Best AGACNP Programs

What makes an Acute Care NP program great?

Choosing the right Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program is pivotal to career success. The best AGACNP programs offer a combination of rigorous academic training, extensive clinical experiences, and support from experienced faculty. These programs are designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in acute care settings, providing high-quality care to acutely and critically ill patients.  

Clinical Rotations

  • Extensive and diverse clinical experiences in acute care settings (ICUs, emergency departments, trauma units). 
  • Opportunities to work with a variety of acutely ill adults and geriatric patients. 

Experienced Faculty

  • Faculty members with extensive clinical experience in acute care. 
  • Faculty who are actively involved in research and contribute to the advancement of AGACNP practice. 

Simulation-Based Learning

  • Access to high-fidelity simulation labs to practice critical skills and decision-making in safe, controlled environments. 
  • Simulation lab experiences usually require an in-person component, in some cases, accomplished via a short residency.  

Comprehensive Curriculum 

  • A curriculum that covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment.
  • Emphasis on critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based practice.

Certification Preparation

  • Programs that adequately prepare students to pass the national Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner examination. 
  • Resources and support for exam preparation. 

Interprofessional Collaboration 

  • Opportunities to learn and work alongside other healthcare professionals (physicians, pharmacists, technicians, etc.). 
  • Emphasis on teamwork and communication. 

Focus on Gerontology

  • Specialized training in the unique healthcare needs of adults. 
  • Emphasis on geriatric assessment and management of common geriatric complications. 

Program Accreditation

  • Accreditation by recognized bodies, ensuring program quality and standards. 
  • Organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ensure that educational programs deliver a curriculum commensurate with awarded credentials.  

Research Opportunities

  • Opportunities to participate in research projects and contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge. 
  • Emphasis on evidence-based practice. 

Flexible Learning Options 

  • For working nurses, programs that offer flexible learning options, such as online or hybrid formats. 
  • Programs that are designed to fit the needs of working professionals.