any PNP Program:

• What clinical sites are available for pediatric rotations?
• How are students matched with preceptors and clinical sites?
• What subspecialty rotation opportunities exist?
• What is the PNCB certification pass rate for graduates?
• Are faculty actively practicing or conducting pediatric research?

MSN vs DNP for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners

Choosing between an MSN-Pediatric NP degree and and a DNP-Pediatric NP degree represents a critical decision for prospective PNP students. Both degrees prepare graduates for national certification and clinical practice, but differ significantly in scope, duration, and career preparation.

MSN Pediatric NP Track

Advantages:

✅ Faster entry to practice – Begin working as PNP in 2-3 years

✅ Lower total cost – Reduced tuition and living expenses

✅ Focus on direct patient care – Streamlined clinical preparation

✅ Established pathway – Long track record of successful graduates

Considerations:

❌ Limited leadership preparation – May need additional training for administrative roles

❌ Potential future requirements – Some positions may prefer doctoral preparation

❌ Less research exposure – Minimal preparation for evidence-based practice leadership

DNP Pediatric NP Track

Advantages:

✅ Terminal degree in nursing – Highest level of nursing education

✅ Leadership and systems training – Preparation for healthcare transformation

✅ Research and evidence-based practice emphasis – Skills for practice improvement

✅ Career advancement preparation – Ready for senior clinical and administrative roles

Considerations:

❌ Longer time commitment – 3-4 years before entering practice

❌ Higher total cost – Increased tuition and extended program duration

❌ Opportunity cost – Delayed earning potential during extended education

Both pathways prepare graduates for the same national certification examinations and clinical practice. Your choice should align with career goals, financial considerations, and timeline preferences.

PNP Accreditation and Program Quality Standards

All PNP programs must be accredited by CCNE or ACEN, ensuring compliance with national educational standards. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) both offer national certification examinations for PNP graduates.

Accreditation Bodies:

• CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) – Most common for university-based programs
• ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) – Alternative accreditation pathway

Quality Indicators to Verify:

• Current accreditation status and renewal dates
• PNCB/AANP certification pass rates (target 85%+ first-time pass rate)
• Clinical site partnerships and preceptor availability
• Faculty credentials and pediatric practice experience
• Student support services and academic resources

Accreditation Verification Checklist:

✓ Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation status

✓ Review most recent accreditation report

✓ Check certification exam pass rates

✓ Verify clinical site partnerships

✓ Assess faculty qualifications and research activities

Programs should demonstrate compliance with National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) competencies, which establish standards for NP education across all specialties.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Philadelphia-area PNP programs maintain competitive admission standards while seeking diverse student cohorts committed to pediatric healthcare. Most programs require 1-2 years of pediatric nursing experience, though some accept strong candidates from related areas.

Application Materials:

• Completed online application
• Official transcripts from all institutions
• Personal statement demonstrating pediatric commitment
• Professional references (typically 2-3)
• Current RN license and CPR certification
• Resume highlighting pediatric experience

Application Timeline:

• 12 months prior: Begin researching programs and requirements
• 6 months prior: Request transcripts and prepare application materials
• 4 months prior: Submit applications (deadlines typically December-March)
• 2-3 months prior: Complete interviews and make final decisions

Students must obtain Pennsylvania RN licensure before beginning clinical rotations, making early licensure planning essential for out-of-state applicants.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

Philadelphia’s extensive pediatric healthcare network provides PNP students with exceptional clinical training opportunities across multiple settings and subspecialties. The region’s clinical sites span from world-renowned children’s hospitals to community pediatric practices, ensuring comprehensive exposure to pediatric healthcare delivery.

Major Clinical Training Sites:

Clinical Hour Requirements:

• MSN Programs: 500-720 clinical hours across multiple rotations
• DNP Programs: 1,000+ clinical hours with expanded leadership experiences
• Specialty Rotations: Opportunities in cardiology, oncology, neurology, and other subspecialties

Available Subspecialty Experiences:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Neonatal Intensive Care
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Pediatric Oncology/Hematology
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• School-Based Health Services

Clinical rotations require current affiliation agreements between educational institutions and healthcare facilities, ensuring students receive structured, supervised learning experiences. Most programs coordinate clinical placements, though students may have input on specific site preferences.

The concentration of pediatric subspecialists in the Philadelphia region provides students with mentorship opportunities and exposure to advanced practice models that may not be available in other geographic areas.

Career Outcomes and Salary Information

Philadelphia-area PNP graduates enter a robust job market with diverse opportunities across healthcare settings. The region’s concentration of pediatric facilities creates strong demand for qualified nurse practitioners, while Pennsylvania’s scope of practice laws support independent clinical decision-making.

PNP Employment Outlook:

• High demand in both primary care and specialty settings
• Growing opportunities in school-based health services
• Expansion of telehealth and remote monitoring roles
• Leadership positions in pediatric program development

Philadelphia Metro Area Salary Data:

Job Market Indicators:

• Multiple openings consistently posted across major health systems
• Signing bonuses common for experienced PNPs
• Loan forgiveness programs available in underserved areas
• Professional development support from major employers

The Philadelphia region’s academic medical centers provide opportunities for PNPs to participate in research, quality improvement initiatives, and professional development activities that enhance career advancement prospects.

Financial Aid and Funding Options

PNP education represents a significant investment, but numerous funding sources help Pennsylvania students manage educational costs effectively. The state’s strong healthcare sector creates scholarship opportunities specifically for nursing students committed to pediatric practice.

Pennsylvania-Specific Funding:

• Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) grants
• Hospital-sponsored scholarships and loan forgiveness programs
• Community foundation healthcare scholarships
• Professional organization awards (Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Practitioners)

Federal Funding Opportunities:

• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) scholarships
• Federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
• Graduate PLUS loans for additional funding needs
• Work-study programs at participating universities

Employer Support:

• Tuition reimbursement programs at major health systems
• Continuing education allowances
• Flexible scheduling during program completion
• Guaranteed positions upon graduation

Top Funding Resources for Pennsylvania PNP Students:

• CHOP nursing scholarship programs
• Nemours educational support initiatives
• Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Executives scholarships
• Local community foundation healthcare grants
• Professional nursing organization awards

Many students work part-time in pediatric nursing roles while completing their programs, gaining relevant experience while offsetting educational costs.

Online PNP Program Options in Philadelphia

While traditional on-campus programs remain the norm for PNP education due to intensive clinical requirements, some Philadelphia-area schools offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with required in-person components.

Hybrid Program Features:

• Online didactic coursework for flexibility
• Required campus visits for hands-on skills training
• Local clinical placement coordination
• Technology-enhanced learning experiences

Programs like Drexel University require students to participate in campus-based intensives for simulated lab experiences, ensuring hands-on competency development alongside online convenience.

Students should verify that their chosen program’s format aligns with their learning preferences and schedule requirements, as clinical rotations require substantial time commitments regardless of coursework delivery method.

Licensing and Certification in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania maintains specific requirements for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Understanding the licensure pathway ensures smooth transition from education to practice.

Pennsylvania RN License Requirements:

• Graduation from approved nursing program
• Successful completion of NCLEX-RN
• Criminal background clearances
• Continuing education compliance

APRN Certification Process:

1. Graduate from approved PNP program (MSN or DNP)
2. Pass national certification exam (PNCB or AANP)
3. Apply for Pennsylvania APRN license
4. Obtain prescriptive authority (if desired)
5. Maintain certification through continuing education

Certification Pathway Options:

• PNCB (Pediatric Nursing Certification Board) – Pediatric-specific certification body
• AANP (American Academy of Nurse Practitioners) – Alternative certification pathway

Continuing Education Requirements:

• 30 contact hours annually for Pennsylvania APRN license renewal
• Certification body requirements (varies by organization)
• Specialty-specific education encouraged

Most Philadelphia-area employers support continuing education through conference attendance, online learning platforms, and professional development allowances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need pediatric nursing experience before applying? A: Most Philadelphia-area PNP programs prefer 1-2 years of pediatric nursing experience, though requirements vary. Strong candidates from adult or family nursing backgrounds may be considered, especially if they demonstrate commitment to pediatric healthcare through volunteer work, coursework, or professional development activities.

Q: How competitive are Philadelphia-area PNP programs? A: Admission competitiveness varies by program, but most maintain holistic review processes considering experience, academic performance, and commitment to pediatric healthcare. Programs typically accept 15-25 students annually, with acceptance rates ranging from 30-60% depending on applicant pool quality.

Q: What’s the job market like for new PNP graduates in Philadelphia? A: The Philadelphia job market remains strong for PNP graduates, with consistent openings across major health systems, specialty practices, and community health centers. The region’s concentration of pediatric facilities creates diverse opportunities, while competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages attract healthcare professionals to the area. New graduates often receive multiple job offers, particularly those completing rotations at major clinical sites like CHOP or Nemours.

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Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC has spent over 15 years working as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner in the greater Portland, Oregon area. More recently, she has turned her attention to nursing education and writing. Judy and her husband have 2 children and 2 dogs.

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