Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist

Provide advanced nursing practice care to children with complex health problems

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role. CNSs use theory and research to diagnose, treat, and manage patients and specialty populations from wellness to acute illness. The CNS improves outcomes by providing direct patient care, leading evidence-based practice, optimizing organizational systems, and advancing the practice of nursing.

Learn More About the CNS Role

Our pediatric focus-area courses enable you to tailor your studies to meet career goals or emerging employment opportunities in:

  • Hospitals and acute care
  • Rehabilitation care
  • Accountable care organizations
  • Community health agencies and clinics
  • Private practice settings
The Pediatric CNS track will suspend admissions after Fall 2025 due to upcoming curricular changes. If you are interested in this track, please apply by July 1 to be considered. Please check back for updates on future admission cycles.

Program Format

Courses are taught in online, distance-accessible formats. There are some required on-campus lab days, and all clinical hours must be completed within the state of Indiana due to supervision requirements.

The degree can be completed in a three-year, part-time plan of study, or—if space in the program allows—a two-year, full-time plan of study.

Certification

When you graduate, you will be eligible for national certification through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) as a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. As an advanced practice nurse, you will also qualify to apply for prescriptive authority from the Indiana Licensing Board.

Take your next step

How to apply

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