Top Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs Near Columbus, Ohio

Last Updated/Verified: Jul 30, 2025
Top Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs near Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, home to one of the nation's largest pediatric healthcare systems, is emerging as a premier destination for aspiring Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs). With pediatric-focused institutions like Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a robust network of academic partnerships, the city provides exceptional training grounds for nurses seeking advanced pediatric practice roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioner jobs are expected to grow 45% nationally by 2032—a trend reflected in Ohio's own growing need for pediatric specialists. As the need for specialized pediatric care grows—especially in underserved and rural parts of Ohio—enrolling in a top-tier PNP program in the Columbus area offers both immediate academic value and long-term career impact.

In addition to career opportunity, Columbus delivers affordability, access to diverse patient populations, and integrated care settings where advanced practice nurses are vital members of the healthcare team. The region also supports educational advancement through collaborative hospital-university partnerships and strong preceptor networks, allowing students to experience team-based pediatric care in real-time. These qualities make it an ideal launch point for those interested in advancing their pediatric nursing careers while making a tangible impact on children’s health outcomes across the state.

2025 Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs Near Columbus, OH

Looking for the best Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs near Columbus, OH in 2025? You're in the right place. At nursepractitioneronline.com, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch PNP programs that fit your needs. Whether you're starting your nursing career or looking to advance, our rankings highlight programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student support. We know picking the right program is a big decision, and we're here to make it easier. Check out our carefully researched list to find your perfect match. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.

#1

Cedarville University

Cedarville, OH - Private 4-year - cedarville.edu

Doctorate - DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Cedarville University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a concentration in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care, designed for nurses aiming to specialize in pediatric healthcare. This hybrid program blends online coursework with practical clinical experiences, requiring 800 supervised clinical hours to ensure hands-on proficiency in pediatric care. Unique to Cedarville, the curriculum integrates a Christian worldview, preparing graduates not only for national certification by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board but also for serving with compassion in diverse healthcare settings. Financial aid options, including scholarships of $3,000 to $5,000, support students in achieving their academic goals without the burden of excessive debt.

  • Online DNP program format
  • 800 supervised clinical hours
  • Biblical worldview integration
  • Flexible completion options
  • National certification preparation
  • Scholarships available
  • Advanced pediatric care training
  • Christian faculty mentorship
#2

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu

Master's - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Primary Care - Campus Based - Visit Website

Ohio State University's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for those aiming to specialize in primary care for children from infancy through young adulthood. This program emphasizes a comprehensive approach to pediatric healthcare, including well-child care and the management of acute and chronic illnesses. With a curriculum rooted in evidence-based practices, students benefit from 600 clinical practice hours, partnerships with Nationwide Children's Hospital, and preparation for national certification. The program offers flexible scheduling for both part-time and full-time students, catering to working professionals. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible to qualified candidates seeking to advance their nursing careers in pediatric primary care.

  • 600 clinical practice hours
  • Multiple degree pathway options
  • National certification preparation
  • Nationwide Children's Hospital partnership
  • Evidence-based curriculum design

Master's - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at Ohio State University focuses on preparing nurses to manage critically ill children in acute and emergent care settings. This program is tailored for experienced pediatric nurses, offering 600 hours of clinical training in environments like intensive care units and emergency rooms. It emphasizes advanced assessment, diagnostic, and treatment skills for complex pediatric conditions. The curriculum is designed to meet national certification standards, with options for full-time and part-time study to accommodate students' schedules. Like its primary care counterpart, this program does not specify an entrance exam requirement, highlighting its accessibility for dedicated professionals aiming to specialize in pediatric acute care.

  • 600 hours clinical experience
  • Multiple degree pathway options
  • Certification preparation
  • Full-time and part-time
  • Advanced pediatric care focus
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#3

Kent State University at Kent

Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu

Master's - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Kent State University at Kent offers a hybrid Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner master's program designed for nurses seeking to specialize in pediatric healthcare. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on preparing students to deliver comprehensive care to children from infancy through young adulthood. With a curriculum that blends online coursework with hands-on clinical practicums, students gain expertise in preventative care, health education, and disease management. The program boasts nationally certified faculty and flexible scheduling options, including full- and part-time paths, making it ideal for working professionals. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in various pediatric healthcare settings, supported by customizable academic plans and multiple start dates.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Nationally Certified Faculty
  • Customizable Academic Plans
  • Online Course Options
  • Fall and Spring Start Dates
*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2023. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Why Columbus Is an Ideal Training Ground for Pediatric NPs

Columbus is more than just Ohio's capital; it is a healthcare hub with a strong emphasis on pediatric medicine. Nationwide Children's Hospital, consistently ranked among the top pediatric hospitals in the U.S., collaborates with local universities to offer high-volume, high-acuity clinical rotations for graduate nursing students. The hospital's primary and specialty care centers serve over one million patients annually, exposing PNP students to a full range of pediatric conditions.

Beyond the hospital setting, Columbus features a range of community clinics, school-based health programs, and rural outreach initiatives, giving students the chance to engage in holistic, family-centered care. Regional organizations frequently partner with mobile health initiatives that bring pediatric services to underserved neighborhoods and school districts. This city-wide integration of pediatric care makes Columbus uniquely suited for those pursuing a focused, high-impact career in pediatric nursing.

Pediatric Specialties and Training Diversity

Students training in Columbus gain experience across diverse specialties such as:

  • Pediatric cardiology
  • Pulmonology and cystic fibrosis care
  • Pediatric psychiatry and behavioral health
  • NICU and PICU care
  • Pediatric endocrinology and diabetes management
  • Pediatric surgery and rehabilitation

Such variety builds well-rounded practitioners capable of managing both common pediatric complaints and complex chronic conditions. Exposure to multidisciplinary teams during clinical rotations helps cultivate collaboration and critical thinking essential to advanced practice roles.

What to Look for in a PNP Program

Not all PNP programs offer the same level of preparation or clinical support. In the Columbus area, several universities are recognized for their advanced nursing curricula, dedicated pediatric faculty, and well-established healthcare partnerships. Selecting the right program involves weighing multiple criteria to ensure quality and fit.

Prospective students should consider program alignment with their career goals, whether focused on primary care, acute care, or dual certification. Factors like tuition cost, clinical site proximity, faculty-to-student ratios, and post-graduation employment support also influence the long-term value of the degree.

Key Evaluation Factors

FactorWhy It Matters
Accreditation (CCNE or ACEN)Ensures academic and professional quality
Pediatric-Focused CurriculumProvides specialized knowledge and training
Clinical Site AccessSupports real-world skill development
Certification Prep SupportIncreases likelihood of exam success
Dual Track or ElectivesOffers flexibility for acute vs. primary care
Alumni OutcomesIndicates post-grad employment success

Programs that integrate simulation labs and offer dual track options (e.g., PNP-Primary Care and PNP-Acute Care) may offer greater flexibility and a broader skill set for diverse practice environments.

Clinical Training Opportunities in Columbus

Hands-on experience is foundational in any advanced nursing program, particularly in pediatrics. Columbus offers exceptional access to diverse clinical settings, ranging from high-acuity hospital environments to community outreach programs. Programs typically embed hundreds of supervised clinical hours into their curriculum, often in partnership with pediatric providers throughout Central Ohio.

Common Clinical Settings for PNP Students

SettingDescription
Nationwide Children's HospitalLevel 1 pediatric trauma and specialty care center
School-Based Health ProgramsPrimary care access for K-12 students across Franklin County
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)Community-based pediatric care for underserved populations
Behavioral Health ClinicsExposure to developmental and mental health services
Mobile Pediatric UnitsRural outreach and preventive care programs
Outpatient Specialty ClinicsRotations in allergy, GI, endocrinology, and dermatology

Such immersive clinical placements prepare students for dynamic and collaborative practice settings that are increasingly central to pediatric healthcare delivery. Students often rotate through both acute and primary care settings, ensuring readiness for board certification and clinical practice.

Certification, Licensure, and Career Outlook

Graduates of PNP programs in Ohio are eligible to sit for national certification exams through either the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Upon passing, they can apply for APRN licensure through the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Pediatric NP Career Demand in Ohio

The job outlook for pediatric nurse practitioners is strong across Ohio. According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, nurse practitioner roles are projected to grow more than 30% by 2030. PNPs are especially sought after in pediatric primary care clinics, emergency departments, specialty practices, and community health initiatives.

Urban centers like Columbus offer rich job markets, but opportunities also exist in more rural counties that face consistent shortages in pediatric primary and acute care providers. Pediatric NPs play an important role in increasing healthcare access for children with chronic conditions, developmental delays, or complex family dynamics. Many school systems are also beginning to incorporate nurse practitioners into on-site care delivery models.

Planning for Admission and Financial Aid

Gaining admission to a top PNP program requires preparation. While criteria vary slightly, most schools expect candidates to demonstrate a combination of academic achievement, clinical experience, and a clear passion for pediatric care. Strong candidates typically bring at least one year of pediatric nursing experience and articulate clear long-term goals in pediatric health promotion.

Common Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
  • Current, unencumbered RN license (Ohio or compact state)
  • Minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher)
  • Pediatric or relevant nursing experience (preferred or required)
  • Personal statement and letters of recommendation
  • Interview or writing assessment (at some institutions)

Financial Assistance Options

Columbus-based programs often provide access to:

Many students benefit from combining multiple sources of aid, including part-time employment, merit scholarships, and flexible online course loads that accommodate continued nursing work. Some universities also offer graduate assistantships, allowing students to contribute to research or teaching in exchange for tuition discounts.

Take the Next Step Toward a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Career

For nurses called to care for children and families, Columbus offers a powerful combination of academic excellence, clinical innovation, and community connection. Whether seeking an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certification, aspiring PNPs can find multiple high-quality, accredited Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs that prepare them for impactful careers.

To begin:

  • Research application deadlines and admission requirements at top PNP programs
  • Reach out to program coordinators for guidance on clinical placements
  • Connect with local pediatric health organizations for volunteer or shadowing opportunities
  • Explore scholarship and loan repayment resources specific to Ohio and pediatric practice
  • Consider joining local professional organizations such as the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses or the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners

Graduating from an Ohio-based nurse practitioner program opens doors to a fulfilling, high-demand role in one of the most respected pediatric healthcare regions in the country. With the right training and mentorship, future PNPs will be well-positioned to advocate for the health and well-being of children across all communities in Ohio.

Sources

  1. Nationwide Children’s Hospital
  2. Ohio Board of Nursing
  3. Ohio Department of Job and Family Services – Labor Market Information
  4. National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
  5. HRSA Nurse Corps
  6. Federal Student Aid
  7. Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
  8. American Nurses Credentialing Center
  9. Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC
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