10 Best ACNP Programs in Ohio (Online & Campus) – 2025


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

As the population of Ohio ages, the demand for healthcare professionals who can treat life-threatening injuries and illnesses with a sudden onset has become a more pressing priority. Graduates of ACNP programs in Ohio are in high demand: Experts say employment opportunities for these professionals will increase by nearly 49 percent within the next 10 years. Acute care nurse practitioners in the Buckeye State make excellent salaries, too, averaging $124,050 a year. Have you got what it takes to become an acute care nurse practitioner? Find out by reading our comprehensive list of the 10 best ACNP programs in Ohio for 2025.


FOLLOWING ARE THE 10 BEST ACNP PROGRAMS IN OHIO (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 10 best campus-based and online ACNP programs in Ohio.)


1. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner


About the School: A career in acute care is challenging and at the same time highly rewarding. As an NP, you will be at the helm of things, serving patients with critical health needs. To start your journey in the field of acute care, the first step should be to obtain your training from one of the best ACNP programs in Ohio. The Ohio State University’s ACNP programs can be a great option to consider. Through rigorous training, the college prepares you to care for the health needs of geriatric and pediatric patients suffering from acute and complex health conditions. Here, you have three paths, an MSN, a BSN to DNP, and a post-master’s certificate so, you can enroll, based on your educational background.

MSN Program Details: Ranked among the top graduate programs in the country, this ACNP program in Ohio is known for its excellent didactic and clinical training. Here, you can specialize either in Pediatric Acute Care or Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, as the college offers both these specialty tracks.

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program emphasizes key ACNP competencies of health promotion, professional role development, cultural competency, and the management of healthcare delivery systems. Offered on-campus, to graduate, you must complete 51-credits in courses such as pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, quality improvement & informatics, and advanced pharmacology. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to take the ACNP certification exam.

On the other hand, the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is 59-credit coursework that focuses on the assessment and management of health issues in patients from birth to young adulthood. In addition to the well-designed didactic courses, the program provides clinical training at a variety of affiliate sites such as the Cleveland Clinic, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and many other prominent healthcare sites in the region.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner-BSN to DNP program requires the completion of 75 credits in the graduate core, ACNP-specific courses, and in clinical courses. The program can be completed on a part-time as well as full-time basis. You will master concepts in pathophysiology, innovation & leadership, health promotion, nursing policy, and evidence-based practice. Also, you will take courses in quality improvement, ethics in healthcare practice, and leadership to play a crucial role in the health promotion of adults and the geriatric population.

The Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP track comprises 84 credits that can be completed part-time or full-time, based on your convenience. Upon completion of this program, you will be prepared to assess and evaluate healthcare plans for pediatric patients with critical health conditions.

To be eligible for admission into either of these ACNP programs in Ohio, you must have a BSN, an active RN license, and at least one year of nursing experience in acute care.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Whether you are keen on a career as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or as Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, through this post master’s certificate, you can quickly reach your career goals and specialize in your preferred area of acute care. While the exact credit requirements are not prescribed, to understand your individual graduation requirements, you must have your transcripts reviwed by the program director. Upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the certification exam within your chosen area of specialization.


2. Case Western Reserve University - Cleveland, OH


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care


About the School: If you are looking at enrolling in one of the best ACNP programs in Ohio, then Case Western Reserve University’s NP training in acute care must not be overlooked.

Leading in nursing education and research, this ACNP school enjoys the advantage of being located in the center of Cleveland’s science and health district. This means as a student, you be able to access major health centers, including the Cleveland Clinic, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, and the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Also, to enhance learning outside the classroom the college provides several opportunities through service learning and study abroad trips, where ACNP students practice professional skills in diverse healthcare settings.

The college offers two pathways of MSN and a post-master’s certificate and specialization options in each in adult-gerontology care and pediatric acute care.

MSN Program Details: This MSN-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in Ohio, regardless of whether you choose the geriatric or pediatric track is open to BSN graduates holding an active RN license.

If you are someone who cares to make a difference in the health and well-being of elderly patients, then the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track is right for you. By completing the 39-credit coursework, you will be able to assess, treat and manage acute and critical health conditions of adults and the geriatric population. The coursework also includes 700 hours of clinical courses.

On the other hand, if you enroll in the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care track, you must complete 45 credits and a minimum of 600 clinical hours. The program prepares you to improve the health of children suffering from chronic, acute, and critical illnesses. You will also gain skills in conflict resolution, interdisciplinary coordination, and leadership. Further, you can gain a dual certification in pediatric acute and primary care by completing an additional course and 200 hours of clinical hours.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: By completing this acute care nurse practitioner program in Ohio, you will advance your practice nursing knowledge and greatly expand your career avenues. Offered in the online format, the coursework is customized to suit your individual academic goals. Based on your interest, you can complete either the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care track, after which you will be eligible to take the national certification exam within your chosen population focus.


3. Malone University - Canton, OH


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post-Graduate Certificate Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


About the School: If faith-based-ACNP education is what you desire, then you are in the right place. Malone University offers its ACNP training grounded in the values of compassion and competence, no wonder its graduates enjoy an excellent reputation with local health agencies as well throughout the state. Meant for nurses who are inclined towards adult gerontology acute care, here you can choose from the MSN or post-graduate certificate, depending on your previous nursing degree.

MSN Program Details: Among the best ACNP programs in Ohio, this MSN will help take your nursing career to the next level. Offered in the online format, this program also includes internships and lab work to enhance clinical training. During the two-year duration of this program, if you wish, you can access the college’s excellent on-campus recourses. The evidence-based coursework that comprises 51 credits can also be completed part-time, should you desire a slower pace of study.

You will progress through this ACNP program as part of the small cohort, gaining knowledge in various concepts related to Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner role development. Your training also includes 608 hours of internship experiences that start in the second year of the program.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: This acute care nurse practitioner program in Ohio is perfect for MSN graduates keen on expanding their scope of practice. With an individualized coursework and 500 hours of clinical, you can swiftly gain the skills and knowledge in providing competent care to adult and elderly patients, suffering from acute and critical health conditions.


4. University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations: Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


About the School: When counting the best ACNP programs in Ohio, one cannot miss out on the acute care NP education offered by the University of Cincinnati. With three pathways and two acute NP specializations to choose from, this school caters to the individual academic needs of its growing student population. Also, to accommodate the needs of working students, the college offers most of the coursework through the distance format.

A rich history of 130 years, innovative teaching, and ample opportunities for interprofessional research and learning are some of the reasons why this nursing school makes it to our ranking list. The school offers three pathways of an MSN, BSN to DNP, and a post-master’s certificate with two specialty options in adult gerontology acute care and pediatric acute care.

MSN Program Details: This ACNP program in Ohio trains you to provide healthcare to patients above the age of 13, through adulthood and old age. The program is designed to make you proficient in critical care, palliative care, disease prevention, and restoration of health. Graduates of the program are serving across diverse healthcare settings, working in hospitals, ambulatory care settings, nursing homes, and short-term stay facilities.

The program spans two years and requires the completion of 45 to 50 credits. Some of the courses you take include biostatistics, advanced physiology & pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, and healthcare policy.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: This BSN-to-DNP program leads to certification in Adult Geriatric Acute Care or Acute Care Pediatric, depending on what you choose. To be eligible, you must have an RN license and a BSN from an accredited university. This pathway is a smart route to earning your MSN, DNP, and acute care NP certification, all along the duration of the program.

While the pediatric track is offered online, for the adult-gerontology track, you will take in-person classes and must be living in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. The adult-gerontology track that prepares you for the critical care of adolescents, adults, and the elderly requires completing 77 to 82 credits.
On the other hand, the track in the acute care of newborns, children and adolescents, and young adults requires finishing an online coursework worth 75 to 79 credits.

The courses common to both these tracks include informatics, biostatistics for evidence-based practice, and quality improvement & patient safety. You also learn about advanced health assessment, planning management, and differential diagnosis.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: To be eligible for either the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Pediatric Acute Care post-master’s certificate programs, you must have an MSN and at least one year of relevant work experience. The curriculum of both these programs will depend on the courses you have taken as part of your previous degree in nursing. The program can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis.


5. Ursuline College - Pepper Pike, OH


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


About the School: Whether you are BSN prepared registered nurse or an APRN keen on expanding your practice in acute care, then at Ursuline College, you can enroll either in the MSN, BSN to DNP, or the post-master’s certificate program. Designated as a Center of Excellence, this NP school has also earned acclaim for its graduate nursing education ranking among the U.S. News & World Report’s top graduate nursing programs. This means you can be assured of receiving high-quality ACNP education, through an intensive curriculum and extensive clinical experiences.

MSN Program Details: One of the best ACNP programs in Ohio, this Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track comprises 45 credits worth of courses. This program is open to registered nurses with a BSN, having at least one year of nursing experience. The full-time program starts in the fall. There is also a part-time option available for this program.

Your training includes completing courses in evidence-based practice, advanced physiology, pathology, and advanced diagnostics. Also, you learn about healthcare informatics, health promotion, maintenance and restoration, healthcare policy and healthcare organizations and finance. Upon graduation, you will be trained in the acute care management of adults and elderly patients.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: This BSN-to-DNP program prepares you for leadership roles where you will be able to implement change and improve health in your chosen advanced practice nursing field. The total number of credits required for this coursework where you earn both, an MSN and a DNP is 81.

While the full-time program takes three years to complete, the part-time program length depends on the number of courses you wish to take each semester. The program is a blend of online and on-campus courses. In addition to completing the BSN to DNP coursework in adult gerontology acute care, you can also choose to complete a sub-specialty in palliative care. The additional coursework is offered through a postmaster’s certificate program which you can take after completing the graduation requirements of the BSN to DNP program.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Through this Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in Ohio, you can expand your nursing practice simply by completing a few credits. Upon completing a customized coursework, you will gain the eligibility to take the national certification exam and earn the status of an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.


6. Kent State University - Kent, OH


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

BSN-to-DNP Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


About the School: Adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioners not only obtain immense fulfillment in their careers, but they also find lucrative job opportunities as the field of geriatric acute care is always in demand. If you are keen on launching your career as an AGACNP, then you must learn about Kent State University. The school offers one of the most reputable ACNP programs in Ohio through which it produces competent and culturally-sensitive practitioners. Whether you are an RN prepared with a BSN, or a graduate-level nurse, here there is a path that will be suitable for you.

MSN Program Details: This MSN-ACNP program in Ohio is meant for RNs with a BSN. Also, to be eligible for admission, you require having a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. Upon admission, you are required to complete 12 credits in core courses, including advanced nursing informatics, health policy, the theoretical basis for nursing practice and methods of inquiry. Thereafter, you proceed to complete 30 credits in ACNP-specific courses, including advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, clinical diagnostics, and the health care management of adults and elderly patients suffering from critical health conditions. Also, to complement the didactic courses, you will complete four clinical courses.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Are you considering obtaining the highest level of skills and knowledge in adult gerontology acute care? If yes, then this BSN to DNP program can be what you may be searching for. Through a hybrid coursework and clinical experiences near you, you can continue your advanced practice nursing training while juggling other life responsibilities. The program is structured systemically to confer the MSN at the mid-point, which is after two years into the program.

The program requires the completion of 71 to 79 credits and 1050 to 1200 clinical hours. To be considered for admission, you must have a BSN, an active RN license, and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Upon completion of this program, you will be eligible to take the national certification exam, after passing of which you will be prepared to play leadership roles in advanced practice nursing, across the country as well as globally.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: As a graduate nurse, if you are aspiring to expand your nursing practice in adult-gerontology care, then this ACNP program in Ohio can be your best bet. Offered thrice a year, in fall, spring and summer, courses are offered on-campus. While the minimum graduation requirement is completing 21 credits, the exact number of credits will be tailored based on a gap analysis. In addition, the coursework also entails completing four clinical courses.


7. Mount Carmel College of Nursing - Columbus, OH


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post-Graduate Certificate Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


About the School: If you find your calling in adult gerontology acute care, then Mount Carmel College of Nursing’s ACNP program can be a good option. Through its MSN and post-graduate certificate, the school prepares experts who improve health and prevent diseases in diverse healthcare settings. Besides, the excellent pass rates on the AGACNP certification exam are an indication of the thorough training you will receive at these Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs in Ohio. Here, a close-knit environment and dedicated faculty make learning at this college an overall enriching experience.

MSN Program Details: This MSN-ACNP program in Ohio can be completed within 18 months or five semesters. The coursework comprises 48 credits and 650 clinical hours. To be able to apply, you must be an RN with a BSN and a minimum GPA of 3.0. To start with, you must complete 12 credits in nursing research, quality, and safety, theoretical foundations of nursing, and leadership in advanced nursing roles. The direct core 12-credits educate you on advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment. To complete your clinical training, you will closely work with your faculty in a small class ratio of 8:1.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: This Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in Ohio is designed for registered nurses holding a master’s degree. Through this coursework, you will obtain the skills to provide care to adults and the elderly population in various settings such as hospitals, emergency care, ambulatory care settings, and intensive care.


8. The University of Akron - Akron, OH


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Child & Adolescent Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Child & Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Primary/Acute Care

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Child & Adolescent Health Nursing-Acute Care


About the School: If you are inclined towards caring for children and adolescents, then applying to the University of Akron’s MSN and post-graduate certificate programs can be given a thought. Not only does this school prepare you for the acute care of pediatric patients, but by offering a dual track in the acute/primary care of children and young adults, the college strengthens your position as a Child & Adolescent Nurse Practitioner.

With robust NP education that enables graduates to assume leadership roles in critical care, the college also lays a solid base for doctoral studies in the future. By bridging the gap left by a shortage of physicians, most graduates choose to serve patients in the state, providing care in a variety of healthcare settings.

MSN Program Details: Among the popular ACNP programs in Ohio, this MSN program is offered in conjunction with Child and Adolescent Health Nursing specialization, where you can choose either an acute care track or opt for the dual track in acute and primary care. Regardless of the track you choose, you start with a 14-credit core coursework in theoretical basis for nursing, information management in nursing, policy issues in nursing, pathophysiological concepts, and principles of evidence-based practice in nursing.

The dual-track specialty-related courses require completion of around 37 to 39 credits, whereas if you enroll in the single track, credit requirements will range between 27 to 29 credits. While the single track comprises four clinical courses, the dual track takes you through six clinical training courses.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: With this 17-credit coursework, you can open up doors to a wide range of career opportunities in the advanced practice nursing field. This Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in Ohio is meant for registered nurses prepared at the master’s level. In addition to didactic training, this program requires completing 600 hours of clinical training. During the clinical experiences, you will use your theoretical knowledge to address acute and complex health conditions in pediatric patients and effectively manage and treat illnesses to restore health.


9. Wright State University - Dayton, OH


Programs Offered: MSN

MSN Concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care


About the School: Wright State University’s rigorous ACNP training prepares you for a flourishing career in acute care nursing. Whether you are passionate about caring for the elderly or babies, here you can choose your area of acute care, based on your interests. The school emphasizes clinical training and provides students with preceptors who guide them through hands-on experiences in a variety of settings. Upon graduation, you will be in a position to explore employment opportunities in various healthcare settings, including intensive care units, clinics, emergency departments, and hospitals.

MSN Program Details: Among our featured ACNP programs in Ohio is this MSN that offers two tracks of Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care.

The adult-gerontology track comprises 51 credits and considers nurses who have a BSN, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and at least two years of critical experience. In addition to core and specialty-specific courses, here you can choose an elective course of three credits in cardiology.

On the other hand, if you opt for the pediatric care track, you will require completing 54 credits. Both tracks build a strong foundation in nursing research and evidence-based practice, health policy, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Both the programs are available in both full-time and part-time options.


10. Youngstown State University - Youngstown, OH


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

MSN Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s Certificate Concentrations: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Advanced Placement


About the School: When zeroing down your options on the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs in Ohio, you must add the ACNP programs offered by Youngstown State University to your shortlist. With an MSN and a post-master’s certificate, you can decide your suitable path and specialize in adult-gerontology acute care.

With its student-centric policies, the college stays committed to the success of its students who come from diverse backgrounds. Innovation and excellence are its cornerstones which reflect in every aspect of the ACNP education, be it the well-designed didactic courses inside the class or the excellent learning opportunities you engage in outside the classroom.

MSN Program Details: This MSN program focuses on the acute care of adults and the geriatric population. Within as little as 18 months, you can complete the 45-credit coursework and launch your career as an AGACNP. The program also includes 540 hours of clinical training in an acute care setting, where you will apply professional skills to practice under the supervision of a preceptor. Upon enrollment, you first complete 27 credits of the MSN core courses, followed by 18 credits in AGACNP courses.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you are searching for online ACNP programs in Ohio, then this post-master’s certificate comes with two track options. One track is designed for nurses with an MSN and the other is meant for APRNs keen on gaining specialized skills in another area of advanced practice nursing. While the former requires the completion of 36 credits, the latter cuts down the graduation requirement to 18 credits. This is because APRNs entering the program receive advanced placement for the core courses they have already completed.

Regardless of how you enter, you can complete courses through the online format, after which you will be eligible to take the national certification exam.


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