Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schools
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
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Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in St. Louis, Missouri
If you’re considering a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) in St. Louis, Missouri, you’re embarking on a rewarding journey that combines specialized healthcare for children with the opportunity to make a significant impact on young lives. A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse who provides primary care to children from infancy through young adulthood. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a PNP, including educational paths, certification, and employment opportunities in St. Louis.
About St. Louis
St. Louis, located along the Mississippi River, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with neighborhoods like Central West End and Soulard providing unique experiences. The city is home to renowned institutions like the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden. For more information about the city, visit the official St. Louis website.
PNP Master’s Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis hosts several esteemed institutions offering Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs. Here are three options for aspiring PNPs:
- Saint Louis University (SLU)
- Program: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.
- Location: Midtown neighborhood.
- Description: SLU offers a mostly online program with one required campus visit. The curriculum includes advanced practice nursing, health promotion, and clinical practicum courses. For more details, visit the SLU MSN-NP Program page.
- University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL)
- Program: MSN with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track.
- Location: Normandy neighborhood.
- Description: UMSL provides a comprehensive program focusing on pediatric health care, combining online coursework with clinical practice. Visit the UMSL College of Nursing for more information.
- Maryville University
- Program: Online MSN with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Location: Town and Country neighborhood.
- Description: Maryville offers a fully online program designed for working nurses, emphasizing pediatric care and advanced nursing practices. Learn more at the Maryville University Nursing page.
PNP Employment Opportunities in St. Louis
St. Louis is home to several major healthcare facilities where PNPs can find employment:
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital
- Location: Central West End neighborhood.
- Description: Part of BJC HealthCare, this hospital is a leading pediatric facility offering comprehensive services. Explore opportunities at St. Louis Children’s Hospital Careers.
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital
- Location: Compton Heights neighborhood.
- Description: A Catholic, not-for-profit hospital providing exceptional pediatric care. Visit SSM Health Careers for job listings.
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis
- Location: Creve Coeur neighborhood.
- Description: Known for its pediatric services, Mercy Hospital offers a variety of roles for PNPs. Check out Mercy 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) degree from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA, often around 3.0.
- An active RN license.
- Clinical experience as a registered nurse.
- Completion of prerequisite courses, such as statistics and health assessment.
PNP Certification Requirements
After completing a PNP program, certification is the next step. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offer certification exams. Visit the PNCB and ANCC websites for more information.
Licensure Requirements
In Missouri, PNPs must hold a valid RN license and obtain an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license. The Missouri Board of Nursing oversees licensure. For details, visit the Missouri Board of Nursing.
Licensure Reciprocity
Missouri is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. This is beneficial for PNPs seeking opportunities across state lines.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in St. Louis is a fulfilling choice. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a local school today to learn more about their PNP programs and start your journey toward making a difference in children’s healthcare.