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Public research university in the country with $190 million in research expenditures

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner graduate certificate at NDSU is designed for graduates of accredited Family Nurse Practitioner programs who want to specialize in acute care for aging populations. Through a combination of advanced coursework and hands-on clinical training, this certificate equips practitioners with the skills necessary to manage complex, high-risk health conditions in older adults. Many courses are offered through flexible distance learning formats, allowing students to advance their education while maintaining their current practice. This certification opens the door to leadership roles in geriatric care and a more specialized scope of practice.

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Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Acute Care and Chronic Disease Management

Develop expertise in managing acute health conditions in aging populations, as well as management of chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. You’ll be able to address the complex, immediate healthcare needs of older adults in fast-paced clinical settings, ensuring they receive timely and effective care.

Geriatric Assessment and Diagnostics

Hone your ability to assess, diagnose and treat medical conditions in elderly patients. Learn to evaluate both physical and cognitive changes related to aging, equipping you with critical skills for high-quality patient care.

Exam Preparation

Graduates of the program will be eligible for the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Acute Care NP exam or the American Academy of Critical Care Nurses exam. The AGACNP certificate emphasizes the development of critical diagnostic and decision-making skills to provide high-quality, evidence-based care in acute and critical care settings.

Health Policy and Advocacy for Aging Populations

Engage with the societal and policy issues that affect older adults. Understand how healthcare systems and public policy shape access to care, and become an advocate for improving healthcare delivery to elderly populations through leadership and informed decision-making.

Tuition and Funding

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To help you cover tuition and expenses, various departments offer graduate assistantships designed to support your academic and professional goals.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking to further their education within a supportive, welcoming community.

No matter your academic path, we're committed to making your application process straightforward and stress-free. Find the specific requirements and steps for your graduate application.

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Elevate your expertise and achieve your goals with graduate studies at NDSU.

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NDSU Graduate School