Elevate Your Career: University of Indianapolis Launches Innovative Graduate Nursing Program

The University of Indianapolis has launched a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program focused on Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (AGACNP). This initiative aims to tackle the national nursing shortage, where we could see a deficit of 86,000 physicians by 2036, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Wendy Stoelting-Gettelfinger, the program’s Graduate Clinical Program Director, explains that this MSN program is tailored for licensed nurses looking to expand their skills and practice. The curriculum is structured so students can transition smoothly into doctoral studies after earning their degrees.

What sets this program apart is the opportunity for dual certification. Students can earn both Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and AGACNP credentials. This can be especially valuable, as forecasts indicate a growing need for these advanced skills in healthcare.

The program combines theoretical learning with practical experience. Students are required to complete 250 hours in a simulation lab and 750 hours in clinical rotations. During these rotations, they will work alongside certified professionals like doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Stoelting-Gettelfinger highlights that students engage with real patients and situations, including emergency care.

During their training, students will rotate through various specialties such as cardiology, internal medicine, and trauma care. This diverse training not only builds their expertise but also prepares them for complex scenarios they will face in their careers. Assistant Professor Greg Buckingham appreciates that all faculty are active professionals in the field, adding real-world insights to the curriculum.

Importantly, Stoelting-Gettelfinger emphasizes the need for nurses who view their patients holistically, prioritizing overall well-being. The current cohort includes seven students, with a cap at 15 to maintain quality instruction.

The nursing profession is evolving rapidly. A recent survey by the American Psychiatric Nurses Association found that more than 50% of nurses feel overwhelmed by their workloads. Programs like the MSN-AGACNP offer a pathway for nurses to enhance their skills and address these challenges effectively.

As healthcare continues to change, training programs must adapt to meet rising demands. The MSN-AGACNP program at UIndy is a step in the right direction, aiming to create competent nurse practitioners who can significantly improve health outcomes.

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