Empowering Nurses to Deliver Specialized Care for Newborns
Neonatal Online Part-time or Full-time Certificates, MS & DNP
The University of Connecticut's (UConn) online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) program is committed to excellence in neonatal care. Designed for registered nurses, the program focuses on training practitioners to provide critical care to newborns who require specialized attention due to medical complications. These complications may include, but are not limited to:
- Low birth weight
- Premature birth and its associated complications
- Congenital heart defects
- Infections during the neonatal period
- Long-term health challenges impacting development
- Care of children up to 2 years of age
The program curriculum is curated to ensure that graduates are thoroughly prepared to navigate the intricacies of neonatal healthcare. By addressing both the physiological and emotional aspects of infant care, the program fosters a holistic understanding of neonatal nursing.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The online NNP program offers a robust curriculum that spans various essential topics. This ensures that students are well-versed in both the scientific and humanistic aspects of neonatal care. Key areas of focus include:
Neonatal Development
Students gain in-depth knowledge of the physiological and developmental processes that occur during the neonatal period. This understanding is vital for assessing and addressing the unique needs of newborns.
Pharmacology
The program provides advanced training in neonatal pharmacology, enabling students to make informed decisions regarding medication management for infants with complex conditions.
Family-Centered Care
Recognizing the pivotal role of families in newborn care, the program emphasizes family-centered practices. Students learn to support and educate families, fostering a collaborative environment for the well-being of both the infant and their loved ones.
Advanced Clinical Skills
Through simulated and real-world scenarios, students refine their clinical skills, including diagnostic assessments, emergency interventions, and long-term care planning.
Flexible Online Learning
The online format of UConn’s NNP program makes it accessible to nurses from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations. The flexibility of this modality allows students to balance their professional and personal commitments while advancing their education. Key features of the online learning experience include:
- Interactive modules that encourage engagement and critical thinking
- Virtual simulations mimicking real-life neonatal care scenarios
- Regular mentorship and feedback from experienced faculty
UConn’s NNP track provides the following online credential options:
- Nursing Master of Science (MS) Degree
- Post-Graduate APRN Certificate
- BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BS-DNP) Degree
- MS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (MS-DNP) Degree
All courses are taught by experienced neonatal nurse practitioners and are available in part-time and full-time formats. The coursework is delivered entirely online, requiring two on-campus visits for simulation experiences throughout the program.
Putting You on the Road to Success as an NNP
In UConn’s Nurse Practitioner Neonatal (NNP) program, you will cultivate advanced diagnostic skills and build confidence in making vital patient care decisions. We empower you to support high-risk neonates and their families with compassion and excellence. You will learn to navigate critical situations in the delivery room with skill and poise. Graduates leave ready to make impactful decisions in Level 2 and Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). Every day, they transform newborn and toddler’s lives through their unwavering dedication and expertise.
Fully Accredited Nurse Administration and Leadership Program
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits UConn School of Nursing programs, which are designed to prepare nurses for advanced nursing practice with specialized knowledge, skills, and values.
A Clear Path to NCC Certification
Nurse Practitioner graduates are eligible to apply for the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) examination given by the National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Specialties.