Best Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Programs

Michigan State University offers an online Clinical Nurse Specialist program with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology, designed for advanced nursing professionals seeking to specialize in healthcare leadership. This program, available at both master's and doctoral levels, focuses on developing expert clinicians capable of delivering high-quality, cost-effective care. The curriculum covers advanced topics such as pathophysiology and pharmacology, preparing graduates to innovate in healthcare solutions and promote wellness in diverse settings. Highlights include a fully online curriculum, leadership-focused training, and options for post-graduate certification.

• Fully online curriculum
• MSN: 54 credit hours
• DNP: 70 credit hours
• Clinical experiences locally arranged
• Adult-Gerontology post-graduate certificate
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• Diverse population wellness emphasis

The Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program at Michigan State University is an online program tailored for experienced nurses aiming to enhance their clinical expertise. It offers multiple degree options, including certificate, MSN, and DNP levels, focusing on leadership, evidence-based practice, and improving patient outcomes. The program is notable for its 100% first-time pass rate and prepares students for board certification. With a strong emphasis on advanced practice leadership and specialization in adult-gerontology, it's recognized by U.S. News as a top program.

• Exclusively online specialty program
• Certificate, MSN, DNP levels
• 100% MSN first-time pass rate
• Board certification preparation
• Advanced practice leadership focus
• Adult-Gerontology specialization
• U.S. News recognized program

Michigan State University's online Clinical Nurse Specialist program is designed for graduate nurses looking to advance their careers in adult and gerontology settings. Offering certificate, MSN, and DNP levels, the program equips students with the skills necessary for practice change, evidence-based guidelines, and interdisciplinary collaboration. It boasts a 100% first-time pass rate and prepares graduates for certification exams, making them highly desirable for academic and healthcare leadership roles. Recognized by U.S. News, this program is a leader in online nursing education.

• Exclusively online program
• Certificate, MSN, DNP levels
• Adult gerontology focus
• 100% first-time pass rate
• Board certification eligible
• Leadership skills development
• U.S. News top online program

Point Loma Nazarene University's DNP program in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist offers an advanced online pathway for experienced nurses. This comprehensive program focuses on delivering expert-level care for adult and elderly populations through flexible, asynchronous learning. Nurses develop sophisticated clinical skills and leadership capabilities by completing 1000 clinical hours, enabling them to implement innovative healthcare strategies. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares graduates to provide comprehensive, specialized patient care across diverse healthcare environments. With CCNE accreditation and multiple entry pathways, this program empowers nurses to elevate their professional expertise and drive meaningful healthcare improvements.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 1000 total clinical hours
• CCNE accredited program
• Adult-Gerontology CNS specialty track
• Optional synchronous sessions
• California Board of Nursing approved
• MSN or BSN entry pathways
• Small class sizes (15-20 students)
• Christian university environment
• Mentorship and personalized support

Point Loma Nazarene University's DNP program with Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration provides a transformative educational experience for advanced nursing professionals. This fully online curriculum is meticulously designed to equip nurses with specialized pediatric care expertise. Students engage in comprehensive learning, completing 1000 clinical hours while developing advanced clinical skills and leadership competencies. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and healthcare innovations, preparing nurses to deliver high-quality, specialized pediatric care. With flexible learning options, competitive tuition, and multiple entry pathways, graduates emerge as highly skilled pediatric clinical specialists ready to make significant contributions to healthcare.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 1000 total clinical hours required
• CCNE accredited program
• Two entry pathways: BSN and MSN
• Pediatric CNS concentration available
• 3.3 years program completion
• Optional synchronous sessions
• Faculty mentorship provided
• $820 per unit tuition

Point Loma Nazarene University's DNP program in Adult-Gerontology with Women's Health CNS concentration offers a cutting-edge online pathway for ambitious nursing professionals. This innovative curriculum prepares nurses to provide holistic, specialized care across complex healthcare settings. Through 1000 clinical hours and a personalized project, students develop advanced leadership skills and clinical management expertise. The program emphasizes comprehensive patient care strategies, focusing on the unique intersections of adult-gerontology and women's health. With flexible learning, competitive tuition, and small class sizes, graduates are positioned to excel in advanced nursing roles with enhanced professional autonomy and specialized clinical knowledge.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 1000 total clinical hours required
• Optional synchronous sessions
• Small class sizes (15-20 students)
• California Board of Nursing approved
• BSN or MSN entry pathways
• CCNE accredited program
• Mentorship and personalized support

California State University San Marcos' Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN program provides comprehensive training for advanced nursing professionals. Offering population-focused tracks in Adult/Gerontology, Pediatrics, and Advanced Public Health, the program delivers sophisticated healthcare education. Students engage in 500 hours of advanced field study, mastering critical skills in health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, evidence-based practice, and specialized clinical knowledge. Graduates are strategically positioned to pursue national certification and excel in diverse healthcare roles, from clinical practice to educational leadership. The program's flexible part-time design accommodates working professionals seeking meaningful career advancement.

• Two program pathway options
• 500 clinical field study hours
• Multiple concentration tracks
• Part-time program design
• National certification preparation
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Advanced research methods
• Healthcare policy focus
• Diverse specialization options

The Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration at California State University San Marcos prepares nurses for advanced practice in geriatric and adult healthcare settings. This specialized MSN track offers flexible entry pathways, including RN-to-BSN-to-MSN options. Students receive intensive training in advanced health assessment, clinical management, and evidence-based gerontological care. The curriculum emphasizes understanding complex health challenges of aging populations, developing leadership skills, and promoting comprehensive patient-centered interventions. With 500 clinical practice hours and a strong focus on cultural competence, graduates are equipped to deliver sophisticated, compassionate care and pursue leadership roles in adult and elderly healthcare environments.

• Online and part-time options
• Multiple nursing concentrations
• 500 clinical practice hours
• National certification preparation
• Advanced practice specializations
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Comprehensive graduate core courses
• Leadership and research focus
• Cultural competence emphasis

California State University San Marcos' Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration provides comprehensive training for nurses dedicated to children's healthcare. This specialized MSN track focuses on advanced pediatric nursing, preparing professionals to address complex developmental and health challenges across childhood stages. Students receive rigorous instruction in evidence-based practice, advanced assessment techniques, and specialized pediatric interventions. The program's 500 clinical practice hours enable hands-on learning and skill development in diverse pediatric settings. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians equipped with advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to deliver compassionate, sophisticated care to children and adolescents.

• Part-time flexible program
• 500 clinical practice hours
• National certification eligible
• Advanced pediatric nursing focus
• Evidence-based curriculum

The Advanced Public Health Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration at California State University San Marcos offers a comprehensive approach to population health management. This innovative MSN program prepares nurses to become transformative leaders in community and public health settings. Students explore complex healthcare systems, develop advanced research skills, and learn strategic approaches to addressing population-level health challenges. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, healthcare policy analysis, and advanced clinical interventions. Through 500 hours of field study, students gain practical experience in designing and implementing public health strategies, positioning graduates to lead meaningful interventions and drive systemic health improvements across diverse communities.

• Part-time program options
• Three concentration paths
• 500 hours clinical field study
• National certification preparation
• Accredited nursing program
• Advanced health assessment courses
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Online and campus learning
• Advanced research methods
• Healthcare policy focus

The University of Detroit Mercy's online Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG-CNS) program is designed for nurses aiming to specialize in adult-gerontology care. This program stands out with a 98% national certification exam pass rate and guarantees 100% graduate employment, preparing nurses for advanced practice roles. Offering both MSN and DNP tracks, the curriculum is fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals. With asynchronous course delivery, students can balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. The program emphasizes transformational leadership and comprehensive clinical training, ensuring graduates are equipped to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes.

• 100% Online Program
• 98% National Certification Pass Rate
• 100% Graduate Employment
• Flexible Part-Time/Full-Time Options
• DNP Pathway Available
• Post-Master's Certificate Option
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Preparation
• Comprehensive Clinical Training
• Transformational Leadership Focus
• Asynchronous Course Delivery

University of Detroit Mercy presents a Post BSN to DNP program focusing on Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS) specialization, tailored for nurses pursuing the highest level of clinical expertise. This online program offers flexibility with part-time study options and a curriculum spanning 42 to 66 credits, depending on the chosen path. It prepares graduates for APRN roles across various healthcare settings, with a strong emphasis on clinical placements and multiple certification pathways. The program requires maintaining a B average and allows up to 7 years for completion, catering to the needs of working professionals seeking advancement in adult-gerontological care.

• Online flexible degree options
• 42-66 total program credits
• APRN practice preparation
• Multiple certification pathways
• Clinical placements across settings
• Part-time study available
• Maintains B average requirement
• 7-year maximum completion time
• Advanced practice specialization

The University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a hybrid Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist program, designed for nurses aiming to excel in acute care settings. This program emphasizes advanced diagnostic skills, leadership, and evidence-based practices for managing adult patients with acute and chronic conditions. With tuition ranging from $21,302 to $34,788, it provides flexible full and part-time study options. A standout feature includes 750 practicum hours, complemented by clinical simulation experiences. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and graduates are eligible for advanced practice certification. The program also offers a DNP pathway and guarantees admission for UVA alumni.

• Hybrid learning format
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• Full and part-time options
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• Clinical simulation learning center
• Multiple clinical placement sites
• 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
• DNP pathway available
• UVA alumni guaranteed admission
• Advanced practice certification eligible

The University of Texas at Austin offers an MSN program specializing in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG CNS), designed to equip nurses with advanced skills for adult and elderly patient care. This 2-year, full-time program integrates physiological and psychosocial theories with hands-on clinical practice, focusing on holistic care and health promotion. Graduates are prepared for national certification and roles in various healthcare environments. Admission prerequisites include a BSN or equivalent, an active nursing license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program is distinguished by its comprehensive curriculum, eligibility for national certification, and its reputation as the top nursing program in Texas.

• 2-year full-time program
• National certification eligibility
• Advanced clinical skill development
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Ranked #1 in Texas nursing programs
• Holistic patient care approach
• Diverse healthcare setting preparation

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program specializing in Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. This program is designed for advanced nursing professionals aiming to excel in pediatric care, focusing on direct patient care, leadership, and research. It spans three years full-time, requiring 1,000 clinical hours and includes on-campus sessions. Priced at $1,100 per credit, it demands a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. Graduates are well-prepared for pediatric certification, equipped with skills for leadership and research in diverse healthcare settings.

• Three-year full-time DNP program
• $1,100 per credit cost
• 1,000 clinical hours required
• 3.0 minimum admission GPA
• Campus and clinical training
• CCNE accredited program
• Pediatric certification preparation
• Leadership and research focus
• Multiple healthcare settings

At the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, the hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Adult/Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist equips nurses to address complex health issues in adults and the elderly. Students can tailor their education with subspecialties such as cardiology or palliative care. The program, costing $1,100 per credit and requiring a 3.0 GPA, includes 1,000 clinical hours. It prepares graduates for certification, enabling them to lead in specialized adult and gerontological healthcare environments.

• CCNE Accredited Program
• 3-4 Year Post-Baccalaureate Option
• 1,000 Clinical Hours Required
• Subspecialty Focus Opportunities
• $1,100 Per Credit Cost
• 3.0 Minimum Admission GPA
• Hybrid Program Format
• Campus Intensives Each Semester
• Certification Exam Eligibility

CUNY Hunter College offers a specialized Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) MS program, designed for nurses aiming to excel in adult and geriatric healthcare. This 42-credit program focuses on developing advanced clinical skills in various medical-surgical specialties, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and leadership roles in health promotion and evidence-based practice. With the flexibility of part-time study and evening courses, working professionals can complete the program within five years. The curriculum includes 500 clinical practicum hours, providing hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.

• 42-credit comprehensive MS program
• 500 clinical practicum hours
• Evening/part-time study options
• Advanced practice nursing preparation
• Specialization in Adult-Gerontology

The University of Missouri's Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers an intensive master's curriculum designed to transform nursing professionals into advanced pediatric care experts. Students develop sophisticated skills in managing complex pediatric health challenges, implementing evidence-based interventions, and leading quality improvement initiatives. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates to provide comprehensive care across diverse pediatric settings. Specialized coursework emphasizes holistic patient management, advanced assessment techniques, and leadership strategies critical for pediatric healthcare advancement.

• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Focus
• AACN Certification Eligible
• Advanced Clinical Practicum
• Comprehensive Core Coursework
• Leadership and Quality Initiatives Training
• Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
• Holistic Pediatric Care Approach

University of Missouri's Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program provides a comprehensive master's pathway for nurses seeking specialized expertise in caring for adult and elderly populations. Students engage in advanced clinical training that integrates comprehensive health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and patient-centered interventions. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative healthcare strategies. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians capable of addressing complex health challenges, implementing quality improvement initiatives, and serving as critical consultants in diverse healthcare environments.

• Advanced practice nursing specialty
• Adult gerontology focus
• Professional certification eligible
• Core and specialty coursework
• Leadership and clinical skills
• Evidence-based practice training
• Comprehensive healthcare management
• Primary and acute care preparation

Missouri's Adult-Gerontology DNP program represents an advanced nursing practice doctorate designed to cultivate transformative healthcare leaders. Students receive comprehensive training in complex clinical management, evidence-based interventions, and systemic healthcare policy development. The hybrid format allows working professionals to advance their expertise while maintaining clinical responsibilities. Coursework integrates advanced diagnostic skills, translational research methodologies, and strategic leadership training, positioning graduates to drive significant improvements in adult and geriatric healthcare delivery systems.

• Hybrid program format
• Expert clinician preparation
• Advanced nursing practice focus
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Comprehensive clinical residency
• Healthcare policy integration
• Advanced diagnostic training
• Specialized adult-gerontology focus
• Leadership development
• Translational research components

The University of Missouri's Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP program offers an advanced doctoral pathway for nurses committed to comprehensive pediatric healthcare innovation. Students develop sophisticated clinical expertise spanning child and adolescent health domains, emphasizing preventative care, chronic illness management, and complex health interventions. The hybrid program integrates rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical residencies, enabling students to cultivate advanced diagnostic skills, evidence-based practice strategies, and transformative healthcare leadership capabilities across pediatric medical environments.

• Pediatric healthcare from birth to adulthood
• Advanced clinical nurse training
• Comprehensive health assessment skills
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Clinical residency opportunities
• Health promotion and prevention
• Chronic illness management expertise

San Diego State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing focused on Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults and the Elderly, designed for those aiming to specialize in gerontological and adult healthcare. This 50-unit program blends rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences, preparing graduates to excel as nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. With options for full-time or part-time enrollment, the program caters to working professionals seeking to advance their careers. Admission requires a BSN, an active RN license, and ideally, two years of acute care experience. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ensuring students are equipped to meet the evolving needs of aging populations.

• 50-unit graduate nursing program
• Advanced Practice Nursing concentration
• Full or part-time study options
• Requires active RN license
• Prepares adult/gerontology nurse practitioners

The University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Clinical Nurse Specialist program designed to equip advanced practice nurses with the skills to revolutionize healthcare. This three-year program emphasizes complex patient care, leadership in healthcare systems, and the application of evidence-based practices. Students are required to complete at least 1,000 clinical hours in top-tier hospitals, ensuring hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings. The curriculum is CCNE accredited and includes an Adult-Gerontology specialty track, preparing graduates to improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. With a focus on integrating clinical practice with research, this program stands out for its comprehensive approach to advanced nursing education.

• Three-year DNP program
• Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
• Advanced practice nurse preparation
• CCNE accredited program
• Adult-Gerontology specialty track
• Comprehensive APRN core curriculum
• Healthcare system leadership focus
• Clinical and research integration

The University of Arkansas's online Master of Science in Nursing program specializes in the Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health concentration, designed for nurses aiming to deepen their clinical expertise. This program stands out with its requirement for 500 clinical practicum hours, ensuring hands-on experience in adult health care. It equips graduates with the skills for advanced practice, including medication prescription and healthcare team leadership, all within a flexible online format. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practices, preparing nurses for certification and impactful roles in adult health settings.

• Online Master's in Nursing
• Clinical Nurse Specialist Track
• 500 Clinical Practicum Hours
• Advanced Practice Certification
• Global Campus Delivery

DeSales University's Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist is tailored for RNs aiming to elevate their expertise in adult and gerontological care. This online program, accredited by CCNE, blends advanced coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare. Students delve into patient-centered care, policy development, and advanced physical assessment, with the flexibility to complete the program in 2-4 years. The curriculum is designed to foster expert clinicians capable of making significant impacts in healthcare settings. Highlights include a focus on adult gerontology populations, leadership training, and the convenience of an online format.

• Online DNP program format
• 35-94 total credit hours
• 2-4 years average completion time
• CCNE accredited program
• Focuses on adult gerontology populations
• Clinical experiences in hospitals/facilities
• Leadership and policy development emphasis
• Advanced physical assessment training
• Professional role development courses

Indiana University-Indianapolis offers a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, designed for RNs aiming to specialize in adult and geriatric healthcare. This program blends online coursework with practical experiences, requiring a 3.0 GPA, one year of hospital-based adult nursing experience, and an active RN license. It focuses on developing clinical excellence and leadership in managing patient care for adult and older adult populations, offering multiple semester admission options for flexibility.

• Hybrid learning format
• Adult-Gerontology specialization
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• One year RN experience needed
• Multiple semester admission options

The Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist track at Indiana University-Indianapolis is a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing program tailored for nurses seeking to specialize in pediatric care. It equips students with advanced skills to manage children's health needs across various settings, combining evidence-based coursework with clinical training. The program offers part-time and full-time options, typically completed in two to three years, and prepares graduates for national certification and roles in diverse healthcare environments.

• Hybrid program format
• Advanced pediatric clinical skills
• 150-225 clinical hours
• Part-time and full-time options
• National certification eligible
• Multiple practice setting opportunities
• Evidence-based pediatric curriculum

Old Dominion University's MSN in Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist provides an intensive 50-credit hybrid program targeting nurses seeking advanced neonatal care expertise. Designed to elevate professional capabilities, the curriculum emphasizes high-risk infant management and sophisticated clinical interventions. Students develop comprehensive skills in evidence-based practice, preparing to address complex neonatal health challenges. The program uniquely positions graduates for specialized pediatric nursing roles, with direct pathway to AACN Acute Care Neonatal Certification. Rigorous academic standards include maintaining a 3.0 GPA and holding an active RN license, ensuring a highly qualified cohort of advanced practice neonatal specialists.

• 50-credit hybrid MSN program
• Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration
• AACN exam eligibility
• Evidence-based advanced practice focus
• Flexible full/part-time options
• Requires 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Current RN license needed
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Advanced neonatal care courses

Old Dominion University's Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist-Educator MSN offers a transformative hybrid program bridging advanced clinical practice and academic instruction. The 47-credit curriculum strategically prepares nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments, emphasizing evidence-based gerontological interventions and educational methodologies. Students develop nuanced skills in adult care, research application, and professional teaching techniques. Designed for ambitious nursing professionals, the program provides comprehensive training that enables graduates to pursue ANCC or AACN certification. Admission requirements underscore the program's commitment to academic excellence, requiring an unencumbered RN license and substantial clinical experience.

• Hybrid/Online Program Format
• Dual Clinical-Educator Preparation
• 47 Total Credit Hours
• Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
• ANCC/AACN Certification Eligible
• Full and Part-Time Options
• Comprehensive Clinical Practicum
• Evidence-Based Curriculum

Old Dominion University's online Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN represents a cutting-edge approach to advanced pediatric nursing education. Spanning 53-57 credit hours, the program comprehensively prepares nurses to deliver sophisticated healthcare across pediatric age ranges. Students engage in dynamic learning experiences, mastering clinical leadership, technological integration, and evidence-based intervention strategies. The curriculum transcends traditional nursing education by incorporating standardized patient simulation and collaborative training with Eastern Virginia Medical School. Graduates emerge as versatile professionals equipped for diverse roles in clinical leadership, public health, policy development, and specialized pediatric research.

• CCNE Accredited Program
• 53-57 Credit Hours
• Online with Occasional On-Campus Training
• Ranked #1 Online CNS Program
• Collaboration with Eastern Virginia Medical School
• Standardized Patient Simulation Training
• Clinical Practicum Required
• Flexible Learning Environment
• Live Online Course Meetings
• State Licensure Preparation

Binghamton University's Advanced-Standing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, specializing in Clinical Nurse Specialist, is tailored for nurse practitioners and clinical specialists aiming to enhance their leadership in healthcare. This program focuses on equipping students with the skills to manage health systems, develop policies, and foster interdisciplinary teamwork to improve patient care. With a curriculum requiring 35-38 credits, it offers the flexibility of online and hybrid formats, allowing completion in 2-3 years. Applicants must hold a master's in nursing, possess RN licensure, have national certification, and maintain a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA. The program emphasizes practical application, preparing graduates to implement research and innovations in clinical settings.

• 35-38 total credit program
• Online and hybrid learning
• Clinical nurse specialist focus
• Advanced healthcare leadership
• Practice-focused doctoral degree
• Flexible 2-3 year completion
• Master's prepared RNs only

St. John Fisher University's Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program stands out for its focused approach on geriatric care, catering to nurses aiming to specialize in adult and elderly patient services. With a requirement of 44 course credits and 500 clinical practice hours, this master's program is structured to deepen the expertise of registered nurses in gerontology. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary for high-level care in various healthcare environments, emphasizing the unique needs of aging populations. Highlights include weekday evening classes, on-campus learning, and the necessity of a NYS RN license, making it a comprehensive choice for advancing in this nursing specialty.

• 44 total course credits
• 500 clinical practice hours
• Weekday evening classes
• On-campus nursing pathway
• NYS RN license required
• Ranked #31 graduate nursing
• Clinical placements outside employment

West Chester University of Pennsylvania's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist is tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in adult and geriatric healthcare. This CCNE-accredited program is delivered entirely online, offering both synchronous and asynchronous learning options to accommodate working professionals. With full- and part-time formats available, students can balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. The curriculum includes precepted practicum hours, ensuring hands-on experience in the specialty area. Graduates are well-positioned for advanced practice roles in a growing job market, with a projected 6% increase in demand for nursing master's positions.

• 100% Online Program
• CCNE Accredited
• Synchronous/Asynchronous Options
• Full/Part-Time Formats
• Precepted Practicum Hours Required
• Adult-Gerontology CNS Specialty
• Career Growth Potential
• Projected 6% Job Market Growth

The University of South Alabama offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program specializing in Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) with a focus on Adult Gerontology. This program is designed for nurses aiming to advance their expertise in adult and geriatric healthcare through a comprehensive curriculum that includes 540 clinical hours. The flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with professional commitments while preparing for national certification as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Key highlights include a three-semester clinical component and flexible clinical placement options.

• Fully online MSN program
• 540 total clinical hours
• Focus on Adult Gerontology
• Three-semester clinical component
• National certification preparation
• 38 total credit hours
• Clinical skills intensive included
• Flexible clinical placement options

The University of South Alabama's hybrid Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist program emphasizes evidence-based care for adult and geriatric populations. This program is tailored for experienced nurses seeking to enhance their clinical skills in complex healthcare management. With a curriculum that blends academic coursework with 360 clinical practice hours, students are equipped to improve patient outcomes and innovate healthcare practices. Highlights include no thesis requirement, an evidence-based scholarly project, and preparation for advanced practice certification, all within a seven-year completion window.

• Hybrid program format
• 62 total credit hours
• 360 clinical practice hours
• No thesis required
• Evidence-based scholarly project
• Seven-year program completion window
• Advanced practice certification preparation
• Clinical skills intensive training
• Focuses on patient safety
• Comprehensive DNP core courses

Molloy College's Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Program is a hybrid master's degree designed for RNs aiming to specialize in adult gerontology health. This program blends online coursework with in-person clinical practicums, requiring 500 clinical hours across 12 courses over seven semesters. Focused on transformational leadership and advanced practice, it prepares graduates for high-impact roles in healthcare, with potential earnings exceeding $120,000 annually. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making, research, and system optimization, offering flexible electives to tailor the learning experience. 'Requires GRE' for admission, this program is ideal for nurses seeking to advance their careers in adult gerontology.

• Hybrid distance learning format
• 500 clinical hours required
• 12 total courses
• 7 consecutive semesters
• 35 total credit program
• Advanced practice core courses
• Transformational leadership focus
• Potential $120k+ annual salary
• In-person clinical practicum
• Flexible elective options