Best Acute Care NP Programs: Your Guide to Top Schools in 2025

Becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) is a rewarding career path for nurses looking to specialize in caring for patients with acute and critical conditions. These advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are essential in hospitals, emergency rooms, and specialty care units, providing expert care from diagnosis to management. If you’re a registered nurse considering this advanced role, choosing the right educational program is a crucial first step. To help you navigate the options, we’ve compiled a guide to the Best Acute Care Np Programs for 2025, highlighting top universities and key program features to aid your decision.

What is an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner?

Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, sometimes referred to as Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (AGACNPs), are specialized APRNs who manage patients across the spectrum of health, from preventative care to the critical management of acute illnesses. Often, their care extends beyond the hospital walls, as they may follow patients into outpatient settings to ensure continuity of care. This demanding but vital role requires rigorous education and specialized training, making the selection of the right program paramount for your success.

To embark on this advanced career path, aspiring ACNPs must complete an accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or a post-graduate acute care nurse practitioner program. Nurse.org has meticulously researched and compiled a list of top programs for 2025 to guide you in making an informed choice about your future in acute care nursing.

Top Acute Care NP Programs Compared

For a quick comparison of some of the leading Acute Care NP programs, refer to the table below. This provides an overview of key factors such as accreditation, tuition costs, program length, and the degree awarded, helping you to quickly assess and compare different options.

Program	Accreditation	Tuition	Program Length	Degree Awarded
Duke University	CCNE	$2,166 per credit hour	48 credit hours & 728 clinical hours	MSN
Vanderbilt University	CCNE	$1,997 per credit hour	40 credit hours & 630 clinical hours	MSN
George Washington University	CCNE	$1,530 per credit hour	48 credit hours & 600 clinical hours	MSN
Wilkes University	CCNE	$729 per credit hour	14 credit hours & 500 clinical hours	MSN
University of Maryland	CCNE	In-state: $873 per credit hour Out-of-state: $1,549 per credit hour	80 credit hours & min. 1,080 clinical hours	DNP
University of Alabama, Birmingham	CCNE	$702 per credit hour	35 credit hours & 10 clinical coursework credit hours	MSN
University of Pennsylvania	ANCC	Full-time: $88,080 per year Part-time: $6,866 per course unit	14 course units & 600 clinical hours	MSN
Case Western University	ANCC	$2,308 per credit hour	39 credit hours & 700 clinical hours	MSN
Columbia University	CCNE	$125,921 per year	80-81 credit hours & 630 clinical hours	DNP
Emory University	CCNE	$2,082 per credit hour	48 credit hours & 720 clinical hours	MSN or DNP

Top Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025: Detailed Reviews

Choosing the best acute care NP program is a significant decision. While many institutions offer adult gerontology nurse practitioner programs, attending a highly-regarded school can significantly enhance your educational experience and career prospects. Our ranking methodology relies on robust U.S. government data, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Scorecard, to identify the leading ACNP programs nationwide. Factors considered in our ranking algorithm include graduation rates, student-faculty ratios, program focus, and other crucial elements that contribute to a quality nursing education.

1. Duke University

Program Cost: $2,166 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours and 728 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

Duke University consistently ranks among the best acute care NP programs in the nation. Its extensive network of over 2,000 clinical partners, both nationally and internationally, provides students with unparalleled access to diverse practicum sites and experienced preceptors. This rich clinical environment ensures students gain hands-on experience in a variety of acute care settings.

Admission Deadline: December 1st
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (919) 613-9787
- Email Address: [email protected]

2. Vanderbilt University

Program Cost: $1,997 per credit hour
Program Length: 40 credit hours and 630 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

The Vanderbilt School of Nursing is highly esteemed and recognized as one of the best acute care NP programs available. Students at Vanderbilt benefit from a remarkably low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering a personalized learning environment. This close faculty interaction contributes to students consistently achieving scores significantly above the national average on the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification exam, a testament to the program’s quality and effectiveness.

Admissions: October 15th
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (615) 322-3800
- Email Address: [email protected]

3. George Washington University

Program Cost: $1,530 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours and 600 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

George Washington University’s program offers a flexible online learning format combined with essential in-person clinical experiences, a common structure among leading online acute care NP programs. A distinctive feature of GWU’s program is the mandatory end-of-program skills assessment. This on-campus, simulation-based learning event provides NP students with a valuable platform to demonstrate their proficiency in assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and patient management skills before entering the field.

Admissions:
- Priority: December 1st
- Final: July 1st
Accreditation: CCNE

4. Wilkes University

Program Cost: $729 per credit hour
Program Length: 14 credit hours and 500 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

Wilkes University stands out for offering one of the most accelerated and affordable online ACNP programs. Designed to be completed in as little as two years, the program provides dedicated advisors who assist students in securing clinical sites. With rolling admissions and three enrollment opportunities annually, Wilkes University offers flexibility and accessibility for aspiring acute care NPs. Personal interviews are conducted for all promising candidates, ensuring a personalized admission process.

Admissions: Rolling
Accreditation: CCNE
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (888) 413-5633.
- Email Address: [email protected]

5. University of Maryland

Program Cost:

In-state: $873 per credit hour
Out-of-state: $1,549 per credit hour
Program Length: 80 credit hours and a minimum of 1,080 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: DNP
Location: Hybrid

The University of Maryland offers a distinctive program, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)/Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Trauma/Critical Care/Emergency Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This blended ACNP/CNS doctorate is practice-focused and especially relevant for nurses aiming for advanced roles in critical care settings. Notably, in 2023, the program boasted a 100% pass rate on the certification exam, highlighting its rigorous preparation and student success.

Admissions: December 1st
Accreditation: CCNE
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (410) 706-0501, option #2
- Email Address: [email protected]

6. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Program Cost: $702 per credit hour
Program Length: 35 credit hours and 10 credit hours of clinical coursework
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s ACNP program is designed with a hybrid format, combining online didactic coursework with in-person clinical experiences and on-campus intensives. Entry into this program is available during the summer semester only. A key component of the program is the requirement for students to attend four on-campus intensives during the final four semesters. This blend of online and in-person learning provides a comprehensive and engaging educational experience.

Admissions:
- Summer: October 10th
- Fall: February 12th
Accreditation: CCNE
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (205) 996-0387 or (205) 934-2507
- Email Address: [email protected] or [email protected]

7. University of Pennsylvania

Program Cost:

Full-time: $88,080 per year
Part-time: $6,866 per course unit
Program Length: 14-course units and 600 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

The ACNP program at the University of Pennsylvania offers an accelerated full-time option that can be completed in just 15 months, starting in the summer. While the program includes online coursework, in-person components and clinical hours at approved sites are essential. Beyond the core curriculum, students have the opportunity to specialize by choosing electives in areas such as oncology, palliative care, and global health, enriching their expertise and aligning their education with specific interests.

Admissions:
- Priority: November 4th
- Final: February 3rd
Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (215) 898-4271
- Email Address: [email protected]

8. Case Western Reserve University

Program Cost: $2,308 per credit hour
Program Length: 39 credit hours and 700 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN
Location: Hybrid

At Case Western Reserve University’s Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, students pursue their ACNP degree through a program requiring 39 credit hours and 700 in-person clinical hours. For nurses who already hold an MSN or advanced certification, Case Western offers tailored options. Interested individuals are encouraged to consult with an admissions counselor to explore these advanced standing possibilities and customize their educational path.

Admissions:
- Summer/Fall: March 15th
- Spring: October 1st
Accreditation: ANCC
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (216) 368-0700 or (216) 368-5981
- Email Address: [email protected] or [email protected]

9. Columbia University

Program Cost: $125,921 per year
Program Length: 80-81 credit hours and 630 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: DNP
Location: Hybrid

Columbia University offers one of the premier NP programs in the country, distinguished by its access to clinical placements in some of New York City’s leading hospitals. The clinical experiences are broad and in-depth, including rotations in intensive care units (such as cardiothoracic surgery, trauma, neurosurgery, and medicine), and specialized services like heart failure, transplant, acute coronary service, emergency departments, and fast-track units. This exposure to diverse and high-acuity settings is a significant advantage.

Admissions: January 6th
Accreditation: CCNE
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (212) 305-5756
- Email Address: [email protected]

10. Emory University

Program Cost: $2,082 per credit hour
Program Length: 48 credit hours and 720 clinical hours
Degree Awarded: MSN or DNP
Location: Hybrid

Emory University’s ACNP program is a four-semester program that can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis, offering flexibility for working nurses. Clinical practicums are conducted in hospitals throughout Atlanta, Georgia, and at other approved sites nationwide. Emory is committed to making education accessible; impressively, 92% of students at the School of Nursing receive some form of financial aid, reducing the financial burden of pursuing advanced education.

Admissions: Rolling
Accreditation: CCNE
Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (404) 727-7980
- Email Address: [email protected]

Popular Online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs

Understanding Acute Care NP Programs: What to Expect

Choosing the best acute care NP program also involves understanding the general structure, prerequisites, curriculum, costs, and accreditation of these programs. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect:

Acute Care NP Career and Specializations

Acute Care Nurse Practitioners are essential in the healthcare system, often working in high-pressure environments. They are certified in acute care, pediatric acute care, and/or adult-gerontology acute care, with certifications offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

It’s important to distinguish the ACNP role from Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). ACNPs focus on patients who are acutely ill, hospitalized, or recovering from surgery or trauma, while FNPs provide primary care across the lifespan.

Key statistics from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) about Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NPs:

Top clinical focus areas: critical care, cardiovascular, and hospitalist medicine.
Top practice settings: hospital inpatient units and hospital outpatient clinics.
Top diagnoses treated: hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes.

Diverse Work Environments for Acute Care NPs

ACNPs have a wide range of employment options, including:

Emergency Rooms
Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
Medical and Surgical Units
Nursing Homes and Skilled Nursing Facilities
Operating Rooms
Outpatient and Inpatient Subspecialty Practices (e.g., Cardiology, Pulmonology, Neurology)
Sub-acute Units
Trauma Units
Urgent Care Clinics

High Demand for Acute Care NPs

The career outlook for Acute Care NPs is exceptionally strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 45% growth in employment for all nurse practitioners between 2022 and 2032, significantly outpacing the average growth rate for other professions. This demand is driven by the increasing complexity of healthcare and the growing need for specialized acute care services. As of 2022, there were 266,300 advanced practice nurses, with an anticipated need for an additional 118,600 by 2032, underscoring the critical role ACNPs will continue to play in healthcare.

Program Prerequisites for ACNP Programs

While specific prerequisites vary among programs, most best acute care NP programs share common admission requirements:

Nursing Experience: Typically require at least one year of acute care bedside nursing experience.
Statistics Course: Completion of undergraduate statistics with a minimum grade.
GPA: Satisfactory completion of an accredited baccalaureate nursing program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
RN License: Unencumbered and active RN license in the state of practice (and sometimes the program’s state).
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions.
Resume/CV: Professional resume or curriculum vitae.
Personal Statement: Written statement of professional goals for graduate study.
References: Two to three professional references.
Interview: Successful completion of a personal interview.
GRE/TOEFL: GRE scores may be required, and TOEFL for international students.

Core Curriculum in AGACNP Programs

ACNP programs are structured around the Nurse Practitioner framework and core competencies defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). These competencies include:

Ethics
Health Delivery System
Independent Practice
Leadership
Policy
Practice Inquiry
Quality
Scientific Foundation
Technology and Information Literacy

Common Acute Care NP Courses:

Advanced Pathophysiology
Advanced Pharmacology
Advanced Physical Assessment
Clinical Practicums
Diagnostic Reasoning and Clinical Decision-Making for Acute Care Advanced Practice Nurses
Evidence-Based Practice
Health Informatics
Health Policy, Legal and Ethical Dimensions of Practice
Leadership and Critical Decision Making
Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse

Program Costs for Acute Care NP Education

The cost of best acute care NP programs can vary significantly based on factors like the institution, location, program format (online vs. in-person), and degree level (MSN vs. DNP).

Tuition per credit hour: Ranges from approximately $500 to $2,000.
Total credit hours: Programs typically require 35-60 credit hours.
Total program cost: Can range from $17,500 to $120,000 or more.
Doctoral vs. Master’s: DNP programs are generally more expensive due to greater credit hour requirements.
Additional Fees: Consider program fees, lab fees, and course materials.

Examples of Credit Costs:

Thomas Jefferson University: $1,450 per credit hour
DeSales University: $975 per credit hour
University of Virginia:
- In-state: $888 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,450 per credit hour
Chamberlain University: $710 per credit hour

Program Length and Time Commitment

Most ACNP programs require 35-60 credit hours plus a minimum of 500 clinical hours. DNP programs necessitate even more clinical hours, often around 1,000.

Program Duration: Typically takes two to three years to complete, full-time or part-time.
Flexibility: Many programs offer online or hybrid formats to accommodate working nurses.
Completion Time Limit: Most programs allow up to five years for completion.

Accreditation: Ensuring Program Quality

When evaluating best acute care NP programs, accreditation is paramount. Ensure the program is accredited by one of the primary accreditation bodies for nursing programs in the U.S.:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Accreditation from ACEN or CCNE signifies that the program has met rigorous standards for quality and curriculum, ensuring a reliable and high-quality nursing education.

Choosing the Right Acute Care NP Program for You

Selecting the best acute care NP program is a personal decision that should align with your career goals, learning preferences, and circumstances. With numerous programs available, especially online, consider these factors to guide your choice:

State Authorization: Confirm that the program is authorized to enroll students in your state and facilitates clinical placements there. Check with your state board of nursing and the university’s enrollment office.
Prerequisites: Do you meet the admission requirements?
Accreditation: Is the program accredited by CCNE or ACEN?
Certification Rates: What is the program’s graduate certification exam pass rate?
Clinical Placements: Does the program assist with or provide clinical placements?
Degree Level: Do you prefer an MSN or DNP?
Program Flexibility: Does the program offer online options or flexible scheduling?
Program Cost & Financial Aid: How will you finance your degree? Explore loans, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement options.
Job Placement Rates: What is the program’s job placement rate post-graduation?
Career Goals: Does the program align with your desired career path (hospital, private practice, specialty area)?
Program Format: Do you prefer online, in-person, or hybrid learning?

By carefully considering these factors and exploring the best acute care NP programs highlighted in this guide, you can make an informed decision and take a significant step toward advancing your nursing career in acute care.

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