students practice on a nursing simulation baby

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Use your expertise to deliver evidence-based, lifesaving care to neonates (up to two years of age) — especially those born prematurely or with critical conditions — while supporting families during some of their most challenging moments.

At Ohio State, you’ll be part of one of the nation’s most comprehensive health science centers — where innovation, research and collaboration thrive. Guided by world-class faculty and dedicated mentors, you’ll gain clinically rigorous, evidence-based training that prepares you to lead in today’s healthcare environment. You will build skills across diverse settings — from community-based primary care agencies to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s renowned teaching hospitals. Along the way, you’ll benefit from hands-on experiences, interdisciplinary collaboration with healthcare professionals and the support of expert preceptors committed to your growth.

Apply through one of our programs

Applicants must meet specific neonatal experience requirements. Prior to beginning clinical practicum experiences, students must have 24 months of full-time RN experience in a Level III or IV NICU. Students who do not yet meet this requirement at the time of admission may work in a NICU while completing non-clinical coursework. To be eligible for national certification as a neonatal nurse practitioner, students must have two years of full-time NICU RN experience within the previous five years. Visit the program page to learn more about admission requirements, curriculum and how to apply.

Online

On campus

  • Graduate Entry

    Non-nurses seeking master’s level preparation.

  • BSN to PhD

    Nurses who want to lead research and shape the future of healthcare.

What is a neonatal nurse practitioner?

A neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the care of newborns who are premature, critically ill or experiencing complex medical conditions. They blend advanced clinical expertise with a holistic, family-centered approach to support the most vulnerable patients in high-acuity environments. They primarily practice in Level II-IV Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) and may also attend high-risk deliveries, participate in neonatal transport and provide care in outpatient follow-up and developmental clinics.

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Attend an information session to learn more about. 

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Our graduates enter the workforce with the skills and competencies to:

  • Assume an advanced practice role as a neonatal nurse practitioner.
  • Integrate theory and evidence into care for high-risk infants and their families.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate healthcare strategies for critically ill and medically fragile neonates.
  • Improve outcomes by engaging in evidence-based practice and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Use leadership skills to influence policies affecting neonatal and family care.
  • Adapt professionally within rapidly changing high-acuity environments. Contribute to the advancement of neonatal nursing.

Graduates are eligible for national board certification as a neonatal nurse practitioner through the National Certification Corporation (NCC).