student works on mannequin patient during lab

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Prepare to diagnose, manage and treat people aged 13 and up with acute, complex and rapidly changing conditions across high-acuity healthcare settings.

At Ohio State, you’ll prepare for advanced practice within one of the nation’s leading academic health science centers, learn from expert faculty, train in advanced simulation environments, and complete clinical experiences that prepare you for the realities of acute and critical care practice.

U.S. News & World Report rankings

  • #5 through our master's program
  • #7 through our DNP program

Apply through one of our programs

Applicants must have at least one year of full-time RN experience in an adult acute care setting. Experience preferably in an intensive care unit or other high-acuity environment, prior to applying to the program. Visit the program page to learn more about admission requirements, curriculum and how to apply.

On campus

  • BSN to DNP

    Nurses who want advanced leadership training and the highest level of clinical education.

  • BSN to PhD

    Nurses who want to lead research and shape the future of healthcare.

What is an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner?

An adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the treatment of serious illnesses and the management of complex, rapidly changing health conditions in adolescent, adult and older adult populations. AGACNPs assess, diagnose and manage unstable clinical situations, coordinate complex treatment plans and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care in high-acuity environments. Patients require advanced monitoring and intervention, timely clinical decision-making and ongoing management of evolving health needs.

Take the next step

Attend an information session to learn more. 

Sign up

Graduates are prepared to:

  • Assess, diagnose and manage acute and complex health conditions using evidence-based care
  • Build therapeutic, patient- and family-centered relationships that support shared decision-making
  • Educate and coach patients and families on conditions, treatments and self-management
  • Demonstrate professional accountability in advanced practice nursing
  • Coordinate care across complex healthcare systems and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
  • Deliver equitable, culturally responsive care to diverse adult and older adult populations

Graduates are eligible for national board certification through:

  • American Nurses Credentialing Center
  • AACN Certification Corporation

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