nursing student uses stethoscope on baby mannequin in lab

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Use your expertise to provide care in managing seriously ill children with complex conditions, bridging advanced medical expertise with compassionate family support.

At Ohio State, you’ll train within one of the nation’s top comprehensive health sciences centers, gaining clinically rigorous, evidence-based experience guided by world-class faculty and dedicated mentors. You’ll build skills across diverse settings — from community-based primary care agencies to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center — and benefit from hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and the support of expert preceptors committed to your success.

Apply through one of our programs

Applicants must have at least one year of full-time RN experience in a pediatric acute care setting. Experience preferably in an intensive care unit or other high-acuity environment, prior to applying to the program. Visit the program page to learn more about admission requirements, curriculum and how to apply.

On campus or online

On campus

  • BSN to PhD

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

What is a pediatric acute care nurse practitioner?

A pediatric acute care nurse practitioner (PNP-AC) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the management of infants, children and adolescents with acute, complex and critical illnesses. PNP-ACs blend advanced clinical expertise, rapid decision-making and a family-centered approach to care for pediatric patients experiencing sudden, severe or rapidly evolving health conditions. They practice in high-acuity environments such as pediatric intensive care units, intermediate and step-down units, inpatient units, emergency departments and pediatric specialty clinics. PNP-ACs work closely with interdisciplinary teams to stabilize patients, manage complex treatment plans and support families during challenging moments in their child's care.

Take the next step

Attend an information session to learn more. 

Sign up

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

  • Provide direct care to acutely ill, complex, and critically ill children and their families.
  • Apply evidence-based acute care management strategies for children from birth through young adulthood.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate treatment plans for high-acuity pediatric conditions.
  • Use leadership skills to advocate for improved pediatric health outcomes at multiple system levels.
  • Contribute to pediatric acute care nursing through innovation, QI efforts, and scholarly engagement.
  • Assume active roles in professional pediatric health organizations.