Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs) play a crucial role in the dynamic and fulfilling field of nursing, specializing in the care of newborn infants, particularly those in critical condition or requiring special medical attention.
Their responsibilities extend to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), delivery rooms, and various healthcare settings. Beyond these critical environments, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)s work across specialized outpatient clinics and follow-up care services, ensuring a seamless continuum of care for infants transitioning from the NICU.

For those drawn to making a significant impact in the lives of newborns and their families, exploring the top NNP programs available in 2024 is a key step towards realizing this mission. These programs offer a comprehensive blend of advanced clinical training, cutting-edge research opportunities, and mentorship from experienced nurses—all essential elements in shaping competent, compassionate, and resilient NNPs.

Best Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Programs

Choosing the best NNP programs involves evaluating factors such as accreditation, faculty expertise, clinical experiences, student-to-faculty ratio, available specialties, admission and graduation rates, cost, location, and overall reputation. To facilitate an informed decision-making process, allnurses utilized a methodology that involved surveying readers to gather feedback on what they value most when selecting from the most popular schools in the United States.

The Fastest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Programs in 2024

1. Duke University School of Nursing – Durham, NC

Duke University School of Nursing stands out for its flexibility, offering distance-based learning, high-fidelity simulation exercises, expert faculties, and an extensive clinical network to facilitate students’ completion of clinicals near their location.

The program includes both MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate options. The MSN program, designed for NNP certification, spans 2.5 years, requiring a total of 43 credits and 616 clinical hours. The tuition is $14,525 per semester.

2. The Ohio State University – Columbus, OH

The Ohio State University offers some of the nation’s premier online NNP programs. Options include a traditional MSN, BSN-to-DNP, Post-Master’s Study program, and Graduate Entry Master of Science Program.

Students benefit from flexible completion options—part-time or full-time—and the ability to conduct clinicals in their local area. The well-structured curriculum is supported by expert professors. The program mandates 600 hours of clinical experience, encompassing care for healthy children, those with acute illnesses, and children with stable chronic conditions under preceptor supervision.

3. University of Florida – Gainesville, FL

The University of Florida’s College of Nursing integrates an NNP track into its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This prepares students to deliver advanced nursing care to critically ill and recovering neonates and their families.

The comprehensive curriculum covers didactic and clinical courses, establishing a robust foundation in neonatal pathophysiology, pharmacology, and neonate management. The clinical training program offers extensive experience in neonatal care facets, emphasizing resuscitation, acute and convalescent care, and advanced procedures. The program spans three years and boasts a 100% pass rate on the certification exam.

4. Vanderbilt University – Nashville, TN

Vanderbilt University distinguishes itself with a comprehensive curriculum led by highly qualified faculty and renowned NNPs. The personalized approach, facilitated by low faculty-to-student ratios, results in students achieving above-average results on the NNP certification exam and securing employment shortly after program completion.

The school offers both MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate programs. The MSN program, completed in three semesters of full-time study, requires 41 credits in core MSN and NNP-specific courses.

5. University of South Alabama – Mobile, AL

The University of South Alabama provides a range of NNP programs, including a Post-Graduate Certificate, MSN, and DNP, along with an MSN program tailored for RNs with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. The NNP specialty prepares graduates for advanced nursing care in diverse clinical contexts.

Graduates have the option to pursue doctoral studies, showcasing their ability to apply advanced knowledge and contribute to nursing practice advancement. The tuition is $423 per credit hour for in-state residents and $846 for out-of-state residents.

6. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing – Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing offers MSN and post-graduate programs. The MSN program, available full-time or part-time, features a comprehensive curriculum covering core, theory, clinical, and elective courses.

This program excels in preparing students for neonatal care across a spectrum of medical needs. It collaborates with other pediatric programs, providing unique experiences in the field. While most courses are in person, Penn accommodates busy schedules with some offered in online or hybrid formats. The program lasts two to three years, with full-time tuition at $56,262, excluding additional fees.

7. University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA

The NNP program at the University of Pittsburgh equips graduates to manage high-risk infant and child health within families. Graduates assume leadership roles in clinical settings, particularly in intensive care nurseries and high-risk follow-up clinics, emphasizing care and management of critically ill newborns.

The University of Pittsburgh offers BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Professional Certificate programs. The BSN-to-DNP program requires 93 credits in MSN, DNP, and NNP-specific courses, with a total tuition cost of $26,136 for full-time per academic year.

8. University of Alabama at Birmingham – Birmingham, AL

The MSN NNP program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham prepares students to provide advanced nursing care for newborns, infants, and toddlers up to two years old. The curriculum, available through RN-to-MSN, MSN, Post BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate APRN Certificate programs, features part-time, distance-accessible options to accommodate working nurses.

The curriculum combines synchronous online classes with on-campus intensives, focusing on mastering essential skills through laboratory and simulation experiences. Tuition is $525 per credit hour for residents and non-residents.

9. University of Connecticut – Storrs, CT

The University of Connecticut offers MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate programs for NNPs. Online NNP programs require a minimum of two years of full-time RN-level experience in a level three neonatal intensive care unit before starting clinical practicum courses.

Program options include a 44-credit Master of Science (MS) degree, a 76 to 82-credit BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BS-DNP) degree, and a 29-credit Post-Graduate Certificate.

10. University of Cincinnati – Cincinnati, OH

The NNP program at the University of Cincinnati is available to residents of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Featuring online core courses, the program offers intensive components in-person or virtually. Pathways include MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate programs.

The MSN program requires 44 credits and can be completed within five semesters if enrolled full-time. Tuition is $836 per credit for part-time resident students and $8,359 per semester for full-time.

11. University of Missouri – Kansas City, MO

The University of Missouri offers a Post-Master’s Certificate and an MSN in NNP, utilizing a blended delivery method that combines online coursework with mandatory on-campus visits. The semester-based structure allows full-time students to complete three courses per semester within two years, while part-time students can choose one or two courses per semester and graduate in three years.

The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, totaling 45 credit hours with tuition set at $40,213.80.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: Job Description, Salary, and How to Become One

Job Description of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs)

Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs) function as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with a specialization in providing care for newborn infants, especially those in critical conditions or requiring specialized medical attention. These infants may be either premature or full-term, presenting with congenital defects, infections, or other medical conditions necessitating intensive care.

NNPs primarily operate in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) but can also extend their services to delivery rooms, emergency rooms, or specialty clinics. They collaborate closely with neonatologists, pediatricians, and various healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of newborns.

Responsibilities of Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)s

The responsibilities of NNPs encompass a broad spectrum of duties:

1. Patient Assessment: NNPs conduct thorough physical assessments of newborns, closely monitor vital signs, and interpret diagnostic tests to ensure accurate evaluation and diagnosis.

2. Diagnosis and Treatment: They play a pivotal role in diagnosing health conditions, formulating comprehensive treatment plans, which may involve administering medications, providing respiratory care, or performing necessary medical procedures.

3. Patient Management: NNPs monitor the progress of their patients, making necessary adjustments to treatment plans, and providing emergency care when situations demand immediate attention.

4. Family Support: NNPs offer educational resources and emotional support to the families of newborns, assisting them in understanding their baby’s condition and the specific care requirements.

5. Collaboration and Consultation: NNPs engage in collaborative efforts with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals and consult with specialists to ensure the provision of optimal care for newborns.

NNP Salary Expectations

The income of a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) is subject to significant variations based on factors such as geographical location, professional experience, work environment, and educational background and certification levels.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) was $124,680 annually or $59.94 hourly. While the BLS provides an average, it doesn’t differentiate between various NP specialties.

For a more detailed breakdown, consider the top-paying states for NPs:

– California: $158,130
– New Jersey: $143,250
– Massachusetts: $138,700
– Oregon: $136,250
– Nevada: $136,230

Industries with the highest levels of NP employment include:

– Offices of Physicians: 122,830
– General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: 58,080
– Outpatient Care Centers: 23,760
– Offices of Other Health Practitioners: 10,950
– Home Health Care Services: 7,460

On the other hand, ZipRecruiter reports a salary range for Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)s between $94,000 to $148,000, with Washington claiming the top spot at $148,081, followed by New York ($139,590) and California ($136,067).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What education is required to become an NNP?

To become an NNP, one must first obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Subsequently, gaining experience is crucial before pursuing an MSN or a DNP with a specialization in neonatal care. After graduation, passing a national certification exam is required to become a certified NNP.

2. Can NNPs prescribe medication?

Yes, NNPs can prescribe medication, though specific regulations regarding prescription authority may vary by state.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an NNP?

Becoming an NNP can be a rewarding career choice, offering the opportunity to significantly impact the lives of newborns and their families. NNPs enjoy a high degree of autonomy, excellent job prospects, and competitive salaries.

4. What skills are important for an NNP?

NNPs require a diverse skill set, including excellent communication and interpersonal skills, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, the capacity to work under pressure, and a profound understanding of neonatal care. Compassion, patience, and the ability to provide emotional support to families are also essential attributes.