As healthcare evolves to meet the needs of an aging population and increasingly complex patient care, nurse practitioners (NPs) are looking for ways to expand their skills and stay at the forefront of clinical excellence. For those with a passion for acute care and hospital-based practice, adding an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) certificate to your existing NP degree is a powerful next step.
Here are five reasons why nurse practitioners should consider earning an AGACNP post-master’s certificate—and how UWM’s School of Nursing is supporting NPs in making this impactful move. Also hear from two alumni of the certificate program: Lindsay Acheson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner for Neuro Critical Care & Neurohospitalist at Froedtert & MCW and Locum Provider as a Nurse Practitioner for Midwest Critical Care; and Ryan Freund, DNP, APNP, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, Hospitalist Lead APP for Greater Milwaukee and Milwaukee South Region.
1. Meet the Growing Demand for Acute Care NPs
America’s aging population means there’s a rising need for providers trained to manage complex, high-acuity conditions in hospitalized adults and older adults. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2034, there will be more adults over 65 than children for the first time in U.S. history. This demographic shift is increasing demand for AGACNPs in hospitals, intensive care units, and specialty clinics.
“I chose to complete my AGACNP degree because I love working in critical care… I became a nurse practitioner because I wanted to provide more and do better for my patients. Obtaining the AGACNP certification really helped me to fill in the gaps I felt like I was lacking.“
2. Position Yourself for Hospital-Based Roles
Unlike primary care-focused NP roles, AGACNPs are specifically trained for inpatient and acute care environments, giving you the credentials required by many hospitals and health systems. In fact, professional organizations such as the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) emphasize the importance of specialty certification to match scope of practice to patient population and setting (source).
“I chose this certificate because it is the direction that the professional organizations are headed and the preferred education to practice inpatient.”
3. Expand Your Scope, Confidence, and Clinical Expertise
Even for NPs with experience in acute settings, a formal AGACNP education deepens your clinical judgment, enhances diagnostic reasoning, and gives you more autonomy. Through targeted coursework and high-quality practicum experiences, you’ll refine the advanced skills needed for high-acuity care.
“Even though I had been working as a critical care provider for two years prior to starting my AGACNP course, I learned a wealth of information… This helped me have a better understanding and passion for broadening my scope so I can better serve patients.”
4. Flexible Format for Working Professionals
UWM’s 12-month, 18-credit AGACNP certificate is designed with the working nurse practitioner in mind. The mostly online structure, with limited in-person sessions, makes balancing work, life, and school achievable. UWM also helps identify practicum placements, taking the stress out of finding clinical sites.
“I specifically chose to complete my AGACNP certification at UWM because of the program style. It allowed for flexibility while working full time… The professors throughout this program were incredible! They truly understand what you are going through.”
5. Build on a Trusted Foundation
If you’re already a UWM alum—or looking for a supportive and high-impact educational environment—the AGACNP program builds on a legacy of excellence in nursing education. UWM’s focus on evidence-based practice, interprofessional learning, and real-world readiness sets graduates up for long-term success.
“I am also a graduate of UWM’s FNP program back in 2018 and I can say first hand that the AGACNP program sets you up for success… I liked UWM so much I went back twice and would a third time!”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Take the next step in advancing your career and expanding your impact in acute care.
Learn more about our 12-month, 18-credit AGACNP certificate and how you can take the next step in your career with purpose. The early application deadline is June 1st for a spring semester start. Contact us with any questions!