Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schools

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Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Boston, Massachusetts

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Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, Massachusetts

Are you considering a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) in Boston, Massachusetts? This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve your PNP certification and explore local educational opportunities. A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse specializing in pediatric care, providing comprehensive healthcare to children from infancy through young adulthood. There are various educational paths to becoming a PNP, including master’s and doctoral programs.

About Boston

Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and educational institutions. As the capital of Massachusetts, Boston offers a unique blend of history and modernity, with landmarks such as the Freedom Trail and neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay. For more information about the city, visit the official Boston website.

PNP Master’s Programs in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is home to several prestigious institutions offering Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs. Here are three notable schools:

  1. Boston College – Connell School of Nursing
    • Located in Chestnut Hill, Boston College offers a Master’s program in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The program emphasizes clinical practice and leadership in pediatric healthcare. For more information, visit the Boston College PNP program page.
  2. Northeastern University – Bouvé College of Health Sciences
    • Situated in the Fenway neighborhood, Northeastern University provides a comprehensive PNP program focusing on primary care for children. The curriculum includes advanced clinical training and research opportunities. Learn more at the Northeastern University PNP program page.
  3. University of Massachusetts Boston – College of Nursing and Health Sciences
    • Located in the Dorchester neighborhood, UMass Boston offers a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track within its Master of Science in Nursing program. The program prepares students for certification and practice in diverse healthcare settings. Visit the UMass Boston PNP program page.

PNP Employment Opportunities in Boston

Boston boasts a variety of healthcare facilities where PNPs can find employment:

  1. Boston Children’s Hospital
    • Located in the Longwood Medical Area, Boston Children’s Hospital is a leading pediatric center offering numerous opportunities for PNPs. Explore their career opportunities.
  2. Massachusetts General Hospital for Children
    • Situated in the West End, this hospital is part of the renowned Massachusetts General Hospital, providing comprehensive pediatric care. Check out their employment page.
  3. Tufts Children’s Hospital
    • Located in Chinatown, Tufts Children’s Hospital offers a range of pediatric services and is known for its collaborative care approach. Visit their careers page.

Prerequisites for PNP Master’s Programs

To enroll in a PNP Master’s program, candidates typically need:

  • A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
  • A minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher).
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license.
  • Clinical experience as an RN, often one to two years.
  • Completion of entrance exams such as the GRE, if required by the program.

PNP Certification Requirements

To become certified as a PNP, candidates must:

  • Obtain national certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
  • Pass the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (CPNP-PC) or Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care (CPNP-AC) examination.

For more information, visit the PNCB website or the ANCC website.

Licensure Requirements

In Massachusetts, PNPs must:

  • Hold a valid RN license issued by Massachusetts.
  • Apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) authorization through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
  • Provide proof of education, certification, and good moral character.

For detailed information, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

Licensure Reciprocity

Massachusetts is not a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, so PNPs must obtain a state-specific RN license. However, Massachusetts does allow licensure by reciprocity for nurses licensed in other states.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, Massachusetts, is a rewarding journey. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion for pediatric healthcare. Contact a local school today to begin your path to becoming a PNP.

For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.