How to become a pediatric nurse through college programs?

I'm interested in pediatric nursing and would love some insights into which colleges offer strong programs for this career path. What should I be looking for in a college if I want to become a pediatric nurse?

To become a pediatric nurse, you'll generally take the following steps through college programs:

1. Get a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Look for colleges and universities recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Some schools known for their strong nursing programs include University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, and Duke University. Be sure the nursing programs focus on pediatrics. Some nursing programs have specific tracks or specializations in pediatrics, so keep an eye out for those.

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a required examination for licensure as a registered nurse in the United States. A good nursing program will have a high pass rate for this exam.

3. Gain Experience: After you've passed your licensure exam, you'll want to work as an RN preferably in pediatric settings such as children's hospitals, pediatric clinics, or school nursing positions. Check if your potential colleges have partnerships with local hospitals which will allow you to gain hands-on experience and might help you secure a position post-graduation.

4. Advanced Certification: After gaining significant work experience, you may choose to become a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN). This certification isn't a requirement but it validates your specialized knowledge and skills. Some nurses may also take a further step to obtain a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Certified (PPCNP-BC) or Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Certified (PACNP-BC) by completing a graduate program and clinical hours.

When choosing a college look for programs with experienced faculty, a comprehensive curriculum, high licensure exam pass rates and strong relations with health care facilities for clinical practice opportunities. It's also beneficial to attend a program with a strong focus on pediatrics. Lastly, take into consideration if the college provides support for job placement after graduation.