-
by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Acute and critical care nurses are vital to managing complex, high-acuity conditions across hospital and emergency settings. Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs) diagnose and treat unstable or critically ill patients, often collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to deliver rapid, expert care.
If you're considering a career as an ACNP, this guide covers the best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs for 2025, what the role involves, salary expectations, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Acute Care NP Job Description
Acute care NPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide specialized care for patients with acute and complex conditions. They work in various settings, collaborating with healthcare teams to diagnose, treat, and manage acute illnesses, chronic condition exacerbations, and post-surgical recovery.
The role and responsibilities of an ACNP will vary based on state practice regulations, healthcare system, and patient population. For more details on an ACNP role and responsibilities, as well as the steps to become an ACNP, review our Acute Care NP Career article.
Best ACNP Programs
These universities have been picked based on allnurses' methodology that involves gathering input from readers to understand their top priorities. Additionally, factors like graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, tuition fees, program format, duration, and admission rates have been considered when evaluating popular nursing schools across the United States.
1. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
The University of Pennsylvania offers a Pediatric Acute Care NP Program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide advanced care to infants, children, and adolescents with acute health conditions. The program focuses on comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of pediatric patients in acute care settings.
Students in the PNP-AC program at UPENN have the option to choose from three subspecialty concentrations to tailor their studies to their intended practice environment. The three Pediatric ACNP concentrations offered are Acute/Chronic Care, Critical Care, or Oncology. Each concentration requires the same amount of time and course units.
UPENN's Pediatric ACNP Program Overview
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Course Unit Hours: 12
- Duration: One year (full-time) or longer (part-time)
-
Tuition:
- $56,262 estimated tuition cost for the program at a full-time pace.
- $6,866 - $6,982, dependent on the semester.
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
2. Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
The online with onsite immersions Dual Primary/Acute Care Pediatric NP Program at Johns Hopkins University prepares students to provide specialized care to critically ill or injured children. Through rigorous coursework and clinical experiences, students gain expertise in advanced assessment, diagnostic reasoning, therapeutic interventions, and the coordination of care for pediatric patients in acute and critical care settings.
The university also offers the DNP Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program.
John's Hopkins ACNP Program Overview
- Location: Online with onsite immersions in Baltimore, MD.
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours: 77 (Dual Pediatric PC/ACNP); 669 (AGACNP)
- Duration: Three years
- Tuition: $1,939 per credit hour
- Accreditation: CCNE
3. Duke University School of Nursing
Duke University offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program that focuses on advanced practice nursing care for older adult populations with complex acute and chronic conditions. AGACNP students develop advanced clinical skills and knowledge to provide evidence-based care in a variety of acute care settings.
Alternatively the university also offers a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.
Duke's ACNP Program Overview
- Location: Distance-based learning with clinicals near your home.
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Credit Hours: 48 (AGACNP); 43 (PACNP)
- Duration: Two and a half years
- Tuition: $2,075 per credit hour, totaling $14,525 per semester
- Accreditation: CCNE
4. Columbia University School of Nursing
Columbia University's Adult Gerontology Program prepares students to provide specialized care to older adults with complex acute and chronic health conditions. The program emphasizes advanced assessment, clinical decision-making, and management of pediatric patients in acute care settings.
Columbia's AGACNP Program Overview
- Location: NYC
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours: 80-81
- Duration: Two years
- Tuition: Estimated program tuition is $72,776
- Accreditation: CCNE
5. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing
The AGACNP program at UCSF prepares advanced practice nursing students to deliver comprehensive care to older adult patients with acute and complex health conditions. Students gain expertise in advanced diagnostics, therapeutics, and the management of acute illnesses in various healthcare settings.
Prospective UCSF students also have the option to choose from an ACNP pediatric-focused program.
UCSF's ACNP Program Overview
- Location: Hybrid, with in-person or virtual didactics & clinical training in the San Francisco Bay area.
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Duration: 12-quarters over three years
- Tuition: Estimated program tuition is $42,199
- Accreditation: CCNE
6. University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
The Acute Care Pediatric NP Program at the University of Pittsburgh prepares students to provide specialized care to pediatric patients with complex acute and chronic conditions. The program focuses on advanced assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and critical illnesses in pediatric populations. This program is offered to students with their MSN degree as a post-graduate certificate or an MSN to DNP bridge.
The university also provides BSN to DNP students the option of pursuing an Adult-Gerontology ACNP program, available in both in-person and online formats, along with a post-graduate certificate pathway for master's prepared nurses.
Pitt's ACNP Program Overview
- Location: Online or in-person in Pittsburgh, PA -- program dependent.
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours: 18-24 (post-graduate certificates); 37 (MSN to DNP); 79 (BSN to DNP)
- Tuition: $1,231 per credit hour or $12,687 per full-time term for Pennsylvania residents, and $1,475 per credit hour or $24,480 per full-time term for non-residents.
- Accreditation: CCNE
7. Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Vanderbilt University's PNP-AC program trains students to deliver specialized care to infants, children, and adolescents with acute and critical health conditions. The program emphasizes comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of pediatric patients in acute care settings. The acute care pediatric NP Program at Vanderbilt is offered to bachelor's prepared nurses as well as master's prepared nurses in a post-graduate certificate format.
Vanderbilt's PNP-AC Program Overview
- Location: Modified distance learning, with concentrated blocks of time learning on campus.
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Credit Hours: 40
- Duration: One year (full-time), up to three years (part-time)
- Tuition: $1,939 per credit hour
- Accreditation: CCNE
8. University of Maryland School of Nursing
The Adult-Gerontology ACNP and Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGACNP/AGCNS) program at the University of Maryland School of Nursing is designed for registered nurses who wish to advance their careers by providing high-level care to adult patients with complex acute and chronic conditions.
UofM's AGACNP/AGCNS Program Overview
- Location: Blended online and face to face at the Baltimore, MD campus
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours:
- Duration: Three years
- Tuition: $837 per credit (MD residents); $1,549 per credit (non-residents)
- Accreditation: CCNE
9. University of Michigan School of Nursing
The Adult Gerontology ACNP program at the University of Michigan prepares students to provide specialized care to older adults with acute and complex health conditions. The program emphasizes advanced assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of pediatric patients in acute care settings.
Michigan Nursing's AGACNP Program Overview
- Location: Online or in-person learning at the Ann Arbor campus
- Degree Earned: MSN or DNP option
- Credit Hours: 47 (MSN); 72 (DNP)
- Duration: 2-3 years (MSN); 2-4 years (DNP)
- Tuition: $1,834 per credit hour (residents), $3,339 (non-residents); $1,624 (distance learning)
- Accreditation: CCNE
10. Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Emory University's Pediatric ACNP program equips nurses to provide advanced care to acutely and critically ill children. Graduates are trained to conduct comprehensive physical assessments, interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and administer therapeutic treatments. The program emphasizes the management of healthcare and developmental needs in children, adolescents, and their families and offers the flexibility of online learning for working nurses.
Emory's PNP-AC Program Overview
- Location: Online
- Degree Earned: MSN or DNP option
- Credit Hours: 48 (MSN); 74 (DNP)
- Duration: 1-2 years (MSN); 2-3 years (DNP)
- Tuition: $2,082 per credit (MSN) or $1,773 per credit (DNP)
- Accreditation: CCNE
Alternatively, ACNP students can opt for the AGACNP program, this program is not offered online and will require students to relocate to Atlanta, GA.
11. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing
The UIC College of Nursing offers a specialized program for nursing students who wish to provide advanced care to pediatric patients with acute and critical conditions. The ACPNP program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose, assess, treat, and manage acute illnesses in pediatric populations. At UIC Nursing, students don't need to arrange their clinical sites or preceptors as the faculty takes care of these arrangements.
UIC ACPNP Program Overview
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours: 78
- Accreditation: CCNE
Nurse practitioners with a master's or doctorate in another specialty can opt for the post-master's DNP or Post-DNP certificate programs. Alternatively, nurses who want to work with adult patients have the option to apply to the AGACNP program.
12. University of Maryland School of Nursing
The Adult-Gerontology ACNP/Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGACNP/AGCNS) program at the University of Maryland School of Nursing is designed for registered nurses who wish to advance their careers by providing high-level care to adult patients with complex acute and chronic conditions.
UofM's Program Overview
- Location: Blended, online and in-person learning at the Baltimore campus
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Credit Hours: 80
- Duration: Three years
- Tuition: $873 per credit hour (residents); $1,549 per credit hour (non-residents)
- Accreditation: CCNE
What Is an Acute Care NP Program?
ACNP programs prepare registered nurses to deliver advanced care to patients with acute, critical, and complex chronic conditions. These programs typically lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and equip nurses for high-acuity environments such as emergency departments, ICUs, and specialty clinics.
Acute Care NP Coursework
ACNP programs offer a rigorous curriculum focused on advanced clinical skills and the management of acute and complex health conditions. Core courses often include:
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Disease Management
- Diagnostic Reasoning
- Emergency Care
- Healthcare Policy and Ethics
Acute Care NP Clinical Training
Clinical training is a vital part of any ACNP program, offering hands-on experience in high-acuity, real-world settings. MSN-level programs generally require a minimum of 500 clinical hours, while DNP programs require at least 1,000 hours. The National Task Force for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education recommends a total of 750 clinical hours for all nurse practitioner students. Clinical rotations for an Acute Care NP Program typically entails:
- Rotations in Various Settings: Students may rotate through different acute care environments such as emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty clinics.
- Direct Patient Care: Under supervision, students engage in direct patient care, applying their theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
- Procedure Skills: Developing proficiency in performing procedures common in acute care, such as intubation, central line insertion, and lumbar punctures.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Learning to work effectively with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and therapists.
- Case Management: Managing patient cases from admission to discharge, including developing and implementing care plans.
- Clinical Decision-Making: Enhancing skills in making critical decisions in high-pressure situations.
Acute Care NP Educational Pathways
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN pathway is a primary avenue for aspiring Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs), involving 2-3 years of study. It requires a BSN for admission and combines rigorous coursework with clinical rotations focused on acute care practices.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A DNP is an option for BSN or MSN graduates seeking advanced clinical expertise. Over 3-4 years, this pathway deepens knowledge in acute care through extensive clinical practice and a scholarly capstone project.
Post-Master's Certificate: For nurses already holding an MSN or DNP, a post-master's certificate in acute care is a condensed program, usually completed in about a year. It refines the practitioner's skills to align with the specialized demands of acute care nursing.
Acute Care NP Patient Populations
Prospective ACNP students have the option of specializing in acute care with a focus on specific patient populations.
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (PNP-AC)
Acute Care NP Program Admission Requirements
Aspiring students must fulfill certain prerequisites and program requirements to be equipped for the multifaceted role of an Acute or Critical Care Nurse Practitioner. The entry prerequisites are tailored to ensure that candidates possess a strong foundation in nursing and relevant clinical experience:
- Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): A BSN from an accredited institution is generally required.
- RN Licensure: Applicants should hold a current, unencumbered RN license.
- Clinical Experience: Prior experience in acute care settings, whether with adults or neonates, focusing on direct patient management.
- Prerequisite Coursework: Includes undergraduate courses on statistics, research methodologies, physical sciences, and behavioral sciences.
- Official Transcripts: Submission of official transcripts from previous educational institutions.
- Minimum GPA: A GPA of 3.0 or above is commonly stipulated for program admission.
As with most nursing programs, students will need to undergo a background check, health screening, and drug test before entry. This may also include receiving required vaccinations for personal and public health safety
Acute Care NP Program Costs
The financial commitment for an ACNP program is multifaceted and can vary greatly. Here's a streamlined look at what to expect:
ACNP Program Tuition Fee Insights:
- Resident vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Public universities often charge lower rates for in-state residents.
- Online Programs: Generally more cost-effective but still require clinical hours.
- Cost Per Credit Hour: DNP courses may be more expensive than MSN courses.
ACNP Program Additional Cost Considerations:
- Books and Supplies: Textbook and supply costs can add up quickly.
- Technology Fees: Common in online or hybrid programs for digital resources.
- Lab & Clinical Fees: Charged for courses requiring specific materials or equipment.
- Miscellaneous Fees: Include application, graduation, and administrative costs.
- Living Expenses: Relevant for students who relocate or reduce work hours.
- Certification & Licensing Fees: Necessary for NP practice credentials.
- Opportunity Costs: Potential financial impact of reduced work hours.
- Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
- Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or maintaining employment may affect program choice.
Financial Planning
In terms of managing these costs, most students consider a combination of financial aid options including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. To learn more about financial aid options review the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School. Planning for these expenses early on can make the financial journey through an ACNP program more manageable, ensuring that students can focus on their education and the exciting career that awaits them.
Acute Care NP Salary Expectations
The salary of an acute care NP 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 for NPs are:
- California: $173,190
- New York: $148,410
- Oregon: $148,030
- Massachusetts: $145,140
- Washington: $143,620
The five top-paying industries for this NP's include:
- Residential Intellectual & Developmental Disability $163,000
- Scientific Research & Development Services $155,150
- Psychiatric & Substance Abuse Hospitals $144,860
- Ambulatory Healthcare Services $144,240
- Outpatient Care Centers $143,600
Unfortunately, the BLS doesn't specify between NP specialties. However, ZipRecruiter reports that the national average annual salary for ACNPs is $117,423 or $56 per hour.
ZipRecruiter also reports that salaries for ACNPs exhibit a relatively narrow range, with most professionals earning between $101,500 (25th percentile) and $132,000 (75th percentile) annually. The highest-earning ACNPs at the 90th percentile can make up to $150,000 per year.
The top-paying states for ACNPs are:
- Washington $132,993
- Washington D.C.: $132,691
- New York: $128,465
- Massachusetts: $128,240
- Alaska: $126,458
Compare NP Salary by State
Compare several careers with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.
NP Discussions np-discussions
-
The University of Alabama Dual DNP FNP/PMHNP Spring 2025 applicants
- NP Students
- 68 comments
- Updated
-
The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing (CCN) Fall 2024 FNP
- NP Students
- 148 comments
- Updated
-
Samuel Merritt University ELMSN-FNP/CM 2025
- NP Students
- 222 comments
- Updated
-
Samuel Merritt University ELMSN-FNP/CM Oakland Fall 2025
- NP Students
- 93 comments
- Updated
-
Vanderbilt University MSN Fall 2025
- Programs Support
- 138 comments
- Updated
Is an Acute Care NP Program Worth It?
Pursuing a nursing degree to become an ACNP is a significant decision influenced by personal, professional, and financial factors. This program is ideal for nurses seeking specialization in acute care, offering higher earnings and career advancement opportunities. The growing demand for nurse practitioners ensures job security and diverse career options. However, the investment of time and money, along with the high-stress nature of acute care, are important considerations. Additionally, the scope of practice and regulatory requirements vary by region, impacting the role's autonomy.
Acute Care NP Pros
- Higher Salary Potential: ACNPs often earn significantly more than registered nurses, reflecting their advanced skills and responsibilities.
- Specialization in Acute Care: The program offers specialized training for those passionate about working in high-intensity healthcare settings like ICUs and emergency departments.
- Increased Job Opportunities: There's a growing demand for nurse practitioners, including ACNPs, which can lead to more job opportunities and security.
- Professional Advancement: Completing an ACNP program can open doors to leadership roles and advanced clinical positions in healthcare.
Acute Care NP Cons
- Cost and Time Investment: ACNP programs can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring a significant commitment alongside existing work responsibilities.
- Emotional and Physical Demands: Working in acute care settings can be highly stressful, with emotional and physical demands that are more intense than other nursing areas.
- Licensing and Certification Requirements: ACNPs must meet ongoing certification and licensing requirements, which can involve additional exams and continuing education.
- Limited Scope in Some Regions: Depending on the region, the scope of practice for ACNPs can be limited by state laws, affecting autonomy and the range of procedures they can perform.
Ultimately, whether or not an ACNP program is worth it will require consideration of your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
How to Choose an Acute Care NP Program?
When selecting an ACNP program, criteria will vary based on personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations.
A survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
For prospective ACNP students, additional considerations include:
- Concentration: Ensure it matches career goals in acute care and patient population, whether neonatal, pediatric, or adult.
- Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
- Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
- Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
- Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements.
- Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
- Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
- Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
- Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
- Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
These factors are crucial for making an informed decision about your ACNP education.
10 Reasons why ACNP Program Accreditation Matters
- Meets nursing education standards
- Ensures compliance with state regulations
- Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
- Supports APRN licensure eligibility
- Prepares for certification exams
- Facilitates credit transfers
- Enhances professional credibility
- Improves employment prospects
- Enables access to financial aid
- Promotes long-term career success
In light of these factors, aspiring acute care nurse practitioner students should ensure that the NP programs they choose are accredited by reputable organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Acute Care NP Scope of Practice & Certification
The scope of practice for ACNPs varies by state regulations, defining their level of clinical independence. These laws impact how ACNPs deliver care, with some states allowing full practice authority and others requiring collaborative agreements or physician oversight.
Key considerations:
- State Licensure: ACNPs must obtain licensure that is specific to their state's requirements, and relocating may mean fulfilling additional licensing conditions.
-
Practice Autonomy: Varies by state, as outlined by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP):
- Full Practice Authority: Most states allow NPs complete autonomy to diagnose, treat, and manage patient care independently, following AANP guidelines.
- Reduced Practice Authority: Fifteen states require NPs to have a collaborative agreement with a healthcare provider for certain aspects of practice.
- Restricted Practice Authority: Eleven states mandate that NPs work with supervision, delegation, or team management by other healthcare providers to perform specific patient care tasks.
Prospective ACNPs should research and confirm that their chosen ACNP program is approved by the state board of nursing in their desired state of practice. The upcoming APRN Compact licensure aims to provide a multistate license, enhancing practice flexibility.
ACNP National Certification
While licensure requirements may vary by state, national certification is universally required for all NPs, including ACNPs. This certification validates the specialized knowledge and skills in acute care necessary for practice. For ACNPs, national certification can be obtained by:
- AGACNP-BC through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- ACNPC-AC certification by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN).
- CPNP-AC certification by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNBC).
National certification typically precedes state licensure and is essential for confirming an ACNP's readiness to provide high-quality care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What's the difference between AGACNP and ACNP?
AGACNP stands for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and focuses on adult and older adult populations, while ACNP may refer to broader acute care roles, including pediatrics or dual certification.
Are there acute care pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP-AC) programs?
Yes, several schools offer Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-AC) programs for nurses who want to specialize in caring for critically ill infants, children, and adolescents. These programs prepare graduates to work in high-acuity settings like pediatric ICUs, emergency departments, and specialty clinics.
Are there any online acute care nurse practitioner programs?
Yes, several top Acute Care NP programs are offered in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with required in-person clinical experiences. While the didactic portions are online, in-person components are essential for developing hands-on skills. Many programs allow students to complete clinical rotations near their local area, making them a flexible option for working nurses.
How do clinical placements work in online ACNP programs?
In online or hybrid Acute Care NP programs, students are typically responsible for arranging clinical placements in approved acute care settings near where they live. Some schools offer assistance through clinical coordinators or established hospital partnerships, while others require students to secure their own preceptors. Clinical hours must be completed under the supervision of qualified providers in high-acuity environments like ICUs, emergency departments, or specialty units.
What is the educational path to becoming an ACNP?
To become an Acute Care NP, you typically need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an active RN license, and at least 1–2 years of critical care experience. From there, you must complete a graduate nursing program—either an MSN or DNP—with a specialization in acute care. Some ACNP programs may require applicants to hold FNP certification prior to admission.
Where do Acute Care NPs work?
ACNPs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals (such as emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty units), clinics, urgent care centers, long-term care facilities, and academic institutions. They may also work in primary care, telehealth, or even provide home-based care.
What is the job outlook for Acute Care NPs?
The job outlook for ACNPs is strong, driven by an aging population, rising rates of complex chronic conditions, and the need for advanced care in hospital settings. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide data by NP specialty, the overall job growth for nurse practitioners is projected to be 40% from 2023 to 2033—much faster than average. This trend reflects increasing demand for ACNPs in emergency departments, ICUs, and specialty acute care units.
What are the best acute care NP programs in 2025?
This guide features some of the top-ranked acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP, AGACNP, and PNP-AC) programs, including both MSN and DNP pathways, offered on-campus and online.
Edited by Erin Lee
DISCLOSURE: This page may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click on a link.