Post-Masters Certificate ACNP

This non-degree certificate program is designed for nurses with a previous Master's in Nursing who are seeking to expand their roles via nurse practitioner certification in Adult Acute Care. Applicants will be considered who have completed an accredited NP program or CNS program leading to a MSN or MN. The total credits required vary based on the student’s transcripts. Credit will be given for previous coursework that meets the core curriculum requirements, and the program faculty will do an individual evaluation of applicant transcripts.

Coursework and clinical practice hours during the certificate program will focus on developing knowledge and skills necessary for advanced practice as an NP, including content on health promotion/protection and the management of problems frequently seen in adult acute care settings. The clinical practice hours required in the certificate program meet the state and national requirements for eligibility for certification as an ACNP.

Features

• 27 to 31 credits
• Flexibility to individualize learning
• Can be completed in four academic terms
• In class and web-supported learning environment
• Access to a wide variety of clinical sites including the world renowned UPMC Health System

Who is this program for?

• Clinical Nurse Specialist who would like to expand their role
• Nurse practitioners from other specialties (Adult, Family) who would like to develop expertise with acutely ill adults

Competencies at Completion

• Diagnose and manage acute episodes of illness in adults
• Display advanced critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning
• Prescribe medications as part of management of acute illness
• Collaborate effectively with physicians and other members of the healthcare team
• Perform selected invasive procedures involved in the care of acutely or critically ill adults
• Critically evaluate and apply current research findings
• Assist patients and families to resolve common psychosocial issues and ethical dilemmas
• Serve as a resource to other healthcare providers

Benefits to You:

• Builds on your clinical knowledge and broadens your marketability
• Maximizes your time investment to obtain the credentials you want, without requiring an extensive second Master's curriculum
• Provides course and clinical hours required to prepare for the ANCC certification examination as an Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Admission Criteria:

• Evidence of a Master's Degree in Nursing
• Area of specialization as a NP or CNS
• Current Pennsylvania Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Satisfactory resume or curriculum vitae
• Three letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant's capacity and potential for master's study from each of the following:
  • The director or a faculty member from the most recent academic program attended (if applicant has been a nursing student in the last 5 years);
  • A recent employer; and,
  • A person who can speak to the applicant's professional work.
• A pre-admission interview. If the applicant resides at a great distance, a telephone interview may be conducted.
• ACLS Certification ( prior to beginning first clinical course)

Post Masters Curriculum

To receive an application packet contact or to request more information contact:

• University of Pittsburgh
• School of Nursing
• Student Services
• 239 Victoria Building
• Pittsburgh, PA 15261

• Phone: 412-624-4586
• Toll Free : 1-888-747-0794
• Fax: 412-624-2409
• Email:sao50@pitt.edu