Best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) Programs in Georgia | 2025

Learn more about the best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) programs in Georgia as we explore their nuances, including coursework, clinical training, prerequisites, salary expectations, and more. Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career, or generally curious about the educational pathway, you've come to the right place.

Best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs in Georgia - Online & Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

^{*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.}

1. Emory University - Atlanta, GA 

The ACNP program at Emory University prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings, focusing on the care of acutely ill patients and their families. This comprehensive program integrates advanced health assessment, clinical decision-making and diagnosis, advanced pharmacology, and the management of acutely ill adults. It includes specialty seminars taught by expert clinicians and emphasizes the physiological and psychosocial impact of acute illness on patients and families.

ACNP Program Overview:

• ACNP Pathways: 
  • MSN, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Credit Hours: 49
    • Clinical Hours: 840
    • Duration: 4 semesters (full-time), 6 semesters (part-time)
  • MSN, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Credit Hours: 48
    • Clinical Hours: 780
    • Duration: 4 semesters (full-time), 6 semesters (part-time)
  • MSN, Family/Emergency Nurse Practitioner 
    • Credit Hours: 83
    • Clinical Hours: 1,140
    • Duration: 7 semesters (full-time), 10 semesters (part-time)
• Tuition: $49,972 fixed annual tuition rate for 12 or more credit hours. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Emory also offers their ACNP specialties in the post-graduate certificate and DNP format. 

Program Highlights:

• Certification Preparation: Graduates are prepared to sit for the ACNP certification exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• Ethical Training: The program includes robust ethical training to prepare nurses to address challenges posed by impaired decision-making and consider the patient's social, economic, and psychological issues.
• Clinical Experiences: Offers seminars and clinical experiences that emphasize the care of acutely ill patients, including those in high-acuity settings.

2. Augusta University - Augusta, GA

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration at Augusta University prepares nurses to provide advanced patient-family-centered care in settings with acute and/or chronically ill patients across the adult lifespan, focusing on delivering coordinated, collaborative, comprehensive, consistent, and cost-effective care.

DNP AGACNP Program Overview:

• Duration:
  • Gull-time plan of study will take 8 semesters or nearly 3 years
  • Part-time plan of study will take 11 semesters or nearly 4 years (part-time)
• Credit Hours: 76
• Clinical Hours: 1216
• Tuition: $430 per credit hour (GA residents); $1,132 per credit hour (non-residents)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Information on duration and clinical and credit hours pertains to the BSN-DNP AG-ACNP pathway, Augusta University also offers a post-MSN AG-ACNP pathway plan of study for master's prepared nurses. 

Program Highlights:

• Board Pass Rate: Graduates had a 100% Board Pass Rate for the last 4 out of 5 years.
• Curriculum: Offers a hybrid of online and offline learning, with full-time and part-time schedules available. The curriculum includes interactive web-based classes taught by experienced online instructors and a capstone/practice project completed in the student's area of expertise.
• Clinical Requirements: Applicants must reside in either Georgia or South Carolina due to clinical requirements and the need for instructors to visit students, their preceptor, and clinical site.
• Application Deadlines: Applications for Fall admission are open from August 28 to April 15. Applications verified/completed after the deadline will be considered on a space-available basis only.

3. Georgia State University - Atlanta, GA 

The Post-Master's Certificate Program in AGACNP at Georgia State University's Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions is designed for nurses who already hold a master's degree in another nursing specialty area, such as adult-gero nurse practitioner primary care and family nurse practitioner.

Post-Graduate AG-ACNP Program Overview:

• Credit Hours: 42 maximum, will vary on credits transferred from previous MSN degree. 
• Clinical Hours: 500
• Tuition: $4, 776 per semester (GA residents), $15,108 per semester (non-residents)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Program Highlights:

• Certification Preparation: Enables certificate holders to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center's examination for adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner.
• Core Courses: Includes Advanced Pathophysiological Concepts in Nursing, Advanced Health Assessment, Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and specialty courses focused on gerontological nursing and common adult health problems.
• Clinical Hours: Specialty courses include significant clinical hours, providing hands-on experience in the acute care setting.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Features a course on Interprofessional Collaboration for Advanced Practice, emphasizing teamwork across healthcare professions.
• Flexibility: Core courses may be exempted if previous coursework is deemed equivalent, offering a tailored educational experience based on past education and experience.

4.  Mercer University | Georgia Baptist College of Nursing - Atlanta, GA

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) AGACNP track at Georgia Baptist College of Nursing of Mercer University is designed to prepare nurses for managing individuals across the adult lifespan who have acute, critical, and complex chronic conditions. This program emphasizes disease prevention, acute and critical care management, restoring health, and providing symptom management in acute care settings.

MSN AG-ACNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 4 semesters (full-time), 7 semesters (part-time)
• Credit Hours: 47
• Clinical Hours: 600
• Tuition: $1,159 per credit hour or a flat rate of $10,430 per semester for 9 or more credit hours. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

The AGACNP program is available through the BSN-DNP track, which requires 76 credit hours and 1,020 clinical hours, as well as the post-graduate certificate track, which requires 7 credit hours and 600 clinical hours. The DNP program tuition is slightly higher at $1,236 per credit hour. 

Program Highlights:

• Study Options: Available in both full-time and part-time formats.
• Curriculum: Adheres to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's "The Essentials of Master's Education for Advanced Nursing Practice," 2011.
• Historical Prestige: Mercer's Georgia Baptist College of Nursing is Georgia's oldest nursing program, established in 1902, reflecting a long-standing tradition in nursing education.
• Visionary Education: The college blends a century-long legacy with a forward-looking approach, offering students a strong foundation for a successful nursing career.

5. Brenau University | Ivester College of Nursing - Atlanta, GA

Brenau University offers a Graduate Certificate in AGACNP, designed for nurses seeking to enhance their ability to manage complex patients in acute, fast-paced settings. This post-master's certificate program equips nurses with in-depth knowledge of pathophysiology and the management of intricate patient health issues.

Graduate Certificate AGACNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 2 semesters, 5 courses
• Tuition: $824 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Program Highlights:

• Class Type: Hybrid
• Curriculum: Courses include Healthcare Systems Policy and Law, Acute Care I and II, and their respective clinical practicums.
• Outcomes: Graduates will demonstrate exceptional care to adult and geriatric populations, develop treatment plans based on evidence-based practice, apply advanced diagnostic skills, and manage complex patient health issues.
• Admission Requirements: Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 from all college transcripts, an MSN or DNP degree from a regionally accredited institution, FNP certification, and a nursing license.

6. Georgia Southern University - Statesboro, GA

Georgia Southern University offers an AGACNP designed for nurses with an MSN or higher degree who seek to specialize further in acute care. This online program is tailored to equip nurses with the advanced skills needed for managing adults with acute and/or chronically ill conditions across the adult lifespan.

Post-Masters Certificate AGACNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 5 semesters
• Credit Hours: 19
• Annual Tuition: $4,986 (GA residents), $19,890 (non-residents). Based on 9 credits per semester. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Program Highlights:

• Entry Terms: Fall
• Format: Online, utilizing both synchronous (live, real-time) and asynchronous (self-paced) instruction.
• Clinical Experience: Includes a variety of educational backgrounds, requiring a gap analysis by the Program Director to create an individualized program of study based on past education and experience.
• Admission Requirements: Applicants must have an MSN from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0, along with specific undergraduate courses. Critical care RN work experience within the last three years is also required.
• Certification: Upon completion, graduates are prepared for educational eligibility for certification in their area of study.

7. Middle Georgia State University - Macon, GA

Middle Georgia State University's School of Health and Natural Sciences, in collaboration with the Office of Graduate Studies, offers a Post-Master's Certificate in AGACNP. This program is designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) who are certified in other population foci and seek to acquire the professional skills and knowledge necessary for AGACNP certification.

Post-Masters Certificate AGACNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 2 years
• Credit Hours: 19
• Program Tuition: $4,983
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Curriculum: Focuses on providing the essential professional skills and knowledge for AGACNP certification, with courses including Adult/Gero Acute Care I, II, and III.
• Application Requirements: Applicants must submit an updated résumé, one letter of recommendation, official copies of all graduate and undergraduate transcripts, and a copy of a Georgia nursing license and APRN certification.

What Is an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program?

An ACNP program in Georgia is a specialized area of nursing that prepares registered nurses (RNs) to provide advanced nursing care to patients with complex acute, critical, and chronic health conditions. These programs are designed for nurses who wish to focus their practice on patients with acute conditions, often in settings such as hospitals, intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty clinics. ACNP programs are typically offered at the graduate level, leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

The curriculum of an ACNP program combines advanced nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and clinical skills development. It is designed to equip nurse practitioners (NPs) with the knowledge and skills necessary to make complex decisions, perform diagnostic procedures, and manage acute patient care interventions effectively. Graduates of ACNP programs are prepared to work autonomously and in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care in fast-paced and often high-stakes environments.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Coursework

The coursework in an ACNP program covers a broad range of topics essential for the effective management of patients with acute and complex conditions. While specific courses may vary by program, common coursework includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the physiological processes and changes associated with disease.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Comprehensive study of pharmacological interventions for acute and chronic conditions.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills for conducting thorough physical and diagnostic assessments.
• Acute Care Procedures: Techniques for performing emergency and critical care procedures.
• Disease Management: Strategies for managing acute and chronic illnesses across the lifespan.
• Diagnostic Reasoning: Skills for interpreting diagnostic tests and formulating treatment plans.
• Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Examination of ethical and policy issues affecting acute care practice.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Applying research and evidence to clinical decision-making in acute care settings.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of ACNP programs, providing students with hands-on experience in managing patients with acute conditions. Clinical training includes:

• Clinical Rotations: Supervised rotations in various acute care settings, such as emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty clinics.
• Patient Management: Experience in assessing, diagnosing, and managing the care of patients with complex acute and chronic conditions.
• Procedural Skills: Training in essential procedures, such as central line insertion, lumbar puncture, and intubation.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Opportunities to work alongside physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals in a team-based approach to patient care.
• Case Studies and Simulations: Use of case studies and simulation labs to practice and refine clinical decision-making and procedural skills.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Job Description

Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs) are advanced practice nurses equipped to manage severe and emergent health issues. Integral to healthcare teams, ACNPs provide essential care in high-stakes environments.

Core ACNP Duties:

• Clinical Evaluation: ACNPs conduct thorough health assessments, analyze medical histories, and interpret diagnostic tests to evaluate patient conditions.
• Care Management: These professionals devise and oversee treatment plans for acute medical conditions, including the authority to prescribe medications and manage patient care collaboratively.
• Procedural Proficiency: In emergent scenarios, ACNPs are skilled in performing critical interventions such as inserting central lines, arterial lines, and chest tubes, vital for patient stabilization.
• Team Collaboration: Integral to patient care, ACNPs partner with other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless, comprehensive treatment.
• Education: This role involves educating patients and families on managing health conditions, understanding treatments, and implementing preventative strategies.
• Emergency Response: ACNPs are adept at providing rapid assessment and initiating immediate intervention in critical care and emergency settings.
• Professional Development: Commitment to continuous learning is key, as ACNPs stay abreast of medical advancements and actively engage in research and quality improvement initiatives.

The specific responsibilities of ACNPs can vary depending on the healthcare setting and patient needs, with a practice scope that may be adjusted based on state regulations and specialty areas.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Prerequisites & Requirements

ACNP programs in Georgia come with several prerequisites and requirements to ensure students are adequately prepared for the rigors and demands of education and practice.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Prerequisites

Before applying to an ACNP program, prospective students must typically complete the following prerequisites:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A BSN degree from an accredited nursing program is usually required. Some programs may offer bridge options for Registered Nurses (RNs) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN).
• RN Licensure: Active and unrestricted RN licensure in Georgia or the state where clinical training will be completed.
• Clinical Experience: A specified amount of clinical experience as an RN, often requiring experience in acute care settings such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, or similar environments. The required duration of experience can vary, with many programs requiring one to two years of full-time work.
• Undergraduate Coursework: Completion of specific undergraduate courses with a minimum grade, which may include anatomy and physiology, Microbiology, statistics, and health assessment.
• Letters of Recommendation: Letters from academic faculty or professional supervisors who can attest to the applicant's clinical abilities, professional demeanor, and potential for success in an ACNP program.
• Personal Statement: A written statement of purpose explaining the applicant's interest in acute care nursing, career goals, and reasons for pursuing an ACNP degree.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Requirements

Once admitted into an ACNP program, students must meet the following requirements to graduate and become eligible for certification:

• Completion of Coursework: Successful completion of all required coursework, which covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and acute care management, among other topics.
• Clinical Hours: Completion of a minimum number of supervised clinical hours in acute care settings. The exact number of hours required can vary by program but typically ranges from 500 to 800 hours.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs may require a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates the integration of academic knowledge with clinical practice.
• Certification Exam: Upon program completion, graduates must pass a certification exam specific to acute care nurse practitioners, such as the ACNP-Adult-Gerontology exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).
• State Licensure: Apply for and obtain state licensure as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in Georgia. Requirements for licensure can vary by state but generally include passing the national certification exam and submitting proof of education and clinical hours.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program Costs

The financial commitment for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) programs can be considerable and varies depending on multiple factors. Here's a detailed look at the financial aspects to consider for an ACNP program:

• Tuition Fees: These can fluctuate based on whether the school is public or private and the student's residency status. For example, at a public institution like the University of Cincinnati, the cost is $8,359 per semester for Ohio residents, compared to $8,509 for those from out-of-state.
• Academic Materials: This includes the cost for textbooks, medical equipment, and other necessary supplies, which can vary widely in price.
• Technical Expenses: Students enrolled in online or hybrid ACNP programs may incur additional costs for technological services, software subscriptions, or digital resources.
• Practical Experience Fees: Some ACNP courses could carry extra fees for the use of laboratory materials or equipment during clinical practice.
• Assorted Expenses: Application processing fees, cap and gown rentals for graduation, and other administrative charges are also to be considered.
• Living Costs: For students who have to reduce their working hours or relocate to attend the program, living expenses such as housing, food, and utilities become a significant factor.
• Certification Charges: After completing the ACNP program, there are fees for taking the certification exams necessary to practice as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.

Understanding these expenses is vital for prospective ACNP students to prepare financially for their advanced education and subsequent certification.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations

The salary of an ACNP can vary widely depending on factors such as geographical location, years of experience, type of practice setting, and level of education and certification.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for NPs was $124,680 or $59.94 hourly.

The top-paying states were:

• California: $158.130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

The three top-paying industries for this profession include:

• Home Health Care Services $148,960
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services: $139,640
• Business, Professional, Labor, Political and Similar Organizations: $137,310

Unfortunately, the BLS doesn't specify between NP specialties. However, ZipRecruiter reports that the national average annual salary for ACNPs is $121,877 or $59 per hour.

Are Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs Worth It in Georgia?

Deciding whether an ACNP program is worth it requires considering its various advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

1. Increased Earning Potential: ACNPs generally earn higher salaries than registered nurses due to their advanced skills and responsibilities. In Georgia, the demand for specialized nurse practitioners can lead to competitive salaries.
2. Expanded Scope of Practice: ACNPs have a broader scope of practice, including diagnosing and managing acute and complex conditions, which allows for a more autonomous role in patient care.
3. High Demand: With the aging population and the increasing complexity of healthcare needs, ACNPs are in high demand, especially in critical care, emergency rooms, and specialty clinics across Georgia.
4. Opportunities for Specialization: ACNP programs offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as cardiology, pulmonology, or critical care, making it possible to focus on areas of personal interest and expertise.
5. Professional Satisfaction: Working as an ACNP provides a high level of professional satisfaction due to the significant impact on patient outcomes, especially in life-threatening situations and complex cases.

Cons of Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

1. Cost of Education: The cost of ACNP programs can be high, with tuition, books, and fees adding up. Prospective students in Georgia must consider the financial investment and potential student loan debt.
2. Intensive Study and Clinical Hours: ACNP programs are rigorous and time-consuming, requiring extensive clinical hours on top of coursework, which can be challenging to manage, especially for those working or with other commitments.
3. Stressful Work Environments: ACNPs often work in high-stress environments such as ICUs and emergency departments, where the stakes are high, and the hours can be long and unpredictable.
4. Licensing and Certification Requirements: After completing an ACNP program, graduates must pass a certification exam and obtain licensure in Georgia, which can be a lengthy and sometimes stressful process.
5. Continuing Education: To maintain certification and licensure, ACNPs must complete continuing education requirements, which can be time-consuming and sometimes costly.

ACNP Scope of Practice | GA

The professional scope and independence of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are deeply embedded within the regulatory framework of individual states. Autonomy can vary significantly; some regions offer NPs complete independence, while others mandate varying levels of physician oversight.

Prospective NP students should prioritize understanding these state-specific scopes of practice. Notably, graduates from certain Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP programs might find their qualifications don't meet the criteria for practice in some states. Aligning one's educational pathway with career goals necessitates a thorough knowledge of the targeted state's regulations, particularly the responsibilities attached to the chosen NP specialty. Such foresight is crucial for ensuring educational choices are congruent with the desired professional practice environment.

Georgia is a restricted practice state. If you plan to work in a full practice authority state like Oregon or Washington, you must ensure that the NP Program you attend in Georgia will provide the education required for practicing in a fully autonomous state.

Consider these factors:

• State Licensure: Practicing as an NP requires state-specific licensure. Should you relocate, a new state license is usually required.
• Practice Level Classifications: The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) identifies three levels of practice environments:
  • Full Practice: States like Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico allow NPs to fully assess patients, diagnose, manage treatments, and prescribe medications independently.
  • Reduced Practice: In states such as Pennsylvania or New Jersey NPs can practice with some autonomy but must enter into a regulated collaborative agreement with a healthcare provider or be supervised for certain practice elements.
  • Restricted Practice: Georgia represents a state where NPs are limited in their practice elements and are required to have career-long supervision or team management by other health providers.

When aiming to practice in a different state from where you studied, it's crucial to research that state's Board of Nursing or corresponding regulatory body to understand the NP scope of practice requirements there fully. This step cannot be overlooked for those seeking to practice as an NP with a clear understanding of their professional boundaries and privileges.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nurse Practitioner Program in Georgia

Choosing an accredited ACNP program in Georgia is crucial for several reasons:

• Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards of quality and rigor set by the accrediting body, providing a comprehensive and relevant curriculum.
• Eligibility for Certification: Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to sit for national certification exams, which are often required for state licensure and employment.
• Professional Recognition: Employers prefer or require graduates from accredited programs, recognizing the level of preparation and competence they bring to the role.
• Transferability of Credits: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized by other institutions, important for those considering further education.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Only students enrolled in accredited programs are eligible for federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can out-of-state nursing students apply to ACNP programs in Georgia?

Out-of-state nursing students can apply to ACNP programs in Georgia. However, they should verify if any specific requirements or limitations apply, such as residency requirements for clinical placements. Some programs may require students to complete their clinical hours within the state of Georgia, so it's important to check with the individual program for details.

Q: What are the differences between on-campus and online ACNP programs in Georgia?

On-campus ACNP programs in Georgia offer traditional classroom-based learning, providing direct interaction with faculty and peers. These programs may be more suitable for students who prefer a structured learning environment. Online ACNP programs offer flexibility for working professionals or those with other commitments, allowing students to complete coursework remotely. Hybrid programs combine online coursework with on-campus residencies or clinical placements, offering a balance between flexibility and hands-on experience.

Q: Are there any ACNP programs in Georgia that offer specializations within the health sciences field?

Some ACNP programs in Georgia offer specializations within the health sciences field, such as cardiology, emergency medicine, or critical care. These specializations allow students to focus their studies and clinical training on specific areas of interest, preparing them for specialized roles within acute care settings.

Q: What financial aid options are available for nursing students pursuing an ACNP, MSN, or DNP program in Georgia?

Nursing students in Georgia pursuing ACNP, MSN, or DNP programs may be eligible for various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, loans, scholarships from universities or professional organizations, and work-study programs. Additionally, some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees seeking advanced degrees in nursing. It's important to explore all available resources and apply early to maximize financial aid opportunities.

Q: How do post-BSN nursing students transition into MSN or DNP ACNP programs in Georgia?

Post-BSN nursing students transition into MSN or DNP ACNP programs in Georgia by meeting the specific prerequisites and admission requirements of their chosen program. This typically includes holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution, having an active RN license, and possessing clinical experience in an acute care setting. Many programs also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and completion of certain undergraduate courses. Once admitted, students will complete advanced coursework and clinical training specific to the ACNP role.