Alumni
Nursing

8-week terms allow for start dates throughout the year
Hands-on practice during in-person immersive experiences
This APRN track is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education1
Prepare to work in acute or intensive care with a diverse array of doctors and patients
Get industry-current training in telehealth, special populations, and new healthcare trends
Study online with mobile-accessible learning designed for working nurses
Practice your skills on site at relevant healthcare settings
Every day, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners (AGACNPs) deliver life-saving care in emergency departments, intensive care units, trauma wards, and long-term care facilities. It’s a fast-paced role that lets you be a lifeline during critical moments.
Our online AGACNP track helps you learn evidence-based guidelines you can apply in various healthcare settings where adults of all ages are treated for critical conditions. In addition to online coursework and clinical experiences, your WCU education includes a forward-thinking approach that anticipates emerging technologies and practices.
You can pursue this advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) track through our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), RN to MSN, and Post-Master’s Certificate programs.
Distance Education/Online
155 Credits
28 Months
7 Trimesters
Distance Education/Online
155 Credits
44 Months
11 Trimesters
Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Number | Name | Hours |
ELECT 199 | Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework: Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:
| 48.0 |
LDR 432 | Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations | 3 |
MATH 207 | Elementary Statistics | 3 |
PATH 370 | Pathophysiology | 3 |
NURS 340A | Public Health Nursing | 1.5 |
NURS 340B | Public Health Nursing | 1.5 |
NURS 495L-A | Community Practice Experience | 1.5 |
NURS 495L-B | Community Practice Experience | 1.5 |
NURS 500 | Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice | 3 |
NURS 510 | Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare | 3 |
NURS 521 | Ethics in Healthcare | 3 |
NURS 530 | Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 535 | Principles of Teaching and Learning | 3 |
NURS 540 | Research Utilization | 3 |
NURS 561 | Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
NURS 676 | Advanced Pharmacology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 681 | Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab – APRN | 4 |
NURS 682 | Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse | 3 |
NURS 682L-A | Advanced Healthcare Residency I | 2 |
NURS 682L-B* | Advanced Healthcare Residency II | 2 |
NURS 691A | Culminating Experience I | 1.5 |
NURS 691B | Culminating Experience II | 1.5 |
NURS 696 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory I | 3 |
NURS 696L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I | 3 |
NURS 697 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory II | 3 |
NURS 697L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II | 3 |
Total Credit Hours: | 65.0 |
Program Credit Distribution | |
---|---|
Required at WCU | 65.0 |
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses | 48.0 |
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure | 42.0 |
Degree Total | 155.0 |
How Much Does the RN to MSN – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track Cost?
We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of RN to MSN – AGACNP online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the RN to MSN – AGACNP track costs at West Coast University.
We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.
8 Month Academic Year | ||
with parents | off campus | |
Food & Housing | $2,384 | $7,936 |
Transportation | $1,648 | $1,648 |
Personal Expenses | $5,392 | $5,392 |
Total | $9,424 | $14,976 |
Degree Type | Master of Science | |
Total Program Credits | 1551 | |
Program Length(full time) | 7 trimesters | |
Non-Military Rate | Military Rate2 | |
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits) | $615 | $523 |
APRN Core(per credit x 32 credits) | $785 | $667 |
Total Tuition Cost | $45,415 | $38,603 |
STRF3 | $137.50 | $120 |
Technology Fee4 | $3,500 | $3,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees5 | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)6 | $3,300 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $54,515 | $47,703 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $54,652.50 | $47,823 |
Degree Type | Master of Science | |
Total Program Credits | 1551 | |
Program Length(full time) | 11 trimesters | |
Non-Military Rate | Military Rate2 | |
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits) | $615 | $523 |
APRN Core(per credit x 32 credits) | $785 | $667 |
Total Tuition Cost | $45,415 | $38,603 |
STRF3 | $142.50 | $125 |
Technology Fee4 | $5,500 | $5,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees5 | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)6 | $3,300 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $56,515 | $49,703 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $56,657.50 | $49,828 |
Degree Type | Master of Science |
Total Program Credits | 1551 |
Program Length(full time) | 7 trimesters |
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits) | $615 |
APRN Core(per credit x 32 credits) | $785 |
Total Tuition Cost | $45,415 |
STRF3 | $137.50 |
Technology Fee4 | $3,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees5 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)6 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $54,515 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $54,652.50 |
Degree Type | Master of Science |
Total Program Credits | 1551 |
Program Length(full time) | 11 trimesters |
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits) | $615 |
APRN Core(per credit x 32 credits) | $785 |
Total Tuition Cost | $45,415 |
STRF3 | $142.50 |
Technology Fee4 | $5,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees5 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)6 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $56,515 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $56,657.50 |
* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course a term.
1 Includes 42 credits for unobstructed RN License, assumes 48 transfer credits for non-nursing courses, and the remaining 65 credits are required to be taken at WCU.
2 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees. The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2024.
3 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.
The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.
You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.
It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.
To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.
A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.
However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.
4 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
5 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and APRN predictor exams for APRN students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.
6 Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.
Applicants to the program must meet the following standards (RN-MSN All Track Options):
* Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog.
Additional Admissions Requirements Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Tracks Only:
In addition to the admissions requirements above, applicants to the RN to Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) tracks must also meet the following admissions requirements:
*Students admitted to APRN tracks under previous admissions requirements and have withdrawn that have completed more than 75% of the credits associated with the program will be re-admitted to the previous version of their program using previous requirements.
For all admission requirements, please visit our catalog.
Distance Education/Online
50 Credits
16 Months
4 Trimesters
Distance Education/Online
50 Credits
32 Months
8 Trimesters
A student in the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at West Coast University participates in two (2) On-site Intensive (OSI) weekends. The OSI brings students to campus to learn, practice and demonstrate essential hands-on skills and competencies needed by nurse practitioners.
Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Number | Name | Hours |
NURS 500 | Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice | 3 |
NURS 510 | Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare | 3 |
NURS 521 | Ethics in Healthcare | 3 |
NURS 535 | Principles of Teaching and Learning | 3 |
NURS 540 | Research Utilization | 3 |
NURS 561 | Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
Total Credit Hours: | 18 |
Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Number | Name | Hours |
NURS 530 | Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 676 | Advanced Pharmacology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 681 | Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab – APRN | 4 |
NURS 682 | Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse | 3 |
NURS 682L-A | Advanced Healthcare Residency I | 2 |
NURS 682L-B* | Advanced Healthcare Residency II | 2 |
NURS 691A | Culminating Experience I | 1.5 |
NURS 691B | Culminating Experience II | 1.5 |
NURS 696 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory I | 3 |
NURS 696L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I | 3 |
NURS 697 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory II | 3 |
NURS 697L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II | 3 |
Total Credit Hours: | 32.0 |
*NURS 682L-BR – Taken if student is unsuccessful in NURS 682L-B
Total Credit Hours: 50.0
Program Credit Distribution | ||
---|---|---|
Core Nursing Semester Credits: | 18.0 | |
APRN Track Semester Credits: | 32.0 | |
Total Program Semester Credits: | 50.0 |
How Much Does the MSN – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track Cost?
We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of MSN – AGACNP online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the MSN – AGACNP track costs at West Coast University.
We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.
8 Month Academic Year | ||
with parents | off campus | |
Food & Housing | $2,384 | $7,936 |
Transportation | $1,648 | $1,648 |
Personal Expenses | $5,392 | $5,392 |
Total | $9,424 | $14,976 |
Degree Type | Master of Science | |
Total Program Credits | 50 | |
Program Length(full time) | 4 trimesters | |
Non-Military Rate | Military Rate1 | |
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits) | $635 | $540 |
APRN Core(per credit cost x 32 credits) | $785 | $667 |
Total Tuition Cost | $36,550 | $31,064 |
STRF2 | $110 | $97.50 |
Technology Fee3 | $2,000 | $2,000 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $44,150 | $38,664 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $44,260 | $38,761.50 |
Degree Type | Master of Science | |
Total Program Credits | 50 | |
Program Length(full time) | 8 trimesters | |
Non-Military Rate | Military Rate1 | |
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits) | $635 | $540 |
APRN Core(per credit cost x 32 credits) | $785 | $667 |
Total Tuition Cost | $36,550 | $31,064 |
STRF2 | $115 | $102.50 |
Technology Fee3 | $4,000 | $4,000 |
Estimated for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $46,150 | $40,664 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $46,265 | $40,766.50 |
Degree Type | Master of Science |
Total Program Credits | 50 |
Program Length(full time) | 4 trimesters |
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits) | $635 |
APRN Core(per credit cost x 32 credits) | $785 |
Total Tuition Cost | $36,550 |
STRF2 | $110 |
Technology Fee3 | $2,000 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $44,150 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $44,260 |
Degree Type | Master of Science |
Total Program Credits | 50 |
Program Length(full time) | 8 trimesters |
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits) | $635 |
APRN Core(per credit cost x 32 credits) | $785 |
Total Tuition Cost | $36,550 |
STRF2 | $115 |
Technology Fee3 | $4,000 |
Estimated for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $46,150 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $46,265 |
1 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees. The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2023.
2 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two hundred and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.
The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.
You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.
It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.
To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.
A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.
However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
4 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and APRN predictor exams for APRN students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.
5Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.
Applicants for the program must meet the following requirements (MSN All Track Option):
*Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog
Additional Admissions Requirements Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Tracks Only:
In addition to the admissions requirements above, applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) tracks must also meet the following admissions requirements:
*Students admitted to APRN tracks under previous admissions requirements and have withdrawn that have completed more than 75% of the credits associated with the program will be re-admitted to the previous version of their program using previous requirements.
For additional admission requirements, please visit our catalog.
Distance Education/Online
29 Credits
20 Months
5 Trimesters
Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Number | Name | Hours |
NURS 530 | Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 676 | Advanced Pharmacology – APRN | 3 |
NURS 681 | Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab – APRN | 4 |
NURS 682 | Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse | 3 |
NURS 682L-A | Advanced Healthcare Residency I | 2 |
NURS 682L-B* | Advanced Healthcare Residency II | 2 |
NURS 696 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory I | 3 |
NURS 696L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I | 3 |
NURS 697 | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory II | 3 |
NURS 697L | Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II | 3 |
Total Credit Hours: | 29.0 |
How Much Does the Post-Master’s Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program Cost?
We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of post-master’s AGACNP online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the post master’s AGACNP certificate program costs at West Coast University.
We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.
8 Month Academic Year | ||
with parents | off campus | |
Food & Housing | $2,384 | $7,936 |
Transportation | $1,648 | $1,648 |
Personal Expenses | $5,392 | $5,392 |
Total | $9,424 | $14,976 |
Prior to Spring I 2024
Degree Type | Certificate | |
Total Program Credits | 29 | |
Program Length (full time) | 5 trimesters | |
Non-Military Rate | Military Rate1 | |
APRN Core (per credit x 29 credits) | $785 | $667 |
Total Tuition Cost | $22,765 | $19,343 |
STRF2 | $77.50 | $67.50 |
Technology Fee3 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $30,865 | $27,443 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $30,942.50 | $27,510.50 |
Effective Spring I 2024
Degree Type | Certificate |
Total Program Credits | 29 |
Program Length(full time) | 5 trimesters |
Non-Military Rate | |
APRN Core(per credit x 29 credits) | $785 |
Total Tuition Cost | $22,765 |
STRF2 | $77.50 |
Technology Fee3 | $2,500 |
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 | $2,300 |
Program Fee (Clinical)5 | $3,300 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) | $30,865 |
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) | $30,942.50 |
1 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees. The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2024.
2 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.
The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.
You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.
It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.
To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.
A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.
However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
4 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and APRN predictor exams for APRN students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.
5 Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.
Applicants to the program must meet the following requirements (Post-Master’s Certificates All Track Options):
*Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog.
Additional Admissions Requirements Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Tracks Only:
In addition to the admissions requirements above, applicants to the Post-Master’s Certificate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse tracks must also meet the following admissions requirements:
*Students admitted to APRN tracks under previous admissions requirements and have withdrawn that have completed more than 75% of the credits associated with the program will be re-admitted to the previous version of their program using previous requirements.
For all admission requirements, please visit our catalog.
New academic terms begin, on average, every eight weeks. The number of trimesters needed depends on the program and pace selected for the AGACNP track. For the most updated start-to-completion schedule, view the Academic Calendar.
Support Through Your Clinical Experience
At WCU, we offer the support you need for your clinical practice experience. Our Clinical Placements team is here to guide you through the process of finding and selecting a preceptor and site, as well as processing any needed approvals.
With your own assigned coordinator of clinical relations, you’ll get one-on-one coaching and learn helpful tips for a successful clinical practicum. WCU has partnerships with various healthcare providers, giving you ample resources as a student looking to find a clinical placement.
Personalized Career Guidance
We are committed to helping our students succeed post-graduation. Our Career Services department offers professional development workshops and guidance for all WCU graduates, with access to resources for life.2 We assist with everything from job search strategy to resume writing to interview preparation and beyond.
Additionally, prior to graduation, students have access to various resources, including Student Success advisors, admissions and financial aid advisors, personal tutoring, and more.
Cyndi Faudree is the Program Dean and Director of the Family Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program tracks at West Coast University, as well as an assistant professor. Dr. Faudree is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and acute care nurse practitioner. She provides student-centric strategic and operational direction, as well as leadership of program accreditation and certification.
Prior to joining WCU, Dr. Faudree served as Associate Dean, Associate Director of Medical Practice and Regional Program Director overseeing M.D. and APRN programs at other universities. She was the Director of the Standardized Patient Program and wrote many interactive virtual cases collaborating with national companies. She has served on various committees, holding the roles of APRN Sub-Committee Chair, DNP Sub-Committee Co-Chair, and member of the Graduate Curriculum Committee, Governance Committee for Sigma Theta Tau, and APRN Taskforce.
Dr. Faudree is a member of numerous professional associations, including the American Nurses Association, American Nurses Credentialing Center, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculty (NONPF), and Sigma Theta Tau. She serves her community by being a member of her state’s Board of Health and volunteers her time by contributing to many local health and community events. Dr. Faudree was nationally recognized as the recipient of the Army Achieve Medal for Civilian Service and Program Development in 2012.
All of our nursing programs deliver a student-centric, evidence-based education that includes topics relevant to an ever-evolving healthcare environment. As an AGACNP student, you can expect in-depth, industry-current learning around acute care treatment. Our curriculum also addresses telehealth, special populations, and upcoming trends in medicine. In addition to our online coursework, you will complete in-person clinical practicum that gives you hands-on experience in your selected area of study.
Our program includes clinical hours for practical experience. When it comes to finding the right facility, WCU has a dedicated team to help you find a placement for clinical training that aligns with your goals.
Our AGACNP program requires students to complete two on-site intensives (OSIs).3 These in-person, immersive experiences give students hands-on experience, as well as the opportunity to learn unique skills and collect feedback from instructors. OSIs help prepare students for APRN clinical rotations and practice.
We can evaluate your previous coursework for credit. The number of credits you are able to transfer depends on the specific program’s requirements. For example, for the RN to MSN program, you can transfer a total of up to 90 credits.4 Speak to your advisor to learn more about the transfer credit policy for your desired program.
Time-to-completion will vary depending on your chosen program and pace. Consider the following timelines:
Your admissions advisor can help you determine which timeline is right for you.
Yes, upon completion of your program, you will be eligible to take your national board certification exam. At WCU, we make two tools available to assist with your preparation for the examination: Lecturio and BoardVitals. These mobile-friendly platforms will help you review the test material so you feel ready once the exam date arrives.
AGACNPs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including the intensive care, trauma, or acute care units within hospitals, as well as specialty clinics and long-term care facilities.5
An adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) provides care for adults of all ages with critical conditions. An adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) provides general healthcare (including preventative care) for patients of all ages.
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) is a specialized degree that helps prepare you to provide intensive and acute care to adults of all ages who are suffering from critical conditions and traumatic injuries. WCU’s AGACNP tracks couple online coursework with hands-on clinical experience to advance your nursing abilities.
WCU’s MSN – AGACNP program consists of online coursework, though some in-person practice experience is also necessary to complete your MSN – AGACNP degree.
Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to students who qualify. Some of the scholarships and grants that students can benefit from include the Alumni Pathway Grant (covering up to 20% of tuition), the WCU Health Services Grant (covering up to 10% of tuition), and the WCU Performance Scholarship (covering up to 15% of tuition). To learn about eligibility requirements, visit the scholarships and grants page of our online catalog.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at West Coast University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 655 K Street, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, (202) 877-6791 (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify
1 The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at West Coast University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 655 K Street, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, (202) 877-6791 (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
2 WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
3 Students enrolled through the Orange County campus must complete their OSIs in California. Students enrolled through the Texas campus must complete them in Texas. Travel costs are not included in tuition and fees, and students are responsible for arranging transportation.
4 WCU evaluates transfer credits for acceptance. We can accept a total of up to 90 transfer credits (48 credits for college-level non-nursing courses, and 42 credits for unobstructed RN licensure) for the RN to MSN program
5 American Association of Nurse Practitioners, “Are You Considering a Career as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner?” Jan. 22, 2020