Earn Specialty Certification and Nurse Practitioner Licensure. A graduate nursing degree allows students to specialize in a certain area, like acute or primary pediatric care. States licensing boards require NP candidates to possess at least a master of science in nursing (MSN), but some nurses decide on a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) instead. After obtaining RN licensure, nurses need a graduate degree to move on to NP licensure. Experience in pediatrics will help applicants stand out in the admissions process. Most graduates will need 1-3 years of clinical experience, preferably in pediatrics, before admission. You can find a full guide to the NCLEX here. Individuals must pass this exam to apply for state RN licensure. The National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) evaluates aspiring nurses' knowledge and skills. Learn More About Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Schooling 2. For example, ADN- holders can find RN-to-BSN programs, while those with bachelor's degrees in non-nursing fields can complete accelerated BSN programs. Many nurses can enroll in nontraditional degree options as well. A bachelor's degree takes longer to complete - about four years for full-time students - but BSN-holders can directly enroll in graduate programs. Many NPs choose to pursue a BSN over an associate degree in nursing (ADN). The first step to becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner involves completing an undergraduate degree in nursing. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree. Accelerated Nurse Practitioner Programsġ.Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN).

How to get a cpn nurse