How to Become a Pediatric Nurse in Texas (2025)
Becoming a pediatric nurse in Texas is a fulfilling way to combine your passion for children with expert healthcare skills. Pediatric nurses provide specialized care for infants, children, and teens in hospitals, clinics, and schools. In Texas, pediatric nurses earn an average of $91,690 per year ($44.08/hour) according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024).
Where to Find Pediatric Nursing Classes in Texas
Use Dreambound to explore accredited nursing schools and pediatric-focused training programs in Texas. The platform allows you to compare tuition, duration, and format (online, hybrid, or in-person) so you can find the right fit for your schedule and career goals.
How Do I Get My Pediatric Nurse Certification?
If you’re passionate about working with children, here’s how to become a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN):
- Complete a Nursing Degree: Earn an ADN or BSN from an accredited program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Obtain your Texas RN license.
- Gain Pediatric Experience: Work in pediatric hospital units, clinics, or home care.
- Apply for Certification: Apply through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or ANCC, ensuring you meet eligibility requirements.
- Prepare and Take the Exam: The exam tests your clinical and developmental knowledge in pediatric care.
Once certified, maintain your CPN by completing continuing education and renewing every 3 years.
How Do I Get a Job as a Pediatric Nurse?
Follow these steps to launch your pediatric nursing career:
- Build a Strong Resume: Highlight your nursing degree, clinical experience, and certifications.
- Search for Openings: Check hospital career pages or find listings via MyNextMove.
- Apply Strategically: Target pediatric units, children’s hospitals, or school health programs.
- Prepare for Interviews: Emphasize compassion, communication, and child-focused care experience.
- Follow Up and Network: Connect with other nurses, join pediatric nursing associations, and stay active in continuing education.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Pediatric Nurse
Once you’re established, you can advance into specialized or leadership roles such as:
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): Diagnose, prescribe, and manage care independently (requires a master’s or DNP degree).
- Pediatric Nurse Educator: Train future nurses in academic or hospital settings.
- Pediatric Research Nurse: Contribute to studies improving child health outcomes.
- Pediatric Nurse Administrator: Lead pediatric nursing teams or departments.
- Pediatric Home Health Nurse: Provide one-on-one home care for medically complex children.
Pediatric Nurse Salary in Texas
Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024):
- Average RN salary (includes pediatric nurses): $91,690 per year ($44.08/hour)
- Lowest 10%: $64,660 per year
- Highest 10%: $122,060 per year
Salaries vary by education, experience, and workplace type—pediatric nurses in specialized units or children’s hospitals typically earn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to be a pediatric nurse in Texas?
About 4 years for a BSN or 2–3 years for an ADN, plus time for licensing and experience—roughly 4–5 years total.
How much do pediatric nurses make in Texas?
The average annual salary is $91,690, per BLS.
What degree is best for a pediatric nurse?
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offers the strongest foundation and is preferred by most employers.
How fast can you become a pediatric nurse?
If you choose an ADN program and progress directly into certification, you can start working in as little as 3 years.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Pediatric Nurse in Texas is a deeply rewarding career that blends medical expertise with compassion. With the right education, clinical experience, and certification, you can play a vital role in improving the lives of children and their families every day.
Contemplating a transition in your career or exploring various professional paths? Dreambound has written comprehensive guides on nearly every type of program to aid you in your decision.
Sunshine is a member of the School Growth team at Dreambound, where she assists students and schools with their billing and onboarding needs. She is a licensed mechanical engineer. Outside of work, she enjoys road trips with her family, discovering cozy cafes, and exploring her love for art.
