Becoming A PNP

                Now that you know all about a PNP I want to tell you how you become one !

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

An aspiring pediatric nurse practitioner must first earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Coursework includes basic nursing principles, biology, nutrition, chemistry, anatomy and psychology. Rotations through various clinical settings and departments, including pediatrics, are required.

Step 2: Obtain a Registered Nurse License

All RNs are required to obtain nursing licenses by passing the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse . Plus, nurse practitioner master's degree programs require applicants to a valid RN licenses. Some states may have additional licensing requirements. 

Step 3: Work as a Registered Nurse in Pediatrics

Pediatric nurse practitioner programs often require applicants to have at least 1 year of professional nursing experience in pediatrics. Attaining work experience and making professional contacts is also important, because letters of recommendation from employers factor into the admissions process. Getting practical experience in pediatrics can also help nurses decide if they'd like to specialize in an area of pediatric nursing.

Step 4: Earn a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Master's Degree

Individuals must complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program that offers a specialization in pediatric care.  Pediatric clinical work teaches nurses how to manage common health issues and chronic illnesses as well as how to work with different populations, like young families and adolescents. An MSN degree can be earned in 1 to 2 years.

Step 5: Earn Certification and Licensure

All pediatric nurse practitioners must become certified in the specialty in order to practice. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board  offers the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care designation and the American Nurses Credentialing Center  offers the Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified  credential. Candidates for both certifications must have pediatric nurse practitioner graduate degrees, be licensed RNs and pass the corresponding certification exams.