Best colleges for neonatal nursing?

I'm interested in specializing in neonatal care and looking for the best colleges to become a neonatal nurse. What programs are considered top-notch, and what should I look for in their courses?

Several colleges and universities offer excellent programs for students interested in specializing in neonatal nursing. Although there are many ways to become a neonatal nurse, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is one of the most common pathways. Upon graduation, you would need to pass the NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse, and gain some experience in a pediatric or neonatal setting. Afterward, some nurses opt to further their education and become Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNP), which requires a Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN).

Duke University, for example, is highly regarded for its nursing programs. They offer a highly specific Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program as part of their master's program for students who already have a BSN.

The University of Pennsylvania also has a strong nursing program, including a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Track within its MSN program. Their curriculum is comprehensive and includes hands-on clinical experience as well as classroom instruction.

Rush University is another institution known for its neonatal nursing program. It has a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program within the DNP degree which could provide a more broad-base skill set that could be useful in neonatal nursing.

Still, when reviewing programs, you should look at a few key factors:

1. Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by an organization like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. Curriculum: Look for programs that offer comprehensive training in neonatal care, including both coursework and clinical experience. As a neonatal nurse, you'll need expertise in everything from basic infant care to highly specialized neonatal intensive care.

3. Clinical Opportunities: Hands-on clinical experience is crucial in nursing education. Consider programs that offer rotations or internships in neonatal intensive care units (NICU).

Overall, the best plan is to pursue a BSN at a reputable nursing school, get some nursing experience working with neonates, then either go on for your master's degree or a postgraduate certificate if you want to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Best of luck with your aspirations!