Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
The Master of Science in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care at Virginia University is a two-year, full-time blended program designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for specialized care of infants, children, and adolescents with acute, complex, and critical conditions. Combining online coursework with on-campus clinical intensives, the curriculum offers both flexibility and rigorous hands-on training. Students develop advanced clinical decision-making skills and in-depth knowledge in pediatric pharmacology, pathophysiology, and diagnostic reasoning. The program is built around evidence-based practice and a family-centered care model, preparing graduates to respond confidently in high-acuity environments such as pediatric ICUs, emergency departments, and specialty clinics.
Virginia University provides a collaborative and supportive learning environment that connects students with expert faculty, pediatric specialists, and interdisciplinary teams. Through simulation labs, clinical rotations, and virtual learning modules, students gain the practical skills and theoretical foundation necessary for national certification and licensure. The program places a strong emphasis on ethical care, leadership development, and culturally competent practice. Graduates leave prepared to provide safe, high-quality, and compassionate care to vulnerable pediatric populations while contributing to healthcare improvement and innovation in acute pediatric settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, Blended
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Virginia, United States
- Field of Study: Medicine
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Core Pediatric Foundations
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
- Pediatric Health Assessment and Diagnosis
- Foundations of Pediatric Acute Care
- Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Semester 2 – Clinical Reasoning and Pharmacology
- Advanced Pediatric Pharmacology
- Pediatric Clinical Decision Making
- Pediatric Emergency and Trauma Care
- Clinical Practicum I
Semester 3 – Specialty Practice and Leadership
- Pediatric Cardiology and Respiratory Management
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Pediatric Nursing
- Advanced Diagnostics in Acute Care
- Clinical Practicum II
Semester 4 – Integration and Certification Preparation
- Acute Pediatric Neurology and Oncology Care
- Healthcare Systems and Policy for Nurse Practitioners
- Final Clinical Practicum and Capstone
- Board Exam Review and Professional Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are uniquely qualified for roles in pediatric intensive care units, emergency departments, hospital-based specialty teams, and acute care clinics. As Pediatric Nurse Practitioners – Acute Care, they are prepared to provide comprehensive and rapid-response care to children with life-threatening or complex conditions. They can work in children’s hospitals, academic medical centers, trauma centers, and specialty care settings where advanced nursing expertise is essential. Their ability to assess rapidly changing conditions, lead care teams, and communicate effectively with families makes them vital members of the pediatric care continuum. Many also take on roles in clinical education, policy advocacy, or pediatric research, helping to shape the future of child healthcare delivery.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for nurses who aspire to deliver specialized, high-impact, and patient-centered care in acute pediatric environments. Virginia University’s blended format provides the best of both flexibility and immersion, allowing students to balance clinical commitments with advanced learning. The curriculum is crafted by experienced pediatric faculty and aligned with national certification standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for licensure and real-world demands. Through high-fidelity simulations, hands-on clinical practice, and mentorship, students gain the confidence and competence to care for critically ill children across diverse healthcare settings. For those seeking a deeply meaningful and professionally advanced nursing career, this program offers a comprehensive and focused pathway into pediatric acute care leadership.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 434 924 0311
Email: gradadmissions@virginia.edu
Address: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
