Neonatal

Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNP) function as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) providing comprehensive care to high-risk newborn infants and their families. The NNP specialty track provides a strong foundation in the embryologic, physiologic, and pathophysiologic basis of both acute and chronic neonatal disorders.

As a doctoral student in the NNP track, you will:

• Develop skills to influence public policy through participation in professional organizations and health policy activities at the local, national, and global level.
• Take courses in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership.
• Have clinical experiences in a large variety of Neonatal Intensive Care Units (ICU).
• Assess and care for the critically ill infants in Level 2, 3 and 4 Neonatal ICUs.
• Complete the NNP track in three years, including two summer semesters. Click here for a sample Program of Study.

Certification Eligibility

Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification from the National Certification Corporation (NCC) as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP-BC). Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates are eligible to become certified or licensed to practice.

Practice Experience Requirements for Prospective Students

The National Certification Corporation requires the equivalent of 2 years of full-time clinic practice experience (within the last 5 years) as a registered nurse (RN) in the care of critically ill neonates or infants in critical care inpatient settings is required before a student begins clinical courses. Students may enroll in preclinical courses while obtaining the necessary practice.