Misericordia University Launches Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program

Misericordia University Launches Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program

DALLAS, PA — Misericordia University is expanding its graduate nursing offerings with the launch of a new Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program, designed to prepare registered nurses to deliver advanced care to adults and older adults with complex, acute, and critical health conditions.

The program equips nurses with advanced clinical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to manage rapidly changing patient conditions in acute care settings, including hospitals, specialty clinics, and intensive care environments. Graduates are prepared to assess, diagnose, and manage acute, critical, and chronic illnesses while working collaboratively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to improve patient outcomes.

“Having practiced as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner for more than 19 years, I understand the level of clinical preparation required to care for patients with complex and rapidly changing conditions,” said Melissa Weidner, PhD, CRNP, AGACNP-BC, ANP-BC, Graduate Department Chair and Assistant Professor in Misericordia University’s Department of Nursing. “Our new Acute Care NP program is designed to provide that preparation through rigorous coursework, immersive clinical experiences, and access to the newest ultrasound technology to strengthen bedside diagnostic skills. Misericordia has a long history of innovation, as we were the first Family Nurse Practitioner program in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and we are proud to now lead the region again as the first Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in NEPA. Our goal is to prepare confident, highly skilled clinicians who are ready to meet the evolving needs of today’s healthcare systems.”

The AGACNP program features a progressive online learning environment combined with clinical workshops, advanced simulations, and personalized instruction in small class settings. Clinical placement services are included as part of the program to help ensure students gain meaningful hands-on experience in high-acuity care environments.

Misericordia offers multiple pathways for nurses pursuing the AGACNP credential, including an MSN – AGACNP track, BSN to DNP – AGACNP pathway, fast-track post-master’s certification, and post-master’s certificate options depending on prior education and certification.

Graduates will be prepared to perform comprehensive assessments for critically ill adult and older adult patients, interpret advanced diagnostic tests and monitoring data, and develop evidence-based treatment plans in fast-paced care environments. 

The program also aligns with growing national demand for nurse practitioners prepared for acute and specialty care roles as patient acuity increases across healthcare systems. Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow significantly in the coming decade, reflecting the increasing need for highly trained advanced practice clinicians.

Click here to learn more information about Misericordia University’s Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.