Fastest Online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs for [2025]

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

A pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) degree prepares you to provide advanced healthcare to infants, children, and adolescents, focusing on both primary and sometimes acute care settings. You can expect a rigorous curriculum that combines advanced nursing theory with specialized pediatric content, including courses in advanced physiology/pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and pediatric-specific clinical management. 

Where can I work with an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

A pediatric nurse practitioner degree opens up a wide range of rewarding career opportunities focused on the health and well-being of children from infancy through adolescence. In many states and countries, PNPs have significant autonomy and can diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and develop comprehensive treatment plans.

How much can I make with a pediatric nurse practitioner degree?

With a pediatric nurse practitioner degree, you can expect to earn a competitive salary that reflects your specialized skills in pediatric healthcare. As of mid-2025, the average annual salary for a pediatric nurse practitioner in the United States is approximately $135,000, which breaks down to about $65 per hour or $11,263 per month.

Salaries can vary widely based on factors such as location, experience, and employer, with most PNPs earning between $110,000 (25th percentile) and $170,000 (75th percentile). 

Fastest Online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025

Looking to advance your nursing career without missing a beat? Our list highlights accelerated tracks featuring comprehensive pediatrics imaging, virtual simulations, and local clinical placements. These programs mirror the efficiency of the fastest online RN to MSN bridge programs, helping you earn your MSN–PNP credential in record time.

1. Vanderbilt University Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care  Specialty

The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC) specialty at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is a nationally ranked program designed for nurses aspiring to provide expert primary care to infants, children, and adolescents. The program uses a hybrid learning model—delivering online coursework paired with required, brief on-campus sessions—combining the flexibility of online education with immersive clinical experiences. 

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $2,057
• Required credits to graduate: 45 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. Case Western Reserve University Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program at Case Western Reserve University’s Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing is designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice in pediatric primary care. This program emphasizes didactic excellence and hands-on, comprehensive clinical experience, enabling students to provide high-quality healthcare to children from birth through adulthood. 

• Program Length: 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $1,124
• Required credits to graduate: 40 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. Old Dominion University Pediatric Nurse Practitioner MSN Program

Old Dominion University (ODU) offers a CCNE-accredited Pediatric Nurse Practitioner  MSN program designed to prepare nurses to provide comprehensive care for well, at-risk, and chronically ill children. The program equips graduates with advanced clinical knowledge and practice skills in pediatric primary care. The faculty are practicing clinicians and educators experienced in pediatric healthcare.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $486
• Required credits to graduate: 49 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. Maryville University MSN Program - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Maryville University offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing program with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration designed to prepare nurses to provide expert primary care to infants, children, and adolescents. The curriculum integrates disease prevention, health promotion, counseling, and family-centered care approaches.

• Program Length: 28 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $752
• Required credits to graduate: 47 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

5. Regis College Pediatric Nurse Practitioner MSN Program

Regis College offers a fully online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner MSN program designed to prepare nurses for advanced pediatric primary care roles. This program equips students with the knowledge and clinical skills needed to provide comprehensive care to children and their families. Regis assists students in securing clinical placements that fit their geographic and professional needs, including options to arrange clinicals in current workplaces with appropriate preceptorship approval.

• Program Length: 28 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $995
• Required credits to graduate: 46 credits
• Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nursing

6. University of Texas at Arlington MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program

The MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) online program at the University of Texas at Arlington is designed for nurses committed to delivering expert, evidence-based care for children from birth through 21 years of age. It prepares advanced practice nurses to lead and promote research in developing pediatric healthcare services that span the full primary care continuum—from prevention and wellness to chronic and acute disease management.

• Program Length: 29 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $654
• Required credits to graduate: 41 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

7. Walden University MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care Program

Walden University’s online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (PNP-PC) program offers flexibility, expert curriculum, and robust clinical training enabling students to balance career advancement with their current professional and personal lives. It also offers quality support and learning experience with dedicated resources include academic advisors, practicum placement assistance, and 24/7 technical support.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $775
• Required credits to graduate: 63 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

8. Herzing University MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

The Online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Program at Herzing University integrates core MSN courses, direct care courses, and specialty pediatric courses covering advanced nursing practice, healthcare from infancy through adolescence, clinical decision-making, and primary care skills to form meaningful, long-term relationships with patients. 

• Program Length: 20 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $755
• Required credits to graduate: 48 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

9. Spring Arbor University MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care Program

The Online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC) Program at Spring Arbor University is delivered in a faith-based, flexible online format, allowing students to balance work, life, and education while preparing for advanced certification and practice as a pediatric nurse practitioner. The program integrates Christian values, blending robust academic content with spiritual and personal growth.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $797
• Required credits to graduate: 82 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

10. University of Colorado Master of Science Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

The Online Master of Science (MS) Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC) Program at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus facilitates clinical experiences, especially for students in the Denver/Aurora area, partnering with leading clinics and hospitals—including Children's Hospital Colorado—to ensure diverse, high-quality hands-on training. Practicum courses include four clinical rotations (each about 135 hours) across various pediatric settings. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary Care
• Cost per credit: $797
• Required credits to graduate: 82 credits

• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

How long does it take to complete an online pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Online pediatric nurse practitioner degree programs typically take between 18 months and 3 years to complete, depending on the program structure, the student's prior education, and whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time.

Full-time MSN PNP programs most often require about 2 to 3 years of study, with some accelerated options allowing completion in approximately 18 to 24 months. This is true with programs for other nurse practitioner specialties as well, like the shortest post master's PMHNP online programs.

For example, some programs like Regis College offer completion in as little as 28 months, while others may stretch to about 30 months or more when including clinical practicum requirements. The total credit load usually ranges from about 40 to 63 credits, including didactic online coursework and hundreds of clinical hours (typically around 500-600 hours) completed in local healthcare settings. 

Programs feature flexible online course delivery and multiple start dates to accommodate working nurses. Students with transferable credits or prior graduate coursework may finish faster, while part-time students or those in bridge programs (such as RN-to-MSN) may take longer, sometimes up to 4 years.

How does an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program compare to an on-campus program?

Online PNP programs deliver the same rigorous curriculum as traditional tracks—including hands-on labs and clinical practicums—while offering the flexibility found in top best online master of health administration programs. You’ll access virtual simulations, asynchronous lectures, and local practicums, all with robust support services that rival on-campus resources.

Online programs leverage interactive technology such as virtual simulations, case studies, and digital resources to maintain engagement and provide a modern learning experience. Clinical practicums are arranged locally for each student, ensuring hands-on training in real healthcare settings while supporting work-life balance. Additionally, online students often benefit from extensive virtual support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career coaching. 

In contrast, on-campus PNP programs provide direct, face-to-face interaction with faculty, peers, and clinical mentors, fostering a more immersive and structured learning atmosphere. These programs typically include on-site simulation labs and immediate feedback during hands-on training, which some students find invaluable for mastering clinical skills.

The campus environment offers access to a broad range of physical resources such as libraries, research facilities, and counseling services, along with opportunities for networking and peer collaboration. The structured schedule of on-campus programs suits learners who prefer routine and direct supervision throughout their studies.

What is the average cost of an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

The average cost of an online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) degree program in the U.S. generally ranges from $15,000 to over $66,000 for the entire program, depending on the institution, program length, and credit requirements.

For example, programs like Maryville University have total tuition costs starting around $15,500, while more expensive programs, such as those at Johns Hopkins University, can exceed $70,000 when calculated by credit hour tuition rates.

Tuition is often calculated per credit hour, typically between $995 and $2,100 per credit hour for many reputable universities offering PNP programs online, with total credit requirements usually ranging from 40 to 75 credits. For instance, Regis College charges about $995 per credit hour, with program completion possible in as little as 28 months, while Johns Hopkins University charges nearly $2,000 per credit hour for its pediatric NP tracks.

Additional fees such as technology fees, clinical placement expenses, books, and possible travel for clinicals or brief campus residencies may increase the total cost but tend to be lower than the expenses associated with on-campus programs. Online formats often offer savings related to housing, transportation, and time off work, making them a cost-effective alternative.

If you're looking for nursing positions that provide a faster ROI on educational costs, you can also explore AGNP vs FNP salary to learn more about these advanced nursing roles.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Many PNP students leverage funding opportunities similar to those available in fastest online women’s health nurse practitioner graduate certificate programs. Here are some:

• School-Sponsored Scholarships: Many universities offering online PNP programs have their scholarships specifically for nursing students or graduate students. These can often have less competition than external scholarships. Contact the financial aid office of your chosen program for details.
• National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) Foundation: NAPNAP Foundation scholarships and grants support nursing research and clinical practice efforts that improve the quality of life for children and families, including the Empowering Professional Diversity Scholarship and research grants.
• Federal Grants: While primarily for undergraduate students, some federal grant programs may have limited availability for graduate students or specific nursing programs. The first step to determine eligibility for federal grants is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans: These loans are available to graduate students enrolled at least half-time. The maximum amount is the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. A credit check is performed, but eligibility is not need-based.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing higher education, especially in high-demand fields like nursing. Check with your employer's HR department.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) degree program may be similar to medical assistant certification requirements, and these typically include the following: 

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Some programs also offer bridge options for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma in nursing to transition into the MSN-PNP track.
• A current, unrestricted, and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the state where the student plans to complete clinical hours. This license must be maintained throughout the program.
• A minimum cumulative GPA, often 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, calculated from recent academic credits (commonly the last 60 semester hours or the most recent degree).
• Completion of prerequisite courses, most frequently including a college-level statistics course and sometimes an undergraduate health or physical assessment course.
• Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions previously attended.
• Additional application materials such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation, an updated resume, and sometimes an interview or standardized test scores, depending on the school.
• Some programs may require at least one year of clinical nursing experience before enrollment.

What courses are typically in an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner degree program?

Online pediatric nurse practitioner programs, whether at the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) level, typically combine core advanced practice nursing courses with specialized pediatric content and extensive clinical experiences. 

While specific course titles and credit hours may vary slightly between institutions, the general curriculum covers the following key areas: 

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Deep dive into the physiological processes of disease, examining the scientific concepts related to the biology of disease processes across the lifespan, with a strong emphasis on how these apply to pediatric populations. 
• Advanced Pharmacology/Pharmacotherapeutics: Comprehensive study of drug classes, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics. This course focuses on safe and effective medication management for infants, children, and adolescents, considering age-related differences in drug absorption, metabolism, and excretion.
• Health Promotion and Maintenance for the Pediatric Population: Focuses on normal growth and development from infancy through adolescence, including developmental milestones, anticipatory guidance, health supervision, injury prevention, and screening guidelines (e.g., Bright Futures Guidelines). Learning this course can also help in performing
• Management of Acute and Common Pediatric Health Conditions: Covers the diagnosis, management, and treatment of a wide range of common acute illnesses and injuries in pediatric primary care settings. This includes infectious diseases, respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal issues, dermatological problems, and more.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Covers research methodologies, statistical analysis, critical appraisal of research literature, and the translation of evidence into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes. Students often develop an evidence-based practice project.
• Healthcare Policy, Ethics, and Leadership: Explores healthcare systems, policy development, ethical considerations in advanced practice, and the role of the advanced practice nurse as a leader, advocate, and change agent within the healthcare system.
• Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice: Examination of nursing theories and conceptual models, and their application to advanced nursing practice.

Students exploring related healthcare careers will find that these courses will also be helpful in building medical assistant qualifications and skills.

What types of specializations are available in an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner programs commonly offer a variety of specializations, allowing students to focus their practice within specific areas of pediatric care. Programs often mirror the breadth of offerings in fastest online public health nursing msn programs by providing:

• Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC): This specialization emphasizes well-child care, health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common acute and chronic pediatric conditions in ambulatory settings. Graduates provide routine checkups, immunizations, developmental screenings, and treat minor illnesses.
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-AC): Focused on managing complex, acute, and chronic health conditions in hospitalized or critically ill children. This track prepares students for work in intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty pediatric inpatient units.

Some programs also offer dual specialty tracks or combined primary and acute care pediatric nurse practitioner degrees, enabling a broader scope of practice. The specific availability of sub-specializations varies by school.

How to choose the best online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Selecting the right online pediatric nurse practitioner program is essential in future licensure, and job satisfaction. Here are key factors and steps to guide your decision:

• Accreditation: Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards and will prepare you for certification and licensure requirements.
• Specialization Focus: It is crucial to consider programs that provide subspecialty options, such as neonatal care or pediatric cardiology, if you have a specific area of interest. If you want to work with new mothers and infants, for instance, you can explore information on "What does a postpartum nurse do?"
• Program Structure and Flexibility: It is important to find a program that fits your schedule. You can look into program length, credit requirements, and the program format to see if it aligns with your desired timeline.
• Faculty Credentials and Support: Strong programs provide access to faculty mentors, student success coaches, academic advising, and technical support throughout your studies.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare the total program cost, including tuition (typically $20,000–$60,000), fees, and expenses related to distance learning, books, and any campus residencies. Research scholarship opportunities, employer tuition assistance, and loan options.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Graduates of an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner programs are highly qualified for advanced roles in pediatric healthcare across a wide spectrum of settings or even for a medical administrative assistant career.

Upon certification, they are prepared to serve as primary or acute care providers for children from birth through adolescence, working independently or collaboratively within healthcare teams. 

• Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Provide routine health maintenance, well-child assessments, developmental screenings, and management of acute and chronic illnesses in outpatient clinics or private pediatric practices.
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Deliver advanced care for infants, children, and adolescents facing complex, acute, or critical health conditions in hospital settings such as pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), emergency departments, cardiac care, or inpatient units.
• Specialty Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Roles: Provide focused care to populations such as children with cancer, heart defects, diabetes, or chronic respiratory illnesses.
• School-Based Health Centers: Serve as primary healthcare providers for children in schools, addressing acute illnesses, managing chronic health issues, and coordinating preventive care such as immunizations and health education.
• Community Health and Public Health Agencies: Participate in public health programs, maternal-child health initiatives, and outreach clinics, particularly in underserved or rural populations.

What is the job market for graduates with an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

The job market for graduates with an online pediatric nurse practitioner program is exceptionally strong, reflecting both urgent workforce needs and broader trends in healthcare. Pediatric nurse practitioners are in increasing demand due to a rising and diverse child population, expanding access to healthcare, and a nationwide shortage of primary and acute care pediatric providers.

Currently, only a small proportion of nurse practitioners are certified in pediatrics—about 3-4%—which creates significant opportunities, especially as hospitals dedicated entirely to pediatric care value these specialists.

The growth rate for nurse practitioner positions is projected to reach 40% between 2023 and 2033, the fastest among all healthcare careers, according to the latest labor statistics. This is expected to result in over 135,000 new job openings for nurse practitioners by 2033, far exceeding national averages for other professions.

What challenges should I anticipate in an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

Online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner programs require a high level of self-discipline and effective time management, as remote learning demands the establishment of a structured schedule independent of traditional classroom environments. Candidate challenges can include navigating digital platforms, ensuring consistent engagement during asynchronous lectures, and coordinating local clinical placements without onsite supervision. Additionally, managing the balance between professional responsibilities and academic commitments is crucial. Institutions often provide tailored support and resources to help overcome these hurdles, and students may benefit from exploring options such as inexpensive online nursing programs to achieve cost-effective education without compromising quality.

What accreditation and licensure requirements should I consider for an online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program?

It is essential to verify that the program meets recognized national accreditation standards, such as those provided by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Prospective students should confirm that the curriculum satisfies state-specific licensure requirements, including preparatory coursework for certification exams and clinical competency assessments. Evaluating how a program aligns with evolving regulatory standards will inform the certification process and long-term career mobility. In some cases, exploring accelerated online DNP programs can offer a streamlined pathway to advanced clinical credentials while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

Here's what graduates have to say about their online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner program

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

Where do pediatric nurse practitioners get paid the most?

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) generally find the highest salaries in states located on the West Coast and in the Northeast of the United States. Specifically, California consistently ranks as the top-paying state for PNPs and nurse practitioners in general, often with average annual salaries well over $170,000. Other high-paying states include New York, Oregon, Massachusetts, and Washington, where PNPs can expect to earn significant compensation. 

Can you get MSN without bsn?

Yes, it is possible to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) without first obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), though the pathways differ depending on your current educational background.

For individuals who already hold an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma and are licensed Registered Nurses (RNs), "RN-to-MSN" bridge programs are specifically designed to help them earn their MSN directly, often integrating BSN-level coursework into the master's curriculum. These programs streamline the process, saving both time and money compared to completing a separate BSN and then an MSN.

Is MSN automatically NP?

An MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) does not automatically make someone a Nurse Practitioner (NP). While an MSN is the minimum degree required to become an NP, additional specialized education, clinical training, and certification are necessary to hold the NP title and practice as one. MSN programs can focus on various nursing roles such as administration, education, or leadership, and not all prepare nurses for NP responsibilities.

To become an NP, one must complete an accredited NP program or a post-master’s NP certificate program and pass a national NP certification exam. Licensure as an NP is separate and requires meeting state-specific criteria beyond holding an MSN degree.

How do accelerated online PNP programs benefit working nurses?

Accelerated online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs offer significant benefits for working nurses seeking career advancement. These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing nurses to balance their professional responsibilities with academic pursuits. Because coursework is delivered online, nurses can study at their own pace and on their own schedules, often without relocating or disrupting current employment.