Best Master’s in Pediatric Nursing Programs

Professionals with a master’s in pediatric nursing can often explore ample job opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for registered nurses to grow 7% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Earning a master’s in pediatric nursing can qualify graduates for leadership nursing positions, such as medical and health services manager. The BLS projects jobs for medical and health services managers to grow 32% from 2019 to 2029.

Nurses who enjoy caring for others and working with children often thrive in pediatric nursing positions. Pediatric nurses specialize in caring for infants and adolescents. These professionals must understand developmental stages and be familiar with the best practices for working with children.

Although many pediatric nursing positions require only a bachelor’s degree, professionals in the field can advance their career by earning a master’s degree. Master’s degree-holders often qualify for pay raises and managerial positions.

This guide explores typical degree requirements and components of the best pediatric nursing master’s programs.

Pediatric nurses need at least a bachelor of science in nursing. Some employers prefer candidates with a concentration in pediatrics or a master’s degree.

Nursing programs typically include lecture-based classes, which may require multiple-choice and written exams. Nursing students also complete in-person clinical hours. Bachelor’s students generally complete about 120 credits, and most master’s in nursing programs require about 36 credits.

Most full-time students can complete a master’s in pediatric nursing in two years. However, this time frame depends on the student’s schedule and the program format.

A nurse practitioner program prepares students to obtain APRN licensure. A master’s in pediatric nursing qualifies holders for administrative and managerial roles in the nursing field.

Earning a master’s in pediatric nursing can qualify professionals for higher-paying positions. Individuals with a certificate or associate degree in nursing can work as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, who earn a median annual salary of $47,480, according to the BLS. On the other hand, nurse practitioners, who need a master’s degree, earn a median salary of $109,820 per year. After earning a master’s degree, aspiring nurse practitioners must obtain licensure to practice.

The following tables highlight salaries for each type of nursing professional. Factors that influence an individual’s earning potential include position, location, experience, and employer. For example, a pediatric nurse working at a private practice in a large city may earn more than a nurse in a rural community’s hospital.

Source: BLS

Students researching master’s in pediatric nursing programs should ensure each prospective school holds accreditation. The accreditation process involves regular quality assessments by third-party organizations. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee these accrediting agencies.

Institutions in the United States can hold national or regional accreditation. Regional accrediting agencies evaluate schools in a specific area. For example, the Higher Learning Commission grants regional accreditation to schools in the Midwest United States. Most employers place greater value on degrees from regionally accredited schools.

Nursing programs can also earn field-specific accreditation. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is one of the top accrediting agencies for nursing programs. Learners can confirm the accreditation status of any school or program using the ED’s searchable database.

After earning a master’s in pediatric nursing, graduates must obtain licensure to practice. Most states require candidates for licensure to pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse. Test-takers receive six hours to complete the exam, which includes 75-265 questions. The exam ends when test-takers achieve a passing score.

Each state sets its own requirements for nursing licensure. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing provides information about each state’s requirements. Additionally, many states participate in reciprocity agreements, which allow nurses to transfer their license between states.

While nurses must hold licensure to practice, certification is a voluntary process that can lead to increased professional opportunities. Earning a certification can lead to specialized roles in competitive nursing fields, such as pediatrics.

Many hospitals and clinics require or prefer pediatric nurses to hold certification. To obtain pediatric nursing certification, candidates must pass the Certified Pediatric Nurse Examination from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours.

The certification exam covers topics related to adolescent care. Candidates must understand how to assess safety risks, record medical histories, and identify signs of abuse and neglect. The exam also includes questions related to family dynamics and barriers to care. The certification demonstrates that the holder is prepared to provide guidance and education to children and families about growth and nutrition.

Professionals must complete the recertification process each year. The PNCB also offers specialized certifications for pediatric nurses in areas such as pediatric mental health.

Students in pediatric nursing programs hone skills in interpersonal communication, observation, and listening. Learners also develop field-specific skills, such as medicine administration and record-keeping.

Most master’s programs in the field require about 36 credits, or 12 courses. Most full-time students earn their master’s in pediatric nursing in about two years.

The courses below are common to many pediatrics nursing master’s programs. Exact curricula vary by program, so students should read course descriptions before enrolling. Learners with specific career goals should look for programs that offer relevant coursework.