Apply
Elevate your nursing profession and become a highly skilled nurse practitioner through the University of Michigan-Flint’s innovative online BSN to DNP with MSN program, specializing as an acute care nurse practitioner. This program is designed to equip you with the expertise to deliver exceptional patient care in acute settings.
Follow SON on Social
This unique program allows registered nurses, with or without a BSN, to advance their education and career. By completing the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) portion, you can become a board-certified nurse practitioner and begin practicing clinically. You can then seamlessly continue to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with just 15 additional credits, enhancing your expertise as an acute care nurse practitioner.
The UM-Flint School of Nursing provides an exceptional educational journey for BSN-prepared nurses aspiring to become nurse practitioners. Through a single application, students can enroll in the BSN to DNP with MSN program and earn both MSN and DNP degrees. This program enables students to gain an MSN degree in one of four specialized concentrations, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, preparing them for board certification exams and practice. Following MSN completion, students can progress towards earning their Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing further in acute care.
Why Choose UM-Flint’s Online Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program?
Exceptional Nurse Practitioner Certification Pass Rates
The online BSN-DNP with MSN program at UM-Flint is meticulously designed to cultivate effective nurse leaders and provides outstanding preparation for the Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam, particularly for the acute care specialization. Our rigorous curriculum ensures you are thoroughly equipped with the essential knowledge and practical clinical experiences to excel as a Certified Nurse Practitioner in acute care settings.
Flexible Online Program for Working Nurses
Recognizing the demands on working nurses, UM-Flint’s acute care nurse practitioner program is conveniently offered online with minimal on-campus requirements. The limited campus visits are strategically scheduled to coincide with health residencies, simulation activities, and graduation ceremonies.
You have the flexibility to pursue your acute care nurse practitioner degree on a full-time or part-time schedule, accommodating your personal and professional commitments. UM-Flint’s dedicated Nursing faculty are committed to student success and offer flexible office hours and online availability outside of scheduled course times. You will find consistent support throughout your journey to becoming an acute care nurse practitioner.
Hands-on Clinical Experience in Acute Care Settings
The BSN to DNP with MSN program effectively blends comprehensive online coursework with invaluable hands-on learning experiences, enabling you to become an integral part of real-world healthcare teams in acute care environments. You will undertake clinical practicums under the direct guidance of seasoned professionals, fostering meaningful mentorships with faculty and instructors who are dedicated to both inspiring and imparting critical knowledge for your acute care nurse practitioner career.
Robust Research Opportunities and University of Michigan Resources
Our distinguished Nursing faculty are actively engaged in a diverse array of relevant research projects with DNP students, including those specializing in acute care. You will have the opportunity to explore specific research interests while contributing to the improvement of healthcare services for patients from diverse communities, cultures, and backgrounds.
As a valued member of the globally recognized University of Michigan community, you also gain access to extensive research resources across the UM-Dearborn and UM-Ann Arbor campuses, enriching your learning and research potential as a future acute care nurse practitioner.
I’ve always wanted to help people. I get to use science to make people’s lives better and it is fulfilling to have the knowledge to be able to provide this for patients. Completing UM-Flint’s DNP program placed me in a clinically competent position to provide quality care for my patients. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with Ascension; I care for a panel of over 1,000 patients in collaboration with MDs and DOs. We provide top-notch preventative and acute care to a rural population.”
Ryan Petty
Doctor of Nursing Practice 2017
Online BSN to DNP with MSN Pathway to Acute Care Specialization
The BSN to DNP pathway is tailored to allow you to personalize your studies based on your educational background, specifically towards your goals in acute care nursing. This program pathway delivers a robust, practice-focused curriculum designed to effectively enhance the skills necessary for leadership roles in nursing, particularly within acute care settings.
The online BSN to DNP with MSN pathway, specializing in acute care, is ideal for registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing who aspire to advance into leadership roles within clinical practice. The program offers both full-time and part-time options, accommodating working BSN RNs and recent BSN graduates seeking specialization in acute care.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration
The online BSN to DNP program offers four specialized concentrations, including a focused path to becoming an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP). AGACNPs are essential in treating patients with acute and chronic illnesses, guiding their transition back to community and primary care settings. Graduates of this concentration are fully prepared to sit for the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Examination. The AGACNP curriculum comprises 55 credits of core MSN courses or 73 credits for the combined MSN and DNP degrees.
Admissions Requirements Specific to the AGACNP Concentration:
- Minimum of 1 year of full-time experience as a registered nurse, with preferred experience in intensive care units (ICUs) such as Medical, Surgical, Neuro, Trauma, Burn, and Cardiac ICUs.
- Preferred working knowledge of invasive hemodynamic monitors (e.g., pulmonary artery, central venous pressure, and arterial), mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor titration.
- Applicants without full ICU experience but with relevant skills in Perioperative Unit/Pre-op/PACU, Step-down, Emergency Departments, and specialty units like Cath labs may be considered based on experience and an interview with the AGACNP Program Lead Faculty.
- A letter from the Nurse Manager verifying ICU skills/experience is required before starting the acute care track.
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Provider certification prior to the acute care track.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider certification.
- Unencumbered RN License.
- Mandatory on-campus attendance each semester (three total) for on-ground learning and skills activities during the acute care program in NUR 861, 863, and 865, typically 1-2 consecutive days per visit.
- Non-Michigan residents may need a Michigan Nursing license and may attend clinicals in Michigan for the first and third semesters. The second semester clinicals may be in the state of residency if permitted and contracted with UM-Flint.
The curriculum for the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration is also available, consisting of 52 credits for MSN or 70 credits for MSN and DNP. Other concentration options include Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Review the online BSN to DNP with MSN curriculum.
Online BSN to DNP with MSN Program Curriculum*
| Part-time Curriculum | Accelerated Curriculum |
|---|---|
| Winter start (January) | Winter start (January) |
| Fall start (August) | Fall start (August) |
*Courses listed in white are required of all DNP students
Advance Your Nursing Career with a DNP Degree in Acute Care
Progressing from a BSN to a DNP, with a specialization as an acute care nurse practitioner, significantly enhances your nursing knowledge and leadership capabilities. It opens doors to numerous career opportunities and boosts your earning potential. DNP-prepared nurse practitioners can earn between $95,000 and $157,000 annually, depending on specialty and location. The salary outlook for Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates is approximately 50% higher than for BSN-prepared registered nurses.
DNP graduates specializing in acute care are well-prepared for leadership and advanced practice roles, including:
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Acute Care
- Nurse Administrator
- Clinical Researcher
- Nurse Educator
Affordability & Financial Aid for Your Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Education
The Online BSN to DNP with MSN program offers competitive tuition rates, making a respected University of Michigan degree accessible. Various financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, and loans, are available to support your education.
For those interested in nursing faculty positions, the Nurse Faculty Loan Program can cover your schooling while developing the necessary skills and expertise for a faculty role in Nursing.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner students may also be eligible for the Behavioral Health Workforce Education & Training Scholarships, offering six scholarships with potential funding of $28,350 (distributed across winter, spring, and early fall semesters).
Additionally, the School of Nursing has secured a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Residency program grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, providing a paid one-year residency with full University of Michigan benefits and diverse practice settings.
School of Nursing Graduate Student Grants
Important Notice Regarding Professional Licensure: Effective July 1, 2024, the University of Michigan-Flint will implement revised enrollment criteria for licensure-leading programs. Initial enrollment will be limited to applicants residing in states where the program’s educational requirements are confirmed to be met. See the School of Nursing Statement 2024 for detailed information.
Admission Requirements for the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program
Admission to the BSN to DNP with MSN program is competitive. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Current, unencumbered RN license in the United States.
- At least one year of RN experience is preferred, especially in acute care settings for the AGACNP concentration.
State Authorization for Online Students
Prospective online students should check the State Authorization page to verify UM-Flint’s status in their state and ensure compliance with distance education regulations.
How to Apply to the Online DNP with MSN Program
To apply to UM-Flint’s online RN to DNP or BSN to DNP with MSN program, please submit an application through the link below. Supporting materials can be emailed to [email protected] or delivered to the Office of Graduate Programs.
BSN to DNP with MSN Applicants
- Application for BSN to DNP with MSN
- For new users, click “Sign-Up” at the bottom. Existing users can sign in.
- Click “Start New.”
- Select “Graduate” under Level of Study.
- Select “Nursing (DNP with MSN option) – RN and/or Bachelor’s prepared” under Program of Study.
- $55 non-refundable application fee (waiver available by attending webinars)
- Completed supplemental application within the Applicant Portal
- Copy of current RN license
- Official transcripts from all institutions (UM-Flint transcripts obtained automatically)
- Transcripts from non-US institutions require internal credential review.
- English proficiency proof if applicable.
- Three letters of recommendation
- Curriculum vitae or résumé
- Professional Goal Statement (1-2 pages, APA format, including reasons for DNP, career goals, UM-Flint interest, nursing experience, achievements, research interests, and any special circumstances).
- Additional documentation for international students.
- Phone or in-person interview may be required.
International Students
This online program includes mandatory on-campus meetings and is not eligible for student (F-1) visas. Nonimmigrant visa holders in the U.S. should contact the Center for Global Engagement at [email protected].
Enrollment Deposit & Application Fee
A $55 application fee is required (waiver available via webinars). Admitted students pay a $100 non-refundable enrollment deposit (waived for UM-Flint BSN graduates).
Campus Orientation
Admitted students must attend an on-campus or online orientation before program commencement.
Application Deadlines
Completed applications are reviewed post-deadline. Admission decisions are emailed within two weeks of the deadline:
- Fall (early deadline) – February 1
- Fall (final deadline) – April 1 (In-person orientation May 16, 2025)
- Winter – August 15
Academic Advising
For program inquiries, book an appointment with a knowledgeable academic advisor.
Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career—Earn Your Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP!
Apply to the University of Michigan-Flint School of Nursing’s Online BSN to DNP with MSN program and specialize as an acute care nurse practitioner to advance your expertise!
Submit a request for information form to learn more about our acute care nurse practitioner program!
UM-FLINT BLOGS | Graduate Programs
