University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at the University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive graduate nursing course designed for those aspiring to specialize in the advanced assessment, diagnosis, and management of acutely ill patients throughout their lifespan. This program integrates rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical practice in acute care settings, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in their nursing careers.

What you'll study

Curriculum focus: The AGACNP program emphasizes advanced scientific principles for nursing practice, evidence-based clinical reasoning, pharmacology, and therapeutics, along with a mentored acute care practicum.

• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics for Nursing Practice
• Advanced Physical Assessment and Clinical Decision Making
• Scientific Inquiry for Evidence-based Practice
• Research Methods and Design

Clinical practicum: Students will engage in mentored clinical placements in acute care environments, working alongside experienced preceptors such as acute care nurse practitioners or physicians. This component allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world patient care, focusing on assessment, diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning, and coordinated transitions of care.

Concentrations and electives: The program offers options for clinical concentrations and related coursework tailored to specific interests in acute care, including areas such as cardiology, trauma, general surgery, transplant, nephrology, and internal medicine. Elective courses may also be available in fields like oncology, palliative care, forensics, and global health, subject to program requirements.

Capstone/thesis: Students may be required to complete a capstone or thesis project, synthesizing their clinical and scholarly learning. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your track upon admission.

Entry requirements

Entry criteria for the AGACNP program may vary based on the applicant's educational background. Generally, the program does not require GRE/GMAT scores for all applicants; it is advisable to confirm the latest admission policies based on your intended start term.

Career prospects

Graduates of the AGACNP program are equipped for a diverse range of career opportunities in acute care settings, including hospitals, urgent care clinics, and specialty practices. The advanced skills and knowledge gained through this program enable graduates to take on roles that involve comprehensive patient management, leadership, and collaboration in healthcare teams.