Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schools
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Lexington, Kentucky
Get your Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Lexington, Kentucky - online & campus-based options available.
Contact a school today for more info.
Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Lexington, Kentucky
If you’re considering a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) in Lexington, Kentucky, you’re embarking on a rewarding path that combines specialized healthcare with a focus on pediatric patients. PNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive care to children from infancy through young adulthood. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a PNP, including education paths, certification, and local opportunities.
About Lexington
Lexington, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is a city rich in history and culture, located in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region. With its picturesque landscapes and thriving arts scene, Lexington offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences. For more information about the city, visit the official Lexington website. Key neighborhoods include downtown Lexington, Chevy Chase, and Beaumont, each offering distinct local flavors and amenities.
PNP Master’s Programs in Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington is home to several esteemed institutions offering Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs. Here are three options for pursuing your PNP education:
- University of Kentucky College of Nursing
- Programs Offered: The University of Kentucky offers both Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs. These hybrid programs provide a mix of online and in-person coursework, allowing for flexibility and comprehensive training.
- Location: Located in the heart of Lexington, near the historic downtown area.
- Program Details: University of Kentucky PNP Programs
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Programs Offered: While not located directly in Lexington, Eastern Kentucky University offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on family nurse practitioner, which can be a stepping stone to pediatric specialization.
- Location: Richmond, KY, approximately 30 miles from Lexington.
- Program Details: Eastern Kentucky University Nursing Programs
- Bellarmine University
- Programs Offered: Offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on pediatric care, providing advanced training for those seeking leadership roles in pediatric nursing.
- Location: Louisville, KY, about 80 miles from Lexington.
- Program Details: Bellarmine University Nursing Programs
PNP Employment Opportunities in Lexington
Lexington boasts a range of healthcare facilities where PNPs can find employment opportunities:
- Kentucky Children’s Hospital
- Description: Part of the University of Kentucky Healthcare system, this hospital provides comprehensive pediatric care and is a leading facility in the region.
- Location: Located in the University of Kentucky campus area.
- Employment Opportunities: Kentucky Children’s Hospital Careers
- Lexington Clinic
- Description: A multi-specialty medical group offering pediatric services among other specialties.
- Location: Various locations, with a main office in the Beaumont neighborhood.
- Employment Opportunities: Lexington Clinic Careers
- Baptist Health Lexington
- Description: A major healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of services including pediatric care.
- Location: Situated in the Hamburg area of Lexington.
- Employment Opportunities: Baptist Health Lexington Careers
Prerequisites for PNP Master’s Programs
To enroll in a PNP Master’s program, candidates typically need:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program.
- A minimum GPA, often around 3.0.
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Clinical experience as an RN, usually one to two years.
- GRE scores or other entrance exams, depending on the program.
PNP Certification Requirements
After completing your education, certification is the next step:
- Obtain national certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- Certification options include Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PCPNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care (ACPNP).
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
Licensure Requirements
To practice as a PNP in Kentucky, you must:
- Hold an active RN license.
- Obtain an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license through the Kentucky Board of Nursing.
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check.
- Submit proof of national certification.
- Kentucky Board of Nursing
Licensure Reciprocity
Kentucky is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. This is beneficial for PNPs who may wish to work across state lines.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Lexington, Kentucky, is a fulfilling journey with numerous opportunities for growth and impact. With the right education and certification, you can make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families. Contact a local school today to begin your path towards becoming a PNP.
For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.