9 schools in Ohio offer CCNE-accredited AGACNP programs. See table below.
MSN tuition ranges from $18,909 to $59,040, and DNP programs from $26,250 to $63,536.
Completion times vary from 18 months to 4 years depending on pathway chosen,
High Level Program Comparison
| School | Est. Cost Range | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Case Western Reserve University | MSN: $70K | – full-time or part-time MSN with 700 clinical hours – adult ICU RN experience required – optional flight nursing specialty with aeromedical simulation |
| Cedarville University | MSN: $35K DNP: $60K (BSN) / $30K (MSN) | – lowest-cost AGACNP option in Ohio – online format with short on-campus intensives – Christian worldview integrated throughout curriculum |
| Kent State University | MSN: $20K Cert: $20K | – strong value-focused public university option – primarily online with limited campus days – flexible pacing for working RNs |
| Ohio State University | MSN: $30K DNP: $45K Cert: $10K | – nationally recognized nursing school – hybrid delivery with brief on-campus intensives – wide range of acute-care clinical placements |
| Ohio University | MSN: $30K Cert: $15K | – online-first program for working RNs – short on-campus intensives for skills training – strong emphasis on acute and critical care practice |
| University of Cincinnati | MSN: $40K DNP: $65K Cert: Varies | – large academic medical center environment – online coursework with on-campus labs – strong clinical coordination support |
| Ursuline College | MSN: $60K Cert: $15K | – NLN Center of Excellence designation – fast admissions decisions – values-based curriculum with strong clinical focus |
| Wright State University | MSN: $35K | – rolling admissions with multiple start dates – specialty emphasis options such as cardiology – requires prior critical care RN experience |
| Youngstown State University | MSN: $25K Cert: $20K | – fully online with multiple start dates – shorter timelines, as few as 18 months – students secure local acute-care preceptors |
Ohio ACNP Program Summaries
Case Western Reserve University ACNP Programs
Cleveland | $868 cpc | Certificate
The Case Western Reserve University MSN-AGACNP track is a 39-credit program designed to prepare experienced ICU nurses for advanced practice roles in high-acuity settings through 700 required clinical hours. Students can complete the curriculum in 18 to 30 months, with flexible full-time and part-time options that emphasize diagnostic reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based practice. A standout feature of the program is the unique Flight Nursing subspecialty, which utilizes advanced helicopter and ambulance simulators to train practitioners for critical care transport. Ultimately, graduates are equipped to lead interprofessional teams in diverse environments ranging from academic medical centers to specialized outpatient clinics...read more.
Cedarville University ACNP Programs
Cedarville | $707 cpc | MSN / DNP
Cedarville University offers an MSN and a DNP pathway for AGACNP students, with online coursework and four required on-campus experiences that total about eight days. The MSN is a 45-credit program with an estimated tuition of $33,936 and a typical full-time timeline of 2 to 2.5 years, and it includes 800 supervised direct care clinical hours across multiple acute care semesters. The DNP options include BSN-to-DNP (77 credits) and MSN-to-DNP (35 credits), with estimated costs of about $57,750 and $26,250 and full-time completion ranges of 3 to 4 years or 1.5 to 2 years. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview and includes simulation-based training during on-campus sessions, plus coordinator support for clinical placement...read more.
Chamberlain University ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $760 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Chamberlain University enables Ohio registered nurses to pursue AGACNP credentials through two online pathways with six annual start dates. The MSN program spans 8 semesters while the graduate certificate offers accelerated completion for nurses holding master's or doctoral degrees. Ohio students complete 700 clinical hours managing complex acute conditions, supported by Chamberlain's Practicum Commitment® and intensive review sessions that prepare graduates for certification exams.
Kent State University ACNP Programs
Kent | $612.62 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Kent State University offers an MSN ACNP concentration and a post-master’s ACNP certificate, with instruction delivered mainly online and some campus attendance. Students typically attend campus about one day per week during the practicum sequence that starts in the second year. Both tracks use a step-by-step acute care practicum model across four clinical courses and place students in moderate to high-acuity settings. Faculty provide mentorship from nationally certified APRNs, and students can choose full-time or part-time plans with fall or spring entry options...read more.
Ohio State University ACNP Programs
Columbus | $508 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Ohio State University offers three AGACNP pathways that blend online learning with brief on-campus intensives for hands-on skills and procedures. The MSN is a 5-semester option with about 600 precepted clinical hours, while the BSN-DNP adds DNP coursework and practice hours for advanced leadership and clinical impact. The post-graduate certificate is a shorter route for MSN-prepared nurses and includes 750 practicum hours across three acute care practicums...read more.
Ohio University ACNP Programs
Athens | $700 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Ohio University offers two online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner pathways, an MSN and a post-graduate certificate, so RNs at different stages can move into acute and critical care practice. The MSN option is a 40-credit, six-semester program that blends advanced clinical coursework, leadership content, and 750 hours of supervised practicum experience. The 20-credit post-graduate certificate builds on an existing MSN with three intensive practicum courses and the same 750 clinical hours, giving experienced nurses a shorter route into the AG-ACNP role...read more.
Purdue Global ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $420 cpc | Certificate
For Master’s-prepared nurses in Ohio, Purdue Global offers a streamlined pathway to high-acuity specialization. This 57-credit postgraduate certificate is designed to be completed in just 1.5 years of full-time study. Ohio students benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum that blends fully online coursework with immersive VR acute care training using Oculus headsets, ensuring they are prepared for the fast-paced environment of Buckeye State medical and surgical units.
South College ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $615 cpc | Certificate / MSN
South College delivers online AGACNP programs for nurses in Ohio who want advanced acute care preparation. The BSN-MSN pathway offers a defined timeline, while the certificate track provides scheduling flexibility. Graduates develop skills to treat high-acuity adult and geriatric populations.
University of Cincinnati ACNP Programs
Cincinnati | $836 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
The University of Cincinnati offers three AGACNP pathways that blend online coursework with in-person precepted clinical practice and on-campus labs for advanced skill training. The MSN runs 45–50 credits over five semesters and includes three practicum courses with seminar support, with a minimum B- required in all courses. The BSN-to-DNP option adds DNP core courses and a multi-semester DNP project sequence while still completing the same AGACNP practicum structure. The post-graduate certificate uses an individualized plan of study based on transcript review, but it keeps the same lab and acute care practicum model and is designed for nurses adding AGACNP certification...read more.
Ursuline College ACNP Programs
Cleveland | $1,312 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Ursuline College offers two Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner pathways: an MSN track and a post-graduate certificate. The MSN has an estimated tuition of about $59,040 and typically takes 2 to 2.5 years full time, while the certificate costs about $15,136 and usually takes 1 to 1.5 years part time. The 45-credit MSN uses a value-based framework that blends advanced practice core courses with acute care specialty training in diagnostics and acute care management, plus practicum-based clinical management experiences. The program also notes a fast decision timeline (often within two weeks) and includes an optional nurse education subspecialty for students who want teaching-focused coursework...read more.
Walden University ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $775 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Walden University's AGACNP options cater to Ohio nurses at the DNP, MSN, and post-master’s levels, allowing for flexible didactic study and supervised clinicals with Ohio-based preceptors. The Practicum Pledge® and field placement team help Ohio students navigate site agreements and ensure practicum activities meet both university and state requirements. These CCNE-accredited tracks prepare Ohio nurses for AGACNP certification and specialized acute care practice in diverse healthcare environments statewide.
West Coast University ACNP Programs
Fully Online | $700 cpc | Certificate / MSN
West Coast University’s online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) programs are fully approved for clinical placement and licensure in Ohio, allowing graduates to sit for national certification and apply for NP licensure through the Ohio Board of Nursing. The programs offer flexible accelerated or working-professional tracks (MSN, RN-to-MSN, or Post-Master’s Certificate) with two required on-site intensive weekends, dedicated clinical placement support, and CCNE accreditation. Ohio nurses with at least one year of recent ICU experience can advance to acute care NP practice in as little as 20 months (accelerated MSN) while continuing to work.
Wright State University ACNP Programs
Dayton | $680 cpc | MSN
Wright State University offers an MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration with rolling admissions and flexible Spring, Summer, or Fall start dates. The estimated cost is about $34,680 for Ohio residents and $58,395 for out-of-state students, and full-time completion typically takes 2 to 2.5 years. The 51-credit curriculum combines MSN core courses with acute care specialty training in pathophysiology, pharmacology, advanced assessment, acute/emergent management, diagnostics, and a dedicated practicum. Students can choose a specialty emphasis such as critical care, cardiology, pulmonary, neurology, oncology, trauma, and they can add an optional cardiac elective or pursue a second master’s plan based on a gap analysis...read more.
Youngstown State University ACNP Programs
Youngstown | $548 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Youngstown State University offers an online MSN AG-ACNP and an online AG-ACNP Post Master’s Certificate that prepare nurses to care for acutely and chronically ill adults and older adults in high-acuity settings. Both CCNE-accredited programs use a flexible online format, include 540 supervised clinical hours in acute care sites, and emphasize advanced assessment, diagnostics, pharmacology, and role development for nurse practitioners. The MSN option is a 45-credit, as-few-as-18-month pathway for BSN-prepared RNs, while the 36-credit post-master’s certificate builds on an existing MSN and can be shortened to 18 credits for NPs with advanced standing...read more.
Comparing Ohio AGACNP Programs
We breakdown all the program differences to help you make a decision.
TLDR: Quick Program Selection Guide
Choose Kent State University if you want the lowest MSN tuition in Ohio ($18,909) and value NLN Center of Excellence designation with 96.3% certification pass rates.
Choose Cedarville University if you want the lowest-cost DNP option in Ohio ($26,250 MSN-to-DNP), biblically integrated curriculum, and flexible enrollment (6 start dates yearly).
Choose Ohio State University if you want the fastest MSN completion (1.5 years), lowest certificate cost ($10,160), or prefer a major research university.
Choose Youngstown State University if you want rapid completion (as few as 18 months), fewer clinical hours (540 vs. 700-800), and multiple start dates throughout the year.
Choose Case Western Reserve University if you’re interested in the unique Flight Nursing Specialty with aeromedical transport training.
Choose University of Cincinnati if you want comprehensive hands-on labs for advanced procedures (suturing, chest tubes, central lines) and don’t mind geographic restrictions.
Choose Ursuline College if you value small class sizes at a top-2 Ohio nursing school with fast application decisions (within 2 weeks).
Choose Wright State University if you want specialty emphasis options (critical care, cardiology, pulmonary, neurology, oncology, trauma) with optional cardiac course.
Choose Ohio University if you want a balanced program with moderate cost, comprehensive curriculum, and CCNE accreditation for all nursing levels.
MSN-AGACNP Programs Comparison
Kent State offers the most affordable MSN option at $18,909, while Ohio State provides the fastest completion at just 1.5 years. Most programs require 2-2.5 years full-time, with Kent State’s part-time focus extending to 3 years.
| University | Total Cost | Duration | Clinical Hours | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kent State | $19K | 3 years PT | 600 | Lowest cost, NLN Center of Excellence |
| Youngstown State | $25K | 18+ months | 540 | Fastest completion, fewest clinical hours |
| Ohio State | $27K | 1.5 years | 600 | Fastest FT program, major research university |
| Ohio University | $28K | 2 years | 750 | Comprehensive CCNE accreditation |
| Cedarville | $34K | 2-2.5 years | 800 | Top 5 in Ohio, Christian focus, 6 start dates |
| Wright State | $35K | 2-2.5 years | Not specified | Specialty emphasis options, cardiac elective |
| Cincinnati | $38K | 2 years | Not specified | Advanced procedure labs, geographic restrictions |
| Case Western | Variable | 18-30 months | 700 | Flight Nursing Specialty, ICU experience required |
| Ursuline | $60K | 2-2.5 years | Not specified | Top 2 in Ohio, NLN Center of Excellence |
Key Takeaways:
- Budget-conscious students: Kent State ($18,909) or Youngstown State ($24,435)
- Fast-track students: Ohio State (1.5 years) or Youngstown State (18 months)
- Maximum clinical experience: Cedarville (800 hours)
- Unique specializations: Case Western (Flight Nursing) or Wright State (Cardiology elective)
DNP-AGACNP Programs Comparison
Cedarville’s MSN-to-DNP pathway offers the lowest cost at $26,250 for already-prepared MSNs, while their BSN-to-DNP remains competitive. Ohio State and University of Cincinnati provide traditional BSN-to-DNP options at state university pricing.
| University | BSN-DNP Cost (OH Resident) | BSN-DNP Duration | Clinical/Practice Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedarville | $58K | 3-4 years | 800 direct care + DNP project |
| Ohio State | $37K-$47K | 3-4 years | 1,000 (750 direct + 250 project) |
| Cincinnati | $64K | 3 years | AGACNP + DNP practicum hours |
Key Takeaways:
- MSN-prepared nurses: Cedarville MSN-DNP is the only dedicated pathway at lowest cost ($26,250)
- BSN-prepared nurses: Ohio State offers lowest BSN-DNP cost ($36,572 minimum)
- Maximum practice hours: Ohio State requires 1,000 total post-baccalaureate hours
- Christian focus: Cedarville integrates biblical worldview throughout DNP curriculum
Post-Graduate Certificate Programs Comparison
Ohio State delivers the fastest and most affordable certificate at $10,160 in just 1 year, making it ideal for MSN-prepared nurses adding AGACNP certification. Youngstown State offers advanced standing (18 credits vs. 36) for nurses already holding NP certification.
| University | Cost (OH Resident) | Duration | Clinical Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | $11K | 1 year | 750 | Lowest cost, fastest completion |
| Ursuline | $16K | 1-1.5 years | Not specified | Fast decisions (within 2 weeks) |
| Ohio University | $16K | 1 year | 750 | CCNE accredited all levels |
| Kent State | $19K | 2-3 years | 600 (8 credits practicum) | Course waivers available |
| Youngstown State | $20K | 18+ months | 540 | *Advanced standing for existing NPs |
| Cincinnati | Varies | 1.5-2 years | Not specified | Individualized transcript evaluation, geographic restrictions |
Key Takeaways:
- Fastest & cheapest: Ohio State (1 year, $10,160)
- Already an NP: Youngstown State advanced standing ($9,774 for 18 credits)
- Shortest program: Ursuline (16 credits) or Ohio State (20 credits)
- Course waivers: Kent State allows waivers for recent advanced practice courses
Admissions Requirements Comparison
| University | Minimum GPA | Application Deadline | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case Western | 3.0 | March 15 (fall) | Recent year adult ICU experience required |
| Cedarville | 3.0 (2.5-2.9 with petition) | Rolling | Evidence of personal relationship with Jesus Christ, Christian references required |
| Kent State | Competitive (not specified) | Rolling | New essay format starting Spring 2026 |
| Ohio State (MSN) | 3.0 | Not specified | 2 years FT RN experience, HireVue video interview |
| Ohio State (DNP/Cert) | 3.20 | Not specified | Web-based interview, $1,000 matriculation fee (DNP) |
| Ohio University | 3.0 (MSN) / 3.0-3.2 (Cert) | Not specified | 2 years FT RN experience within past 5 years |
| Cincinnati (MSN) | 3.0 recommended | July 1, 2026 | Must reside in OH, KY, or IN |
| Cincinnati (Cert) | 3.25 recommended | July 1, 2026 | Must live in OH, KY, or IN |
| Ursuline | 3.0 | Rolling | Decisions within 2 weeks |
| Wright State | 3.0 | Dec 1 (spring), April 1 (summer), July 31 (fall) | 2 years critical care experience required |
| Youngstown State | 3.0 | Multiple starts available | 1 year critical care experience within 3 years, ACLS before clinicals |
Admissions Highlights:
Faith-based: Cedarville requires Christian commitment and references
Most flexible GPA: Cedarville accepts 2.5-2.9 with petition
Highest GPA requirement: Ohio State DNP/Certificate (3.20), Cincinnati Certificate (3.25)
Specific deadline: Case Western (March 15), Cincinnati (July 1), Wright State (seasonal)
Rolling admissions: Cedarville, Kent State, Ursuline, Youngstown State
Geographic restrictions: Cincinnati (OH/KY/IN only)
Critical care required: Case Western (recent year ICU), Wright State (2 years), Youngstown State (1 year within 3 years)