Nebraska offers 1 in-state Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Costs range from $13,160 to $44,744 and completion timelines of 1 to 4 years depending on track.
National online options from Chamberlain, Purdue Global, South College, and Walden expand choices for Nebraska nurses seeking AGACNP certification.
List of ACNP Programs for Nebraska
Chamberlain University ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $760 cpc | Certificate / MSN
For nurses residing in Nebraska, Chamberlain University provides a flexible, 100% online pathway to become an AGACNP, perfectly suited for balancing work with advanced education. The curriculum is delivered by doctorally prepared faculty and culminates in 700 clinical hours, focusing on topics like Differential Diagnosis and Complex Diagnosis and Management in acute care. Students in Nebraska benefit greatly from the Practicum Commitment®, which provides dedicated support to secure clinical placement sites and preceptors throughout the state.
Purdue Global ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $420 cpc | Certificate
Purdue Global’s Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate allows Nebraska nurses to complete advanced acute care training fully online with VR skills practice. The 57-credit, 1.5-year program focuses on advanced assessment, acute care management, and critical care treatment. Graduates in Nebraska are prepared to care for complex adult and geriatric patients in hospital and critical care settings and pursue AGACNP certification.
South College ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $615 cpc | Certificate / MSN
South College provides Nebraska nurses with accessible online AGACNP education through CCNE-accredited programs that can be completed while maintaining current employment in the state's healthcare facilities. The BSN-MSN program costs approximately $51,450-$53,695 for 79 credits and requires 800 hours of prior acute care experience, while the Post-Graduate Certificate offers an abbreviated pathway for nurses with existing graduate nursing degrees. Nebraska students complete supervised clinical practicums at approved sites within the United States, developing advanced skills in diagnosing and managing acutely ill adults and older adults in high-intensity healthcare environments.
University of Nebraska ACNP Programs
Omaha | $658 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
University of Nebraska Medical Center offers four AGACNP pathways, including an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, an MSN-to-DNP, and a post-graduate certificate that uses a gap-analysis plan of study. The programs use competency-based education and support distance students with clinical options across UNMC’s multi-site Nebraska footprint so many students can complete requirements locally. The MSN is 50 credits over three years and includes 600 direct patient care clinical hours across four clinical courses in high-acuity settings such as hospitals, trauma units, and emergency care. The BSN-to-DNP adds DNP leadership and scholarship coursework alongside the same AGACNP clinical sequence, while the MSN-to-DNP and certificate options focus on practice improvement and specialty preparation based on prior graduate training...read more.
Walden University ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $775 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Nebraska registered nurses and current NPs can pursue Walden University’s fully online MSN-AGACNP, DNP-AGACNP, or Post-Master’s Certificate tracks, backed by the Practicum Pledge® that helps arrange clinical placements in Omaha’s Nebraska Medicine and Creighton-affiliated sites, Lincoln hospitals, and rural critical-access facilities statewide. With 640–1,000 supervised acute-care practicum hours, virtual simulation training, and a focus on evidence-based critical care management, students gain the skills needed for Nebraska’s growing ICUs and trauma services. This CCNE-accredited pathway equips graduates to meet the state’s increasing demand for board-certified AGACNPs in both urban academic centers and underserved Great Plains communities.
Comparing ACNP Options for Nebraska Nurses
How to find the best program for you: in state vs national.
TLDR: Quick Selection Guide
Choose University of Nebraska Medical Center if you’re a Nebraska resident seeking an in-state option with preference given to local applicants, competitive tuition at $658/credit, competency-based education, and the ability to complete clinical requirements locally across Nebraska’s 500-mile campus spanning five locations (Omaha, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Kearney, Norfolk).
Choose Chamberlain University if you want 100% online delivery with Practicum Commitment® support for clinical placements, two on-ground immersion events for hands-on skills assessment, and all doctorally prepared, board-certified nurse practitioner faculty at $760/credit.
Choose Purdue Global if you want the most affordable certificate option at $23,940 with mandatory VR acute care training using an Oculus headset, fully online delivery, and completion in 1.5 years (note: not available to residents of several states including DC, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, or Guam).
Choose South College if you want the fastest MSN completion at 21 months with asynchronous online coursework, 800 hours of acute care RN experience required before first practicum, and CCNE accreditation.
Choose Walden University if you want the most program options (6 tracks including RN-to-MSN and fast-track certificate for FNPs/AGPCNPs), virtual skills labs, Walden Grand Rounds for real-life scenarios, and the Practicum Pledge® for placement support as the #1 choice for MSN-AGACNP programs in the U.S.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Nebraska nurses have 5 certificate options ranging from $13,160 to $42,900, with completion times of 1 to 2 years. Purdue Global offers the most affordable certificate at $23,940, while UNMC provides the fastest completion at 1 year with individualized gap analysis.
| School | Total Cost | Duration | Clinical Hours | Format | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNMC | $13,160-$19,740 | 1-2 years | Up to 600 | Competency-based | Nebraska preference, local clinical options |
| Purdue Global | $23,940 | 1.5 years | Not specified | Fully online | VR training with Oculus headset |
| Walden Standard | $31,170 | 1.5 years | 640 | Online | Practicum Pledge® support |
| Walden Fast-Track | $31,170 | 1 year | 500 | Online | For FNPs/AGPCNPs only |
| Chamberlain | $32,680 | 1 year 10 months | 700 | 100% online | 2 on-ground immersions |
| South College | $34,450-$35,930 | Varies | Significant hours | Online asynchronous | CCNE accredited |
Key Differences:
- Geographic restrictions: UNH accepts only students seeking licensure in NH, ME, MA, or VT; Purdue Global not available in 10 states/territories
- Gap analysis approach: UNMC customizes coursework based on previous education; credit requirements vary by program
- VR technology: Purdue Global uniquely includes mandatory virtual reality acute care skills training
- Fast-track option: Walden offers accelerated path for certified FNPs and AGPCNPs (500 vs 640 clinical hours)
- Clinical support: Walden and Chamberlain provide structured placement assistance programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Nebraska nurses have 5 MSN-AGACNP options ranging from $32,900 to $72,930, with completion times of 21 months to 3 years.
UNMC offers the most affordable in-state MSN at $32,900 for a 3-year program, while South College provides the fastest completion at 21 months.
| School | Total Cost | Duration (FT) | Clinical Hours | Format | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNMC | $32,900 | 3 years | 600 | Competency-based | 1 year RN experience preferred |
| Chamberlain | $42,230 | 3 years | 700 | 100% online | Active RN license |
| Walden BSN-MSN | $44,950 | 2 years | 640 | Online | BSN degree |
| South College | $51,450-$53,695 | 21 months | Distributed across practicums | Online asynchronous | 800 hours acute care RN experience |
| Walden RN-MSN | $65,100 | 2.5-3 years | 640 | Online | RN with ADN or diploma |
Key Differences:
- Entry pathways: Walden offers RN-to-MSN bridge for associate degree holders; South College requires 800 hours acute care experience
- Start dates: UNMC admits once annually (August start); most national programs offer multiple start dates
- On-campus requirements: Chamberlain requires 2 on-ground immersions; UNMC is competency-based
- Work experience: UNMC prefers 1 year; South College requires 800 acute care hours
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs
Nebraska nurses have 4 DNP-AGACNP options ranging from $23,030 to $111,540, with completion times of 2 to 4 years.
UNMC’s MSN-to-DNP offers the most affordable DNP at $23,030 for a 2-year program, while UNMC’s BSN-to-DNP provides comprehensive preparation in 3-4 years.
| School | Track | Total Cost | Duration (FT) | Clinical Hours | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNMC | MSN to DNP | $23,030 | 2 years | DNP project hours | Competency-based |
| UNMC | BSN to DNP | $44,744 | 4 years (3-year option) | 600+ DNP project | Competency-based |
| Walden | MSN to DNP | $58,000 | 2.5 years | 1,000 total (400 DNP level) | Online |
| Walden | BSN to DNP | $65,350 | 3 years | 1,000 total (400 DNP level) | Online |
Key Differences:
- Entry pathways: UNMC and Walden offer both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP
- Total clinical hours: Range from 600+ to 1,000
- DNP project focus: All programs include scholarly project; UNMC emphasizes evidence-based practice implementation and systems change
- AGACNP certification timing: Students can sit for AGACNP certification exam after completing MSN-level coursework before finishing DNP
- Geographic advantages: UNMC’s 500-mile campus allows Nebraska students to complete clinical requirements locally across five state locations
Admissions Requirements Comparison
| School | Program Type | Minimum GPA | Application Deadline | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNMC | MSN | 3.0 | Feb 1 (August start) | NursingCAS, 1 year RN experience preferred, Nebraska preference |
| UNMC | BSN-DNP | 3.0 | Feb 1 (August start) | NursingCAS, 1 year RN experience preferred, Nebraska preference |
| UNMC | MSN-DNP | 3.0 | Feb 1 (May start) | NursingCAS, MSN in administration or APRN specialty |
| UNMC | Certificate | 3.4 | Feb 1 (August start) | NursingCAS, MSN or DNP, gap analysis determines coursework |
| Chamberlain | MSN | Contact admissions | Rolling | BSN from regionally accredited institution, no GRE |
| Chamberlain | Certificate | Not specified | Rolling | Master’s or doctoral in nursing, background check required |
| Purdue Global | Certificate | 2.5 | Rolling | 1 year acute care RN experience (2,000 hours), ACLS required |
| South College | MSN | 3.0 | Rolling | 800 hours acute care RN experience (ICU, step-down, trauma, ER) |
| South College | Certificate | Not specified | Rolling | MSN or higher from accredited institution |
| Walden | All MSN | Not specified | Rolling | No application fee, no GRE, no essay |
| Walden | All DNP | Not specified | Rolling | Doctoral Writing Assessment required |
| Walden | Certificate Standard | Not specified | Rolling | MSN or NP MSN degree |
| Walden | Certificate Fast-Track | Not specified | Rolling | Active FNP or AGPCNP license and certification |
Common Requirements Across Programs:
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Professional references (typically 2-3)
- Personal statement or essay
- Background check and drug screening
- Professional liability insurance
- BLS certification (ACLS required for some programs)
UNMC-Specific:
- Applications through NursingCAS only
- Admit students once annually
- Preference given to Nebraska residents
- Interview required (in-person or electronic)
National Programs:
- Most offer rolling admissions with multiple start dates
- No state residency preferences
- More flexible application timelines
Geographic Considerations for Nebraska Nurses
In-State Advantage – UNMC:
- 500-mile campus: Five locations across Nebraska (Omaha, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Kearney, Norfolk)
- Local clinical completion: Distance students can fulfill requirements in their Nebraska community
- Nebraska preference: Admission priority for state residents
- In-state tuition: $658/credit vs. national programs $700-$1,430/credit
- UNMC guidance: University provides support for arranging sites, schedules, and preceptors locally
National Online Options – Geographic Restrictions:
- Purdue Global: NOT available to residents of DC, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, or Guam (available to Nebraska residents)
- Chamberlain, South College, Walden: No geographic restrictions for Nebraska residents
Clinical Placement Considerations:
- UNMC: Provides structured guidance for Nebraska-based clinical arrangements
- Chamberlain: Practicum Commitment® provides dedicated placement support
- Walden: Practicum Pledge® offers collaborative placement assistance
- Purdue Global: Students secure own placements; state requirements vary
- South College: College supports practicum/preceptor placement process
Financial Considerations
Most Affordable Options:
- Certificate: UNMC – $13,160-$19,740 (gap analysis) or Purdue Global – $23,940
- MSN: UNMC – $32,900
- DNP: UNMC MSN-to-DNP – $23,030 or UNMC BSN-to-DNP – $44,744
Cost Per Credit Comparison:
- UNMC: $658/credit (in-state advantage)
- Purdue Global: $420/quarter credit ($420/credit)
- South College: Approximately $615-$657/credit (tiered structure)
- Walden: $700-$785/quarter credit depending on program and start date
- Chamberlain: $760/credit (military/alumni rate $608/credit)
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- Chamberlain: $450 APRN resource fee per NP course, $200 student services charge per session, $75 electronic course resource fee per course, $150 background check/fingerprint/drug screening
- Purdue Global: Some states require additional clinical hours completed through extension course (no extra tuition)
- South College: $245 nursing fee per quarter, $695 technology/services fee per quarter
- Walden: $180-$185 program fee per quarter, $160 per practicum course, $299 mandatory clinical skills resource, books $1,800-$2,500
Financial Aid:
- All programs offer federal financial aid through FAFSA
- Chamberlain offers military rates ($608/credit) and alumni discounts
- UNMC provides scholarships for qualifying students
- Most programs offer institutional scholarships and grants
Program Accreditation
All programs hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation except where noted:
CCNE-Accredited Programs:
- University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Chamberlain University (also accredited by Higher Learning Commission)
- Purdue Global (also institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission)
- South College
- Walden University
Certification Eligibility: All programs prepare graduates to sit for national AGACNP certification through:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – AGACNP certification
- American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) – ACNPC-AG certification
Summary: Nebraska vs. National Options
Choose UNMC if you:
- Are a Nebraska resident seeking in-state tuition and local preference
- Want to complete clinical requirements across Nebraska’s five campus locations
- Prefer competency-based education focused on outcomes
- Value smaller cohorts with annual admission
- Seek the most affordable Nebraska-based option
Choose National Online Programs if you:
- Need greater flexibility in start dates (rolling vs. annual admission)
- Want specialized support like Practicum Commitment® or Practicum Pledge®
- Seek faster completion timelines (21 months vs. 3 years for MSN)
- Prefer fully asynchronous online delivery
- Need RN-to-MSN bridge pathway (not offered by UNMC)
- Want VR technology integration (Purdue Global)