Acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) master of sciences degree programs are designed to equip registered nurses with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex health conditions in acutely ill patients. As healthcare evolves, the demand for highly skilled professionals capable of providing specialized care in critical settings continues to rise. These programs offer a robust curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice, preparing graduates to excel as autonomous practitioners in hospitals, intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty clinics.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), a nationally recognized accrediting body, ensures the quality and rigor of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs, including acute care nurse practitioner programs. Accreditation from CCNE signifies that a program meets stringent standards for curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes, providing assurance to prospective students regarding the program’s credibility and value.
While the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) focuses on renewals for the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (ACNP-BC), the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) offers a range of acute care nurse practitioner certifications. These certifications cater to different patient populations, including adult-gerontology, pediatric, and neonatal, allowing RNs and APRNs to specialize in their area of interest and enhance their professional credentials.
Why Choose an Online Master of Sciences in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program?
Online ACNP programs have emerged as a convenient and flexible pathway for nurses seeking advanced education without disrupting their professional and personal lives. These programs offer a dynamic learning environment that integrates virtual classrooms, interactive simulations, and digital resources, allowing students to engage with course material and faculty from anywhere in the world.
For nurses who require flexibility due to work schedules, family commitments, or geographical limitations, online programs provide an invaluable alternative to traditional on-campus programs. The online format allows students to study at their own pace, access course materials 24/7, and participate in discussions and collaborative projects remotely.
It is important to note that while the majority of coursework is delivered online, some programs may incorporate limited on-campus requirements for intensives, simulations, or clinical rotations. Prospective students should carefully review the program details and requirements of each institution.
Spotlight Programs: Online Master of Sciences in Nursing – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specializations
Several esteemed universities offer online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs with acute care nurse practitioner specializations. These programs are designed to prepare graduates for certification and practice in various acute care settings. Here are a few examples:
Georgetown University – School of Nursing
MS in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)
Georgetown University’s online AG-ACNP program is structured to enable registered nurses to become Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners in a focused timeframe. This program emphasizes evidence-based practice and holistic patient care, reflecting Georgetown’s commitment to developing well-rounded healthcare professionals.
- Accreditation: CCNE Accredited
- Program Length: Complete in as few as 23 months
- Credit Hours: 40 credits
- Key Features: Clinical Placement Support, Emphasis on Jesuit values of ethical care and service.
Simmons University – Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Simmons University offers an online MSN program with options for Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) tracks. While not specifically ACNP, it’s a strong MSN foundation from a reputable institution for nurses considering advanced practice.
- Specializations: FNP, PMHNP
- Program Length: Complete in as few as 24 months
- Program Flexibility: Full-time and part-time tracks available
St. John Fisher University – Wegmans School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing
St. John Fisher University’s Wegmans School of Nursing provides an online MSN program with various specializations, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP). The program is designed for working nurses seeking career advancement in acute care settings.
- Specializations: PCFNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, AGPCNP
- Program Flexibility: Part-time and accelerated tracks
Detailed Program Overview Table
To provide a comprehensive overview, the following table summarizes key aspects of online MSN-ACNP programs offered by various universities. This information is intended to help prospective students compare programs based on location, program length, clinical hour requirements, and enrollment type.
| University | Location | Study Length | Clinical Hours | Enrollment Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Boise, Idaho | 3 years | 700 hours | Part-Time |
| Chamberlain University | Chicago, Illinois | 3 years | 750 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Clarkson College | Omaha, Nebraska | 2+ years | N/A | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA | 2+ years | 720-800 hours | Part-Time |
| Duke University | Durham, NC | 1.5+ years | 616-840 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| George Washington University | Washington, D.C. | 3 years | 650 hours | Part-Time |
| Georgetown University | Washington, D.C. | 23 months | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | N/A | 720 hours | Full-Time |
| Graceland University | Independence, MO | 3+ years | 540 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 2 years | N/A | Full-Time |
| Maryville University | St. Louis, MO | 3 years | 830 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights, KY | 1.5+ years | 500 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Ohio University | Athens, OH | 2 years | 650 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Regis College | Weston, MA | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Saint Louis University | St. Louis, MO | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Seton Hall University | South Orange, NJ | 3+ years | 540+ hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| South College | Knoxville, TN | 1.5+ years | N/A | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| St. John Fisher University | Rochester, NY | As few as 28 months | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock, TX | 3 years | 630 hours | Part-Time |
| The University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL | 2 years | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Thomas Jefferson University | Philadelphia, PA | 2+ years | 673 | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Colorado | Aurora, CO | 2+ years | 585+ | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of South Carolina | Columbia, SC | 3 years | 672 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | 3+ years | 705 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso, TX | 3 years | 675+ | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Walden University | Minneapolis, MN | N/A | 640 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Wilkes University | Wilkes-Barre, PA | 3+ years | 500 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | 1.5+ years | 540 hours | Full-Time |
In-Depth Look at Program Admission Requirements and Curriculum
The following sections provide a more detailed look at specific online MSN-ACNP programs. Understanding the admission requirements, curriculum structure, and unique features of each program is crucial for making an informed decision about your advanced nursing education.
Boise State University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Boise, Idaho
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 50
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted U.S. RN license
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics and research (minimum grade C)
- Application materials: transcripts, goal statement, resume/CV, AGNP written interview survey, letter of recommendation.
Learn more about Boise State University’s MSN Program
Chamberlain University – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Chicago, Illinois
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 48
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted U.S. RN license
- Minimum of two years of acute nursing experience within the last 5 years (for AG-ACNP specialization)
- Application materials: application form, transcripts.
Explore Chamberlain University’s MSN Program Details
Clarkson College – Division of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Omaha, Nebraska
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 49
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted U.S. RN license
- Application form completion.
Discover more about Clarkson College’s MSN Program
Drexel University – College of Nursing and Health Professions
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specializations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 57
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted U.S. RN license
- Minimum two years of acute nursing experience (AG-ACNP); one year of pediatric nursing experience and current PALS certification (Pediatric ACNP)
- Application materials: transcripts, two recommendation letters, personal statement, resume.
Explore Drexel University’s MSN Program Options
Duke University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Durham, North Carolina
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specializations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 1.5+ years
Credit Hours: 43+
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Minimum one year of acute care nursing experience (AG-ACNP); one year of acute care pediatric nursing experience (Pediatric ACNP)
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certificate
- Application materials: transcripts, three professional recommendations, personal statement, resume/CV, official GRE scores.
Learn More About Duke University’s MSN Program
George Washington University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Washington, D.C.
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 48
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN)
- Active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Two letters of recommendation
- Application materials: application form, Statement of Purpose, Resume
- Minimum of one year of critical care RN work experience.
Discover George Washington University’s MSN Program
Georgetown University – School of Nursing
MS in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)
Washington, D.C.
Program Description: Georgetown’s AG-ACNP program prepares RNs with acute/critical care experience for direct patient management in complex care settings. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and holistic care across the adult lifespan.
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 23 months
Credit Hours: 40
Admission Essentials:
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- BSN degree or CNL/entry-level MSN from CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program
- Current U.S. RN license
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.0 science GPA
- College-level three-credit statistics course (grade C or better)
- Minimum one year of full-time experience in ICU, ER, telemetry, or progressive care unit.
Georgia Southern University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Statesboro, Georgia
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: N/A (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner implied)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Program Length: N/A
Credit Hours: 43
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN)
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license or APRN certification
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Undergraduate introductory statistics and health appraisal/physical assessment courses (grade C or better)
- Three recommendation letters
- Application materials: application form, Georgia Southern University Health Services Form, proof of American Heart Association Level C CPR certification, proof of Georgia RN licensure, resume.
- Minimum of one year of critical care RN work experience within the last three years.
Explore Georgia Southern University’s MSN Program
Graceland University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Independence, Missouri
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credit Hours: 47
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN)
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Grade of B or better in any nursing course
- Satisfactory criminal background check
- Three professional references
- Professional goals statement (150 words or less)
- Application materials: application form, transcripts.
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Grand Canyon University – College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Master of Science in Nursing – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Phoenix, Arizona
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Specializations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Educator, Healthcare Quality and Safety, Informatics, Healthcare Systems Leadership
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Program Length: 2 years
Credit Hours: 53
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing (CCNE, NLNAC, or ACEN accredited)
- RN license
- Application materials: CV/resume, letter of intent.
- Nursing experience: 2 years general nursing, 1 year ICU, Adult ER, Progressive Care and/or Post-Operative experience.
Explore Grand Canyon University’s MSN-AGACNP Program
Maryville University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
St. Louis, Missouri
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 47
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Three letters of recommendation
- Application materials: Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume, 500-word essay on interest in becoming an NP and career goals.
- Minimum one year of clinical experience.
Learn about Maryville University’s MSN Program
Northern Kentucky University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Highland Heights, Kentucky
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 1.5+ years
Credit Hours: 46
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Application materials: application form, transcripts.
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours as a registered nurse
- Minimum one year of clinical care experience
- Undergraduate statistics course (grade C or better).
Explore Northern Kentucky University’s MSN Program
Ohio University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Athens, Ohio
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2 years
Credit Hours: 46
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics, management, chemistry, anatomy and physiology 1 & 2, microbiology, and research (minimum grade C).
Discover Ohio University’s MSN Program
Regis College – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Weston, Massachusetts
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 46+
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution
- College-level statistics course completion prior to start
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Application materials: transcripts, resume, Statement of Purpose, two recommendation letters.
Learn about Regis College’s MSN Program
Saint Louis University – Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
St. Louis, Missouri
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 37
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA: 3.25
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Application materials: three recommendations, statement, resume/CV
- American Heart Association CPR certification.
Explore Saint Louis University’s MSN Program
Seton Hall University – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
South Orange, New Jersey
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: N/A (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner implied)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credit Hours: 48
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license
- Minimum GPA: 3.2
- Minimum two years of professional patient care experience (AG-ACNP); one year of nursing experience (Pediatric Primary ACNP)
- Application materials: Statement of professional goals, Professional liability insurance, two reference letters, TOEFL scores (international students).
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics and physical assessment (AG-ACNP).
Discover Seton Hall University’s MSN Program
South College – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Knoxville, Tennessee
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 1.5+ years
Credit Hours: 74
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Current unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license or in process
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
Learn about South College’s MSN Program
St. John Fisher University – Wegmans School of Nursing
Online Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) Program
Rochester, New York
Program Description: St. John Fisher’s AGACNP online program empowers nurses to manage acute and chronic conditions in adult and older adult patients. The program is designed to be completed part-time in as few as 28 months.
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: As few as 28 months
Credit Hours: 46
Admission Essentials:
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Two recommendation letters (master’s level or higher in nursing preferred)
- Personal statement
- Updated résumé
- One year of current clinical experience
- Unencumbered RN license
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification and one year of current acute care clinical experience
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Grade of “B” or higher in health assessment, research, and statistics coursework
- TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers.
Texas Tech University – Health Sciences Center
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Lubbock, Texas
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 48
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Active, unrestricted United States RN license
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics and research (grade C or better)
- Application materials: Personal statement/essay, three professional references, transcripts
- TTUHSC SON Computer Literacy Test completion.
Explore Texas Tech University’s MSN Program
The University of Alabama at Birmingham – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Birmingham, Alabama
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specializations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 2 years
Credit Hours: 45
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license
- GRE, GMAT or MAT Scores required for GPA below 3.2
- Application materials: Three letters of References, transcripts.
Learn about The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s MSN Program
Thomas Jefferson University – Jefferson College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 36
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license
- Minimum one year of clinical experience
- Application materials: transcripts, Resume/CV, Personal statement, two recommendation letters
- Drug, criminal background, and child abuse clearances.
Explore Thomas Jefferson University’s MSN Program
University of Colorado – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Aurora, Colorado
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specializations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 49+
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license
- Application materials: application form, Essay
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics and research course (grade C or better)
- Application materials: Resume/CV, three letters of reference, applicant interview, transcripts.
Discover University of Colorado’s MSN Program
University of South Alabama – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Mobile, Alabama
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 2+ years
Credit Hours: 45
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Current, unrestricted United States RN License
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- U.S. Citizenship
- Application materials: primary and supplemental applications, transcripts.
- Minimum two years of clinical experience, including direct patient care in emergency, ICU or Med-Surg.
Explore University of South Alabama’s MSN Program
University of South Carolina – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Columbia, South Carolina
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 46
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from an Accredited Program
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, Unrestricted United States RN License
- Minimum 1 year of Nursing Experience
- Application materials: Personal Statement, Resume/CV, 3 Letters of Recommendation
- BLS and ACLS Certification.
Learn about University of South Carolina’s MSN Program
University of Southern Indiana – College of Nursing and Health Professions
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Evansville, Indiana
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credit Hours: 42
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license
- Prerequisite coursework in undergraduate statistics (grade C or better)
- Application materials: application form, transcripts, Resume or CV, Statement of professional goals, two references.
Discover University of Southern Indiana’s MSN Program
University of Texas at El Paso – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
El Paso, Texas
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: N/A (likely Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credit Hours: 46+
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Current U.S. Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Application materials: Transcripts, Letter of purpose, Resume/CV, Letter of recommendation.
Explore University of Texas at El Paso’s MSN Program
Walden University – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: N/A
Credit Hours: 58
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Application materials: application form, transcripts, Technical Standards Policy & Clinical Site Acknowledgement Form, Statement of understanding of the MSN NP practicum requirements, identification of potential clinical sites.
Learn about Walden University’s MSN Program
Wilkes University – Passan School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (Note: Primary Care, verify if Acute Care specialization available)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credit Hours: 40
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license
- Application materials: application form, Resume, transcripts.
- Minimum one year of clinical experience.
Discover Wilkes University’s MSN Program
Youngstown State University – Bitonte College of Health and Human Services
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Youngstown, Ohio
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Program Length: 1.5+ years
Credit Hours: 45
Admission Essentials:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Valid RN license in state of practicum hours
- Application materials: Official transcripts.
- Minimum one year of critical care clinical experience.
Explore Youngstown State University’s MSN Program
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Career Pathways and Outlook
Acute care nurse practitioners play a pivotal role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to patients facing critical and complex health challenges. These advanced practice nurses are prepared to assess, diagnose, and manage patients across the acuity spectrum, often in fast-paced and demanding environments.
ACNPs commonly work in:
- Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
- Emergency Departments (EDs)
- Specialty Inpatient Units (e.g., cardiology, neurology)
- Trauma Centers
- Acute Care Clinics
The career outlook for nurse practitioners, including ACNPs, is exceptionally strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates a robust demand for nurse practitioners, with a projected growth rate significantly faster than the average for all occupations. As of May 2022, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners was approximately $121,610, highlighting the financial rewards associated with this advanced nursing role. States with high levels of employment for nurse practitioners include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Tennessee, suggesting geographical areas with significant opportunities.
Pursuing an acute care nurse practitioner master of sciences degree program is a strategic investment in your nursing career. It not only expands your clinical expertise and autonomy but also positions you for leadership roles and enhanced earning potential within the dynamic field of acute care medicine. For nurses seeking to advance their careers and make a profound impact on patient outcomes in critical care settings, an MSN-ACNP program is a highly rewarding and impactful path.
For further exploration of nursing programs, consider reviewing resources on online MSN programs to broaden your understanding of advanced nursing education options.
Last updated February 2024.
