Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs), also known as Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (AGACNPs), are indispensable healthcare providers dedicated to managing patients’ complex health conditions across the spectrum of illness and wellness. From proactive disease prevention strategies to the intensive management of acute illnesses, ACNPs deliver comprehensive care, often ensuring continuity from hospital settings to outpatient environments.
Embarking on a career as an ACNP requires specialized education, necessitating the completion of an accredited MSN, DNP, or post-graduate acute care nurse practitioner program. To simplify your program selection process, Nurse.org has meticulously compiled a ranking of the best programs for 2025. This guide aims to highlight top-tier institutions, providing a robust starting point in your journey to becoming a leading acute care nurse practitioner.
Popular Online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs
Sponsored
Purdue Global’s School of Nursing offers flexible online AGNP programs designed for working nurses seeking career advancement. Explore specialized nursing studies with a curriculum that balances academic rigor and real-world application.
Accreditation: CCNE
Location: Online
Prerequisite: RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, with some state restrictions. Check with Purdue Global for specific details.
[Learn More](Learn More)
Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing and Health Care Professions provides comprehensive online AGNP programs, building on a 35-year legacy of nursing education excellence. Prepare for evolving healthcare roles with a program focused on professional development and patient-centered care.
Accreditation: CCNE
Location: Online
Prerequisite: RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
[Learn More](Learn More)
Walden University, a leading provider of online nursing education in the U.S., offers CCNE-accredited online AGNP programs. Benefit from enhanced practicum support and a curriculum designed to advance your nursing career.
Accreditation: CCNE
Location: Online
Prerequisite: RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY, and RI. Some programs have further state restrictions. Verify with Walden University for details.
[Learn More](Learn More)
Georgetown University’s School of Nursing offers mission-driven, accredited online AGNP programs, leveraging its academic and research strengths. Since 2011, Georgetown has excelled in distance learning, enabling nurses to pursue quality education from anywhere.
Accreditation: CCNE
Location: Online
Prerequisite: RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.
[Learn More](Learn More)
Ohio University provides career-focused online AGNP programs designed for nursing professionals aiming for leadership roles. Develop advanced skills and credentials to excel in acute care nursing practice through their flexible online platform.
Accreditation: CCNE
Location: Online
Prerequisite: RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, except AL, AZ, CO, DE, GA, IA, ID, KS, LA, MD, MN, ND, NE, NY, OK, OR, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, WA, and WY
[Learn More](Learn More)
Nurses Helping Nurses: Our Ranking Philosophy
Nurse.org stands as a premier educational resource for nurses, built by nurses. Our commitment rests on editorial integrity and rigorous, data-centric analysis. We conduct independent evaluations of nursing schools and programs, ensuring our recommendations genuinely reflect our informed opinions. Our rankings methodology is transparent and aims to serve the nursing community with reliable program assessments.
We leverage feedback from a community of over 500,000 nurses and rigorously analyze data to produce our rankings.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: We assessed over 1,100 accredited nursing school programs, utilizing the latest U.S. government data to ensure accuracy and relevance.
- Expert-Driven Content: Our content is crafted by more than 80 licensed, practicing nurses, each bringing specialized expertise to our program evaluations.
- Extensive Network: Since 2020, we have connected over 1,500,000 nurses with valuable educational programs, demonstrating our reach and impact within the nursing community.
Top Acute Care NP Programs: A Detailed Comparison
| Program | Accreditation | Tuition (per credit hour) | Program Length | Degree Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duke University | CCNE | $2,166 | 48 credit hours, 728 clinical hours | MSN |
| Vanderbilt University | CCNE | $1,997 | 40 credit hours, 630 clinical hours | MSN |
| George Washington University | CCNE | $1,530 | 48 credit hours, 600 clinical hours | MSN |
| Wilkes University | CCNE | $729 | 14 credit hours, 500 clinical hours | MSN |
| University of Maryland | CCNE | In-state: $873, Out-of-state: $1,549 | 80 credit hours, min. 1,080 clinical hours | DNP |
| University of Alabama, Birmingham | CCNE | $702 | 35 credit hours, 10 clinical coursework credit hours | MSN |
| University of Pennsylvania | ANCC | Full-time: $88,080/year, Part-time: $6,866/course unit | 14 course units, 600 clinical hours | MSN |
| Case Western University | ANCC | $2,308 | 39 credit hours, 700 clinical hours | MSN |
| Columbia University | CCNE | $125,921/year | 80-81 credit hours, 630 clinical hours | DNP |
| Emory University | CCNE | $2,082 | 48 credit hours, 720 clinical hours | MSN or DNP |
Comprehensive Rankings: Top Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025
Numerous institutions offer adult gerontology nurse practitioner programs, but selecting a top-ranked program is crucial for ensuring a superior education and enhanced career prospects. Our rankings are algorithmically driven, utilizing robust U.S. government datasets, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Scorecard. We meticulously evaluate factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratios, and program focus to assist you in identifying the ideal nursing program.
1. Duke University
Program Cost: $2,166 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours, 728 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
Duke University consistently ranks as a leading institution for ACNP programs. Its extensive network of over 2,000 clinical partners, both nationally and internationally, provides students with unparalleled access to diverse practicum sites and preceptors. This robust clinical exposure is a cornerstone of Duke’s program, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of acute care.
- Admission Deadline: December 1st
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (919) 613-9787
- Email Address: SonAdmissions@dm.duke.edu
2. Vanderbilt University
Program Cost: $1,997 per credit hour
Program Length: 40 credit hours, 630 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is nationally recognized for its excellence, and its acute care NP program is among the best. The program boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering a supportive learning environment. Vanderbilt students consistently achieve certification exam scores significantly above the national average, a testament to the program’s rigor and effectiveness.
- Admissions Deadline: October 15th
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (615) 322-3800
- Email Address: VUSN-Admissions@vanderbilt.edu
3. George Washington University
Program Cost: $1,530 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours, 600 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
George Washington University’s ACNP program offers a flexible online format combined with essential in-person clinical experiences. Emphasizing practical skills, the program includes a mandatory on-campus simulation-based skills assessment at the program’s conclusion. This final assessment ensures graduates demonstrate proficiency in critical areas such as patient assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and management skills.
- Admissions Deadlines:
- Priority: December 1st
- Final: July 1st
- Accreditation: CCNE
4. Wilkes University
Program Cost: $729 per credit hour
Program Length: 14 credit hours, 500 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
Wilkes University provides an accelerated and cost-effective online ACNP program, completable in approximately two years. The program distinguishes itself with robust student support, offering advisors who assist in securing clinical sites. With rolling admissions and personal interviews for all candidates, Wilkes ensures a personalized and accessible entry into acute care nursing practice. They offer three enrollment opportunities annually to accommodate diverse student schedules.
- Admissions: Rolling
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (888) 413-5633
- Email Address: admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu
Popular Online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs
Sponsored
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
5. University of Maryland
Program Cost: In-state: $873 per credit hour, Out-of-state: $1,549 per credit hour
Program Length: 80 credit hours, minimum 1,080 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: DNP
Location: Hybrid
The University of Maryland stands out with its unique Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)/Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Trauma/Critical Care/Emergency Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This blended doctorate offers specialized training, evidenced by a 100% certification exam pass rate in 2023. The program is ideal for nurses seeking advanced expertise in critical care settings.
- Admissions Deadline: December 1st
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (410) 706-0501, option #2
- Email Address: admissions.nursing@umaryland.edu
6. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Program Cost: $702 per credit hour
Program Length: 35 credit hours, 10 clinical coursework credit hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s ACNP program offers a hybrid format with online coursework and in-person clinical and intensive on-campus sessions. Starting exclusively in the summer semester, the program includes four on-campus intensives throughout its duration. This structure provides a balanced learning experience, combining online flexibility with crucial face-to-face interactions and clinical practice.
- Admissions Deadlines:
- Summer: October 10th
- Fall: February 12th
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (205) 996-0387 or (205) 934-2507
- Email Address: hmhaaman@uab.edu or sddollar@uab.edu
7. University of Pennsylvania
Program Cost: Full-time: $88,080 per year, Part-time: $6,866 per course unit
Program Length: 14 course units, 600 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
The University of Pennsylvania’s ACNP program is designed for rapid completion, achievable in just 15 months for full-time students, with summer starts. While incorporating online components, the program mandates in-person clinical hours at approved sites. Students can further specialize their education by choosing electives in areas like oncology, palliative care, and global health, enhancing their expertise and career opportunities.
- Admissions Deadlines:
- Priority: November 4th
- Final: February 3rd
- Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (215) 898-4271
- Email Address: admissions@nursing.upenn.edu
8. Case Western Reserve University
Program Cost: $2,308 per credit hour
Program Length: 39 credit hours, 700 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid
Case Western Reserve University’s ACNP program, housed within the esteemed Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, requires 39 credit hours and 700 in-person clinical hours. Tailored options are available for nurses with existing MSNs or advanced certifications. Prospective students are encouraged to consult with admissions counselors to explore these pathways and customize their educational journey.
- Admissions Deadlines:
- Summer/Fall: March 15th
- Spring: October 1st
- Accreditation: ANCC
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (216) 368-0700 or (216) 368-5981
- Email Address: cxw26@case.edu or admissionsfpb@case.edu
9. Columbia University
Program Cost: $125,921 per year
Program Length: 80-81 credit hours, 630 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: DNP
Location: Hybrid
Columbia University offers a premier NP program, distinguished by clinical placements in top New York City hospitals. Clinical experiences are diverse, encompassing intensive care units (including specialties like cardiothoracic surgery and neurosurgery), emergency departments, and specialized services such as heart failure and transplant units. This rich clinical environment provides unparalleled learning opportunities.
- Admissions Deadline: January 6th
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (212) 305-5756
- Email Address: nursing@cumc.columbia.edu
10. Emory University
Program Cost: $2,082 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours, 720 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN or DNP
Location: Hybrid
Emory University’s ACNP program is a four-semester program that can be pursued full-time or part-time. Clinical placements are primarily in Atlanta hospitals but can extend to approved sites nationwide. Notably, Emory is committed to affordability, with 92% of nursing students receiving financial aid, making high-quality education accessible.
- Admissions: Rolling
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (404) 727-7980
- Email Address: nursingquestions@emory.edu
>> Show Me Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Understanding the Acute Care NP Career Path
Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) specializing in the care of patients with acute, critical, and complex chronic illnesses. Certification is offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) in areas such as acute care, pediatric acute care, and adult-gerontology acute care.
A key distinction exists between ACNPs and Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). While FNPs provide primary care across the lifespan, ACNPs focus on patients experiencing acute health issues, often in hospital settings, post-surgical care, or following trauma.
Key insights from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) regarding Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NPs include:
- Primary Clinical Focus: Critical care, cardiovascular, and hospitalist medicine are the leading areas of focus.
- Practice Settings: Predominantly hospital inpatient units and outpatient clinics.
- Common Diagnoses Treated: Hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes are among the most frequently managed conditions.
Diverse Work Environments for Acute Care NPs
ACNPs are employed across a wide spectrum of healthcare settings:
- Emergency Departments
- Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
- Medical and Surgical Units
- Skilled Nursing Facilities and Nursing Homes
- Operating Rooms
- Outpatient and Inpatient Subspecialty Practices, including:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
- Interventional Radiology
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Sub-acute Care Units
- Trauma Units
- Urgent Care Clinics
>> Show Me Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
High Demand for Acute Care NPs
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a robust 45% growth in employment for nurse practitioners between 2022 and 2032. This growth rate significantly outpaces the national average for other professions, including Registered Nurses, indicating strong and increasing demand for ACNPs.
In 2022, there were 266,300 advanced practice nurses, with an anticipated need for an additional 118,600 positions by 2032. As healthcare evolves, the role of ACNPs will remain critical, ensuring continued high demand for these specialized professionals.
Curriculum and Expectations in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs
Aspiring Acute Care Nurse Practitioners must first become Registered Nurses, typically through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). ADN-prepared nurses will generally need to complete an RN-to-BSN program or enroll in an RN-to-NP program to obtain both degrees concurrently before advancing to NP specialization.
Typical Program Prerequisites
While specific requirements vary among Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs, common prerequisites include:
- Minimum of one year of acute care bedside nursing experience.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics with a grade of C or higher.
- GRE scores, if required by the program.
- Professional resume or curriculum vitae.
- Graduation from an accredited baccalaureate program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions.
- Successful interview with the Nursing Admissions Committee.
- TOEFL test for non-native English speakers, if applicable.
- Two to three professional letters of reference.
- Active and unencumbered RN license in the state of practice (some programs may require licensure in the program’s state).
- Personal statement outlining professional goals for graduate study and nursing career aspirations.
Core Curriculum in AGACNP Programs
Acute Care NP programs are structured around the Nurse Practitioner framework and core competencies defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). These competencies are fundamental to NP education:
- Ethics
- Health Delivery System
- Independent Practice
- Leadership
- Policy
- Practice Inquiry
- Quality
- Scientific Foundation
- Technology and Information Literacy
Common Acute Care NP Coursework
Typical courses within an Acute Care NP program encompass:
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced Physical Assessment
- Child and Family Development (relevant for family-focused ACNP tracks)
- Clinical Practicums
- Diagnostic Reasoning and Clinical Decision-Making for Acute Care Advanced Practice Nurses
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Health Informatics
- Health Policy, Legal and Ethical Dimensions of Practice
- Leadership and Critical Decision Making
- Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse
Program Costs for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Education
The financial investment in Acute Care NP programs can vary significantly based on factors such as the institution, location, program format (online vs. in-person), and degree level.
- Per credit hour costs can range from $500 to $2,000. Total credit hours typically range from 35 to 60, resulting in total program costs between $17,500 and $120,000.
- Doctoral programs (DNP) are generally more expensive than master’s programs (MSN) due to the increased credit requirements and program duration.
- Additional costs may include program fees, lab fees, materials, and other educational expenses.
Examples of per-credit-hour costs:
- Thomas Jefferson University: $1,450
- DeSales University: $975
- University of Virginia: In-state: $888, Out-of-state: $1,450
- Chamberlain University: $710
>> Show Me Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Program Duration for Acute Care NP Studies
Program length varies, typically requiring 35-60 credit hours plus a minimum of 500 clinical hours, as mandated by certification bodies like ANCC and AANPCP. Some states or programs may necessitate more clinical hours. DNP programs, which are more extensive, require at least 1,000 clinical hours.
ACNP programs can be completed in two to three years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment and program structure (online or traditional). Most programs allow up to five years for completion. Program duration is influenced by individual factors, including work commitments and study pace.
Accreditation Standards for AGACNP Programs
Choosing an accredited Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is essential. Accreditation ensures program quality and rigor. The primary accrediting bodies in the U.S. are:
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is dedicated to enhancing nursing education quality and ensuring consistent, reliable educational practices.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is a leading voice in academic nursing, promoting continuous program self-assessment and high educational standards to safeguard public health.
Selecting the Ideal Acute Care NP Program
Choosing the right Acute Care NP program is a significant decision. The increasing availability of online programs expands options, allowing access to top-tier education regardless of location.
A critical factor is verifying state authorization for distance education programs and clinical practicums. State boards of nursing regulate licensure and program eligibility, so confirming your state’s requirements is crucial. Contacting the university’s enrollment or student affairs office can also provide clarity on state-specific eligibility.
Additional considerations for program selection include:
- Prerequisite qualifications: Do you meet all entry requirements?
- Accreditation status: Is the program accredited by ACEN or CCNE?
- Graduate certification rates: What is the program’s certification exam pass rate?
- Employer affiliations: Does your current employer have partnerships with specific programs?
- Degree preference: Do you prefer an MSN or DNP program?
- Clinical placement assistance: Does the program assist with clinical site placements?
- Financial planning: How will you finance your degree (loans, scholarships, tuition reimbursement)?
- Program flexibility: Does the program offer flexible scheduling and formats?
- Learning format preference: Online or in-person program?
- Job placement rates: What is the program’s graduate job placement success?
- Post-graduation goals: What are your career aspirations after completing the program (hospital, private practice, etc.)?
Popular Online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs
Sponsored
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
[Learn More](Learn More)
| Acute Care NP Career Overview >> | AGNP Career Overview >> | Highest Paying NP Specialties >> |
|---|
Indicates an affiliate link. Nurse.org earns a commission if you use this service at no extra cost to you.
