The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program is meticulously crafted for registered nurses aspiring to reach the pinnacle of clinical expertise. This specialized major empowers nurses to excel as Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, equipped to manage complex patient care in acute settings.
This rigorous program strongly recommends applicants possess a foundational experience of one to two years working as a registered nurse in direct patient care, specifically within an acute care management environment. This practical experience provides a crucial base upon which the advanced curriculum is built. The program’s design is fully aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Practice Nursing, the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) Core Competencies, and the Nurse Practitioner Core and Population-Specific Competencies (2013), ensuring a comprehensive and industry-relevant education. Graduates of this major are well-prepared to undertake the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification examination and will be awarded the esteemed Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree upon successful completion.
Flexibility is a key feature of this program, offering both full-time and part-time study options to accommodate diverse student needs. Coursework is primarily delivered online, providing accessibility and convenience. To enhance the learning experience and foster a sense of community, students are required to attend five on-campus sessions at Florida State University’s main campus. The online courses are designed with a blend of synchronous (real-time, interactive) and asynchronous (on-demand, self-paced) components. Students can expect approximately 3 to 5 synchronous Zoom sessions per course throughout each semester, facilitating live interaction and engagement with faculty and peers.
Explore Your Pathway Options: Full-Time and Part-Time BSN to DNP Acute Care Programs
Choosing the right path to your DNP degree is crucial. Our BSN to DNP AGACNP program offers structured pathways to suit your life and career goals.
-
Full-Time BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program: Designed for students who want to immerse themselves fully in their studies and accelerate their career progression. This pathway allows for quicker program completion and entry into advanced practice.
-
Part-Time BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program: This option provides a balanced approach for working nurses, allowing you to advance your education while maintaining your professional commitments. The part-time structure extends the program duration, offering flexibility without compromising the rigor or quality of education.
Understanding the Costs: Investing in Your Advanced Nursing Education
Planning for the financial aspects of your DNP education is essential. We provide transparent information regarding program costs to help you make informed decisions.
Estimated Program Expenses:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| COMPLIO | $154 |
| Typhon | $90 |
| Books | $750 |
Tuition Costs for AGAC Track:
| Category | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| AGAC Track Tuition | $32,440 | $78,475 |
Please note that these costs are estimates and subject to change. For the most up-to-date tuition and fee information, please refer to the Florida State University official website.
Graduation Requirements: Achieving Your DNP Degree
To successfully graduate from the BSN to DNP AGACNP program and earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Coursework Completion: Successful completion of all required post-baccalaureate graduate coursework, including core courses with a minimum grade of B in each course, and the DNP project.
- GPA Requirement: Maintain a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher throughout the program.
- Time Limit: The DNP degree must be completed within a seven (7) calendar year timeframe from the date of formal enrollment into the program.
Application Process: Steps to Join Our DNP Program
Ready to take the next step? Applying to our BSN to DNP Acute Care program is a straightforward process.
- Florida State University Graduate Application: Complete the online Graduate Application through the Florida State University admissions portal.
- Document Submission: Upload all mandatory admissions documents directly to your application. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
- Review State Eligibility: Confirm that Florida State University is authorized to accept students from your state of residence. A list of eligible and ineligible states is available to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Fall Admission Application Deadline: May 1st
Ensure your application is submitted by the Fall Admission Application Deadline of May 1st to be considered for enrollment.
Apply Now via Florida State University Graduate Application
Detailed Application Requirements: Ensuring Your Eligibility
To be eligible for admission to the BSN to DNP Acute Care program, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
-
Academic Credentials:
- Hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from a nationally accredited program with an upper division GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Alternatively, possess a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from a nationally accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
-
MSN Clinical Hours (If Applicable): Applicants with an existing MSN degree must provide official documentation verifying completed clinical hours during their MSN program. This can be a clinical hour summary from Typhon or an official letter emailed directly from the MSN-awarding institution to the College of Nursing.
-
MSN Course Syllabi (If Applicable): MSN-prepared applicants must submit course syllabi for Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pharmacology, and any other courses intended for transfer credit consideration within the DNP program. Students lacking these prerequisite courses may be required to complete them during the DNP program.
-
Official Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution to Florida State University.
-
Standardized Test Scores: Submit Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores.*
-
RN License: Possess an active, unencumbered, and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license.
-
Letters of Recommendation: Provide three (3) letters of recommendation from professional or academic references who can attest to your suitability for doctoral study.
-
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Submit a current CV or resume detailing your professional and academic experience.
GRE/MAT Waiver Criteria: Explore if You Qualify
Florida State University offers a GRE/MAT waiver for highly qualified applicants who meet specific criteria. Applicants meeting one of the following criteria may be eligible for a waiver:
- Master’s Degree: Completion of a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- BSN Degree with High GPA: Completion of a BSN degree (minimum 60 nursing credit hours, including RN-to-BSN coursework) from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Request Your DNP GRE/MAT Waiver Here
Applicants seeking a waiver must provide documented evidence confirming they meet the specified criteria. Competitive GRE or MAT scores are still welcomed and will not negatively impact your application if you choose to submit them instead of requesting a waiver. For competency-based accredited institutions without traditional GPA assignments, GRE/MAT scores are mandatory.
Connect with Our Track Coordinator
For program-specific inquiries or further information, please contact:
Dr. Kristin Fadale
Email: [email protected]
Additional Resources: Enhance Your Program Understanding
Explore these valuable resources for more in-depth information about the DNP program and AGACNP specialization:
This BSN to DNP Acute Care program at Florida State University provides a robust and flexible pathway for ambitious nurses to become leaders in acute care. We invite you to apply and embark on a transformative journey to advance your nursing career.
