Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Cupola atop a building on the Molloy University campus

Improve outcomes for critically ill, aging population


At Molloy University, our Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program equips you with the advanced skills to provide compassionate, responsive healthcare to acutely and critically ill adult geriatric patients. AGACNPs with an Acute Care specialization manage complex or life-threatening conditions in vulnerable aging populations.

 

By undertaking an advanced certification with Molloy, students and APRNs gain the expertise to assess, diagnose, and manage patients with intricate health needs, administering timely, life-saving interventions. With an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare providers, this specialization puts you at the forefront of care for a growing demographic.

 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners, including AGACNPs, are projected to see a  40% job growth rate by 2033 — offering a promising path with stable career opportunities. With a focus on holistic, compassionate care, AGACNPs help improve the quality of patients’ lives, making this career both rewarding and impactful.

 

Molloy University is here to guide you in becoming a leader in acute geriatric care and making a meaningful difference for aging patients.

 

Did you know Molloy has a DNP pathway for APRN post certificate programs? Pathway to DNP

  

The DNP degree is an innovative program that prepares APRNs to become leaders in meeting the healthcare needs of the 21st century. Nurses are challenged to change the medical care system to improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, eliminate health disparities, and prioritize prevention. Graduates of the Molloy DNP program are uniquely positioned to lead this endeavor by improving access and utilization of health services, with a focus on the primary care arena. 

 

The Postgraduate Advanced Certificate Program to DNP pathway offers specialization in the following areas: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family, Pediatric, and Psychiatry Mental Health.  

Why Earn an Advanced Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care?


Molloy University’s Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares students to succeed in high-pressure environments such as intensive care, trauma units, and acute care settings. Advanced monitoring and developing comprehensive treatment plans are a core part of improving outcomes for critically ill adult geriatric patients.

 

Students will engage in a rigorous academic curriculum, supported by hands-on experience and diverse clinical placements. You'll manage patients across the full continuum of care, including:

 

  • Acute: Care for patients with sudden or severe health issues requiring immediate intervention and close monitoring.
  • Chronic: Support long-term management of ongoing illnesses, focusing on preventing complications and improving the quality of patients’ lives.
  • Critical: Handle life-threatening situations in ICU or trauma settings, providing intensive monitoring and fast decision-making to stabilize patients.

 

As a graduate of Molloy’s AGACNP program, you will be prepared to:

 

  • Demonstrate respect for the inherent worth of individuals, families, and communities — role modeling the core values of professional nursing.
  • Lead in complex decision-making and care delivery with a strong ethical foundation.
  • Assume responsibility and accountability in a dynamic medical care environment, grounded in theory, research, and expert practice.
  • Design, implement, and contribute to research that informs and improves patient care.
  • Promote environments that enhance patient well-being on a local and global scale, emphasizing the role of nurses as global health advocates.

 

What Will You Learn?


You will gain expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients who are physiologically unstable, reliant on technology, and highly susceptible to complications. Graduating from the program qualifies you for AGACNP certification, enabling you to practice in a variety of acute inpatient care settings. 

Clinical Simulation Lab Endorsement


Molloy University has earned a prestigious endorsement from the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning  (INACSL). This recognition highlights our commitment to providing students with a high-quality, immersive learning experience that equips them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their nursing careers.

 

Logo for INACSL Healthcare Simulation Standards Endorsement Program

 

Explore


  • Required Courses

    AGACNP Program Courses - 18 Credits

    • NUR 5760 AGNP: Diagnostic Reasoning (90 clinical hours) - 3 credits
    • NUR 5881 AGACNP: Pathophysiology/Pharmacology/Therapeutics in Adult Care I - 3 credits
    • NUR 5882 AGACNP: Pathophysiology/Pharmacology/Therapeutics in Adult Care II - 3 credits
    • NUR 5883 AGACNP: Pathophysiology/Pharmacology/Therapeutics in Adult Care III - 3 credits
    • NUR 5891 AGACNP: Adult Acute Care Practicum I (155 clinical hours) - 2 credits
    • NUR 5892 AGACNP: Adult Acute Care Practicum II (155 clinical hours) - 2 credits
    • NUR 5893 AGACNP: Adult Acute Care Practicum III (155 clinical hours) - 2 credits

     

    Gap Analysis of prior program will determine need for additional courses.

  • Catalog Course Descriptions

    For more information and course descriptions visit our Graduate Course Catalog.

    Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP - Adv. Cert.