Nursing careers can also involve meeting additional specialist nurse education requirements besides the generalist nurse training for baccalaureate or associate degree nurse graduates. This kind of advanced education enables nurses to choose a career line with one group of patient as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). To become an advanced practice nurse, you must have attained at least a registered nurse status and enroll into a Nurse Specialist Program. These specialized programs are only offered to interested students at graduate level (Master or Doctorate).
Who is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)?
Advanced practice nursing represents nursing at its best; characterized by registered nurses who have received advanced and specialized training and mandated to carry out highly specialized and autonomous nursing roles. So what is Advanced Practice Nurse? An APRN is a registered nurse who has earned at least a masters level education and specialized in one area of nursing. Precisely, APRNs are registered nurses who have received certification in any of the four areas listed below:
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Advanced practice registered nurses enjoy more independence in their line of nursing as compared to registered nurses without graduate-level education. Some APRN have doctorate degrees besides master degrees.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Job Description
What is Advanced Practice Nursing? The role of the Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner is varied. As listed above, an APRN can have distinct specialized duties depending on the specialization area they choose from the four. Besides sharing the commonality of APRN status, two of the four APRNs roles have sub-categories from which further APRN job descriptions can be derived. On a broad base, the following are the job descriptions of each of the APRN roles listed above.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
A CRNA is an advanced practice nurse who is permitted to administer anesthesia during surgery. Usually, a CRNA will work autonomously or under the collaborative effort of an anesthesiologist. They are therefore found in operating rooms working hand-in hand with doctors to ensure proper pain management and sedation before, during and after surgery.
Many hospitals prefer having a CRNA as they serve both as nurses and anesthesiologist than employing the latter separately. During surgery, a CRNA must be aware of the length of the surgical process to determine which type of sedation to use. They can also make decisions on whether to sedate the patient completely or locally. CRNAs must also follow-up surgery patients to ensure they completely recover from the side-effects of anesthesia administered before surgery.
Certified Nurses Midwives
As the name suggests, certified nurse midwives help moms to be through the birthing process. They also highly trained on advising mothers in caring for the newborns. They are knowledgeable in prenatal care provision, management of labor and neonatal and primary care of newborns. Certified nurse midwives receive their training at advanced levels such that they can deal with minor complications arising from pregnancies or abnormal births. In this case, they can perform minor medical procedures like medical prescription, postnatal therapy and carry out simple diagnosis.
Basically, they provide midwifery services to women whose birthing condition can be termed as stable or non-risky. However, for complicated medical situations on part of the mother or newborn during the birthing process or after, CNM ought to consult obstetricians or gynecologist doctors. The specific roles of certified nurse midwives may vary from one state to the next.
Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)
A CNS is a registered nurses trained at an advanced level in providing nursing care in a specific nursing area. Clinical nurse specialists are one of the two APRNs roles with numerous subcategories. Due to the intensive training they receive, CNS can become consulted by registered nurses on their specialty roles. The core competences of CNS include decision making, direct clinical practice, clinical leadership and advising for patients and families at large.
CNS can choose their area of specialization from the perspective of patient groups, medical setting or type of medical disorder involved which makes them experts in the area they have chosen. According to patient groups, pediatrics, adult health, adolescents and geriatric CNS exist. Under the medical setting path, CNS can be operating room nurses, Intensive care Units nurses, long term care nurses etc. Depending on the medical disorder, there are diabetes nurses, oncology nurses, mental/psychiatric nurses, palliative nurses among others.
Nurse Practitioners (NP)
Nurse Practitioners are a group of APRNs with highly diverse subcategories in their fields of practice. Nurse practitioners provide generalized health care and are more likely to be the sole health care practitioners for most patients. They are well endowed with carrying out diagnosis and giving prescription and medications to patients on an autonomous basis. Most NP work alone as the primary care givers to a particular patient population. They are usually found working as Family NP, Adult NP, Mental Health NP, and Pediatric NP among other fields.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Salary
Salaries of APRNs differ from state to state just like in any other profession. APRN salaries are determined by the experience of the registered nurses at their given specialty and the level of education attained i.e. Master or Doctorate. APRNS enjoy lucrative salaries as compared to their registered nurses counterparts and the figures can be as much as twofold. Coming-up with a precise average salary scale is not easy as the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), does not separate salaries of undergraduate-level registered nurses from these of APRNs.
But it is common sense that APRNs earn significantly more than registered nurses whose annual mean was $64690 in 2010. However, BLS gives a very rough estimate that nurses with diagnosing and treating mandate (like APRNs) have a mean salary of $71490. From various reviews, APRN reportedly earn well above 95000 on the top 10 percentile. Over the years, California and Texas have recorded the highest paid registered nurses.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Education Requirements
To earn an advanced practice nurses status, registered nurses must complete master or doctorate level education. Most registered nurses become APRNs after taking the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and becoming prepared for the Master of Science in nursing (MSN) specialty roles. Most MSN programs that train nurses to become APRNs demand that students have valid registered nurses licenses besides having some working experience in nursing roles.
After such requirements are met, students enroll for graduate level core nursing courses during the first year. Usually during the 2nd year, the RN must take specialty courses in the area of specialization they want to concentrate on; any of the four APRN choices above. For the 2 APRN roles with various sub-categories, students take specific courses in the particular line of interest.
APRN education usually takes 2 years on a full time basis and between 3-6 years on a part time basis. However, the CRNA option takes a longer time than any of the other options even on a full time basis. It also requires more work experience particularly in surgery or operating rooms. Following completion of the college curriculum, nurses must be ready to take separate National Certification exams in their respective fields of practice. Only then can they be termed as certified advanced practice nurses.
Advanced Practice Nurses Association
Actually, most nursing associations are those for specialty nurses with an APRN status. Every sub-category of advanced nurse practice has an association or more at national or state level. Some of the most renowned APRN associations include:
National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
American College of Nurse Midwives
American College of Nurse Practitioners
Cardiovascular Association of Advanced Practice Providers
Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association
National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health
Nurse Practitioners in Emergency Care
National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
Pediatric Nursing Degrees
Just like any other patient group, children need specialized care givers. As such there are specially trained registered nurses who perform nursing duties in children wards.
Children are a special group of patients who fear going to physicians, but pediatric nurses are trained to make a child fearless and comfortable when in a hospital environment. There are also special health conditions affecting children only and specializing on how to deal with them is all in the curriculum of a pediatric nurse degree program.
On the other hand, pediatric nurse degrees train nurses to perform diverse responsibilities including care for adolescents and teenagers. They may be involved in educating the youths on issues about relationships, healthy feeding habits, drug abuse among others. It’s all not about confinement within hospital walls after earning your pediatric nurse degree.
How do you Become a Pediatric Nurse?
Basically, any registered nurse can become a care-giver to any group of patients on a generalist basis. This means generalist pediatric nurses do have special training beyond the usual curriculum of other registered nurses (RN). Here are common pathways:
Registered Nurse Degrees
All children nurses starts as registered nurses by taking either an associate degree or Bachelor of Science in nursing degree (BSN). This enables the nurse to take the NLCELX-RN exam to become a registered nurse. An RN with an associate or BSN degree is able to work in a children ward or pediatric hospital on a generalist basis. Since such nurses receive no specialized training on care of children, they learn the skills of becoming pediatric nurses by taking advantage of on-the-job training.
Pediatric Nurse Graduate Degrees
Graduate degrees are a way of enabling Registered Nurses to move from a generalist to a specialized level in the care of pediatric patients. These degrees are specifically designed with courses covering issues affecting this group of patients. After completing a graduate level pediatric nurse degree, you can perform your duties autonomously and even acquire prescriptive authority. By taking graduate degrees, one becomes an advanced practice pediatric nurse and is able to take national Certified Pediatric Nurses exams. Below are pathways to earning a pediatric nurse degree at masters, DNP or PhD levels:
Master of Science in Nursing-Pediatric Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in pediatric nursing is usually designed for BSN-prepared candidates. Some colleges and universities may ask for some RN experience in pediatric nursing to be eligible to apply. Three pathways exist at the MSN level:
MSN-Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
A pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has received extensive and specialized training in caring for pediatric patients. PNP take core MSN level courses during their first year and pediatrics specialty courses during their second year. They become experts in this field can even take extra pharmacology courses to gain prescriptive authority while handling their patients.
Normally, pediatric nurse practitioner programs; primary or acute care PNP programs, take two years to complete on a full time basis. At this point, you can take the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP) exam following guidelines given by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). Besides PNCB, graduates can also become certified through:
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
American Academy of Nurse Practitioner Certification Program
Upon completion of studies, a PNP graduate can work independently as the primary care giver to pediatric patients or can work under the supervision of a senior doctor.
MSN- Clinical Nurses Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) are APRN who receive training with focus on one area of nursing. A pediatric clinical nurse specialist student has similar coursework as a PNP with a few differences in specialty courses. For the CNS, the outcomes of the MSN program are not entirely confined to direct clinical care giving. Instead, their scope involves evidence-based research, clinical leadership, ethical decision making and expert coaching and consultation on pediatric issues.
Post-Master Certificate in Pediatric Nursing
This program is designed for MSN prepared nurses who would wish to become certified as pediatric nurses. Often, those interested in this program are generalist MSN graduates who wish to specialize or APRN who are certified in another area but want to add pediatric certification. Compared to an entry-level MSN student, post-master certificate program are shorter since students have already covered all core MSN courses. Usually, post-master certificate programs take one year to complete. Upon completion, students become eligible to take national certification exams to become Certified pediatric nurse practitioners.
CRNA Programs in Texas
Registered nurses who have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN) may be considering Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) programs in Texas. Programs require at least a year of full-time nursing experience. Most schools require that experience is in a medical intensive care unit. Candidates must also take the GRE before applying to programs.
CRNA certification in Texas
Texas CRNAs must be registered and must also have a current state license as an RN. Graduation from an approved CRNA program is also required. In addition, the candidate must pass the certification examination. Specified amounts of continuing education credits are also required throughout the CRNAs career.
Texas CRNA Registry
Texas Association of Nurse Anesthetists
PO Box 40775
Austin, TX 78704
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Texas
Most hospitals in Texas hire CRNAs, including the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Texas
Each of the programs below has its own requirement for admission. Most programs accept applications for a new class that begins the following year.
Baylor College of Medicine Houston CRNA School
Graduate Program in Nurse Anesthesia
One Baylor Plaza
MailStop BCM115, Taub Annex Bldg., Room 107
Houston, TX 77030-3411
It is preferred that candidates have two years of critical care experience plus a 3.0 GPA or above and a minimum score of 1000 on the GRE for acceptance to this program. The program leading to a Master’s Degree takes 24 months to complete. There is also a Doctorate Degree program that lasts for 36 months.
Texas Christian University
School of Nurse Anesthesia
TCU Box 298626, 2800 W. Bowie Street
Annie Richardson Bass Building, Room 319
Fort Worth, TX 76109
This CRNA program lasts for 28 months. Candidates are required to have at least one year of experience in critical care, but two years are preferred. A GPA of 3.0 or better and a GRE score of 1100 or greater are required.
Texas Wesleyan University
Graduate Programs of Nurse Anesthesia
1201 Wesleyan Street
Fort Worth, TX 76105
This Texas CRNA program takes 28 months of full time studies to complete. Students may opt for long distance learning, and classes take 16 months to complete. A GPA of 2.5 and a GRE score of 1000 or greater.
University of Texas at Huston Health Science Center
School of Nursing, Nurse Anesthesia Division
6901 Bertner, Room 684
Houston, TX 77030-3907
A MSNA can be earned in 32 months of full time studies in this program. Candidates must have one to two years of experience in critical care. GPA scores of 3.0 and GRE score of 500 or greater are required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Virginia
Registered nurses who have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing may be considering Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) programs in Virginia. There are four advanced degree programs in the state, and one of them may be right for you.
CRNA Certification in Virginia
CRNAs must complete an approved CRNA program and pass the certification examination after graduation. They must also have a current state license as an RN.
Virginia CRNA Registry
Virginia Association of Nurse Anesthetists
2231 Oak Bay Lane
Richmond, VA 23233
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Virginia
CRNAs work in doctor’s and dentist’s offices and in most hospitals such as the following:
Virginia Commonwealth University Hospital, Richmond
Virginia Commonwealth University Critical Care Hospital, Richmond
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Virginia
Each of the Virginia CRNA programs has its own requirements, and it is important to begin the application process about one year before planning to attend classes.
Old Dominion University
School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
4608 Hampton Boulevard
Room 3001
Norfolk, VA 23529
Requirements are a BSN or a Baccalaureate degree in related sciences, one year’s experience in intensive care, minimum GPA of 3.0, and satisfactory scores on GRE or MAT.
Virginia Commonwealth University
School of Allied Health Professions
Department of Nurse Anesthesia
On the Medical College of Virginia Campus
P.O. Box 980226
Richmond, VA 23298
Nurses can earn a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) by completing this CRNA program. Full time studies for 28 months are required, as well as a BSN or degree in a related science. A GPA of at least 3.0 is expected, along with recent GRE scores.
Doctor of Nursing Combined
Degree at Virginia
Commonwealth University
School of Allied Health Professions
Department of Nurse Anesthesia
On the Medical College of
Virginia Campus
P. O. Box 980226
Richmond, VA 23298
Options include 32 months of full time or 40 months of part time studies. This is a combined degree program that first leads to a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) and then to a Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP). A graduate GPA of 3.25 is required.
Virginia Commonwealth University
School of Allied Health Professions
Department of Nurse Anesthesia
On the Medical College of
Virginia Campus
P.O. Box 980226
Richmond, VA 23298
This program leads to a Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP). There is a distance learning option to complete the program full-time in one year or part-time in two or three years. A graduate degree from an accredited CRNA program, current RN license, GPA of 3.0, and satisfactory scores on the GRE are required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Tennessee
If you are an RN (Registered Nurse) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and you’re considering continuing education, then the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program may be what you’re looking for. CRNAs administer anesthesia to a variety of patients.
CRNA Certification in Tennessee
Tennessee Government Department of Health
425 5th Avenue North
Cordell Hull Building, 3rd Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Tennessee CRNA Registry
CRNAs must have current RN licensure, and they must have graduated from an accredited CRNA program. In addition, they must pass the certification examination to become CRNAs.
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Tennessee
CRNAs work in doctor’s and dentist’s offices, as well as in hospitals such as:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Tennessee
Each CRNA program has its own requirements, but all require that an applicant have a current RN license in the state and experience in critical care. Applicants must submit their applications for admission about one year before starting classes. The academic workload is full time.
Lincoln Memorial University
Caylor School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Concentration
6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway
Harrogate, TN 37752
This CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. The 28-month full-time program requires that applicants have a BSN, a GPA of 3.0, and a GRE score of 1000.
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia
P. O. Box 417
Madison, Tennessee 37116
When this CRNA program is completed, the student will have a Master of Science with a focus in Nurse Anesthesia. It is a full-time program that takes 28 months to complete. Requirements for admission are a BSN or degree in related science. A GPA of 3.0 and recent satisfactory GRE scores are also required
Union University School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Track
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TX 38305
This program takes 31 months to complete. Requirements are having a BSN and a GPA of 3.0. The GRE is not required.
University of Tennessee Chattanooga
Erlanger Health System
Nurse Anesthesia Concentration
School of Nursing
615 McCallie Ave.
Chattanooga, TN 37403
This CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in nurse anesthesia. This 27-month program requires that applicants have at least two years of critical care experience, a GPA of 3.0, and recent GRE scores.
University of Tennessee Knoxville
College of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Concentration
1930 Alcoa Hwy., Suite 430
Knoxville, TN 37920
This CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. It takes 31 months to complete. Requirements for admission are a BSN, current license in the state, GPA of 3.0, and GRE of 1000.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in PA
A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) may be the right graduate program for Registered Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing who are licensed in Pennsylvania. RNs who have at least one year of experience working in a critical care unit may qualify to enter one of the CRNA programs in the state.
CRNA Certification in Pennsylvania
CRNAs in PA must have a current RN license. They must also complete a CRNA program and pass the certification examination administered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.
PA CRNA Registry
The Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists
234 N. Third Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
CRNA Jobs and Salary in PA
CRNAs work in doctor’s and dentist’s offices and in hospitals such as the following:
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh
The Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh
Excela Latrobe Hospital, Latrobe
Geisinger Medical Center, Danville
The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia
Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in PA
Pennsylvania CRNA program length ranges from 24 months to 32 months. Experience of one year or more in a critical care unit is also required. Some CRNA graduate programs have GPA and GRE minimum scores that they require as well. This continuing education leads to Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree.
Allegheny Valley Hospital
La Roche College
School of Nurse Anesthesia
320 East North Avenue
5th Floor, South Tower
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Drexel University PA
Nurse Anesthesia Program
245 N. 15th Street
7th Floor Bellet Building MS
501
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Excela Health School of Anesthesia
With Saint Vincent College
813 Ligonier Street
Latrobe, PA 15650
Geisinger Health System
With Bloomsburg
University of Pennsylvania
Nurse Anesthesia Program
100 North Academy Avenue
Danville, PA 17822
Hamot Medical Center
School of Anesthesia
Gannon University
201 State Street
Erie, PA 16550
Frank J. Tornetta Nurse Anesthetist Program
La Salle University School of
Nursing and Health Sciences
Nurse Anesthesia Program
1301 Powell Street
P. O. Box 992
Norristown, PA 19404
Saint Joseph’s University
Nazareth Hospital School of Nurse
Anesthesiology
2601 Holme Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19152
Thomas Jefferson University
Jefferson School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
130 S. 9th St., Suite 1130
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Pennsylvania University School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
Claire M. Fagin Hall
418 Curie Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
University of Pittsburgh
School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
3500 Victoria Street
336 Victoria Building
Pittsburg, PA 15261
University of Scranton
& Wyoming Valley Health Care System
School of Nurse Anesthesia
575 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18764
Crozer Chester Medical Center
Villanova University
Nurse Anesthesia Program
1 Medical Center Blvd.
Upland, PA 19013
York College of Pennsylvania
& WellSpan Health
Nurse Anesthetist Program
441 Country Club Road
York, PA 17403
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Ohio
If you are a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) may be for you. Most programs require at least one year’s experience in critical care, and each program has other specific requirements.
CRNA Certification in Ohio
The candidate must have a current RN license in Ohio and must graduate from a CRNA program. They must then pass the certification examination administered by the Council of Nurse Anesthetists to be granted a certificate as a CRNA.
Ohio CRNA Registry
Ohio Board of Nursing
17 South High Street, Suite 400
Columbus, OH 43215
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Ohio
CRNAs are employed at hospitals throughout the state.
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Ohio
There are seven CRNA programs in Ohio. Programs take about 28 months to complete.
1. Cleveland Clinic Foundation Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, School of Nurse Anesthesia
9500 Euclid Avenue, E-31
Cleveland, OH 44195
Requirements include a BSN, RN license, GPA of 3.0 or higher, and satisfactory scores on GRE or MAT.
2. Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Program of Nurse Anesthesia, Case Western Reserve University
10900 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44106
Requirements include RN or BSN, licensure in Ohio, one to two years of experience in critical care, and satisfactory scores on the GRE or MAT.
3.Lourdes College, MSN Nurse Anesthesia Program
6832 Convent Boulevard
Sylvania, OH 43560
This CRNA program begins in August. Prerequisites are a Bachelor’s Degree, RN licensure in Ohio, two years of critical care experience, a 3.0 GPA, and a 1000 score on the GRE.
4. Otterbein University Grant Medical Center, Nurse Anesthesia Program
1 South Grove Street
Westerville, OH 43081
Requires for admission to the program are a BSN, a current license as an RN, at least one year’s experience in critical care, and a GPA of 3.0. There is no GRE requirement.
5. University of Akron Ohio College of Nursing, Graduate Anesthesia Program
209 Carroll Street
Akron, OH 44325
Requirements are a current Ohio license, one-year critical care experience, a GPA of 3.0, and a GRE score of 800.
6. University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, Master’s Program-Nurse Anesthesia Major
Procter Hall, 3110 Vine Street
P.O. Box 210038
Cincinnati, OH 45221
A BSN is required as well as an RN license and one year of critical care experience. A GPA of 4.0 and a GRE score of 1000 are also required.
7. St. Elizabeth Health Center School for Nurse Anesthetists, Inc.
1044 Belmont Avenue
Youngstown, OH 44504
Requirements are a BSN, RN license, one year of experience in critical care, a GPA of 3.0, and GRE scores.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in North Carolina
If you are an RN who has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree, you may be considering continuing education. A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program may be the nurse continuing education that you are looking for.
CRNA certification in North Carolina
CRNAs must have current RN licensure in North Carolina. They must also have completed an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must pass the certification examination.
North Carolina CRNA Registry
North Carolina Board of Nursing
4516 Lake Boone Trail
Raleigh, NC 27607
CRNA Jobs and Salary in North Carolina
CRNAs work doctor’s and dentist’s offices and in hospitals such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in North Carolina
Each CRNA program has different requirements, but applicants must have RN licensure in North Carolina and at least one year’s experience in critical care.
Duke University School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
DUMC 3322
307 Trent Drive
Durham, NC 27710
This 28 month program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. Two years of critical care experience is preferred. Requirements are a GPA of 3.0 and GRE of 1000.
East Carolina University
College of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
3112 Health Sciences Building
Greenville, NC 27858
This 28 month CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. Requirements are a BSN and acceptable scores on the GRE.
Carolinas Medical Center
& University of North
Carolina at Charlotte
Nurse Anesthesia Program
P. O. Box 32861
Charlotte, NC 28232
This CRNA program offers an option of a 27 month full time or 39 months part time curriculum. Requirements are a BSN, 18 months of critical care experience, GPA of 3.0 and GRE score of 950.
Raleigh School of Nurse Anesthesia
And University of North
Carolina at Greensboro
3900 Barrett Drive
Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27609
This CRNA program lasts for 24 months and leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. Requirements are a minimum GPA of 3.0 in nursing courses and a score of 1000 on the GRE.
Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Nurse Anesthesia Program
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, NC 27157
This is a 24 month program that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. Requirements include a BSN, a GPA of 3.5, and GRE score of 1100.
Western Carolina University NC
Nurse Anesthesia Program
AB-Tech Enka Campus
1459 Sand Hill Road, Suite G33
Candler, NC 28715
This is a 28 month program that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. Requirements include a BSN, a GPA of 3.0, and a GRE of 1000.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Florida
A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) has the important job of administering anesthesia to patients. You may be thinking of continuing your education to become a CRNA in the future. Registered Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and at least one year of experience working in an intensive care unit may qualify for CRNA programs at colleges in Florida.
CRNA Certification in Florida
CRNAs in the state must have a current state license as an RN. They must also have completed an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must pass the certification examination to receive certification.
Florida CRNA Registry
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
222 South Prospect Avenue
Park Ridge, IL 60068
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Florida
CRNAs work in hospitals and in some doctor’s offices. They may be employed by a pain management medical group, podiatrist, or plastic surgeon and work in the doctor’s office. Other CRNAs work for dentists and oral surgeons. Most hospitals in the state employ CRNAs, such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Florida
These accredited programs take 28 months of full-time study to complete. They each have their own prerequisites for admission to their CRNA program, including minimum GPAs and GRE scores. Minimum critical care experience requirements also vary. Most programs begin in August each year, while some start classes in January. It is important to start the application process about a year before beginning the program. Programs lead to a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree or a Master of Science in Anesthesiology.
Barry University
Master of Science Program in Anesthesiology
11300 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami Shores, FL 33161-6695
Florida Gulf Coast University
MSN Nurse Anesthesia Program
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, FL 33965-6565
Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences
Nurse Anesthesia Program
671 Winyah Drive
Orlando, FL 32803-1226
Florida International University
College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Anesthesiology Nursing Program
11200 Southwest 8th Street
Suite ACH3-342
Miami, FL 33199
Gooding Institute of Nurse Anesthesia
Bay Medical Center
615 N. Bonita Avenue
Panama City, FL 32401-3623
University of Miami School of Nursing
and Health Studies Nurse Anesthesia Program
PO Box 248153
Coral Gables, FL 33124-3850
University of North Florida
Nurse Anesthetist Program
1 UNF Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32224-2673
University of South Florida
College of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
MDC 22
Tampa, FL 33612-4766
Wolford College
Nurse Anesthesia Program
1336 Creekside Blvd.
Suite 2
Naples, FL 34108
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Colorado
If you are a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, you may be looking at options to continue your education. A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) performs the important job of administering anesthesia to patients. If you have experience working in intensive care or critical care, you may qualify to enter a program to become a CRNA.
CRNA Certification in Colorado
A CRNA must be a licensed RN in Colorado. Completion of an accredited CRNA program and passing the certification exam are also required.
Colorado CRNA Registry
Colorado Board of Nursing
Office of Licensing-Nursing
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Colorado
CRNAs work in doctor’s and dentist’s offices and in many hospitals, such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Colorado
There are currently no CRNA programs in Colorado, but students may qualify for distance learning at the following college.
Texas Wesleyan University
Graduate Programs of
Nurse Anesthesia
1201 Wesleyan Street
Fort Worth, TX 76105
This program is the only one at the university that is an entry program for Registered Nurses. Nurses who are interested in graduate programs may enroll in Texas Wesleyan University’s CRNA Program.
Students must first complete the fall quarter at the university in Fort Worth. After that, the spring and summer courses may be completed at the student’s clinical site. Video teleconferencing and two-way audio are used for this purpose. At least one other student must enroll in this program for distance learning. There is also an additional $80 per credit hour charged for distance learning.
Another distance learning opportunity offered by Texas Wesleyan University in their CRNA program is to request to be assigned to a clinical site outside of the Fort Worth-Dallas area. Students attend the first two weeks at the university and then complete their studies at their primary clinical site. Video teleconferencing and two-way audio are also used for this distance learning.
Primary clinical sites in Colorado are the following:
Denver Health Medical Center, Denver
University of Colorado Hospital, Denver
Prerequisites for the CRNA Program
A baccalaureate degree is required for entry into this program. The applicant must also have current licensure in Colorado and one year of intensive care experience. Adult or pediatric critical care experience is preferred. In addition, a GPA of at least 2.5 is required. If a student’s GPA is low, the applicant must either have a GPA of 3.0 in science courses or a GRE score of 1000 or greater. This program takes 28 months of full-time studies and clinical work to complete.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Arizona
Registered nurses who have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing may be considering Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) programs. Graduate programs can help you advance in your career and lead to higher salaries. The CRNA performs the very important task of administering anesthesia to many different patients.
CRNA Certification in Arizona
CRNAs must be certified in Arizona. They must also have current licensure as an RN in the state. In addition, they must attend an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must take the certification examination and pass it.
Arizona CRNA Registry
Arizona State Board of Nursing
4747 North 7th Street, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85014
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Arizona
CRNAs are employed in doctor’s and dentist’s offices, as well as in many hospitals such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Arizona
There is one CRNA program available to RNs in Arizona. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply to the program about one year before they hope to begin classes. This allows time for interviews and gathering the necessary documents.
Midwestern University
Glendale
Nurse Anesthesia Program
19555 North 59th Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85308
This CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia. It takes 27 months of full-time studies to complete, and classes begin each June. The application deadline is June 1 of the preceding year. Around 200 applicants request to be admitted to the program each year. Out of these, around 32 students are chosen to be in the program. Students can expect to spend between 45 and 52 hours of classroom or clinical practice each week.
There are two phases to the program. During the first four quarters, students complete didactic coursework in sciences and anesthesia equipment and management. The second phase of five quarters involves a clinical practicum and a research-based project. The university has an anesthesia simulation laboratory that students use before beginning to administer anesthesia to live patients.
RNs may be required to complete rotations in California, Colorado, and New Mexico. They will need to have RN licensure for these states as well as for Arizona. Students will work in rural, urban, and suburban hospitals with children, adults, and in cardiac surgery and obstetrics.
Requirements for the Program
Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an Arizona nursing license. They must also have at least one year’s experience working in critical care. A GPA of at least 2.75 is considered, but the average GPA of accepted students is 3.48. The GRE is not required.
Although there are not many CRNA Programs in Arizona, this means that it would be a good idea to also look for accredited CRNA Programs in other states.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in California
If you are a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, you may be thinking about continuing education to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
CRNA Certification in California
To apply for a CRNA certificate in California, applicants must have completed an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must pass the examination administered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.
California CRNA Registry
California Board of Registered Nursing
1747 North Market Boulevard, suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95834
CRNA Jobs and Salary in California
CRNAs are employed in some doctor’s and dentist’s offices and at most hospitals, such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in California
There are four programs in the state, and each one has its own specific prerequisites leading to a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree.
Cal State University Fullerton
Kaiser Permanente School of
Anesthesia (Kaiser CRNA)
Department of Nursing
100 South Los Robles, Suite 550
Pasadena, CA 91188
This 24 month program begins in September. Candidates are required to have a California RN license, a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Nursing, one year of current adult critical care experience, and a 3.2 GPA. The GRE is not required for this program.
Samuel Merritt College
Nurse Anesthetist Program
School of Nursing – Providence
Pavilion
3100 Summit Street, 3rd Floor
Oakland, CA 94609
This CRNA program takes 27 months to complete, and classes begin every September. A BSN is preferred, and candidates must be a licensed RN in the state. Two to three years of critical care experience is preferred, but candidates with one year’s experience are considered. A GPA of 3.4 and GRE score of 1000 or higher are required.
University of Southern California (USC)
Program of Nurse Anesthesia
Department of Anesthesiology
Keck School of Medicine
1540 Alcazar Street
CHP #223
Los Angeles, CA 90089
This CRNA program takes 24 months of full time study and begins each August. A Bachelor’s Degree and current RN licensure are required. Although most candidates have almost four years of critical experience as an RN, those with one year’s experience are considered. A GPA of 3.0 and GRE score of 1000 are required.
Loma Linda University
School of Nursing
West Hall
11262 Campus Street
Loma Linda, CA 92350
Candidates must have a BS in nursing and RN licensure in California before their clinical courses. One year of experience in critical care and a GPA of 3.0 are required. The GRE is not required for admission to the program. Shadowing a CRNA for eight hours before an admission interview and three recommendation letters are required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in New York
If you are a Registered Nurse, you may be thinking of continuing your education by enrolling in a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program. Registered Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and experience working in critical care may qualify for CRNA programs.
CRNA Certification in New York
CRNAs must have current RN licensure in New York, and they must have completed an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must pass the certification examination.
New York CRNA Registry
NY State Education Department
Office of the Professions
Division of Professional Licensing Services
Nurse Unit
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, New York 12234-1000
CRNA Jobs and Salary in New York
A CRNA may work for a doctor, dentist, or hospital, such as the following:
Albany Memorial Hospital, Albany
Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown
The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Brooklyn
Children’s Hospital of New York-Presbyterian, New York
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in New York
CRNA programs in the state are full-time study that leads to a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree. It is very important to apply to a program for about one year before planning to begin classes. Applicants must have New York licensure and experience in critical care.
Albany Medical College
Nurse Anesthesiology Program
MC-131
47 New Scotland Avenue
Albany, NY 12208
This program takes 28 months to complete. Two years of critical care experience are preferred. No minimum scores are required for GPA or GRE.
Columbia University
School of Nursing
Program in Nurse Anesthesia
617 West 168th Street
School of Nursing, Room 318
New York, NY 10032
This CRNA program takes 27 months to complete, and classes begin in June and September. A BSN is required, but a non-nursing bachelor’s degree may be accepted. RNs without a BSN must first complete five credits in community health. Most applicants who are accepted into the program have two to five years of critical care experience. There is no minimum GPA requirement, and GRE scores must be above the 50th percentile.
State University of New York
State University at Buffalo
Nurse Anesthetist Program
1133 Kimball Tower
3435 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14214
This CRNA program takes 28 months to complete. There is a part-time option that is sometimes allowed. Applicants must have a BSN. If your GPA is below 3.0, applicants must take the GRE. Otherwise, it is not required.
State University New York at Brooklyn
SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn
Nurse Anesthesia Program with
Harlem Hospital Center
Kings County Hospital Center
450 Clarkson Avenue
Box 22
Brooklyn, NY 11203
This CRNA program takes 27 months to complete. A BSN is required plus two years of critical care experience. A GPA of 3.3 is preferred, and the GRE is not required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Michigan
Maybe you have been thinking of pursuing a career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). If you are a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, you may want to take a closer look at CRNA programs.
CRNA Certification in Michigan
CRNA certification requires that the candidate has a current Michigan RN license and has completed a CRNA program. The candidate must also pass the certification examination administered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.
Michigan CRNA Registry
Michigan Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 30670
Lansing, MI 48909
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Michigan
CRNAs are employed in doctor’s and dentist’s offices and in hospitals such as the following:
St. John Hospital and Medical Center, Detroit
Providence Hospital and Medical Center, Southfield
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Michigan
There are five accredited CRNA programs in Michigan state, and all of them have unique prerequisites. All programs require work experience in critical care. Programs lead to a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree.
Michigan State University
Nurse Anesthesia Program
College of Nursing
A119 Life Sciences Building
East Lansing, MI 48824
This Michigan CRNA program leads to either a MSN or PhD in Nursing, and it lasts for 28 months. Most students accepted have about five years of experience. A GPA of at least 3.0 and a satisfactory GRE score is also required.
Oakland University
Nursing Anesthesia Program
3601 West 13 Mile Road
Royal Oak, MI 48073
This CRNA program lasts for 28 months, full time. Prerequisites include a BSN degree, GPAs of 3.0 or above, and a minimum GRE score of 800 or undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or greater.
University of Detroit Mercy
Graduate Program of Nurse
Anesthesiology
4001 W. McNichols
Detroit, MI 48221
This CRNA program has two options of either a 27 month full time curriculum or 39 month part time curriculum. Nurses may choose to be employed for their first year in the part time program. A bachelor’s degree is required, a GPA of 3.0, and GRE examination with no minimum scores.
University of Michigan
Flint
Hurley Medical Center
Master of Science in
Anesthesia Program
Hurley Medical Center
One Hurley Plaza
Flint, MI 48503
Prerequisites for this program include a BSN or other degree in a science field, a GPA of 3.0 and a satisfactory GRE score.
Wayne State University, Eugene Applebaum
College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
259 Mack Avenue
Suite 1600
Detroit, MI 48201
This is a 24 month program that begins each September. Candidates must have a BSN or other Baccalaureate degree in a related science, a GPA of 3.0, and a GRE score of 800 or above.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Maryland
A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) performs the very important job of administering anesthesia to patients. If you are an RN with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and at least one year of experience working in a critical care unit, you may qualify for a CRNA program in Maryland.
CRNA Certification in Maryland
CRNAs must have current licensure as an RN. They must also complete an accredited CRNA program. After graduation, they must pass the certification examination required for certification. Continuing education courses are required to maintain licensure.
Maryland CRNA Registry
Maryland Board of Nursing
4140 Patterson Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215-2254
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Maryland
A CRNA may work in a doctor’s office that provides pain management or for a podiatrist, plastic surgeon, or other specialists. They also work for oral surgeons and other dentists. Most CRNAs work for hospitals, such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Maryland
Each CRNA program has its own requirements. These programs are graduate nursing programs that lead to a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree. It is important to apply to the program about one year in advance before you would like to begin classes. This allows time to plan for an interview and for getting any additional RN licensure that may be required.
Military Nurse Anesthesia School
Uniformed Services
University of the Health Sciences
Graduate School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia School
4301 Jones Bridge Road
Building E
Bethesda, MD 20814
This CRNA program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing, and it takes 30 months of full time studies to complete. There is no fee for tuition because those enlisted in active duty receive free tuition and a full time salary for the duration of their education. PDAs, instruments, and books are also provided for students. Requirements include a BSN degree, a current RN license, and one year’s experience as a critical care nurse. In addition, a GPA of 3.0 and GRE scores of 1025 or higher are required.
Maryland University Nursing
Anesthesia Program
University of Maryland School
Of Nursing
Graduate Program Nurse
Anesthesia
655 W. Lombard Street
Suite 365
Baltimore, MD 21201
This program also leads to a Master of Science in Nursing. It takes 28 months of full time studies to complete. Requirements include a Baccalaureate degree in nursing, current RN licensure in Maryland, and at least one year of experience in acute care nursing. Other requirements include a GPA of 3.0. The GRE is not required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Illinois
If you are a Registered Nurse thinking about continuing education and graduate degrees, you may want to consider the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) career. A Bachelor of Science and experience in critical care are the first steps to becoming a CRNA.
CRNA Certification in Illinois
CRNAs in Illinois must have a current state license as an RN. They must also complete an accredited CRNA program and pass the certification examination upon graduation.
Illinois CRNA Registry
Illinois Department of Financial
& Professional Regulation
320 West Washington Street
Springfield, IL 62786
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Illinois
CRNAs are employed in doctor’s and dentist’s offices, as well as in hospitals such as the following:
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Illinois
Most programs require current licensure in Illinois and a BSN. When the CRNA program is complete, candidates will have a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree.
Decatur Memorial CRNA School
Decatur Memorial Hospital
With Millikin University
2300 North Edward Street
Decatur, IL 62526
This 31 month program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing or Nurse Administered Anesthesia Major. Prerequisites are a BSN, GPA of 3.0, and GRE scores if GPA is below 3.0.
Evanston Northwestern Hospital
School of Nurse Anesthesia
DePaul University
& North Shore Evanston Hospital
School of Nurse Anesthesia
2650 Ridge Avenue, Rm. G603
Evanston, IL 60201
This CRNA program takes 36 months to complete. A BSN is preferred, and a GPA of 3.0 and GRE of 1000 are required.
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science Nurse Anesthetist Program
3333 Green Bay Road
North Chicago, IL 60064
This 27 month program leads to a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia. Current licensure in Illinois and Wisconsin are required. Two years of experience in critical care are preferred, and there are no GPA requirements. GRE scores should be above 1000.
Rush University College of Nursing
Nurse Anesthetist Program
600 S. Paulina Street
Armour Academic Center, #1034
Chicago, IL 60612
This program lasts for 27 months, but a Doctorate Nursing Practice will soon be implemented at the university that will take 36 months or longer to complete. A Bachelor’s Degree is needed for entrance to this program, but it does not need to be a BSN. A GPA of 3.0 and GRE of 900 are required.
Southern Illinois University
Edwardsville
School of Nursing
Anesthesia Nursing Specialization
Campus Box 1066
Edwardsville, IL 62026
This CRNA program takes 31 months to complete and it leads to a Master of Science Degree with a specialization in Nurse Anesthesia. A BSN is required as well as a GPA of 3.0. The GRE is not required.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
CRNA Programs in Georgia
Registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and at least one year of experience in critical care may qualify for the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program in Georgia. A CRNA has the important job of administering anesthesia to patients in a variety of settings. There is a great demand for CRNAs, and salaries for this career are above average.
CRNA Certification in Georgia
A candidate for certification as a CRNA in the state must have a current RN license in Georgia. The applicant must also graduate from an accredited CRNA program and pass the certification examination.
Georgia CRNA Registry
Georgia Board of Nursing
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217-3858
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Georgia
CRNAs are employed in doctor’s offices in specialties such as pain management, plastic surgery, podiatry, and others. They also work in dental offices where oral surgery is practiced. Many CRNAs work in hospitals in rural and urban areas of the state. Some of these are the following hospitals:
Augusta Surgical Center, Augusta
Atlanta Medical Center, Atlanta
Barrow Regional Medical Center, Winder
Columbus Regional Healthcare Medical Center, Columbus
(Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary)
CRNA Programs in Georgia
There is currently only one CRNA program in the state that is accepting applications at this time. Mercer University School of Medicine is not accepting applications in 2011-2012. Information about The CRNA program at the Medical College of Georgia Anesthesia Program is listed below.
Medical College of Georgia Anesthesia
Program
987 St. Sebastian Way, EC5517
Augusta, GA 30912
This continuing education for nurses program offers either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Post-Master’s Certificate. The length of the program is 28 months full time. Classes begin each August, and applicant must apply about one year in advance to enter the program the following August.
Prerequisites for entry into the program include a BSN or Master’s Degree in Nursing and a current RN license in the U.S. with a Georgia RN license before enrolling in the program. Candidates must also have at least one year of full-time critical care experience within the past three years. In addition, a GPA of at least 3.0 and GRE score of 900 or above are required.
Students work in the human patient simulation lab and eventually move on to work with live patients in over 20 healthcare facilities in the state. Upon graduation, the student will have administered over 800 anesthetics.
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm#(2) date visited 25 March 2022
Pediatric Nurse Education
Pediatric nurses help children in a variety of settings. Pediatric nursing degrees allow nurses to work in the children’s ward of hospitals, pediatric clinics or other healthcare facilities. While working with children can be entertaining, it can also be highly stressful. The patients are often frightened of doctors and nurses and may not cooperate. It can also be very upsetting to see children suffering. However, the rewards of the profession outweigh the negatives for many pediatric nurses.
There are a couple of ways to obtain a pediatric nursing education. Hospitals or clinics may have their own training requirements for pediatric nurses. Many pediatric nurses begin as Licensed Practicing Nurses, or LPNs, and continue their education to become certified pediatric nurses.
Licensed Practicing Nurse
An LPN degree requires the least amount of time to obtain the certification. Most LPN programs are a yearlong or less. The flip side is that LPNs do not have as many opportunities or liberties that other nurses may have. LPNs may administer certain medications, monitor vitals and perform other routine services under the supervision of a physician or RN. An LPN must return to school to get a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree to work in a healthcare setting.
Associates Degree in Nursing
An Associate Degree in Nursing, or ADN, is a two-year nursing degree program that will introduce new students to the nursing field. Once this degree is obtained, students can then progress to class work that will earn them a bachelors, masters or doctoral degree. The benefit of an ADN over a registered nurse degree is that it allows you to earn your degree quickly so that you can go straight into the workforce. You can then continue working as you pursue your next level of certification.
Registered Nurse
A registered nurse (RN) must complete a certified program, which usually takes at least two years. A registered nurse in pediatrics has some flexibility as to what tasks may be done. The RN may work closely with children to determine the cause of illness and heal injuries. A pediatric RN may also focus on reports and healthcare issues that do not involve patients directly. An RN can increase the number of job opportunities available by obtaining pediatric nursing degrees.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree will provide more opportunities in the workforce. In fact, many facilities now prefer their nurses to have at least this level of education. This degree takes approximately four years to obtain. However, LPNs and RNs can earn the degree through transitional programs that acknowledge previous coursework required for their current certification.
Nurse Practitioner
A nurse practitioner (NP) can be very helpful when working with children. A pediatric NP is a registered nurse that has received a graduate degree with a specialization in pediatrics. This extensive education regarding the care of children allows them to diagnose and treat many illnesses. An NP is able to prescribe most medications and can eliminate the need to wait for a doctor to be available for an appointment.
Obtaining a Nursing Degree in Pediatrics
Before you decide which path to take, carefully consider which aspects of pediatric nursing you want to be a part of. If you want to simply help monitor sick or injured children, an LPN degree may be enough to satisfy you. If you want to have more control without spending a long time in school, look into becoming an RN. If you want to have a dominant role in nursing children back to health, take the steps to become a nurse practitioner. After you have obtained your initial certification, you may have the option of taking your education courses online. This will allow you to work while simultaneously earning your next degree. You can also look into transitional or bridge programs that will prevent you from retaking courses that you had for your initial degree.
Pediatric nursing degrees open many doors for career opportunities, and there are several ways to go about getting certified as a pediatric nurse. Allow your inner child to come out and play as you help nurse infants, children and adolescents back to health.
LPN to Physician Assistant
You have completed an accredited LPN program and know you are a certified Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), which means you are a primary caregiver, assistant and medical helper for several patients. But now however, you want to make the leap from being an LPN to Physician Assistant (LPN to PA).
Life is hectic, packed with activity, and fulfilling—but it would be much more fulfilling with more prestige, better salary and benefits,and the licensure that takes you into the competitive job market; all of which a PA position can give you.
What is a Physician Assistant?
A Physician’s Assistant is more than a step up from an LPN; it is a professional licensure in health care which can actually practice medicine, rather than just basic nursing, under the limited supervision of a doctor. In other words, it’s similar to an RN, and even takes you beyond to the various degrees to make you even more marketable in the nursing field. However, it’s also quite different from an RN position, in that a PA has a great more latitude in actual medical services they can do.
As a PA, your treatment spectrum, as it were, is a good deal broader than that of an LPN or even RN. You are allowed to do virtually all the traditional services and treatments that a medical doctor can perform, include examine patients, order tests (and interpret them), treat illnesses that you diagnosed yourself, write prescriptions and even assist in surgery.
What Is the Path from LPN to PA?
It’s not like the traditional nursing leap from LPN to RN, because the PA is trained in the medical paradigm, rather than the nursing one so the leap is more than just about finding suitable LPN to Physician Assistant programs. The training required may take several forms, but it is invariably at least two years, usually three, of medical education past the college and nursing school/LPN level.
A PA gets training in several courses that lean towards a medical specialization. These include:
– Pharmacology and pharmaceuticals, including reactions to combination of pharmacopeia
– Hematology and studies of blood and lymphatic diseases
– Pathology and bodily reactions to illness, trauma or injury
– Physical diagnoses
– Obstetrics and gynecology
– Anatomy and microbiology
Are you ready to hear about the second year? Your clinical experience will include primary care, surgical techniques (and assistant’s protocol), geriatrics, ER procedures and problem/solution paradigms, psychiatry and behavioral sciences and an extensive training in pediatrics.
As you can see from the list, there is a great deal of advanced and difficult training involved in the medical model, and the PA who earns her degree has gone through years of rigorous coursework and extensive clinical experience to achieve it.
In addition to the LPN, you should be aware that you will need at least a BA-PA to successfully achieve a job in the PA market. This is a Bachelor’s degree as Physician Assistant, and it complements your two year training with another two years of clinical course work and a year of “clinical rotations,” where you really get into the thick of the medical profession.
Clinical rotations are the lynchpin of the medical community, but they are the most wearying of routines, in which you may find yourself working one,two, or three days on and off. This step “separates the men from the boys,” but if you can tough it out, the rewards are well worth it.
Speaking of toughing it out, you might consider an MA in the PA cycle, which adds two more years of medical training and clinical experience to the mix.
Physician Assistant Job Outlook and Salary
If you do achieve the leap from LPN to Physician Assistant, you will be in constant demand, far more than you were as an LPN, and command a much better salary and benefits package. In essence, you’re being paid to be a doctor, and do what a doctor does. And if you specialize—as in HIV/AIDS treatments or other specific conditions—you do even better in prestige, salary and benefits.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (source) predicts a 21 to 26 percent increase in job opportunities in this field; the median salary averages over $90,000. If you work in a high-demand urban setting with a specialization up your sleeve, you can make over $110,000 a year.
Pediatric Nursing Continuing Education
With the ever changing methods of up-bringing children, changes in lifestyle habits and even more preferences of new illnesses, pediatric nurses need to keep abreast with how to handle new cases. Sticking with the nursing school bachelors of associate degree knowledge will do no more than lag you behind handling novel needs of pediatric nursing.
Continuing education (CE) is the only way a pediatric nurse will ensure they are up-to date with all advancements being developed towards the care of children. It is also a perfect way to earn contact hours needed for registered nurses licenses renewal. Earning contact hours is great if you do not want to re-sit your NCLEX-RN exam in order to renewal your RN license.
Pediatric Nursing Continuing Education Units (CEU) Directory
There are hundreds of CEUs available for pediatric nurses and it is up-to the pediatric nurse to choose the best for themselves. However, you must check whether there are state specific CE courses that your state board of nursing requires as prerequisites for nurses who want to renew their licenses. If not, the pediatric nurses can take any courses and get certificates to prove their involvement in nursing continuing education.
Below is a simplified directory of the most common CE courses that pediatric nurses can take:
Pediatric Toxicology CEUs
This is a huge bracket of pediatric nursing CEUs a nurse can choose from. Children are very prone to poisoning when trying out new things and making growth development discoveries. Mostly, poisoning is expected from ingestion and skin poisoning from harsh chemicals and other household hazards.
Nursing continuing education units in this bracket will include care and management of poisoning resulting from lead and iron poisoning, asbestos, pesticides, detergents, carbon monoxide leakage among others. Courses cover the administration of antidotes, gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal and ipecac syrup. Examples of courses include:
Neonatal Abstinence syndrome
Lead and mercury poisoning
Dog an insect bites management
CEUs on the Care For The Obese and Anorexic Children
Change in lifestyle trends and feeding habits has resulted to obesity being of high preference in the developed countries. For this reason, pediatric nurses must receive continuing education on how to deal with obese pediatric patients. Obese patients are at higher health risks of getting diabetes, heart failure, cardiac arrests and some types of cancer. The pediatric nurses are trained on how to offer health education to families of the affected children.
For the anorexic children, pediatric nurses are trained on how to deal with the psychology of anorexia. Anorexia is life threatening and nurses must effectively educate and counsel the suffering children and adolescents on such issues. Units include:
Handling the picky eater kid
Counseling for bullied obese kids
Childhood Obesity and diabetes
The vegetarian child
Food allergies and intolerance
Pediatric Trauma Courses
Nurses receive assessment skills for pediatric trauma coma scale and score. Training is also focused on the most common forms of pediatric trauma cases expected in children and how to carryout diagnosis and treatment options. Specific units would include:
Traumatic brain injury
Self injury and accidents
Seizure resultant trauma
Respiratory and Cardiac Pediatric Anomalies
This area includes the most number of pediatric CEUs. Courses range from care of patients diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus, hypoplastic left heart syndrome to pediatric congenital cardiac anomalies. Dedicated units include:
Asthma in children
Pulmonary and respiratory pathologies
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Pediatric ventilator and tracheotomy emergencies
Adolescents and Development Challenges
As children grow, they tend to be outgoing, experimenting on new things and tasting the new life of freedom. Pediatrics nurses must be equipped with excellent skills to handle the tantrums of the adolescent children. Wise guidance and counseling is the key to shaping the future life of the growing adolescent. Nurses are trained on:
Guidance on responsible dating and prevention of dating violence
Drug and substance abuse in the youths
HPV vaccination for cervical cancer
Rehabilitation and behavioral change management
Down syndrome in teens
Where to Get Pediatric Nursing Continuing Education Courses
Like many other nursing CEUs, pediatric nursing continuing education is available on numerous online agencies. However, the RN must ensure the CEUs they choose are approved and certificates are recognized by your state. You can get the above courses and many more at an affordable fee on accredited CE provider agencies.
Clinical Nurse Specialist vs. Nurse Practitioner
While both are masters in nursing degree holders, there is some apparent difference in the role assigned and carried out by each. Clinical Nurse Specialists and Nurse Practitioners undergo similar training during their first year of graduate study but disparity between curriculums occurs in the second year. There are many similarities and differences that can be observed between a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNP) and a Nurse Practitioner (NP) from the point of nursing school to the ultimate professional work settings.
Below are the differences between the two nursing professionals.
Differences During Study
While nurse specialists and nurse practitioners receive almost the same training, some differences can be seen at the second year of study. Nurse Practitioners are trained on offering primary care to patients. In fact, they are trained to work exactly like physicians, hence can be referred to as physician extenders. On the other hand, Clinical Nurse Specialists are trained more on areas of management, consultation of being good resources for other Registered Nurses in the healthcare field. Their training has more focus on them being change agents, instructors and policy makers in their fields of specialty.
CNS vs NP – At The Place of Work
Generally, nurse practitioners are trained to offer primary care. As such, they can be found at physicians’ offices working as physician extenders. They do diagnosis of patients and are also mandated to administer prescriptions. On the contrary, Clinical nurse specialists provide minimal primary clinical care. They normally work as nursing consultants and are called upon when a patient in the area of their specialty develops complications.
On the scope of work, nurse practitioners are able to practice nursing in a large area of nursing care. They handle patients from all ages who fall within the bracket of their specialty e.g. acute care, family health, adult health etc. For clinical nurse specialists, their scope of work falls within a limited area of nursing where examples include cardiology, geriatrics and pediatrics among other streamlined areas of nursing.
It is also common to find nurse practitioners working in outpatient clinics where patients are expected to be served by one general practitioner. In these places, nurse practitioners offer a wide spectrum of nursing services by working collaboratively with the physician. On the contrary, clinical nurse specialists are usually found in large hospitals where they take care of hospitalized patients. Their services are more focused as compared to the broadened scope of NPs.
In terms of prescription authority, nurse practitioners automatically qualify to offer prescriptions to their patients after doing necessary diagnosis. Their counterparts the nurse specialists do not automatically qualify to give prescriptions to patients. In order to do this, the clinical nurse specialists must apply for prescriptive authority only if they meet the criteria required to offer prescriptions
Salary Differences Between a CNS and NP
Generally, there is no huge difference in the level of salaries of these two nursing professions. Due to the similar level of education, employers make no distinction between nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. Disparities in salaries are not significant. The average annual salary of a NP in the US is around $85000 while that of the nurse specialist falls at around$ 86900.
What Brings the Nurse Practitioner Close To The clinical Nurse Specialist?
Regardless of the above differences between these two nursing professionals, many people do not make a distinction between them. It is for this reason why this question crops-up every now and then. The biggest confusion comes when people know that both nurses are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) and they receive the same levels of clinical training.
The credentialing body for both NP and CNS nurses is the American Nurses Credentialing centre. The requirements for credentialing are almost similar and are actually difficult to delineate.
In essence, both nurses must work collaboratively to achieve the objective of nursing practice. Clinical Nurse Specialists can engage in research and teaching and management roles and work as valuable resources of nursing concepts. On the other hand, NPs must take up the research findings and resources provided by their counterparts to keep the dream of nursing alive. It is a parallel and mutual benefit approach-precisely.
Pediatric Nurse Schooling
Working with babies, toddlers and children can be a very rewarding nursing career. Many nurses start out with a baby and work with that child as they grow into adolescents. Nurses who want to specialize in pediatrics need to attend pediatric nurse schooling to become a PNP or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Choosing the best school is important for many nurses who want to make sure they are receiving the best possible education to advance their career.
Some of the top pediatric nursing schools are outlined below.
Nurses who are considering advancing their careers and want to work in pediatrics can choose an MS degree with a focus on pediatrics or a Doctor of Nurse Practitioner with a pediatric focus. Although the DNP is not required at this time, it is becoming the preferred degree for advanced nursing such as pediatrics and will eventually become the required degree.
Top Ranked Schools
The following schools have been ranked by the U.S. News and World Report’s annual school ranking report. The rankings are based on surveys and assessments sent to faculty and administrators at universities and colleges throughout the United States.
The number one ranked school in for pediatric nursing is the University of Pennsylvania. Located in Philadelphia, Penn State’s pediatric nurse practitioner program is a one-year program with 20 hours a week in clinical work. Students work with fully certified nurse practitioners and doctors in a variety of medical settings as they earn the course required to prepare them to take either the national certification exam from the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board which gives them the Certified Pediatric Nurses Practitioners title (CPNPP).
The number two ranked school is located in New Haven, Connecticut. Yale University offers a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a Pediatric Nurse Specialty degree. This two-year program prepares nurses to work with children and adolescents with clinical rotation in local community pediatric care centers and school health care centers. Yale University School of Nursing was established in 1923 and was the first school to educate nurses in the traditional classroom method rather than an apprentice program. Yale’s nursing program is one of the most well-known in the United States and is highly respected among medical practices.
The University Of Washington School Of Nursing’s Pediatric Program is currently ranked at number three and consistently ranks among the highest in the nation. The school offers some classes in an online format with the majority of classes being campus-based. The program is the only pediatric nursing program available in the Washington/Wyoming/Alaska/Montana/Idaho area. Students in the pediatric program may choose to focus on pulmonary or developmental disabilities as they earn their degree.
The Duke University School of Nursing consistently ranks in the top ten lists of nursing schools that offer pediatric nursing programs. The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program provides students with a dual education that prepares them to work as a nurse practitioner in a neonatal setting or a pediatric setting. Students perform clinical work in the state of the art simulation lab on the campus and at the Duke University Medical Center.
Online Options
Nurses who have their BS degree and want to advance to an MS in nursing with a specializing in pediatrics may choose to study online. Some of the top online schools that offer these courses include:
Kaplan University:
Phoenix University
Georgetown University
South University
There are other schools that offer online classes that may be right for you. However, you should make sure that you research the course offerings and determine if you are going to be required to attend any campus based classes or clinical. If clinical are required you should also determine if there are options located in or near your home so that you can make arrangements for those before you register for classes.
Pediatric nurse schooling allows you to earn either a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a specialty in pediatrics or a Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Pediatric Specialty. You should find out what your state laws require in order to be a practitioner as many states are moving toward the DNP rather than the MS degree for nurse practitioners. If you know this before you pursue and advanced degree you can get the one you need the first time.
Neonatal Nurse Schooling
If you are a registered nurse who has decided to pursue working in neonatal medicine you need to first find available neonatal nurse schools that meet your needs and prepare you for working with babies that are both healthy and sick. Before you can purse your neonatal education you must first have your BSN. This allows you to move into a Master’s program to become a nurse practitioner with a focus on neonatal nursing.
The information contained herein below presents you with some of the suggested schools for neonatal education.
Universities and Colleges with Neonatal Classes
Before plunging into the application process for neonatal nurse schooling it is a good idea to know what schools have the program so you can review their guidelines and overall school and make an educated decision. To help you on this quest, some of the top schools that offer neonatal nursing programs are described here. Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive and if you have a particular school in mind that you would like to attend, you should contact them and find out if they offer neonatal programs.
Regis University: Located in Denver, Colorado, Regis University offers nurses the opportunity to study for the Master of Science: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Upon graduation you will be skilled in the care of newborns and infants with high risk medical conditions. Regis University is a Jesuit Catholic school and is accredited for the nursing programs it offers.
Rush University College of Nursing: Although the college campus is located in Chicago, classes are held on online. The school offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice –Nurse Practitioner –Neonatal degree and a Post Graduate Neonatal Certificate. The certificate course is for nurses who already have the education required to become certified or are certified in another specialty area to add neonatal nursing to their repertoire.
University of Missouri – Kansas City: The School of Nursing at University of Missouri offers a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner degree that is online but also has at least two periods of four-day sit in classes that must be attended. Classes are held through an online program called Blackboard. The school works with the student to find a local neonatal intensive care unit to complete their coursework with a preceptor that the school has selected and approved.
Creighton University: Located in Nebraska, Creighton University offers nurses seeking an advanced degree an NNNP, the nurse practitioner degree that specializes in neonatal care. The school offers some distance based classes but is overall a campus-based class. The program is a five semester program with a 300-hour residency that is part of the 675 hours of clinical practice.
Rochester University School of Nursing: The Rochester University School of Nursing in New York offers two neonatal options for nurses wishing to advance into neonatal nursing: a Masters of Science in Nursing with a focus on neonatal nursing (NNNP) a dual degree, the Care of Children and Families with Neonatal Nurse Practitioner MS/PhD. Students are able to complete clinical work in the University Of Rochester Medical Center.
University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia: This program has been ranked as one of the top in the nation. It is a one-year program for registered nurses who have been working in the neonatal intensive care unit for at least two years and wish to become certified in neonatal care. Nurses can stretch the program for two or three years if they want to attend part time. Students attend clinical trials at the world class Penn State Hershey Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Vanderbilt University: Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt requires students to have two years of neonatal experience before admissions into the program. Students can earn their MS degree with a focus on neonatal nursing from the comfort of their own home through the distance learning program. Students study Level I Newborn Nursery, Level II Intermediate Care Nursery and Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery in order to be ready to sit for the certification exam.
Neonatal nurse schooling options are varied and offered both online and in traditional, campus based classes in universities and colleges around the nation. You can choose either one or even a mixed-curriculum in order to get you degree and start your career as a higher paid, neonatal nurse practitioner.
Labor and Delivery Nurse Schooling
Labor and delivery nurses are with women during a very joyous and yet stressful time of their life, the birth of child. This means they must be prepared for many different situations and emergencies that could arise. There are different ways to work in labor and delivery if you choose to do this, from simply adding some specialty classes to your RN program to advancing your career and becoming a nurse midwife.
Choose Your Area
Before you can begin labor and delivery nurse schooling you have to decide how far you want to take your nursing in this field. Many nurses in the labor room have a typical registered nursing education with some added classes that focus on labor and delivery. The schooling for this type of work is simply an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree in nursing with the added classes and passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered. However, if you have an Associate’s Degree you will have to bridge that to a BS degree before you move into the nurse midwifery program.
If you decide that you want to become a more advanced nurse in labor and delivery, you can go on to study to become a nurse midwife. The certified nurse midwife program is a nurse practitioner degree (Master’s of Science in Nursing with a midwife specialty); however, many states are requiring a Doctor of Nursing Practice and the future outlook is that this will be the standard requirement.
Because the education for simply working in labor and delivery is no more than the traditional registered nurse education, the schools looked at below will be focused on certified nurse midwife programs.
Labor and Delivery School Options
The schools listed below are all noted for offering certified nurse midwife programs that prepare nurses to take the state examination and become certified in that area.
Frontier University: This is an online schooling option that provides distance base classes and assists students in setting up their clinical work in their hometown. Students are required to attend two or three campus based sessions in Hyden, Kentucky. The program takes two years to complete and with over 1000 preceptor sites across the U.S. graduates students from practically any location. Frontier University has been offering education to nurse midwives for more than 70 years and has a tradition steeped in quality education.
Georgetown University-Washington: This campus-based or online program in Washington is a nationally ranked program that requires 49 credit hours. The program is accredited by the Commission for Midwifery Education and is a full-time program. Clinical studies can be in local or even out-of-state hospitals or clinical sites and may include freestanding birthing facilities. The classes that are online are similar to the live classes in that they are provided in a seminar style and allow you to review them at your convenience as you study. Online students have access to student services and resources at the University.
Philadelphia University: Philadelphia University offers a Master’s of Science – Nurse Midwife degree as well as a Post Master’s Nurse Midwife Certificate. The MS degree is a two-year degree that is full time at the graduate level. Classes are web-based with some on-campus sessions required as well as clinical work that is arranged in the local community medical facilities. The Post Masters Nurse Midwife Certificate is available for nurses who have already earned their Master’s or Doctoral degree in another healthcare specialty and wants to add midwifery to their education. Graduates and certificate holders are eligible to take the certification exam to become certified nurse midwives.
University of Cincinnati: The University of Cincinnati offers an online, distance based nurse-midwifery program for nurses who wish to move into this specialized field of nursing. The classes last approximately two and one-half years and are offered through the online Blackboard program.
Labor and delivery nurse schooling is highly dependent on how far into the labor and delivery process you want to go as a nurse. You can use your traditional RN degree and work in labor and delivery or specialize in midwifery and become a nurse practitioner. Once you have made this decision you can choose the schools that offer you the best options.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), may also be known as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is an advanced practice nurse who holds a Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN). Additionally, having extensive clinical training in psychiatric nursing is what sets them apart from other nursing professionals.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners provide a range of mental health services to patients of all ages. Their work includes assessment, diagnosis, prevention and management of psychiatric disorders and symptoms.
Admission Requirements for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
While specific admission criteria may vary among specific programs, typical entrance requirements include the possession of a bachelor in nursing degree (BSN) from an undergraduate program that has received accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Most schools will require that you graduated the BSN program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also possess a valid and unrestricted state RN license. Some program may also require that applicants submit scores from the Graduate Record examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies test (MAT), especially if your overall GPA is less than 3.0, along with official undergraduate college transcripts, letters of recommendation and essay regarding your career goals.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Curriculum
Those students who attend on a full time basis can expect to complete the degree in eighteen to twenty four months. There are also accelerated programs that will enable you to complete the program at a faster pace by taking a heavier course load each semester and participating in summer study. Employed nurses may also attend on a part time basis fitting classes into their work and family responsibilities. This will extend the time necessary to complete the degree to three years or more.
Most psychiatric nurse practitioner programs will include a core course component which every student, regardless of specialty, will take. These courses include research and statistics, healthcare ethics, nurse informatics (electronic recording of patient data), health policy planning, health economics, public health nursing, as well as leadership for nurses.
At the completion of core coursework, students will take courses within their specialty track. A sample Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program curriculum is provided below.
Core and Specialty Coursework:
Course Name
Advanced Pharmacology
Core
Advanced Clinical Assessment Across the Lifespan
Core
Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan
Core
Behavioral Development Across the Life Span: A Risk/Vulnerability Perspective
Specialty
Advanced Health Assessment in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing I
Specialty
Advanced Health Assessment in Psychiatric-Mental Health in Nursing II: Clinical Practicum
Specialty
Psychopathology
Specialty
Foundations of Research
Core
Health and Social Policy: The Context for Practice and Research
Core
Family Theory in Context
Specialty
Theory and Practice of Individual Psychotherapy I
Specialty
Management and Advanced Practice Nursing
Core
Seminar on Family Therapy and Technique
Specialty
Theory and Practice of Individual Psychotherapy II
Specialty
Evaluation and Application of Research
Core
Practice of Family Therapy
Specialty
Theory of Group Psychotherapy
Specialty
Clinical Practice and Supervision with Groups
Specialty
Incorporating Genetics into Advanced Nursing Practice
Core
Advanced Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing I
Specialty
Psychopharmacology in Psychiatric and Mental Health
Specialty
Advanced Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing II
Accreditation of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
As you research master’s programs be sure to confirm that the school has received accreditation from the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Both agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as official accreditation bodies for nursing education in the United States. Accreditation is important as it signifies that you will receive a quality education as determined by program offerings, faculty experience and background, clinical opportunities, as well as student resources.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition costs will vary among type of school. Students who attend an in-state school will pay less than those who attend an out-of-state school or private university. For example, in-state tuition is about $12,000 with out-of-state tuition about $15,000. Tuition at private colleges and universities will cost approximately $60,000. Online schools, having reduced overhead costs, also tend to offer lower tuition costs than many private institutions. Related expenses include textbooks, supplies (e.g. uniforms), lab fees, commuting expenses, as well as Internet usage (especially for those attending an online program).
There are various types of financial aid available in the form of scholarships, grants, and student loans. The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for each type of aid. Working nurses may also be eligible for tuition assistance from their employer. Graduate nursing students may be eligible for additional assistance through a variety of federally-based programs. Below is a sampling of assistance offered through the Bureau of Health Professions:*
Requirements for Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs are for advanced practice registered nurses. Psychiatric mental health nursing is a specialty that APRNs can enter by pursuing a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. In order to be eligible for these programs, nurses must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and have passed their NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse. APRNs who already have a master’s degree may be able to enter a certificate program that will give them the same background as a full master’s degree in psychiatric nursing, without requiring some classes that are redundant from one nursing master’s program to the next.
After graduating from this program, some psychiatric nurses may wish to further specialize into areas like forensic psychology, or child psychology. There are plenty of continuing education and certification programs available for psychiatric nurse practitioners looking for a way to further advance their education.
Finding an Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program
Online education programs often come under some scrutiny, since their popularity has led to a lot of online “schools” that essentially churn out diplomas to anyone willing to pay for them. As a result, nurses can’t assume that every online psychiatric nurse practitioner program is worth pursuing. Even if a program claims to be Board of Nursing-approved in the student’s home state, they may not always be telling the whole truth. Unfortunately, graduates of these programs aren’t allowed to sit for their state’s licensure examinations, and can have a hard time finding work in their specialization.
The good thing is, this problem can be easily avoided if nurses go to their state Board of Nursing for help. The Board is responsible for maintaining lists of approved nursing programs, and can give students a list of which programs the state recognizes as being worthwhile. If students choose an online psychiatric nurse practitioner program from the Board of Nursing’s list of approved programs, they shouldn’t have any trouble going on to pass any required nursing licensing examinations, and finding a job in a mental health facility.
Reasons to Get a Degree in Psychiatric Nursing
Psychiatric nursing offers nurses an innovative way to approach mental healthcare. Nurses have an approach to medicine that sets them apart from doctors and psychiatrists- much more of an emphasis is placed on things like preventative measures, and many nurse practitioners end up becoming holistic healthcare providers. So, if you are fascinated by psychiatry, but prefer nursing’s approach to medicine, then getting a degree in psychiatric nursing may be an excellent career move for you.
The nursing industry is also suffering from a lack of nurses with advanced degrees. Many schools don’t have enough educators to teach advanced nursing programs, and a lot of states have chosen to emphasize graduating RNs and LPNs over advanced practice registered nurses. Therefore, as an APRN, you’ll have a lot of job opportunities available to you. With an advanced degree in psychiatric nursing, you can have your own office, work for a hospital, work for a mental health clinic, function as a counselor for prisons or detention centers, or become an educator.
Online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs give nurses a means to further their education in a convenient, inexpensive way. Considering how badly most states’ medical facilities need nurses with advanced degrees, these online programs may be the wave of the future when it comes to turning out qualified advanced practice registered nurses.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Job Description & Scope of Practice
A psychiatric nurse practitioner is a nursing position that often practices in conjunction with a psychiatrist. The PNP is an advanced nurse who has specific training in the area of psychiatry. The PNP position combines nursing with mental health care and requires a high level of education and compassion. Nurses with a high degree of training and experience are necessary in many areas of psychiatrics.
A PNP is sometimes known as a psychiatric mental health nurse. The nurse practitioner specializes in treating patients with psychiatric disorders. This nursing position may work with a doctor, or the NP may have his or her own practice. The nurse is able to deal with many types of potential patient problems including depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. This is a challenging career with many potential roles, but also a rewarding one. The PNP attends to patients, educates patients about mental health issues, works with families of patients to assist them in learning how to care for their family member, administers and monitors medication, and assists with the diagnosis of mental illness.
How to Become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nurses working in the area of psychiatry require advanced degrees. The path to take may be a very personal one. For instance, some may start out as nurses and decide to increase their education to become a nurse practitioner, while others may start out as a therapist and decide to go into the nursing side. The path usually begins with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited school. Upon graduation, you will need to begin gathering work experience. It is advisable to get at least three years of working experience in the psychiatric area before entering an advanced program. The nurse practitioner position requires that you obtain a Master’s Degree in Nursing with a specialty in psychiatric nursing.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Education Requirements, Certification, and Schooling Programs
The PNP must start by attaining an undergraduate degree in nursing (Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, BSN) from an accredited school. After graduation, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become certified and achieve the status of registered nurse (RN). Additionally, nurses who are interested or who specialize in psychiatric-mental health may want to help advance their networking, leadership potential and continuing education training opportunities by joining the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA). To become a member of APNA, you will have to apply online.
Nurse practitioners who wish to become certified may do so by obtaining the Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Successful applicants must have a master’s or post-graduate degree from a mental health practitioner program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) plus clinical training in two psychotherapeutic treatment modalities. Those who meet the qualifications and pass the exam receive the Registered Nurse-Board Certified (RN-BC) credential.
Applicants must have two years experience working as a registered nurse, 2,000 hours clinical practice and 30 continuing education hours in psychiatric and mental health to be eligible. The certification exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions. The ANCC, a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA), offers study materials and resources for applicants waiting to take the examination. Although certification is voluntary, most employers seek to hire certified individuals. Therefore, certification is not required, but it is highly preferred.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Salary and Career Outlook
Psychiatrics, as with other medical areas, is expected to continue to grow over the next two decades. The demand for specialized nursing support in this field will increase because of a growing need for advanced psychiatric care. Much of this care will be handled by nurse practitioners rather than by doctors. As the baby boomers reach old age, there will be an even greater need for nurses to care for this large group of people who will be living longer than ever.
The salary for this position varies based on experience and education. In general the PNP can expect to receive an annual salary of between $52.000 and $64,000.
Top Accredited Programs for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Training in the USA
University of California-San Francisco
Yale University
University of Pennsylvania
Rush University
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
University of Pittsburgh
University of Maryland-Baltimore
University of Virginia
University of Washington
Vanderbilt University
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
A Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP) is advanced practice nurse who has obtained a master’s degree and advanced clinical training in pediatric care. Pediatric nurse practitioners perform many of the same tasks as pediatricians providing preventive and emergency care to children, as well as educating families with regard to nutrition and wellness.
Admission Requirements for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Admission requirements vary greatly among specific programs. In general, a bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing education or by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission with a minimum GPA of 3.0, along with a current and unrestricted RN license is required. Some schools may also require scores from the Graduate Record examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies test (MAT), along with official college transcripts, and letters of recommendation from former instructors or current supervisors, along with an essay of career goals.
Accreditation of Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
One of the most important factors when selecting a master’s program is that the school be accredited by one of two agencies: the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Both agencies have been recognized by the U.S. Department as the official accreditation bodies for nursing education in the United States. Accreditation attests to the quality of education you will receive in terms of program offerings, faculty background, student resources, and clinical experiences.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Curriculum
Full time master’s degree programs will entail eighteen to twenty four months of study. However, many master level students are working nurses who fit class work into their work schedules, which then extends the time necessary to complete the degree.
Most pediatric nurse programs include core coursework in statistics, research methodology, health assessment and treatment planning, community health and public nursing, health policy, health economics, medical ethics, health education, nursing informatics, extended clinical practice, as well as leadership and management in nursing.
Sample Curriculum Pediatric Nursing*
Course name
Physical and Psychological Assessment of the Child
Specialty
Advanced Physiology
Core
Pediatric Primary Care Nursing I
Specialty
Pediatric Primary Care Nursing I: Clinical
Specialty
Clinical Seminar in Pediatric Primary Care I
Specialty
Advanced Pediatric and Neonatal Pharmacology
Specialty
Clinical Seminar in Pediatric Primary Care II
Specialty
Pediatric Primary Care Nursing II
Specialty
Clinical Practicum: Pediatric Primary Care Nursing II
Specialty
Foundations of Research
Core
Incorporating Genetics into Advanced Nursing Practice
Core
Emergency Pediatric Nursing
Specialty
Evaluation and Application of Research
Core
Interpersonal Violence and Abuse: Prevention, Assessment and Intervention for Health Care Professionals
Specialty
Management and Advanced Practice Nursing
Specialty
Pediatric Primary Care Nursing III: Clinical
Specialty
Clinical Seminar in Pediatric Primary Care III
Specialty
Health and Social Policy: The Context for Practice and Research
Tuition costs vary among schools and depend on whether you attend an in-state or out-of-state school or private college. Online schools also tend to have lower tuition costs due to reduced overhead.
If you attend a state school, tuition will be about $12,000 for in-state residents and approximately $15,000 for out-of-state students. In contrast, private colleges and universities will cost about $60,000. However various financial aid programs in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans are available to all students. In addition, working nurses may be eligible for tuition assistance from their employers. When calculating full costs of attendance, remember to account for books, supplies (e.g. uniforms), lab fees, commuting expenses, as well as Internet usage.
Requirements for Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
All nurse practitioners are registered nurses, first and foremost. To become a registered nurse and enter a master’s program specializing in pediatric nursing, nurses must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and have passed their NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse. At that point, they can enroll in a master’s program intended to graduate advanced practice registered nurses, and specialize in pediatrics.
Education, licensure, and continuing education requirements are all handled by a state’s Board of Nursing. All Boards of Nursing are slightly different, depending on a state’s needs, so the exact requirements and scope of practice for a pediatric nurse practitioner may vary from state to state. Some may require a master’s degree, some may require a doctorate, and some may not allow an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) to act as primary caregiver without the assistance of a physician.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and Certifications
Graduates of classroom-based or online pediatric nurse practitioner programs can become certified pediatric nurses. Generally, this requires that they have a few years’ worth of experience in the field, so recent graduates may not be eligible for certification. Though Boards of Nursing handle all things nursing related, certification for pediatric nurses is actually performed through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. In some states, the Board of Nursing may have determined that this certification is a requirement for practice. In others, it may be optional. Even in areas where pediatric nursing certification isn’t a necessity, it usually still pays to become certified through the PNCB- nurses with this certification are usually more marketable to prospective employers than nurses without it.
Obtaining certification requires pediatric nurse practitioners to have graduated from a Masters, Post-Master’s or Doctorate level pediatric nurse practitioner degree program and pass the PNP certification exam. This exam is based entirely on education (i.e., graduation from an accredited PNP program) and not on any field experience. In most states, a PNP graduate could not work (and therefore get any PNP experience) without certification first. Maintaining certification usually requires renewal fees, continuing education programs, and occasionally renewal exams.
Choosing the Right Online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Not all online pediatric nurse practitioner programs are created equal. Many of them may come from schools that are not approved by your state’s Board of Nursing, and thus won’t make you eligible to practice in your state. Online education is dicey, since there are a lot of programs that attempt to represent themselves as Board-approved, when they aren’t. In situations like that, the attitude of the Board of Nursing is generally that it’s the student’s responsibility to research nursing programs before enrollment. To avoid graduating from a program with a useless degree, you need to take several precautions when it comes to choosing which one to enroll in.
To begin with, make sure that your chosen program is not international. Most states don’t recognize international nursing degree programs. Secondly, don’t take the program’s word for it if they say that they are Board-approved. Your Board of Nursing will be able to give you a list of approved nursing programs in your state, so you can pick from institutions that will definitely allow you to take your licensure examinations and practice after graduation. If you aren’t sure if certain online pediatric nurse practitioner programs are approved, ask them. The Board of Nursing is a nurse’s best resource when it comes to dealing with educational issues.
Online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs may be convenient for nursing students, but it can be hard to find one that’s actually Board-approved. Nonetheless, these programs are worth seeking out for nurses that want to specialize in working with children, since they can give you the opportunity to handle your own pediatrics practice as an APRN.
Top Accredited Programs for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Training in the U.S.A
University of Pennsylvania
Yale University
University of Washington
University of Pittsburgh
Duke University
University of Colorado
Rush University
University of Colorado – Denver
Columbia University
University of California-San Francisco
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
Emory University
Johns Hopkins University
University of Iowa
University of Michigan—Ann Arbor
University of Chicago – Illinois
University of Maryland-Baltimore
Vanderbilt University
Ohio State University
Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Online nurse practitioner programs provide a highly flexible method for working nurses to pursue a master’s degree in order to advance their career. Nurse practitioners (NP) are registered nurses (RN) who have been trained to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. The focus of most NPs is on health promotion and education, as well as disease prevention.
Benefits of Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Online nurse practitioner programs were developed with the working nurse in mind. Many working nurses are juggling several responsibilities and find it difficult to commute back and forth to campus so value the opportunity to study online. The growing popularity of online nursing programs at all degree levels has prompted many nursing schools to expand their formats to include this study option.
A second benefit of online programs is that they typically sot lest to attend than do traditional campus based programs. This is because online program have reduced overhead costs in terms of building space and materials.
Selecting an Online Nurse Practitioner Program
While online nursing programs offer several benefits in terms of cost and convenience, you should select a program only after performing some due diligence. The following are some suggested steps to take when researching different programs.
Ensure that the program is accredited
It is very important that you attend a school that has received accreditation by either the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These agencies have been approved by the U.S. Department of Education as official accreditation agencies of nursing education programs. Attending an accredited school validates the quality of education you will receive and ensures that your degree will be accepted by your State Board of Nursing. You will also need to attend an accredited school in order to be eligible for federally-based financial aid.
Know your Learning Style
Not all distance learning programs are the same. Some program stress student independence while others offer a good deal of support and offered in a quasi-campus format with scheduled class times and faculty advising. In general, the greater level of independence a school offer, the greater levels of motivation and self-discipline students must possess.
Online study does involve teacher and student interaction
Even the more independent programs do include some measure of interaction among faculty and students, as well as student-to-student. There are several ways that this interaction occurs, from message boards to virtually-based advising sessions, discussion groups, live chats, and topic forums. Building relationships with faculty and other students will increase your motivation and focus while also providing a method to get help with challenging material Discussion groups provide a forum to raise opinions and question regarding specific issues brought up “in class.” Connection fosters relationships and sense of community and lifts the sense of isolation that can experience during the course of the program.
Utilize Online Resources
There are many online resources to assist nursing students with coursework, such as medical dictionaries and thesauruses. Students may also utilize search engines such as Google, Ask.com or Yahoo by typing a search term for nearly any medical topic into the browser. In addition, such Web sites as WebMD.com and MayoClinic.com offer a plethora of information regarding a wide variety of medical conditions..
Online Nurse Practitioner Program Admission
For the most part, admission requirements will include graduation form an undergraduate institution that has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education with a minimum GPA of 3.0; .a valid and unrestricted RN license. Two or three letters of recommendation from instructors or supervisors, résumé or curriculum vita, along with an essay of career goals. Some schools may also require students to submit scores from the Graduate Record examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT).
Online Nurse Practitioner Program Curriculum
Full time students can expect to complete the program in eighteen to twenty four months. Programs may also be completed on a part time basis which will extend the time to completion to about three or four years.
Core coursework in most online nurse practitioner programs includes medical ethics, health policy planning, health economics, nursing informatics, public health nursing, research and statistics, as well as leadership in nursing. Once core coursework is completed students will then take classes in their specialty area, whether that be Generalist Nurse practitioner (NP); Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP); Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP, or Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP). Specialty coursework will also include advanced clinical practice with targeted patient populations.
Top Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Georgetown University
Brandman University
Kaplan University
University of Phoenix
American Sentinel University
Drexel University
Grand Canyon University
Capella University
Vanderbilt University
Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in the United States of America – Campus Based
University of California-San Francisco
University of Washington
University of Pennsylvania
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Columbia University
Oregon Health and Science University
Johns Hopkins University
Yale University
University of Maryland-Baltimore
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
University of Alabama – Birmingham
Duke University
Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing
University of Pittsburgh
University of Colorado – Denver
University of Chicago – Illinois
University of Kentucky
Georgia Southern University
Rush University
Emory University
Family Nurse Practitioner Programs
What is a Family Nurse Practitioner?
A Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) is an advanced practice nurse who has obtained a master’s of science in nursing (MSN) degree, along with advanced clinical training in family care. Family Nurse Practitioners focus on preventative care and health promotion. They perform many of the same duties as family physicians and are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of acute and chronic health conditions in patients of all ages.
Admission Requirements for Family Nurse Practitioner Programs
Although specific admission criteria may vary among different schools, for the most part admission requirements include the possession of a bachelor’s degree from a school that has received accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. In most cases a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 will be required. Applicants must also hold a current and unrestricted RN license in the state where they practice. Specific programs may also require applicants to submit scores from the Graduate Record examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies test (MAT), along with official undergraduate college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Accreditation of Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
When researching master’s programs be sure the program has received accreditation by one of two agencies: the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Each of these agencies has been recognized by the U.S. Department as the official accreditation bodies for nursing education in the United States. Accreditation is important as it signifies that you will receive a quality education as determined by program curriculum, faculty experience and publishing background, and clinical opportunities.
Family Nurse Practitioner Curriculum
Students who attend on a full time basis can expect to complete the program in about eighteen to twenty four months. There are also accelerated programs that will allow you to complete the program sooner by taking a heavier course load each semester and attending during the summer session. Programs may also be taken on a part time basis for working nurses which extends the time necessary to finish by one or two years.
Most family nurse programs will include core coursework in such subjects as research methodology and statistics, health policy planning, medical ethics, community health and public nursing, nursing informatics, as well as management principles in nursing.
Once core coursework is completed students will then take classes in their specialty area. A sample Family Nurse Program curriculum is provided below.
Core Coursework:
§ URS501 Perspectives in Advanced Nursing Practice
§ NURS504 Advanced Human Pathophysiology
§ NURS506 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice
§ NURS603 Individual, Family and Community Systems
§ NURS604 Evidence Based Nursing Practice
§ NURS633 Advanced Holistic Health Assessment
FNP Track Coursework:
§ NURS503 Pharmacology for Advanced Practice
§ NURS643 Primary Care of the Child Bearing Family
§ NURS636 Primary Care I
§ NURS637 Primary Care III
§ NURS690 Practicum in the Nurse Practitioner Role
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition costs will vary depending on type of school you attend. Those who enroll an in-state school will pay less than those who attend an out-of-state school or private university. For example, the cost to attend an in-state tuition is about $12,000 with out-of-state tuition about $15,000. Tuition at private colleges and universities will cost approximately $60,000. Online schools, having reduced overhead costs, also tend to offer lower tuition costs than many private institutions.. Related expenses include textbooks, supplies (e.g. uniforms), lab fees, commuting expenses, as well as Internet usage (especially for those attending an online program).
There are various types of financial aid available in the form of scholarships, grants, and student loans. The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for each type of aid. Working nurses may also be eligible for tuition assistance from their employer. Graduate nursing students may be eligible for additional assistance through a variety of federally-based programs. Below is a sampling of assistance offered through the Bureau of Health Professions:*
❚ Nurse Loan Repayment and Scholarship Programs support current students and new graduates. These programs include:
● Loan Repayment: This program will repay up to 85% of loans taken during nursing study. In return you will need to work in a healthcare facility or geographic location which is experiencing a critical shortage of nurses for a minimum, or serve as a faculty member for at least three years.
● Scholarship: Scholarships are available to full time nursing students. Upon graduation, recipients are required to work in a healthcare facility facing a critical shortage area for a minimum of two years.
❚ The Faculty Loan Repayment Program provides loan forgiveness for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who agree to work as faculty at eligible health professions schools for no less than two years.
Top Accredited Family Nurse Practitioner Training Programs for in the United States
University of California-San Francisco
University of Washington
University of Pennsylvania
University of Michigan—Ann Arbor
Columbia University
Oregon Health and Science University
Johns Hopkins University
Yale University
University of Maryland-Baltimore
Vanderbilt University
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
University of Alabama—Birmingham
Duke University
Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing
University of Pittsburgh
University of Colorado – Denver
University of Chicago-Illinois
University of Kentucky
Georgia Southern University
Rush University
Emory University
Ohio State University
University of Virginia
How to become a pediatric nurse
A Pediatric nurse (PED) works with children, from 0 to 21 years of age in a variety of healthcare settings. There are opportunities for PEDs (pediatric nurses) to work in both preventative and acute health care settings with children. There are two types of pediatric nurses, those with undergraduate training and those who have pursued training and certification at the graduate level.
In addition to ability to care for children, patients need to have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to relate to all ages as their duties will often include working with anxious parents and guardians.
How long does it take to become a pediatric nurse?
Becoming a pediatric nurse at the undergraduate level requires four years of study. Though students can become a licensed and registered nurse in just two years by earning an associate’s degree, students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree have a better opportunity to gain work as a pediatric nurse. Though there is no certification at the undergraduate level, there are steps a student can take towards a career in pediatrics if that is their ultimate goal.
First, during undergraduate education, aspiring PEDs should take as many classes related to caring for and working with children as possible. Courses in child psychology are ideal. After earning their RN qualification, an aspiring pediatric nurse should try to find a career in a pediatric unit of a hospital or with a pediatrician’s private practice. Many hospitals and clinics offer internship or training programs for Registered Nurses interested in working as a pediatric nurse. Joining a pediatric nurse professional association is also a great way to network with other nurses to obtain experience.
Once a student has training as a pediatric nurse, the nurse can pursue certification through the Pediatric Nursing Board. This certification exam is designed specifically for nurses who work as a pediatric nurse to demonstrate training and expertise in pediatrics. Though not required, certification helps nurses demonstrate their skill in a particular area.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
For students interested in pursuing an official title of Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, they will need to pursue a master’s degree program which offers training at the graduate level. Most PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) programs are two years, and extensively cover working with children and understanding their growth and development. This is because PNPs, in addition to working with children as part of their healthcare team, can also prescribe, diagnose and treat children. Once the graduate program is complete, a nurse can pursue certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Certification is required for the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner title.
How much does a pediatric nurse make?
Pediatric nurses at the undergraduate level will earn the same salary as RNs of other specialties. The salary of an RN pediatric nurse can best be determined by their experience level and location. Graduate level pediatric nurse practitioners can earn upwards of $60K in their first year of practice.
What are other career options for the pediatric nurse?
In addition to pursuing further education as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, PEDs can work as a speaker or instructor to students who aspire to be pediatric nurses. As a pediatric nurse, it is important to stay involved in continuing education to stay abreast of developments in the field.
