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.
2026 Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs Near Columbus, OH
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's Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care offers a transformative online learning experience integrating advanced clinical training with Christian principles. Students engage in 800 supervised clinical hours, developing comprehensive skills in pediatric primary care for patients from birth to 21. The hybrid program prepares graduates for national certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, with flexible part-time and full-time pathways. Unique program features include biblical worldview integration, potential scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, and specialized mentorship from Christian faculty dedicated to nurturing compassionate, skilled pediatric nurse practitioners.
- 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
Ohio State University
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 offers a comprehensive master's track focusing on holistic pediatric healthcare delivery. Students engage in an intensive curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary learning across 600 clinical practice hours. The program uniquely partners with Nationwide Children's Hospital, providing students exceptional opportunities to develop advanced skills in well-child care and chronic illness management. Designed for aspiring pediatric nurse practitioners, the track prepares professionals to deliver high-quality, family-centered care from infancy through young adulthood. Flexible scheduling accommodates both part-time and full-time students, ensuring accessibility for working healthcare professionals.
- 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
Ohio State University's Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program specializes in preparing advanced nursing professionals to manage critically ill pediatric patients. Through an intensive curriculum combining 600 clinical training hours with rigorous academic coursework, students develop sophisticated skills in emergency and intensive care settings. The program targets experienced pediatric nurses seeking advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating complex acute conditions. Graduates emerge with comprehensive knowledge of pediatric emergency interventions, leadership capabilities, and evidence-based practice methodologies. The track meets national certification standards and offers flexible enrollment options, empowering nurses to drive innovative pediatric acute care strategies.
- 600 hours clinical experience
- Multiple degree pathway options
- Certification preparation
- Full-time and part-time
- Advanced pediatric care focus
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Master's - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic hybrid master's curriculum designed to cultivate advanced pediatric nursing expertise. Focusing on comprehensive child healthcare from birth to 21, students gain extensive clinical training through flexible online and in-person learning modalities. The CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates to excel in diverse pediatric healthcare environments, emphasizing preventative services, health education, and disease management. Nationally certified faculty provide personalized mentorship, enabling students to develop sophisticated clinical skills and implement evidence-based pediatric care strategies across various healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices.
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Nationally Certified Faculty
- Customizable Academic Plans
- Online Course Options
- Fall and Spring Start Dates
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
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| Accreditation (CCNE or ACEN) | Ensures academic and professional quality |
| Pediatric-Focused Curriculum | Provides specialized knowledge and training |
| Clinical Site Access | Supports real-world skill development |
| Certification Prep Support | Increases likelihood of exam success |
| Dual Track or Electives | Offers flexibility for acute vs. primary care |
| Alumni Outcomes | Indicates 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
| Setting | Description |
| Nationwide Children's Hospital | Level 1 pediatric trauma and specialty care center |
| School-Based Health Programs | Primary care access for K-12 students across Franklin County |
| Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) | Community-based pediatric care for underserved populations |
| Behavioral Health Clinics | Exposure to developmental and mental health services |
| Mobile Pediatric Units | Rural outreach and preventive care programs |
| Outpatient Specialty Clinics | Rotations 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:
- Federal Direct Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans
- HRSA Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program
- NAPNAP Foundation Scholarships
- Employer tuition support at facilities such as Nationwide Children's Hospital
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
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
- Nationwide Children’s Hospital
- Ohio Board of Nursing
- Ohio Department of Job and Family Services – Labor Market Information
- National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
- HRSA Nurse Corps
- Federal Student Aid
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses
- Evaluate Leading Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Near South Bend, Indiana - August 26, 2025
- Browse Low-Cost Doctor of Nursing Practice Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Knoxville, Tennessee - August 7, 2025
- Find Economical Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate Programs Near Chattanooga, Tennessee - August 6, 2025
Related Articles
- Emergency NPs in Disaster Response: Education and Career Opportunities in Crisis Management
- Find Economical Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate Programs Near Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Compare Budget Friendly Family Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Allentown, Pennsylvania
- Explore Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Irvine, California
- Most Affordable Post-APRN Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) Certificate Programs Near Salt Lake City, Utah
- Top Online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Programs Near Salt Lake City, UT