Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schools
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Long Beach, California
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Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Long Beach, California
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) in Long Beach, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve your goal, from understanding what a PNP does to exploring local educational opportunities. A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse specializing in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. To become a PNP, you typically need to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a pediatric focus or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a bustling coastal city known for its diverse community and rich cultural heritage. Located in Los Angeles County, Long Beach offers a unique blend of urban and beach life, with attractions such as the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website.
PNP Master’s Programs in Long Beach, California
If you’re looking to pursue a PNP program in Long Beach, here are some options:
- California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
- Located in the Los Altos neighborhood, CSULB offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specialty. The program focuses on providing comprehensive pediatric care and includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Learn more about the program.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Although not in Long Beach, UCLA is approximately 30 miles away in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. UCLA’s School of Nursing offers a highly regarded MSN program with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track. Explore the program.
- Azusa Pacific University
- Located about 40 miles from Long Beach in Azusa, this university offers a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program as part of its MSN degree. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership in pediatric healthcare. Visit the program page.
PNP Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach is home to several healthcare facilities where PNPs can find employment:
- Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach
- Situated in the Memorial Heights neighborhood, this hospital is part of the Long Beach Medical Center and offers specialized pediatric care. Check employment opportunities.
- Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
- Also located in Memorial Heights, this comprehensive medical center provides a range of services, including pediatrics. Explore job openings.
- The Children’s Clinic, Serving Children & Their Families
- Located in the Poly High District, this clinic focuses on providing healthcare services to underserved children and families. Visit their careers page.
Prerequisites for PNP Master’s Programs
To enroll in a PNP Master’s program, you typically need:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution.
- An active Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- A minimum GPA, often around 3.0.
- Clinical experience as an RN, usually one to two years.
- Completion of entrance exams such as the GRE, if required by the program.
PNP Certification Requirements
To become a certified PNP, you must:
- Obtain national certification from recognized bodies such as the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- Pass the certification exam specific to pediatric nursing.
Licensure Requirements
In California, PNPs must:
- Hold an active California RN license.
- Obtain a Nurse Practitioner certificate from the California Board of Registered Nursing.
- Acquire a furnishing number to prescribe medications.
Licensure Reciprocity
California is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, but it does have processes for licensure by endorsement for out-of-state nurses. This allows PNPs licensed in other states to apply for California licensure, provided they meet the state’s requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Long Beach, California, is a fulfilling journey. With the right education, certification, and licensure, you can make a significant impact on the health and well-being of children in your community. Reach out to a local school today to begin your path toward becoming a PNP.
For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.