Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schools
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
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Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Jacksonville, Florida
Are you considering a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) in Jacksonville, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve your goal, from education to certification. A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in the care of children from infancy through young adulthood. PNPs work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing both primary and acute care. There are different educational paths to becoming a PNP, including a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on pediatric care.
About Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida, is a bustling city known for its extensive park system, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and cultural experiences. For more information about the city, visit the official Jacksonville website.
PNP Master’s Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
Several schools in Jacksonville offer PNP Master’s programs. Here are three options to consider:
- University of North Florida (UNF)
- Location: Southside neighborhood
- Program: The UNF Brooks College of Health offers an MSN with a concentration in Pediatric Primary Care. The program includes coursework in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, along with extensive clinical training.
- Website: UNF Brooks College of Health
- Jacksonville University (JU)
- Location: Arlington neighborhood
- Program: JU offers an MSN program with a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for national certification and includes both didactic and clinical components.
- Website: Jacksonville University School of Nursing
- University of Florida (UF)
- Location: Gainesville, FL (approximately 70 miles from Jacksonville)
- Program: UF offers both Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs. These programs are comprehensive, with a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership in pediatric nursing.
- Website: UF College of Nursing
PNP Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is home to several major healthcare facilities where PNPs can find employment:
- Wolfson Children’s Hospital
- Location: Downtown Jacksonville
- Description: A leading pediatric hospital providing a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty clinics.
- Website: Wolfson Children’s Hospital Careers
- Nemours Children’s Specialty Care
- Location: San Marco neighborhood
- Description: Offers specialized pediatric care in various disciplines, including cardiology, orthopedics, and neurology.
- Website: Nemours Careers
- UF Health Jacksonville
- Location: Springfield neighborhood
- Description: A comprehensive academic health center providing a wide range of services, including pediatric care.
- Website: UF Health Careers
Prerequisites for PNP Master’s Programs
To enroll in a PNP Master’s program, candidates typically need:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): From an accredited program.
- Minimum GPA: Often a 3.0 or higher.
- Work Experience: One to two years of RN experience, preferably in pediatrics.
- Entrance Exams: Some programs require GRE scores.
- Licensure: An active RN license in Florida.
PNP Certification Requirements
After completing your education, you must obtain certification to practice as a PNP. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) are the primary certifying bodies. Visit the PNCB and ANCC websites for more information.
Licensure Requirements
In Florida, PNPs must hold an active RN license and meet additional requirements set by the Florida Board of Nursing. For detailed information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.
Licensure Reciprocity
Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without additional licensure. However, PNPs must still meet state-specific requirements for advanced practice.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Jacksonville, Florida, is a rewarding journey. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on children’s health. Contact a school today to learn more about their PNP programs and take the first step towards your future in pediatric nursing.
For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.