26 Best Online MSN-ACNP Programs – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Are you a registered nurse interested in providing care to acutely ill patients? Have you considered earning a master's degree but do not know where to start? If so, an MSN-ACNP program could be an excellent option. Perhaps you have thought of going back to school to earn your master's in nursing but do not feel like committing to a campus-based program. If that sounds familiar, an online program is something worth considering.
Maybe you have heard of online MSN-ACNP programs but wonder, “What are the best online MSN-ACNP programs?” In this article, I will answer that question by sharing a list of the 26 best online MSN-ACNP programs for 2025 and by giving you information about the programs. You will learn about admission criteria, program costs, curriculum plans, and practical training. Additionally, you will find information about the job outlook for this specialty, potential job options, and earning potential to help you decide if this is the career path you want to pursue.
What Exactly is the Goal of an Online MSN-ACNP Program?
The goal of online MSN-ACNP programs is to prepare nurses with a graduate degree in nursing focused on advanced practice care for patients in acute care. The programs aim to give students the knowledge and clinical experiences needed to provide care for patients with acute, chronic, or critical health issues.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN-ACNP Program
The best online MSN-ACNP programs will equip you with the essential skills and abilities needed to provide high-quality care to patients with acute health issues. The following list includes five of the most important skills and abilities you will gain in these programs.
1. You will learn to assess patients experiencing sudden or acute illness:
In emergency situations, the ability to quickly assess patients and implement care measures is vital. Online MSN-ACNP programs will prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to perform thorough assessments of patients with acute illnesses or injuries.2. You will develop strong critical-thinking skills:
As nurses, critical thinking is a crucial skill, and even more so when dealing with patients facing acute or emergency health issues. In MSN-ACNP online programs, you will not only learn the theory behind critical thinking and why it is a valuable skill for acute care nurse practitioners, but you will also have clinical learning opportunities to help develop and hone your skill.3. You will learn to develop individualized treatment plans for acutely ill patients:
Another skill you will develop in online MSN-ACNP programs is the ability to create and implement individualized treatment plans for your clients. The information you gather during your assessment will be the foundation upon which you build a plan of action designed to help your clients on the road to recovery.4. You will learn to calculate and prescribe medications:
An added benefit of becoming a nurse practitioner is that you can prescribe medications to patients. MSN-ACNP online programs will teach about advanced pharmacology as it relates to Adult-Gerontology or Pediatric populations, based on your chosen specialty. You will learn about medications used to treat acute and chronic illnesses and how to calculate appropriate doses based on your patient’s needs.5. You will become an effective advocate for patients requiring acute healthcare services:
Nothing is more frightening than experiencing an acute illness or injury and not knowing where to turn or which questions to ask. Acute care nurse practitioners often stand in the gap and advocate for patients in need. Online MSN-ACNP programs will teach you about patient advocacy and instruct you on appropriate ways to advocate for clients in need, which means you can be instrumental in ensuring patients receive the care they need in a timely manner, helping to improve overall patient outcomes.4 Main Advantages of Online MSN-ACNP Programs
As you consider options for earning your next degree and the career path you wish to pursue, it is helpful to weigh the pros and cons. There are many advantages to earning your degree through one of the best MSN-ACNP online programs. Common advantages of online programs include being able to pace your learning, complete clinicals near your home, or save money on tuition. There are also several advantages specific to online MSN-ACNP programs, including the following.
1. You can directly impact patients in the midst of acute or critical events:
One of the greatest advantages of earning your degree through MSN-ACNP online programs is you can impact patients experiencing some of the most uncertain times in their lives. You will use your knowledge and skills to ensure patients receive the care they need. Your compassion and empathy will help you relate to your patients, helping them feel at ease, which makes treatment easier.2. You can choose to earn additional subspecialty certifications:
In addition to choosing a patient population, such as adult gerontology or pediatrics, graduates of online MSN-ACNP programs can also choose a subspecialty on which to focus their practice. For example, you may choose to get a specialty certification in acute cardiac care, oncology, or orthopedics.3. You will become a leader in patient care:
MSN-ACNP online programs will prepare you with the knowledge and clinical experience essential for leading healthcare teams dedicated to providing acute care. Your clinical expertise means you can lead teams in the provision of acute or emergency care and play an integral role in promoting positive patient, organizational, and professional outcomes.4. You will gain a sense of personal accomplishment:
Nursing is known as one of the most trusted professions, and as such, it is a rewarding feeling to know you are among highly regarded professionals. That regard achieves an even higher level when you earn an advanced degree, like ACNP. Graduating from online MSN-ACNP programs will give you a sense of self-respect and personal accomplishment that is well-deserved.2 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN-ACNP Programs
Now that you know why joining one of the nation’s best online MSN-ACNP programs would be beneficial, let’s cover two reasons you may reconsider enrolling at this time.
1. Not all situations have happy endings:
No matter how well-prepared you are for your role, graduating from online MSN-ACNP programs does not guarantee that every patient situation will have a positive outcome. Working in acute care means taking care of patients with sudden, sometimes chronic, or traumatic issues. Despite your best efforts at providing prompt, effective care, some patients succumb to illness or injuries. It can be very disheartening to work tirelessly to help someone's health improve to end up seeing them not recover.2. Being an acute care nurse practitioner can be physically and emotionally stressful:
Whether you are a student or graduate of MSN-ACNP online programs, you will face physically and emotionally taxing situations. In your role, you will see patients during some of the worse times, and often there is little warning before their healthcare crisis occurs. Depending on the circumstances, you may have to transfer or lift heavy patients, manage several types of equipment, try to calm angry or anxious patients or family and deal with other members of the healthcare team. These demands can leave you feeling mentally and physically exhausted.When Do MSN-ACNP Online Programs Start?
Online MSN-ACNP programs have varying start dates based on the university’s schedule. The following are examples of the start dates for some of the nation’s best programs.
• The online MSN-ACNP program at Wayne State University offers start dates in the fall and winter quarters annually.
• Kent State University has two start dates for its online MSN-ACNP program, one in the spring and one in the fall.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, the MSN-ACNP online programs begin in the fall and spring of each year.
• The Seton Hall University online MSN-ACNP program begins twice yearly, in the spring and fall semesters.
• The MSN-ACNP online program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center begins in the fall of each academic year. (Schedule subject to change.)
• Kent State University has two start dates for its online MSN-ACNP program, one in the spring and one in the fall.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, the MSN-ACNP online programs begin in the fall and spring of each year.
• The Seton Hall University online MSN-ACNP program begins twice yearly, in the spring and fall semesters.
• The MSN-ACNP online program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center begins in the fall of each academic year. (Schedule subject to change.)
How Many Credits are There in MSN-ACNP Online Programs?
The number of credits needed to complete MSN-ACNP online programs is determined by the school offering the program. Typically, students can expect to complete between 40 and 55 credits. This number may vary if you have credits from a previous degree program that are eligible for transfer into the program. A few examples of the credit requirements for some of these programs are as follows.
• The online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner-MSN program at the University of Southern Indiana features a 42-credit hour curriculum.
• The Adult-Gerontology online MSN-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at George Washington University is a 48-credit program.
• Emory University offers 48-credit hours Adult-Gerontology and 42-credit hours in Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs.
• The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers three pathways for its online MSN-ACNP programs. The Pediatric and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP pathways require 45 credits of coursework. Students enrolled in the AG-ACNP program may enroll in the Registered Nurse First Assistant option and complete an additional nine credits.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, students in the online MSN-ACNP programs complete 48 credits for the Adult-Gerontology ACNP pathway and 51 credits for the Pediatric ACNP pathway.
• The Adult-Gerontology online MSN-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at George Washington University is a 48-credit program.
• Emory University offers 48-credit hours Adult-Gerontology and 42-credit hours in Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs.
• The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers three pathways for its online MSN-ACNP programs. The Pediatric and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP pathways require 45 credits of coursework. Students enrolled in the AG-ACNP program may enroll in the Registered Nurse First Assistant option and complete an additional nine credits.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, students in the online MSN-ACNP programs complete 48 credits for the Adult-Gerontology ACNP pathway and 51 credits for the Pediatric ACNP pathway.
How Long are MSN-ACNP Online Programs?
Online MSN-ACNP programs typically take one to three years to complete. The time it takes you to graduate will be determined by whether you attend part-time or full-time and whether you have transferrable credits from your previous nursing or baccalaureate program. The following are a few examples of the time it takes to graduate from five of the programs featured in this article.
• The Adult-Gerontology MSN-ACNP program at Duke University takes 2 ½ years to complete.
• Emory University's online MSN-ACNP program can be completed in four semesters.
• George Washington University offers a part-time online MSN-ACNP program that can be completed in three years.
• The Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric MSN-ACNP online programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham can be completed in six or seven semesters. AG-ACNP students may complete one additional semester and earn the Registered Nurse First Assistant credential.
• The Pediatric MSN-ACNP program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center can be completed in two years or six semesters, including two summer sessions.
• Emory University's online MSN-ACNP program can be completed in four semesters.
• George Washington University offers a part-time online MSN-ACNP program that can be completed in three years.
• The Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric MSN-ACNP online programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham can be completed in six or seven semesters. AG-ACNP students may complete one additional semester and earn the Registered Nurse First Assistant credential.
• The Pediatric MSN-ACNP program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center can be completed in two years or six semesters, including two summer sessions.
How Much Do MSN-ACNP Online Programs Cost?
Tuition for MSN-ACNP online programs can cost as little as $20,000 to $75,000 or more. Each school determines the cost of its programs. As you research programs, you may find that some schools charge different rates for students based on whether they live in the state or out of state. Also, some schools offer discounted rates for distance-learning students, like those enrolled in online MSN-ACNP programs. The list below reflects the costs associated with some of the nation's top programs.
• George Washington University charges $1,395 per credit hour, which brings the total cost of the 48-credit program to $66,960.
• At the University of South Carolina, tuition is calculated based on a student's residency status. In-state students pay $770.25 per credit, and non-resident students pay $870.25. The online MSN-ACNP program features a 46-credit hour curriculum, making the program cost between $35,431 and $40,031.50.
• Drexel University calculates tuition at a rate of $1,069 per credit hour. Both the Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs require the completion of 57 credits, making tuition cost $60,933.
• The online MSN-ACNP program offered at Thomas Jefferson University costs $1,224 per credit. The program includes a 36-credit curriculum, costing $44,064.
• Tuition for the online MSN-ACNP program at the University of Missouri costs approximately $44,842.
• At the University of South Carolina, tuition is calculated based on a student's residency status. In-state students pay $770.25 per credit, and non-resident students pay $870.25. The online MSN-ACNP program features a 46-credit hour curriculum, making the program cost between $35,431 and $40,031.50.
• Drexel University calculates tuition at a rate of $1,069 per credit hour. Both the Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs require the completion of 57 credits, making tuition cost $60,933.
• The online MSN-ACNP program offered at Thomas Jefferson University costs $1,224 per credit. The program includes a 36-credit curriculum, costing $44,064.
• Tuition for the online MSN-ACNP program at the University of Missouri costs approximately $44,842.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online MSN-ACNP Programs?
One of the first criteria candidates must meet when applying to online MSN-ACNP programs is the minimum grade point requirement. On average, the top programs require applicants to have a minimum college or BSN grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, the minimum GPA may vary among schools. The following are a few examples of the GPA requirements for some of the nation's best programs.
• Admission to the online MSN-ACNP program at Kent State University is contingent upon having a minimum 3.0 undergraduate/graduate grade point average on a 4.000 scale.
• At George Washington University, students applying for admission to the MSN-ACNP online program must have a scholastic GPA of 3.0 or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
• To be considered for admission to the online MSN-ACNP program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA for the most recently completed 60 semester hours of college coursework. Applicants with a GPA less than 3.2 may be required to submit GRE scores.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, applicants to the MSN-ACNP online program must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA for their BSN program.
• Seton Hall University requires applicants to the Adult-Gerontology online MSN-ACNP program to have a minimum 3.2 GPA for all previous nursing coursework.
• At George Washington University, students applying for admission to the MSN-ACNP online program must have a scholastic GPA of 3.0 or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
• To be considered for admission to the online MSN-ACNP program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA for the most recently completed 60 semester hours of college coursework. Applicants with a GPA less than 3.2 may be required to submit GRE scores.
• At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, applicants to the MSN-ACNP online program must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA for their BSN program.
• Seton Hall University requires applicants to the Adult-Gerontology online MSN-ACNP program to have a minimum 3.2 GPA for all previous nursing coursework.
What are the Admission Requirements For Online MSN-ACNP Programs?
In addition to meeting minimum grade point requirements, the best MSN-ACNP online programs have other criteria prospective students must meet to be admitted into their programs. Although general admission requirements are similar, it is important to verify the criteria carefully for each school or program to which you plan to apply. The following are examples of the requirements candidates must meet for admission at five of this article's featured schools.
• To gain admission to the online MSN-ACNP program at Kent State University, candidates must have a bachelor's or graduate degree from an accredited RN program with a minimum nursing GPA of 3.0 on a 4.000 scale and complete an undergraduate statistics course with a minimum grade of "C." Applicants must possess an active and unrestricted Ohio RN license. Prospective students must provide a resume or curriculum vitae (CV), a two to three-page essay, and three letters of professional or academic reference. International students must provide passing scores for an English proficiency exam.
• For entry into Emory University’s online MSN-ACNP program, applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned at an accredited nursing program and have an unencumbered Georgia or multi-state RN license. Candidates must also have one year of RN experience working in a hospital setting. Applicants must submit official school transcripts from any college or university attended, a professional resume, a personal statement, and two or three professional references.
• George Washington University’s admission criteria for the online RN-ACNP program include the following. Applicants must have a BSN earned at a regionally accredited college or university with a preferred scholastic grade point average of at least 3.0. Candidates must provide official transcripts from each post-secondary school attended, two professional letters of recommendation, a current resume, and a statement of purpose, and must have an active, unencumbered RN license.
• At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, candidates who wish to pursue the MSN-ACNP online program must have a BSN from a regionally accredited school and nationally accredited nursing program and have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. All applicants must submit three letters of professional reference and official transcripts from every college or university they have ever attended. Additionally, candidates must have evidence of completing a descriptive statistics class with a minimum grade of "C."
• Admission eligibility for the online MSN-ACNP program at Georgetown University requires meeting the following criteria. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or entry-level MSN from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited nursing program and have a current, unrestricted RN license. Applicants must complete a three-credit Statistics course with a minimum grade of "C" and have a minimum cumulative GPA and science GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0. Candidates must provide official transcripts from any college or university attended, a resume or CV, and three letters of recommendation. Additionally, applicants must have one year of full-time experience in an intensive care setting.
• For entry into Emory University’s online MSN-ACNP program, applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned at an accredited nursing program and have an unencumbered Georgia or multi-state RN license. Candidates must also have one year of RN experience working in a hospital setting. Applicants must submit official school transcripts from any college or university attended, a professional resume, a personal statement, and two or three professional references.
• George Washington University’s admission criteria for the online RN-ACNP program include the following. Applicants must have a BSN earned at a regionally accredited college or university with a preferred scholastic grade point average of at least 3.0. Candidates must provide official transcripts from each post-secondary school attended, two professional letters of recommendation, a current resume, and a statement of purpose, and must have an active, unencumbered RN license.
• At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, candidates who wish to pursue the MSN-ACNP online program must have a BSN from a regionally accredited school and nationally accredited nursing program and have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. All applicants must submit three letters of professional reference and official transcripts from every college or university they have ever attended. Additionally, candidates must have evidence of completing a descriptive statistics class with a minimum grade of "C."
• Admission eligibility for the online MSN-ACNP program at Georgetown University requires meeting the following criteria. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or entry-level MSN from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited nursing program and have a current, unrestricted RN license. Applicants must complete a three-credit Statistics course with a minimum grade of "C" and have a minimum cumulative GPA and science GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0. Candidates must provide official transcripts from any college or university attended, a resume or CV, and three letters of recommendation. Additionally, applicants must have one year of full-time experience in an intensive care setting.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online MSN-ACNP Programs?
Accredited online MSN-ACNP programs offer excellent curriculum plans focused on the patient population you wish to serve. Although the name of classes may differ among schools, you will find the curriculum for accredited programs covers the same content. The following are a few examples of the classes offered in some of the nation’s top programs.
• The curriculum for the online MSN-ACNP program at Duke University features classes, including Population Health in a Global Society, Advanced Practice Nursing Care in Older Adult Patients, Advanced Practice Nursing in Primary Care Adolescents and Adult Patients, Nursing Care of the Acutely Ill, Collaboration, Leadership, & Scholarship.
• At Emory University, students in the online MSN-ACNP program take courses such as Becoming an APRN, Advanced Health Assessment, Acute & Complex Chronic Disease Management for the AGACNP, Advance Cardiovascular Diagnostics & Management for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, and Integrated Behavioral Health for the APRN.
• The online MSN-ACNP program at George Washington University features classes, including Advanced Health Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning, Complex & Chronic Disease Management: Adolescent to Frail Elderly, Genetics for Healthcare Providers, Biostatistics for Healthcare Researcher, Evidence-Based Practice for Healthcare Researchers, and Advanced Pharmacology for Nursing.
• The curriculum for the online MSN-ACNP programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham includes classes such as Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Nursing Practice, Population Health in Advanced Practice Nursing, and Interprofessional Leadership & Role Development for Practice Excellence. Both the Pediatric ACNP pathway and the Adult-Gerontology ACNP pathway have three specialty-relevant clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicum.
• Students enrolled in the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center online MSN-ACNP programs study Diagnostic Methods for Advanced Nursing Practice, Pharmacotherapeutics for Nurses in Advanced Practice, Essentials of Acute Care, and Advanced Practice Nursing: Application of Pathophysiology. The Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric ACNP pathways each include three clinical courses with corresponding on-campus skills labs or a clinical practicum.
• At Emory University, students in the online MSN-ACNP program take courses such as Becoming an APRN, Advanced Health Assessment, Acute & Complex Chronic Disease Management for the AGACNP, Advance Cardiovascular Diagnostics & Management for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, and Integrated Behavioral Health for the APRN.
• The online MSN-ACNP program at George Washington University features classes, including Advanced Health Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning, Complex & Chronic Disease Management: Adolescent to Frail Elderly, Genetics for Healthcare Providers, Biostatistics for Healthcare Researcher, Evidence-Based Practice for Healthcare Researchers, and Advanced Pharmacology for Nursing.
• The curriculum for the online MSN-ACNP programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham includes classes such as Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Nursing Practice, Population Health in Advanced Practice Nursing, and Interprofessional Leadership & Role Development for Practice Excellence. Both the Pediatric ACNP pathway and the Adult-Gerontology ACNP pathway have three specialty-relevant clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicum.
• Students enrolled in the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center online MSN-ACNP programs study Diagnostic Methods for Advanced Nursing Practice, Pharmacotherapeutics for Nurses in Advanced Practice, Essentials of Acute Care, and Advanced Practice Nursing: Application of Pathophysiology. The Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric ACNP pathways each include three clinical courses with corresponding on-campus skills labs or a clinical practicum.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online MSN-ACNP Programs?
A concern for many online nursing students in MSN-ACNP online programs is the clinical experience provided by the institution. The practical component of the training is where students receive the hands-on experience they need once they begin practicing. Fortunately, most schools allow you to find an organization in your area to obtain the clinical requirement. Below is an example of how a few of the top programs handle the curriculum's practical training portion.
• If you pursue your degree through the online MSN-ACNP program at Indiana University School of Nursing, you may complete your clinical training in your home community within Indiana. The program includes 575 clinical hours completed over the course of two years. The university offers clinical placement coordinators to work with you to arrange appropriate clinical practicum experiences, securing clinical sites and preceptors. A few sites where students often complete clinical requirements include Bloomington Housing Authority, Center Stone, and the Monroe County Health Department.
• At Thomas Jefferson University, students in the Adult-Gerontology online MSN-ACNP program learn clinical skills using standardized patient encounters at the university’s Rector CSSC, which offers fully equipped examination rooms and state-of-the-art simulators. After passing skills assessments and progressing in the program, students complete three clinical courses during which there are 16 hours of practicum experience each week. By the time the program is complete, students have earned 672 clinical hours. Identifying and securing clinical placement sites and preceptors is a shared responsibility between you and the faculty.
• The online MSN-ACNP Adult-Gerontology program at Boise State University features 700 clinical practicum hours. Clinicals are comprised of 576 hours of direct patient care completed in three practicum rotations and one residency. Each clinical rotation is completed over 14 weeks, with students completing 16 eight-hour shifts. The remaining 124 hours are completed through three campus-based summer intensives. The university has a clinical placement specialist dedicated full-time to assisting students in locating clinical sites and preceptors and coordinating contracts and schedules. Students complete one summer intensive before beginning direct patient care clinicals, then transition to patient care practicums in diverse settings caring for patients with a broad range of medical conditions.
• At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, one credit hour of clinicals equals 60 clock hours. Students in the Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs complete ten credits of clinical training for a minimum of 600 clinical hours. Students in these programs complete between six and seven successive semesters of clinicals. The Adult-Gerontology ACNP with Registered First Assist pathway includes three credits of clinicals or 180 clock hours. Clinicals are arranged in collaboration with clinical faculty and completed under the supervision of critical and acute care nurse practitioners and physicians. Depending on your specialty, you may complete clinicals within the UAB Medical Facility, the university's nurse-managed clinics, the Children's Hospital of Alabama, or other top children's hospitals across the country.
• The online MSN-ACNP Adult-Gerontology program offered at Georgetown University includes 600 clinical hours. You will first develop advanced decision-making and clinical reasoning skills enhanced by interactive online classes. The program features on-campus intensives where you will learn to interview and assess patients. After successfully completing on-campus intensives, you will transition to clinical practicum experiences in diverse settings caring for adult and geriatric patients with acute, critical, and complex health issues. The university employs a team of clinical placement specialists and advisors who will partner with you to secure clinical placement sites and preceptors.
• At Thomas Jefferson University, students in the Adult-Gerontology online MSN-ACNP program learn clinical skills using standardized patient encounters at the university’s Rector CSSC, which offers fully equipped examination rooms and state-of-the-art simulators. After passing skills assessments and progressing in the program, students complete three clinical courses during which there are 16 hours of practicum experience each week. By the time the program is complete, students have earned 672 clinical hours. Identifying and securing clinical placement sites and preceptors is a shared responsibility between you and the faculty.
• The online MSN-ACNP Adult-Gerontology program at Boise State University features 700 clinical practicum hours. Clinicals are comprised of 576 hours of direct patient care completed in three practicum rotations and one residency. Each clinical rotation is completed over 14 weeks, with students completing 16 eight-hour shifts. The remaining 124 hours are completed through three campus-based summer intensives. The university has a clinical placement specialist dedicated full-time to assisting students in locating clinical sites and preceptors and coordinating contracts and schedules. Students complete one summer intensive before beginning direct patient care clinicals, then transition to patient care practicums in diverse settings caring for patients with a broad range of medical conditions.
• At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, one credit hour of clinicals equals 60 clock hours. Students in the Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric online MSN-ACNP programs complete ten credits of clinical training for a minimum of 600 clinical hours. Students in these programs complete between six and seven successive semesters of clinicals. The Adult-Gerontology ACNP with Registered First Assist pathway includes three credits of clinicals or 180 clock hours. Clinicals are arranged in collaboration with clinical faculty and completed under the supervision of critical and acute care nurse practitioners and physicians. Depending on your specialty, you may complete clinicals within the UAB Medical Facility, the university's nurse-managed clinics, the Children's Hospital of Alabama, or other top children's hospitals across the country.
• The online MSN-ACNP Adult-Gerontology program offered at Georgetown University includes 600 clinical hours. You will first develop advanced decision-making and clinical reasoning skills enhanced by interactive online classes. The program features on-campus intensives where you will learn to interview and assess patients. After successfully completing on-campus intensives, you will transition to clinical practicum experiences in diverse settings caring for adult and geriatric patients with acute, critical, and complex health issues. The university employs a team of clinical placement specialists and advisors who will partner with you to secure clinical placement sites and preceptors.
What are the Best Online MSN-ACNP Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 26 Best Online MSN-ACNP Programs in the nation for the year 2025.)1. Duke University - Durham, NC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner2. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care3. Emory University - Atlanta, GA
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner4. The George Washington University - Washington, DC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner5. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Birmingham, AL
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA), and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner6. Georgetown University - Washington, DC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology7. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston - Houston, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner8. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner9. Wayne State University - Detroit, MI
Specialties Offered:
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care10. University of South Carolina - Columbia, SC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner11. University of Connecticut - Storrs, CT
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner12. Indiana University—Purdue University Columbus - Columbus, IN
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner13. Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner , Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner , and Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Option)14. Seton Hall University - Nutley, NJ
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner15. University of Mississippi Medical Center - Jackson, MS
Specialties Offered:
Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner16. Thomas Jefferson University - Philadelphia, PA
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner17. University of Nebraska Medical Center - Omaha, NE
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Primary & Acute Care Nurse Practitioner18. The Catholic University of America - Washington, DC
Specialties Offered:
Dual Acute and Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner19. University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner20. University of Missouri-Kansas City - Kansas City, MO
Specialties Offered:
Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner21. Kent State University - Kent, OH
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner22. The University of Alabama in Huntsville - Huntsville, AL
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner23. University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner24. University of Colorado - Aurora, CO
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care25. Boise State University - Boise, ID
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner26. University of Southern Indiana - Evansville, IN
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner3 Best Jobs For Graduates of Online MSN-ACNP Programs
There is great job potential for graduates of MSN-ACNP online programs. Where you work after graduation will depend largely on the patient population you wish to serve and the setting that interests you most. Some graduates work in emergency rooms, intensive care units, and urgent care clinics. Others work in specialty clinics or academia. The following are three of the best jobs for graduates of these specialized programs.
1. Acute Care Home Health Nurse Practitioner:
If you like the idea of having a true sense of autonomy in work and enjoy meeting patients in places that are most comfortable for them, becoming an ACNP specializing in home health care could be a great option. Graduates of online MSN-ACNP programs who work in this role perform admission assessments and ongoing care for clients who require care for acute health conditions from the comfort of their homes.2. Intensive Care Unit Supervisor:
Another excellent job option for graduates of MSN-ACNP online programs is ICU-Supervisor. In this job, you will supervise staff in an intensive care unit, manage scheduling, and collaborate with patients, physicians, and other interdisciplinary team members to provide exceptional care and promote positive patient outcomes.3. Urgent Care Acute Care Nurse Practitioner:
In recent years, urgent care clinics have become a go-to for people who need after-hours care for acute illnesses or injuries. Graduates of online MSN-ACNP programs often work in urgent care clinics and are responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and education of patients and their caregivers with acute and chronic health issues.What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
New graduates of online MSN-ACNP programs earn an average of $38.25 hourly, $1,530 weekly, and $6,630 monthly. This pay equals $79,560 annually.
| Hourly | $38.25 |
| Weekly | $1,530 |
| Monthly | $6,630 |
| Annual | $79,560 |
| (Source: Salary.com) | |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN-ACNP Online Programs Expect?
With experience, graduates of MSN-ACNP online programs earn an average annual income of $118,167. This salary is equivalent to $56.81 hourly, $2,272 weekly, or $9,850 monthly.
| Hourly | $56.81 |
| Weekly | $2,272 |
| Monthly | $9,850 |
| Annual | $118,167 |
| (Source: Salary.com) | |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of MSN-ACNP Online Programs
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the ten-year job outlook for graduates of online MSN-ACNP programs is favorable. The Bureau predicts a 45.68% growth in jobs for MSN-ACNP degree holders between 2021 and 2031.
| 2021-31 | |
| +45.68% | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
Bonus! is the Cost of an Online MSN-ACNP Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
As you search for options to pursue your degree and career path, one question that probably comes to mind is, "Is the cost of my degree worth what I'll get back in return?" The best way to answer that question is to compare the cost of the degree program to your potential earnings and other benefits.
Online MSN-ACNP programs can cost as little as $30,000 to more than $75,000. The beginning salary for program graduates is nearly $80,000. With just those numbers, you could decide the cost is worth the return on your investment. When you consider the fact that more work experience means higher pay and many ACNP jobs offer excellent benefits packages, it is safe to assume that the return on investment is certainly worth the cost of the degree program.
My Final Thoughts
Throughout this article, I shared information with you to help answer the question, "What are the best online MSN-ACNP programs?" We discussed important information, including what it costs to earn a degree through these programs, the curriculum you will study, and potential job opportunities and job outlook. There is so much potential in becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and the profession needs nurses with true passion.
If, after reading this article, you feel becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is the path you wish to pursue, I want to encourage you to consider options like the 26 best online MSN-ACNP programs for 2025 featured in this article and achieve your dreams!
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).