Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a focused, one-year academic pathway designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles in pediatric primary care. With a curriculum rooted in clinical excellence, evidence-based practice, and developmental science, the program equips students to deliver comprehensive healthcare services to children from infancy through adolescence. Emphasis is placed on health promotion, disease prevention, family-centered care, and the management of acute and chronic conditions in outpatient settings.
Throughout this full-time, on-campus program, students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical placements in pediatric clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. Faculty members with expertise in pediatric nursing, child health policy, and advanced practice nursing guide students through a rigorous yet supportive academic experience. By the end of the program, graduates are prepared to sit for national certification and assume leadership roles in pediatric care settings, delivering holistic, developmentally appropriate care to diverse pediatric populations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Nursing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Pediatric Primary Care
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology in Pediatrics
- Pediatric Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
- Child Development and Family Systems
- Pharmacotherapeutics for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
Semester 2 – Advanced Clinical Practice and Leadership
- Management of Common Pediatric Illnesses
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Children
- Pediatric Primary Care Practicum I
- Ethics, Policy, and Leadership in Pediatric Nursing
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this specialized master’s program are highly qualified to work as Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) in primary care clinics, pediatric medical homes, community health centers, school-based health programs, and private practices. Their training allows them to conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat childhood conditions, prescribe medications, and offer anticipatory guidance and preventive care. PNPs often collaborate closely with pediatricians, educators, and social workers to support children’s well-being across physical, emotional, and developmental domains. The growing emphasis on accessible, long-term pediatric care—especially in underserved communities—means that demand for skilled primary care providers continues to rise. Graduates are also positioned to take on roles in clinical education, public health policy, or child advocacy, or to continue toward doctoral-level nursing practice. With certification and state licensure, they become trusted providers and advocates in shaping the future of child health services.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an ideal choice for nurses who want to make a lasting difference in children’s lives through high-quality, family-centered primary care. It offers a focused and intensive curriculum, hands-on clinical training, and access to faculty with deep expertise in child health and advanced nursing practice. The one-year format is perfectly suited to motivated professionals who want to gain advanced credentials quickly and enter practice without delay. Pennsylvania University’s strong healthcare partnerships ensure diverse clinical placements and mentorship opportunities that support real-world skill development. Additionally, students benefit from a supportive academic community, advanced simulation labs, and preparation for national board certification. With its blend of academic rigor and practical application, the program equips graduates to meet the evolving needs of pediatric populations with confidence, compassion, and clinical excellence.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
