For Registered Nurses (RNs) seeking to specialize in the dynamic and critical field of acute care, pursuing an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters Of Science Degree Program is a pivotal step. These advanced programs are meticulously designed to equip nurses with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to expertly manage the complex needs of acutely and critically ill patients across various healthcare settings. Accreditation from bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) ensures that these programs meet rigorous standards of quality and comprehensive curriculum, preparing graduates for the challenges of advanced practice nursing.
While the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) currently focuses on renewals for the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (ACNP-BC), the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) remains a key provider of acute care nurse practitioner certifications, offering specialized credentials in adult-gerontology, pediatric, and neonatal acute care nursing. This landscape highlights the ongoing evolution and specialization within the acute care nurse practitioner role, emphasizing the need for robust and specialized master’s level education.
Why Choose an Online Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters Program?
The flexibility of online Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters of Science degree programs has revolutionized advanced nursing education. For ambitious nurses who require a learning format that fits into their demanding lives, online programs offer an accessible route to career advancement without necessitating significant life disruptions or relocation.
Please note: The program details and tables presented herein were originally updated in March 2021 and some information may need to be verified with the respective universities for the most current details.
Georgetown University – School of Nursing
MS in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)
Georgetown University’s online MS in Nursing program specializing in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) is structured for RNs holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This program is designed for completion in as few as 23 months, offering a fast track to becoming a certified AG-ACNP.
- CCNE Accredited Program ensuring high educational standards.
- 40-credit curriculum that can be completed in approximately 23 months.
- Dedicated clinical placement support to assist students in securing essential clinical experiences.
Learn More About Georgetown University’s AG-ACNP Program SPONSORED
When evaluating online acute care nurse practitioner masters programs, whether you are drawn to adult gerontology or pediatric specializations, certain program features are crucial for ensuring a successful educational journey and future career. Key considerations include the availability of live, interactive classes, robust support for securing and completing clinical hours for online students, comprehensive career services to aid in post-graduation job placement, and opportunities to build a professional network with peers and faculty.
The increasing acceptance and prestige of online programs mean that nurses can now access the same quality education as traditional on-campus programs from reputable institutions, without the need to relocate or compromise on their current professional and personal commitments. Nurse practitioner online programs, particularly at the master’s level, are increasingly recognized as a primary pathway for career progression and achieving advanced practice roles in nursing.
Explore Sponsored Online Nursing Programs
Featured Universities Offering Online ACNP Masters Programs
Below is a selection of universities offering online Master of Science degree programs for aspiring Acute Care Nurse Practitioners. Each program varies in length, clinical hour requirements, and enrollment types, catering to diverse student needs and preferences.
Simmons University – Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Simmons University offers an online MSN program with specialized tracks including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). While this listing highlights FNP and PMHNP options, it’s worth exploring if Simmons also offers or is developing an ACNP track within their MSN program.
- Specializations in high-demand nurse practitioner areas: FNP and PMHNP.
- Program completion possible in as little as 24 months, accelerating career advancement.
- Flexible study options with both full-time and part-time tracks available.
Learn More About Simmons University’s MSN Program
Georgetown University – Master of Science in Nursing
Georgetown University extends its commitment to online nursing education with another entry in Master of Science in Nursing programs. This online MSN is structured for RNs with a BSN aiming for APRN certification in various specialties, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP). Students can complete their degree in a streamlined 23-month timeframe.
- Accelerated 23-month path to earning an MS in Nursing.
- Four APRN specialty options including AG-ACNP, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP), and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP).
- Emphasis on hands-on clinical experience grounded in evidence-based practice.
Learn More About Georgetown University’s MSN Program
St. John Fisher University – Master of Science in Nursing
The Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fisher University provides an online M.S. in Nursing program designed for nurses holding a Bachelor’s in Nursing and an RN license. This program offers multiple NP tracks, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP).
- Adaptable program tracks including part-time and accelerated options.
- Diverse program specializations: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (PCFNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP).
Learn More About St. John Fisher University’s MSN Program SPONSORED
Note: It is essential to confirm with your chosen university about any potential on-campus requirements as part of the curriculum for these online programs.
| 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, New England | 2+ years | N/A | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Drexel University | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | 2+ years | 720-800 hours | Part-Time |
| Duke University | Durham, North Carolina | 1.5+ years | 616-840 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| George Washington University | Washington, D.C | 3 years | 650 hours | Part-Time |
| Georgetown Universityinfo SPONSORED | Washington, D.C | 23 months | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Georgia Southern University | Slatesboro, Georgia | N/A | 720 hours | Full-Time |
| Graceland University | Independence, Missouri | 3+ years | 540 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, Arizona | 2 years | N/A | Full-Time |
| Maryville University | St. Louis, Missouri | 3 years | 830 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights, Kentucky | 1.5+ years | 500 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Ohio University | Athens, Ohio | 2 years | 650 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Regis College | Weston, Massachusetts | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Saint Louis University | St. Louis, Missouri | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Seton Hall University | South Orange, New Jersey | 3+ years | 540+ hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| South College | Knoxville, Tennessee | 1.5+ years | N/A | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| St. John Fisher Universityinfo SPONSORED | Rochester, New York | As few as 28 months | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock, Texas | 3 years | 630 hours | Part-Time |
| The University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, Alabama | 2 years | 600 hours | Part-Time |
| Thomas Jefferson University | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | 2+ years | 673 | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Colorado | Aurora, Colorado | 2+ years | 585+ | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, Alabama | 2+ years | 600 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of South Carolina | Columbia, South Carolina | 3 years | 672 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, Indiana | 3+ years | 705 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso, Texas | 3 years | 675+ | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Walden University | Minneapolis, Minnesota | N/A | 640 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Wilkes University | Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania | 3+ years | 500 hours | Full-Time and Part-Time |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown, Ohio | 1.5+ years | 540 hours | Full-Time |
In-Depth Look at Select ACNP Masters Programs
To provide a more detailed perspective, let’s explore the admission requirements and program specifics for several universities offering Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters of Science degree programs.
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
Credits: 50
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Active and unrestricted U.S. RN license.
- Successful completion of undergraduate statistics and research courses with a grade of C or higher.
- Official transcripts from all institutions.
- Completed online application.
- Statement of professional goals.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- AGNP written interview survey.
- Letter of recommendation.
Explore Boise State University’s MSN Program Details
Chamberlain University – School 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
Credits: 48
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted U.S. RN license.
- For AG-ACNP specialization, at least two years of recent acute nursing experience (within the last 5 years).
- Completed application form.
- Official transcripts.
Discover Chamberlain University’s MSN Program Curriculum
Clarkson College – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Omaha, New England
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
Credits: 49
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
- GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Active, unrestricted U.S. RN license.
- Completed application.
Learn More About Clarkson College’s MSN Program Options
Drexel University – School of Nursing
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
Credits: 57
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- GPA of 3.0 or greater.
- Current, unrestricted U.S. RN license.
- For AG-ACNP, minimum of two years of acute nursing experience.
- For Pediatric ACNP, at least one year of pediatric nursing experience and current PALS certification.
- Completed application.
- Transcripts from all institutions.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement outlining career goals.
- Professional resume.
Explore Drexel University’s MSN Program Specializations
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
Credits: 43+
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- For AG-ACNP, at least one year of acute care nursing experience.
- For Pediatric ACNP, at least one year of acute care pediatric nursing experience.
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
- Official transcripts.
- Three professional letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Resume/CV.
- Official GRE scores (may be required).
Discover Duke University’s MSN Program Pathways
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
Credits: 48
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited professional institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN).
- Active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Completed application.
- Statement of Purpose.
- Resume.
- At least one year of critical care RN work experience.
Learn About George Washington University’s MSN Program Requirements
Georgetown University – School of Nursing
MS in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) – Washington, D.C.
Program Focus: This Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters of Science degree program at Georgetown University is specifically tailored for registered nurses with experience in acute or critical care settings. The curriculum emphasizes direct patient management in complex care scenarios, integrating evidence-based practices and ethical decision-making, while fostering holistic patient care.
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: 23 months
Credits: 40
Admission Requirements:
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or CNL/entry-level MSN from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program.
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.0 science GPA.
- Successful completion of a college-level three-credit statistics course with a grade of C or better.
- At least one year of full-time experience in an intensive care unit (ICU), emergency department, telemetry unit, or progressive care unit.
Request Information About Georgetown University’s AG-ACNP Program SPONSORED
Georgia Southern University – School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Slatesboro, Georgia
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (within BSN-DNP program, check for MSN-only options)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Program Length: Program length not specified
Credits: 43
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited professional institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN).
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license or APRN certification.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Undergraduate introductory statistics and health appraisal/physical assessment courses with a grade of C or better.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Completed 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 critical care RN work experience within the last three years.
Explore Georgia Southern University’s MSN Program Curriculum
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
Credits: 47
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited professional institution (NLNAC/CCNE/ACEN).
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Grade of B or better in any nursing coursework.
- Satisfactory criminal background check post-acceptance.
- Three professional references.
- Professional goals statement (150 words or less).
- Completed application.
- Transcripts.
Learn More About Graceland University’s MSN Program
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
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Program Length: 2 years
Credits: 53
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing (CCNE, NLNAC, or ACEN accredited).
- RN license.
- CV/resume.
- Letter of intent.
- Nursing experience (2 years).
- ICU, Adult ER, Progressive Care, and/or Post-Operative experience (1 year).
Discover Grand Canyon University’s ACNP MSN 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
Credits: 47
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
- 500-word essay on interest in becoming a nurse practitioner and plans to impact patient outcomes.
- At least one year of clinical experience.
Explore Maryville University’s MSN Program Options
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
Credits: 46
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completed application.
- Transcripts.
- At least 1,000 clinical hours as a registered nurse.
- At least one year of clinical care experience.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics course with a grade of C or higher.
Learn More About 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
Credits: 46
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics, management, chemistry, anatomy and physiology 1 and 2, microbiology, and research with a minimum grade of C.
Explore Ohio University’s MSN Program Curriculum
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
Credits: 46+
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
- Completion of a college-level statistics course before starting classes.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Transcripts.
- Resume.
- Statement of Purpose.
- Two letters of recommendation.
Discover Regis College’s MSN Program Pathways
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
Credits: 37
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- Minimum GPA of 3.25.
- A current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Three recommendations.
- Statement of goals.
- Resume/CV.
- American Heart Association CPR certification.
Learn More About Saint Louis University’s MSN Program
Seton Hall University – College of Nursing Seton Hall
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – South Orange, New Jersey
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (and Pediatric Primary Care ACNP, check program details)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credits: 48
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- Current U.S. registered nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum GPA of 3.2.
- For AG-ACNP, at least two years of professional patient care experience.
- For Pediatric Primary ACNP, at least one year of nursing experience.
- Statement of professional goals.
- Professional liability insurance.
- Two letters of reference.
- TOEFL scores (for international students).
- For AG-ACNP, completion of undergraduate statistics and physical assessment courses.
Explore Seton Hall University’s MSN Program Options
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
Credits: 74
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- Current unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license or in process of licensure.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
Discover South College’s MSN Program Curriculum
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 University’s online AGACNP program, offered by the Wegmans School of Nursing, is designed to empower nurses to manage both acute and chronic conditions in adult and older adult patients. This Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters of Science degree program can be completed part-time in as few as 28 months.
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Program Length: As few as 28 months
Credits: 46
Admission Requirements:
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Two letters of recommendation from master’s-prepared or higher nursing professionals (APRN preferred; MD, PA, NP, or CNS also accepted).
- Personal statement.
- Updated resume.
- One year of current clinical experience.
- Unencumbered RN license in the state of employment and intended practice.
- 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 speaking applicants.
Request Information About St. John Fisher University’s AGACNP Program SPONSORED
Texas Tech University – 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
Credits: 48
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- A current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics and research courses with a grade of C or higher.
- Personal statement/essay.
- Three professional references.
- Transcripts.
- Completion of the TTUHSC SON Computer Literacy Test.
Learn More About 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
Credits: 45
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- GRE, GMAT, or MAT Scores required for applicants with less than a 3.2 GPA.
- Three letters of References.
- Transcripts.
Explore The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s MSN Program
Thomas Jefferson University – School 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
Credits: 36
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- At least one year of clinical experience.
- Transcripts.
- Resume/CV.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Drug, criminal background, and child abuse clearances.
Discover Thomas Jefferson University’s MSN Program Pathways
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
Credits: 49+
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completed application.
- Essay.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics and research courses with a grade of C or higher.
- Resume/CV.
- Three letters of reference.
- Applicant interview.
- Transcripts.
Learn More About 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
Credits: 45
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN License.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Citizen of the United States of America.
- Completion of primary and supplemental applications.
- At least two years of clinical experience, with at least two years in direct patient care in emergency, ICU, or Med-Surg settings.
- Transcripts.
Explore University of South Alabama’s MSN Program Curriculum
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
Credits: 46
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from an Accredited Program.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, Unrestricted United States RN License.
- At least 1 year of Nursing Experience.
- Personal Statement.
- Resume/CV.
- 3 Letters of Recommendation.
- BLS and ACLS Certification.
Discover University of South Carolina’s MSN Program Pathways
University of Southern Indiana – College of Nursing
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
Credits: 42
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completion of undergraduate statistics with a grade of C or higher.
- Completed application.
- Transcripts.
- Resume or CV.
- Statement of professional goals.
- Two references.
Learn More About University of Southern Indiana’s MSN Program
University of Texas at El Paso – College of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – El Paso, Texas
Degree Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specialization: Specialization not explicitly listed, but program focuses on Nurse Practitioner tracks. (Check for ACNP specialization)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3 years
Credits: 46+
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Current U.S. Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Transcripts.
- Letter of purpose.
- Resume/CV.
- Letter of recommendation.
Explore University of Texas at El Paso’s MSN Program Curriculum
Walden University – School 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: Program length not specified
Credits: 58
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Completed application.
- Transcripts.
- Completion of Technical Standards Policy & Clinical Site Acknowledgement Form.
- Statement of understanding of the MSN NP practicum requirements.
- Identification of potential clinical sites according to applicant’s area.
Discover Walden University’s ACNP MSN Program
Wilkes University – 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: Program listed as Primary Care, verify if Acute Care track is available or if listing is mislabeled)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Program Length: 3+ years
Credits: 40
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Current, unrestricted United States RN license.
- Completed application.
- Resume.
- At least one year of clinical experience.
- Transcripts.
Learn More About Wilkes University’s MSN Program
Youngstown State University – School of Nursing
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
Credits: 45
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Valid RN license in the state where practicum hours will be completed.
- Official transcripts.
- At least one year of critical care clinical experience.
Explore Youngstown State University’s MSN Program Curriculum
Career Trajectory for Acute Care Nurse Practitioners with a Masters Degree
Graduating with an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Masters of Science degree opens up significant and rewarding career pathways. Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs) play a vital role in healthcare, providing specialized care to patients facing acute illnesses or injuries. They often specialize in adult or pediatric populations and are essential in intensive care units (ICUs), emergency departments, trauma centers, and specialized acute care settings. Their advanced education and training enable them to manage complex patient cases, implement critical care protocols, and collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners was approximately $121,610 as of May 2022. States with the highest levels of employment for nurse practitioners include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Tennessee, indicating strong job markets and demand for these advanced practice nurses across various regions. The demand is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, reflecting the increasing need for specialized acute care services and the expanding scope of practice for nurse practitioners.
For nurses seeking to further their education beyond the master’s level, consider exploring online MSN programs for additional specialization or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to enhance leadership and clinical expertise.
Updated February 2024.
