ACNP Programs in Louisiana (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Looking for APRN employment opportunities in the Bayou State that pay well, offer job security, and provide enough variety on a day-by-day basis to prevent you from feeling like you're falling into a rut? Graduating from one of the ACNP programs in Louisiana will qualify you to become an acute care nurse practitioner. Acute care NPs make $121,560 annually, and the demand for their services is expected to go up by 44 percent in the coming decade. No two days are ever the same when you're an ACRN working in a fast-paced practice setting like an emergency room or an intensive care unit. Much more information is available in this list of the best ACNP programs in Louisiana.
FOLLOWING ARE THE ACNP PROGRAMS IN LOUISIANA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the campus-based and online ACNP programs in Louisiana.)
1. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - New Orleans
Programs Offered: DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP)
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care, Dual AGACNP & AGCNS, Dual AGACNP & PCFNP, Dual AGACNP & PNP-AC, Dual AGACNP & AGPCNP , and Dual PNP-PC & PNP-AC
MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care
While the program utilizes some virtual technology, allowing for hybrid elements, it is not entirely online. Most DNP courses are held on campus, and some laboratory and skills intensives are also campus-based.
The BSN-to-DNP program offers seven track options, including five dual specialty tracks. The curriculum includes core courses like Pharmacotherapeutics Across the Lifespan, Theoretical & Philosophical Foundations of Nursing, and Research Design & Methodology. Additionally, each pathway includes specialty-relevant courses and focused clinical practicums.
The Adult Gerontology and Pediatric Acute Care pathways feature 86- and 91-credit curriculum plans, respectively. Students in the Adult Gerontology ACNP program complete 1,080 clinical hours, and students in the Pediatric ACNP program complete 1,200 clinical hours. The dual specialty pathways require between 110 and 115 credits and 1,860 to 1,920 hours of clinical experience. Clinical practicum assignments are managed at the campus level by the Clinical Coordinator.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the BSN-to-DNP program at LSU Health Science Center, candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 and a current RN license in Louisiana or a Compact State with eligibility for licensure in Louisiana. Applicants are required to submit three letters of recommendation, a current resume, an example of a scholarly written paper, GRE scores from the past five years, and official transcripts from all post-secondary schools previously attended. American Heart Association BLS for the Healthcare Provider and a minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience are required. An interview with program faculty is the final step in the application process.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: The MSN-to-DNP ACNP program is designed for students who are already board-certified as APRNs and are seeking certification in a new acute care role or population focus. The program is available on a part-time or full-time basis, allowing you to choose a schedule that suits your lifestyle and goals. You can complete the program in four semesters if you enroll full-time or in seven semesters if you enroll part-time. New cohorts are admitted to the program each summer.
The program is presented in a hybrid format, combining some online components with in-person, campus-based learning. The MSN-to-DNP program offers two acute care pathways, Adult Gerontology and Pediatrics. The Adult Gerontology ACNP program features a 66-credit curriculum. The study plans include core nursing courses, concentration-focused courses, and DNP courses. Some of the classes you will take include Biostatistical Methods, Acute Care Therapeutic & Diagnostic Procedures for Advanced Acute Care Nursing Practice, and Epidemiology. The Pediatric ACNP program requires the completion of 65 credits.
The study plan for both pathways includes 960 clinical hours. Once verification of your master’s degree practicum hours is complete, the exact number of clinical hours you need will be determined. All DNP students must complete at least 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours.
MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: Candidates applying for admission to the MSN-to-DNP program must hold a Master’s degree in nursing, possess a current, unencumbered RN license, and hold an unencumbered APRN license, both of which must be eligible to practice in Louisiana. One year of clinical nursing experience as a registered nurse is required. Applicants complete an application for admission via NursingCAS.
They must provide a copy of their current American Heart Association BLS/Healthcare Provider certification, one example of a scholarly paper, three letters of recommendation, a completed Verification of Graduate Practicum Hours Form, and a current resume. Official transcripts reflecting a cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher are also required. Once other admission requirements are met, candidates must participate in an admission interview with the program faculty.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• As a nurse educator, I encourage prospective students to seek out schools and programs with good rankings, particularly those from reputable sources. For example, Louisiana State University Health Science Center is ranked by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Grad Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice category rankings.• The ACNP program at Louisiana State University Health Science Center has excellent retention and completion rates, which is a good indicator of student satisfaction!
• Graduates of the LSU Health Science Center’s ACNP program have excellent job placement rates. The school reports that, among students who respond to post-graduation surveys, nearly all report being employed within six months of completing the program and taking their national certification examinations.
• At LSU Health, students in the ACNP program have access to a wide range of financial assistance options. From Institutional Scholarships and Grants to private funding sources and veterans’ benefits, most students qualify for some type of aid. Financial aid advisors are available to assist you in identifying available resources for which you may qualify.
2. Northwestern State University - Natchitoches
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master’s Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The MSN AGACNP program admits new students in the fall semester each year. It takes three years or eight semesters. The first three semesters of the program focus on core nursing education, and the remaining five semesters focus on clinical and role courses. The 45-credit curriculum consists of coursework, including Methods of Clinical Nursing Assessment, Medical Genetics for Nursing, Social Forces in Nursing Practice, and Healthcare Informatics for Nursing. Students are required to complete a minimum of 720 hours of clinical experience.
MSN Admission Requirements: Prospective students who wish to enroll in the MSN program must first be admitted to the NSU Graduate School. Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing, possess a current, unrestricted RN license, and have at least two years of experience as a registered nurse in a hospital setting. Applicants are required to submit a copy of current American Heart Association BLS certification, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts reflecting an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher OR a GPA of at least 2.75 in the last 60 hours sued.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at Northwestern State University offers a pathway for registered nurses to obtain training in the Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP pathway after having already completed a master’s degree in nursing. The program admits students at various times throughout the year, based on the courses each student needs to complete to satisfy the requirements for the credential.
The MSN curriculum plan serves as the basis for developing the Post-Master’s Certificate study plan. However, each student’s plan varies, depending on previous coursework completed during their master’s nursing program. A GAP analysis is conducted to compare previous coursework and clinical experiences and to establish a personalized plan of study.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Post-Master’s Certificate program, applicants must hold a master’s degree in nursing from an accredited college or university and have a current, unencumbered, Louisiana or NLC State RN license. Candidates must provide official transcripts reflecting a graduate grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Northwestern State University’s six-decade history of providing nursing education options is a testament to the school’s dedication to students and the profession. With each passing year, the school offers new and innovative ways for students to benefit from its programs as they prepare for rewarding career opportunities.• The Adult Gerontology ACNP program at Northwestern State University boasts a faculty team comprised of leaders in clinical practice and nursing education. Each faculty member brings a wealth of knowledge and personal insight to the program, creating unique learning experiences for students.
• As a student at NSU, you will have a dedicated academic advisor who works with you throughout your time in the program. Your advisor will assist with scheduling and other needs, as well as provide access to the resources you need to promote your success.
• Northwestern State University reports excellent program outcomes for its ACNP program. According to the school, the program has high completion rates and high student satisfaction rates.
• Graduates of the NSU Acute Care NP program have outstanding success rates on national certification exams, as well. The school reports a 100% pass rate among first-time testers.
HOW MUCH DO ACNP GRADUATES MAKE IN LOUISIANA?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF ACNP PROGRAMS IN LOUISIANA EXPECT?
| Hourly | $43.00 |
| Weekly | $1,720 |
| Monthly | $7,450 |
| Annual | $89,430 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF ACNP PROGRAMS IN LOUISIANA EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $43.00 | $1,720 | $7,450 | $89,430 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $48.65 | $1,946 | $8,430 | $101,190 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $57.43 | $2,297 | $9,950 | $119,450 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $63.96 | $2,558 | $11,090 | $133,030 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $76.43 | $3,057 | $13,250 | $158,970 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA?
| Hourly | $58.44 |
| Weekly | $2,338 |
| Monthly | $10,130 |
| Annual | $121,560 |
HOW MUCH DO ACNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METRO AREAS OF LOUISIANA?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Alexandria | $53.14 | $2,126 | $9,210 | $110,540 |
| Baton Rouge | $59.26 | $2,370 | $10,270 | $123,260 |
| Hammond | $59.84 | $2,393 | $10,370 | $124,460 |
| Houma-Thibodaux | $65.00 | $2,600 | $11,270 | $135,200 |
| Lafayette | $60.86 | $2,434 | $10,550 | $126,580 |
| Lake Charles | $57.85 | $2,314 | $10,030 | $120,320 |
| Monroe | $56.25 | $2,250 | $9,750 | $117,010 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $58.72 | $2,349 | $10,180 | $122,140 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $59.41 | $2,377 | $10,300 | $123,580 |
ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA VS. OTHER SALARIES
ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA VS. ACNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Louisiana ACNP Annual Salary | Average National ACNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $121,560 | $131,620 | -$10,060 | -7.64% |
ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA VS. ACNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $165,480 | -$43,920 | -26.54% |
| Nevada | $152,290 | -$30,730 | -20.18% |
| Washington | $148,940 | -$27,380 | -18.38% |
| New Jersey | $148,560 | -$27,000 | -18.17% |
| Oregon | $148,480 | -$26,920 | -18.13% |
| Massachusetts | $147,520 | -$25,960 | -17.60% |
| New York | $146,310 | -$24,750 | -16.92% |
| Connecticut | $140,320 | -$18,760 | -13.37% |
| New Mexico | $140,100 | -$18,540 | -13.23% |
| Minnesota | $138,300 | -$16,740 | -12.10% |
| District of Columbia | $138,130 | -$16,570 | -12.00% |
| Rhode Island | $136,710 | -$15,150 | -11.08% |
| Hawaii | $135,840 | -$14,280 | -10.51% |
| Arizona | $135,790 | -$14,230 | -10.48% |
| Delaware | $134,300 | -$12,740 | -9.49% |
| Iowa | $134,010 | -$12,450 | -9.29% |
| New Hampshire | $133,920 | -$12,360 | -9.23% |
| Texas | $133,180 | -$11,620 | -8.73% |
| Wisconsin | $131,460 | -$9,900 | -7.53% |
| Maryland | $131,110 | -$9,550 | -7.28% |
| Utah | $130,930 | -$9,370 | -7.16% |
| North Dakota | $130,870 | -$9,310 | -7.11% |
| Pennsylvania | $130,550 | -$8,990 | -6.89% |
| Illinois | $129,990 | -$8,430 | -6.49% |
| Alaska | $129,240 | -$7,680 | -5.94% |
| Vermont | $129,170 | -$7,610 | -5.89% |
| Montana | $127,680 | -$6,120 | -4.79% |
| Idaho | $127,580 | -$6,020 | -4.72% |
| Oklahoma | $127,360 | -$5,800 | -4.55% |
| Wyoming | $126,570 | -$5,010 | -3.96% |
| Indiana | $126,320 | -$4,760 | -3.77% |
| Maine | $125,930 | -$4,370 | -3.47% |
| Ohio | $125,860 | -$4,300 | -3.42% |
| Colorado | $124,960 | -$3,400 | -2.72% |
| Nebraska | $124,640 | -$3,080 | -2.47% |
| North Carolina | $124,550 | -$2,990 | -2.40% |
| Georgia | $124,100 | -$2,540 | -2.05% |
| South Dakota | $123,930 | -$2,370 | -1.91% |
| Virginia | $123,810 | -$2,250 | -1.82% |
| Michigan | $123,620 | -$2,060 | -1.67% |
| Florida | $122,630 | -$1,070 | -0.87% |
| Kansas | $122,180 | -$620 | -0.51% |
| Louisiana | $121,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Mississippi | $120,350 | +$1,210 | +1.01% |
| South Carolina | $119,790 | +$1,770 | +1.48% |
| Missouri | $119,520 | +$2,040 | +1.71% |
| West Virginia | $116,210 | +$5,350 | +4.60% |
| Arkansas | $116,170 | +$5,390 | +4.64% |
| Kentucky | $113,060 | +$8,500 | +7.52% |
| Alabama | $112,700 | +$8,860 | +7.86% |
| Tennessee | $106,250 | +$15,310 | +14.41% |
ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN LOUISIANA
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $218,770 | -$97,210 | -44.43% |
| Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | $121,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Registered Nurse | $80,760 | +$40,800 | +50.52% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Post-secondary | $78,780 | +$42,780 | +54.30% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $51,700 | +$69,860 | +135.13% |
| Nursing Assistant | $30,420 | +$91,140 | +299.61% |
ACNP SALARY IN LOUISIANA VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN LOUISIANA
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Podiatrist | $170,450 | -$48,890 | -28.68% |
| Dentist | $164,340 | -$42,780 | -26.03% |
| Optometrist | $131,460 | -$9,900 | -7.53% |
| Pharmacist | $124,770 | -$3,210 | -2.57% |
| Physician Assistant | $123,280 | -$1,720 | -1.40% |
| Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | $121,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Veterinarian | $115,450 | +$6,110 | +5.29% |
| Physical Therapist | $97,830 | +$23,730 | +24.26% |
| Occupational Therapist | $93,110 | +$28,450 | +30.56% |
| Radiation Therapist | $88,510 | +$33,050 | +37.34% |
| Chiropractor | $79,800 | +$41,760 | +52.33% |
| Dental Hygienist | $78,980 | +$42,580 | +53.91% |
| Audiologist | $75,210 | +$46,350 | +61.63% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $74,390 | +$47,170 | +63.41% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits ACNP Programs In Louisiana?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited ACNP Schools Are There In Louisiana?
| 2 |
3. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Hour In Louisiana?
| $58.44 |
4. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Week In Louisiana?
| $2,338 |
5. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Month In Louisiana?
| $10,130 |
6. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Year In Louisiana?
| $121,560 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For ACNPs In Louisiana?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
| +43.62% |
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
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