Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Two-year part-time hybrid program
This post-professional certificate program prepares graduates with specialization as an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. The program is an option for advanced practice registered nurses with a M.S. or D.N.P. Graduates earn an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner post-professional certificate and are eligible to apply for certification with a national certifying agency.
- Expand your practice abilities and advance your career with a low-cost and time-efficient certificate
- Sit for the national certification exam without earning a separate degree
Program Details
In the post-professional certificate program, students will expand their scope of practice and develop new skills and knowledge to independently assess, diagnose and provide treatment in their new specialty. The adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner concentration prepares graduates to provide direct acute care to the entire spectrum of adults, including young adults, adults and older adults across the lifespan and across the continuum of care. Through your coursework and practicum experiences, you will develop advanced clinical skills that will prepare you for success in your future career as an AGACNP.
VCU Bulletin is the official source for course and academic program information.
Application Info
| Application Opens | Application Closes | Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | October 15, 2024* | Ongoing |
*In order to be reviewed for admission, all components of the application (personal statements, references, transcripts, etc.) must be verified by October 15. Incomplete applications after this date will not be reviewed for the spring semester start.
Complete the NursingCAS application ($80 fee) and the VCU supplemental information application ($75 fee).
Submit the following materials with your application through NursingCAS, including:
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume or a curriculum vitae
- RN license
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable): Visit VCU's Graduate International Applicants page and see heading 'Application materials --> Proof of English proficiency'
We're here to help! Contact us at VCU_Nurse@vcu.edu with your admissions questions.
Review the functional and technical standards required for participation in the academic programs of the School of Nursing.
Prospective students with a conviction showing on their criminal history record may not be eligible to participate in clinical experiences at selected sites. This may impact the student’s ability to successfully complete program requirements. Applicants with a criminal history record are advised to review eligibility and licensure requirements for states in which they may seek employment (see Virginia eligibility requirements).
Financial Info
Use the following links to understand what your attendance costs will be and how aid and scholarships can help make your degree affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is for registered nurses who hold a master’s degree and are already certified as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in one specialty.
The four lecture courses are conducted in-person, requiring one on-campus day per week. Clinical courses are conducted in-person in a clinical setting.
It is a part-time, two-year program, spanning six consecutive semesters.
No, students do not need to find their own preceptors. Each semester, students are matched with preceptors based on availability and course needs. Students may request specific preceptors or sites for consideration, though requests are not guaranteed.
It is possible for students to complete this program in another state. Requests to complete the program in another state are handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for more information at vcu_nurse@vcu.edu.