How To Become a Pediatric Nurse: Career Guide

Q: How much do pediatric nurses get paid?

The BLS does not publish a separate salary for pediatric nurses. Most salary estimates use registered nurse earnings as a benchmark. According to the BLS, registered nurses made a median annual salary of $93,600 as of May 2024. Salary expectations can vary by years of experience, credentials, employer and geographic region.

Q: What age groups do pediatric nurses care for?

Pediatric RNs can work with children from infancy through age 18. Some pediatric RNs, such as those in primary care, may work with children of a diverse range of ages.

Q: Can you become a pediatric nurse with a BSN?

Yes, you can become a pediatric RN with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A BSN is a nursing degree that qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN® licensure exam, which is a requirement to become an RN. In other words, you will not become an RN immediately upon graduating from your BSN program; you must first pass the licensure exam.

Job Description

What Is a Pediatric Nurse?

A pediatric nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who works with infants, children and adolescents from birth through age 18. Pediatric nurses assess patients, administer medications and treatments, educate families and help manage preventive care, acute illnesses, injuries and chronic conditions in settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools and physician offices.

Pediatric RNs can work in a variety of nursing specialties. They may treat children in primary care settings or work within endocrinology, developmental disability nursing or the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Different settings and specialties may have different career requirements, but in general, a registered nurse must earn a nursing degree and obtain RN licensure by passing a licensure exam, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Pediatric Nurse Career Snapshot

Pediatric nursing offers the opportunity to care for infants, children and adolescents while supporting their families through every stage of growth and development. If you're considering this specialty, take a look at some of the rewards, trends, specializations and challenges associated with the role.

Career Topic

What To Know

Rewards

Can be meaningful as it allows you to comfort sick children, provide much-needed guidance to their guardians and guide young patients through recovery

Current Trends

Family-centered care, community-based nursing, technology integration and emerging subspecialties in neonatology, pediatric oncology and pediatric cardiology, according to the International Journal of Research in Pediatric Nursing^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Specializations

Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), endocrinology and lactation consulting

Challenges

Communication barriers with children, parental anxiety and ethical challenges pertaining to child protection, informed consent and confidentiality^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Role

What Do Pediatric Nurses Do?

A pediatric RN promotes wellness in young patients from birth through age 18. These nurses treat infants, children and adolescents in varying developmental stages, helping them recover from acute injuries and illnesses. Pediatric RNs often focus on preventive wellness through health services such as health screenings, family education and immunizations and by promoting healthy lifestyle choices.

During a shift, some main responsibilities of pediatric nurses are:

Assessing

These nurses assess patients, review medical history and discuss symptoms with patients and with family caregivers.

Treating

They administer medications and other treatments to help children recover from acute injuries and illnesses or to manage chronic conditions.

Educating

Pediatric nurses educate older children about health topics and help family caregivers learn how to care for their children.

Outlook

Is Pediatric Nursing a Good Career?

Learning how to become a pediatric nurse can be a good choice for those who are passionate about children’s healthcare. According to the BLS, there is a need for all types of RNs. The projected job growth rate for all registered nurses is expected to be 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, accounting for an increase of about 166,100 jobs in the field.^{(See disclaimer 3)} The BLS reports that registered nurses made a median annual salary of $93,600 as of May 2024.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Jobs

166,100

New jobs projected for registered nurses from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Salary

$93,600

Median annual salary for registered nurses as of May 2024^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Growth

5%

Projected job growth rate for registered nurses from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Workplace

Where Do Pediatric Nurses Work?

The typical work setting for pediatric RNs can depend on whether they work in acute care or primary care. Primary care nurses may work in physician offices, schools, ambulatory/outpatient clinics and surgery centers, according to the Society of Pediatric Nurses (SPN). In acute care, nurses may work in the emergency room, intensive care or in rehabilitative facilities.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

A pediatric nurse’s work environment includes settings such as:^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Physician offices

Pediatric RNs may treat children across the lifespan within physician offices, including primary care offices.

Schools

School nurses can be pediatric RNs who care for children during the school day.

Emergency room

In the emergency room, pediatric RNs can treat children with acute injuries and illnesses that may be severe or life-threatening.

Surgery centers

In surgery centers, pediatric nurses comfort children before and after they undergo surgery, as well as monitor their physical health and manage complications.

Career Path

How To Become a Pediatric Nurse

To pursue a career in pediatric nursing, you’ll need to earn a nursing degree and obtain licensure as an RN by passing an exam.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Although these fundamental requirements remain consistent, there are multiple pathways to a nursing career. For example, if you do not have prior college experience, you may consider a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. If you have a non-nursing degree or transfer credits, you may pursue a faster pathway with an accelerated BSN (ABSN) program that can prepare you for licensure.

Follow these steps to help direct your pursuit into pediatric nursing:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Earn a nursing degree

Earn a nursing degree with a combination of college coursework, nursing skills labs, immersive simulations and clinical rotations

Obtain an RN license

Pass the licensure exam to obtain an RN license and become a nurse

Gain clinical experience and specialize

Gain clinical experience at the bedside in your preferred pediatric nursing specialty and consider pursuing specialized certifications

Education

What Degree or Schooling Does a Pediatric Nurse Need?

It’s possible to become a pediatric RN with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). However, the industry is trending toward more advanced education for all types of RNs. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the majority of all RNs hold at least a bachelor’s degree.^{(See disclaimer 11)} Some pediatric RNs may choose to earn a graduate degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), after they gain clinical experience.

A nursing degree teaches both nursing theory and hands-on clinical skills. Students are expected to develop foundational knowledge across all areas of nursing practice, including pediatric nursing and family health.

72.9%

Percentage of the nursing workforce in 2024 with a BSN or higher^{(See disclaimer 11)}

Recommended Nursing Degrees for Becoming a Pediatric Nurse

5 Matching Degrees

Skills

What Skills Does a Pediatric Nurse Need?

Pediatric nurses need a blend of clinical and soft skills. They need a broad knowledge of the different stages in a child’s development, including typical milestones and behavioral tendencies. They also benefit from technological literacy, as these nurses need to operate medical equipment and use software platforms.^{(See disclaimer 8)}

Some of the most important skills for a pediatric nursing professional include:^{(See disclaimer 8)}

Relationship building

Pediatric nurses must develop a good rapport with their young patients and their family caregivers.

Empathy

These nurses should demonstrate empathy and compassion for patients with complex emotional needs.

Communication skills

They need to communicate well with their young patients and family caregivers, who may have varying degrees of health literacy.

Observation

Because their patients may not be able to verbally communicate well, pediatric RNs need strong observation skills.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Pediatric Nurse

Explore the following frequently asked questions and answers to learn more about the pediatric nursing career and how to become a pediatric nurse.

Is it hard to be a pediatric nurse?

Pediatric nursing can be challenging because it requires strong clinical skills, effective communication with children and families and the ability to manage emotionally difficult situations. For example, it can be difficult to work with parents who are experiencing anxiety about their children’s health. It can also be emotionally challenging to see a child struggle with illness or injury. However, it’s a profession where many may experience satisfaction in supporting these vulnerable patients.

How much do pediatric nurses get paid?

What age groups do pediatric nurses care for?

Can you become a pediatric nurse with a BSN?

What certifications are available for pediatric nurses?

The Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) credential is one of the most widely recognized certifications for pediatric registered nurses.^{(See disclaimer 7)} Another example includes the Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) certification. A pediatric RN could also become certified in critical care, as well as pediatric hematology oncology.^{(See disclaimer 7)} Certification generally requires RN licensure and clinical experience.

How long does it take to become a pediatric nurse?

The length of time it takes to become a pediatric nurse will vary considerably depending on the specific pathway you choose and other factors unique to you. If you choose a traditional pre-licensure BSN program, the time required may be longer. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or transfer credits, you may be eligible to apply to an accelerated pathway; GCU’s ABSN can be completed in as few as 16 months.^{(See disclaimer 12)} After earning a nursing degree, you will need to pass the licensure exam to become an RN.

Career Fit

Is Pediatric Nursing Right for Me?

Your interests, strengths and preferences can help you decide whether pediatric nursing is the right specialty for you. Consider the following characteristics.

Pediatric nursing may be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy working with children of all ages and their families
- Communicate calmly and clearly in high-pressure situations^{(See disclaimer 8)}
- Are comfortable with the emotional weight of caring for sick children
- Adapt quickly when a patient’s condition changes
- Work well as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team^{(See disclaimer 8)}
Pediatric nursing may not be the best fit if you:
- Are uncomfortable working with pediatric patients and their parents
- Prefer a work environment with less emotional stress
- Find it difficult to shift priorities quickly during a shift
- Do not enjoy hands-on, bedside patient care

Pediatric Nurse vs. School Nurse

A nursing career provides diversity of choice. Consider your academic interests, career goals, preferred work environment and strengths when deciding which specific pediatric nursing career you’d like to pursue.

Category

Pediatric Nurse

School Nurse

Primary Patient Population

Infants, children and adolescents from birth through age 18

School-age children and adolescents in educational settings^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Primary Focus

Preventive care, illness treatment, recovery and health promotion

Student health and wellness, chronic condition management and injury prevention

Work Environment

Physician offices, ambulatory and outpatient centers, surgery centers, hospitals and rehabilitative facilities^{(See disclaimer 5)}

All types of schools^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Typical Responsibilities

Assess patients, administer medications, educate families and coordinate care

Manage medications, provide first aid and monitor chronic conditions, conduct health screenings and coordinate with parents

Patient Acuity Level

Low to high depending on specialty and setting

Generally low to moderate, focused on preventive and routine care

Family Interaction

Extensive daily interaction with parents and caregivers

Frequent communication with parents, teachers and administrators

Education Requirements

ADN or BSN plus RN licensure^{(See disclaimer 1)}, according to the BLS.

ADN or BSN plus RN licensure and clinical experience at the bedside; some areas may require specialty certification, according to Nurse.com^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Preferred Certifications

Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), according to the Children’s Hospital Association^{(See disclaimer 7)}

Nationally Certified School Nurse (NCSN)^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Specialized Skills

Communication, empathy, relationship building and fundamental nursing care, according to Indeed^{(See disclaimer 8)}

Knowledge of child development, observation and health assessments^{(See disclaimer 8)}

Work Schedule

Days, nights, weekends and holidays depending on facility

Primarily daytime hours following the academic calendar

Emotional Challenges

Caring for sick or injured children and supporting families through difficult diagnoses

Supporting students experiencing health, behavioral or social challenges

Career Advancement Opportunities

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), pediatric nurse director, nurse manager or clinical nurse specialist (CNS), according to the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)^{(See disclaimer 9)}

Nurse educator, nurse consultant or clinical nurse educator^{(See disclaimer 9)}

Best Fit For Someone Who...

Enjoys working with children across all age groups and building long-term patient relationships

Prefers preventive care, education and a predictable work schedule while supporting student health

Pediatric Nursing Resources and Career Insights

Take a deeper dive into the pediatric nursing career and learn more about this profession.

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Take the Next Step Toward Becoming a Pediatric Nurse

To become a pediatric nurse, you'll need a nursing degree, RN licensure and clinical experience. GCU offers nursing degree programs that can help you prepare for each step of your journey toward a career in pediatric nursing.

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How To Become a Registered Nurse. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 2026.
Dhanrao, P.M., Gaikwad, S.A. and Ghegadmal, K.S., et. al. Trends and Challenges in Pediatric Nursing: A Review. International Journal of Research in Pediatric Nursing. Retrieved July 2026.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, retrieved July 2026.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Registered Nurses as of May 2024, retrieved July 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Registered Nurses, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
Society of Pediatric Nurses. (n.d.). Becoming a Pediatric Nurse. Retrieved July 2026.
Nurse.com. (2025, Dec. 18). How To Become a School Nurse. Retrieved July 2026.
Children’s Hospital Association. (n.d.). Courses To Prepare for Certification Exams. Retrieved July 2026.
Indeed. (2025, Sept. 23). Pediatric Nurse Skills (With Definition and Examples). Retrieved July 2026.
Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. (n.d.). Pediatric Nursing Career Pathways. Retrieved July 2026.
Nurse.com. (2025, July 16). Career Pathways for NICU Nurses. Retrieved July 2026.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (n.d.). Nursing Workforce Fact Sheet. Retrieved July 2026.
Secondary applicants must transfer a minimum of 60 of the required 123 credits or have completed a baccalaureate degree which includes nine prerequisite courses/labs and 10 general education courses prior to starting the core nursing courses, which can be completed in as few as 16 months. Direct entry applicants that do not transfer 60 credits but meet the minimum requirements can complete these credits through GCU prior to starting the core nursing courses. Depending on the state where student has enrolled or intends to complete the program, student may require additional courses. This may include, but is not limited to, additional general education courses, courses in the major, clinical courses or a different course sequence. See our University Policy Handbook.

Pediatric Nurse Career Guide