Best Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Programs

California State University San Marcos' Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN program delivers comprehensive advanced nursing education across multiple population-focused tracks. The program distinguishes itself through 500 hours of intensive clinical field study, allowing students to specialize in Adult/Gerontology, Pediatrics, or Advanced Public Health concentrations. Graduates receive robust preparation in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, positioning them for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy understanding, and national certification readiness. Designed for working professionals, the part-time online format ensures flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

• 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

CSU San Marcos offers a specialized Clinical Nurse Specialist - Adult/Gerontology MSN track designed for nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. The program uniquely provides multiple entry pathways, including RN-to-BSN-to-MSN and direct MSN entry. Students engage in comprehensive coursework addressing complex adult and geriatric health challenges, with 500 clinical hours providing hands-on learning opportunities. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and leadership development. Graduates are comprehensively prepared for national certification, equipped with advanced assessment skills, clinical management strategies, and a profound understanding of adult healthcare needs.

• 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

The Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN at CSU San Marcos represents an advanced educational pathway for nurses committed to children's healthcare. This specialized concentration provides intensive training in pediatric nursing, emphasizing comprehensive developmental care across childhood stages. Students complete 500 clinical practice hours, gaining expertise in complex pediatric health assessment, intervention strategies, and evidence-based practice. The program's flexible, part-time format enables working professionals to advance their skills while maintaining current employment. Graduates emerge as highly skilled pediatric specialists, prepared for national certification and leadership roles in child healthcare settings.

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

California State University San Marcos' Advanced Public Health Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN program offers a transformative educational experience for healthcare professionals seeking broader population health perspectives. The curriculum integrates advanced clinical skills, healthcare policy analysis, and evidence-based practice methodologies. Students complete 500 hours of field study, exploring complex public health challenges and developing innovative intervention strategies. The program provides multiple concentration paths, ensuring comprehensive preparation for diverse healthcare leadership roles. Graduates are equipped with advanced research methods, policy understanding, and the clinical expertise necessary to drive meaningful improvements in community health outcomes.

• 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 Missouri's MS in Nursing with Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration offers an intensive program designed to transform nursing professionals into advanced pediatric care experts. Students gain comprehensive skills in managing complex pediatric health scenarios, from wellness interventions to acute care settings. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and system-wide healthcare improvements. With a strong focus on professional certification through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, graduates are uniquely positioned to deliver high-quality, specialized pediatric nursing care and drive meaningful clinical innovations.

• 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 MS program provides a comprehensive educational pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice expertise in adult and geriatric healthcare. The curriculum strategically blends core nursing principles with specialized training in primary and acute care settings. Students develop sophisticated clinical management skills, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership techniques. The program prepares graduates to deliver nuanced, patient-centered care, conduct quality improvement initiatives, and become pivotal resources in managing complex health challenges for adult and older adult populations.

• 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

The University of Missouri's DNP in Nursing with Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration represents an advanced hybrid program designed for nursing professionals seeking transformative healthcare leadership roles. This doctoral-level curriculum integrates sophisticated clinical training, evidence-based practice methodologies, and comprehensive healthcare policy understanding. Students engage in extensive clinical residencies, developing advanced diagnostic and consultation skills specifically tailored to adult and geriatric populations. The program uniquely positions graduates to drive systemic healthcare improvements and address complex medical challenges with expert-level precision.

• 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

University of Missouri's DNP Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers an innovative hybrid pathway for nurses committed to advanced pediatric healthcare. This comprehensive doctoral curriculum emphasizes holistic child health management from birth through young adulthood, focusing on sophisticated health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic illness strategies. Students develop intricate diagnostic and treatment skills through extensive clinical residencies and advanced coursework in physiology, pharmacology, and healthcare policy. Graduates emerge as highly specialized pediatric nursing professionals prepared to deliver exceptional, evidence-driven care across diverse healthcare 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

Michigan State University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a cutting-edge online master's and doctoral pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Focused exclusively on adult and geriatric populations, the program prepares experts in healthcare leadership through comprehensive coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and advanced practice roles. Students benefit from locally arranged clinical experiences, diverse population wellness curriculum, and leadership-oriented training. The fully online format enables working nurses to advance their expertise while maintaining professional commitments, with flexible degree options including post-graduate certificates, MSN, and DNP levels.

• 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

Michigan State University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist online program is meticulously designed for experienced nurses seeking advanced clinical transformation. Offering comprehensive pathways at certificate, MSN, and DNP levels, the program distinguishes itself with a remarkable 100% first-time pass rate. Students gain sophisticated skills in direct patient care, consultation, leadership, and education specifically tailored to adult and geriatric populations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative healthcare solutions, preparing graduates for prestigious nursing credentialing and leadership roles across complex healthcare environments.

• 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 Clinical Nurse Specialist program delivers an exclusively online graduate education experience targeting advanced nursing professionals. Designed for flexible learning, the program provides comprehensive training across certificate, MSN, and DNP levels with a primary focus on adult and gerontological healthcare settings. Students develop critical competencies in practice innovation, evidence-based guidelines, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a perfect first-time certification exam pass rate and recognition as a top online program by U.S. News, graduates emerge as highly competitive candidates for academic and healthcare leadership positions.

• 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

Old Dominion University's Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a transformative 50-credit hybrid MSN experience, strategically designed for nurses seeking advanced pediatric expertise. By emphasizing evidence-based high-risk neonatal management, the curriculum prepares professionals for complex clinical environments. Students develop comprehensive skills through rigorous coursework and practical training, positioning themselves for specialized roles in neonatal intensive care. The program uniquely prepares graduates for the AACN Acute Care Neonatal Exam, enhancing career advancement opportunities. Flexible full and part-time options accommodate working professionals, with admission requiring a 3.0 GPA and active RN licensure.

• 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 track offers a dynamic hybrid MSN program bridging advanced clinical practice and academic leadership. The comprehensive 47-credit curriculum integrates evidence-based interventions, teaching methodologies, and research strategies specifically tailored to adult and geriatric care. Graduates emerge as versatile healthcare professionals equipped to navigate complex clinical and educational landscapes. The program enables certification through ANCC or AACN exams, providing multiple professional pathways. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, baccalaureate nursing degree with 3.0 GPA, and demonstrated 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 program preparing advanced nursing professionals for comprehensive pediatric healthcare. Spanning 53-57 credit hours, the curriculum emphasizes clinical expertise, leadership development, and technological integration across pediatric populations from newborns to young adults. Students engage in hands-on training, clinical practicums, and standardized patient simulation experiences. The program cultivates advanced practice skills in intervention design, implementation, and evaluation. Graduates are positioned for diverse career opportunities in clinical leadership, administration, public health, policy, and research, with potential traineeship grants available.

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

University of Minnesota's Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP program offers an intensive three-year pathway for advanced nursing professionals targeting comprehensive pediatric healthcare expertise. Uniquely designed to cultivate leadership and research skills, students complete 1,000 clinical hours across diverse healthcare environments. The hybrid program emphasizes direct patient care, quality improvement techniques, and specialized pediatric interventions. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, and students benefit from CCNE accreditation, preparing for professional certification. With an affordable $1,100 per credit rate, the program balances rigorous academic training with practical clinical experiences, positioning graduates as innovative pediatric healthcare leaders.

• 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

University of Minnesota's Adult/Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP program provides advanced practice nurses with comprehensive training in managing complex health conditions for adult and elderly populations. Students can personalize their educational journey through subspecialty concentrations including cardiology, critical care, and palliative care. The hybrid format combines intensive campus sessions with extensive clinical training, requiring 1,000 clinical hours. Designed for aspiring healthcare leaders, the program offers professional certification eligibility and focuses on developing sophisticated clinical skills. With a 3.0 GPA admission requirement and competitive $1,100 per credit cost, graduates emerge as specialized practitioners prepared to address intricate adult and gerontological healthcare challenges.

• 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

Indiana University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) program offers an advanced hybrid Master of Science in Nursing track designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized geriatric healthcare expertise. The comprehensive curriculum focuses on developing sophisticated clinical skills for managing complex adult and older adult patient care. Candidates must possess an active RN license with minimum one year of hospital-based adult nursing experience and maintain a 3.0 GPA. This innovative program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and advanced clinical competencies to prepare nurses for transformative roles in adult-gerontology healthcare settings.

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

Indiana University's Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist track delivers an exceptional hybrid Master of Science in Nursing program tailored for advanced practice nurses passionate about pediatric healthcare. The comprehensive curriculum equips students with cutting-edge diagnostic, treatment, and management skills for children across diverse health conditions. Integrating rigorous evidence-based coursework with extensive clinical training, students develop expertise in pediatric care delivery. The flexible program accommodates part-time and full-time enrollment, typically spanning two to three years. Graduates emerge prepared for national certification and prescriptive authority, positioning them for impactful roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community health agencies, and specialized pediatric practices.

• 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

The University of Virginia's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a transformative educational pathway for advanced practice nurses targeting complex acute care environments. Designed with a hybrid learning model, students gain comprehensive skills in diagnostic reasoning, evidence-based interventions, and leadership strategies specifically tailored to adult and geriatric patient populations. The curriculum emphasizes 750 clinical practicum hours with immersive simulation experiences, preparing graduates for advanced certification. With competitive admission standards requiring a 3.0 minimum GPA, the program provides flexible full and part-time enrollment options. Unique strengths include guaranteed admission for UVA alumni, multiple clinical placement opportunities, and a direct pathway to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) completion.

• 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 South Alabama's Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing that transforms experienced nurses into advanced practice specialists. Tailored specifically for Adult Gerontology, this rigorous program encompasses 540 clinical hours across three semesters, providing intensive training in complex patient care strategies. Students develop sophisticated skills in diagnostic reasoning, patient assessment, and systemic healthcare improvement. The curriculum strategically prepares graduates for national APRN certification, emphasizing evidence-based practice and innovative geriatric healthcare interventions. With flexible clinical placements and a strong focus on adult and elderly populations, participants gain transformative clinical expertise.

• 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 represents an advanced educational pathway for nurses seeking comprehensive geriatric healthcare expertise. Spanning 62 credit hours with 360 clinical practice hours, this program integrates academic rigor with practical training. Students engage in evidence-based scholarly projects, preparing for advanced practice certification without a traditional thesis requirement. The curriculum emphasizes patient safety, complex healthcare management, and innovative care strategies for adult and elderly populations. With a seven-year completion window and intensive clinical skills training, graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners capable of driving meaningful healthcare improvements.

• 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

The University of Texas at Austin's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN program offers an immersive two-year curriculum that equips nurses with advanced skills in comprehensive adult and elderly patient care. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the program integrates sophisticated physiological and psychosocial theories with cutting-edge clinical techniques. Students develop expertise in health restoration, promotion, and complex case management, preparing them for diverse healthcare environments. National certification eligibility and advanced practice nurse qualifications are key program outcomes. Applicants must hold an active nursing license, possess a BSN or equivalent, and demonstrate academic excellence with a competitive 3.0 GPA. The program's military-friendly status and on-campus hospital enhance practical learning opportunities.

• 2-year full-time program
• National certification eligibility
• Advanced clinical skill development
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Holistic patient care approach
• Diverse healthcare setting preparation

Rutgers University-Newark's Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN program offers a comprehensive hybrid learning experience integrating advanced nursing practice with cutting-edge healthcare education. Students engage in a rigorous 42-credit curriculum exploring health promotion, acute and chronic disease management through innovative online and on-campus learning modalities. The program strategically prepares nurses for leadership roles, emphasizing clinical decision-making, research skills, and advanced practice competencies. With a focus on preparing graduates for national certification and potential prescriptive privileges, this program provides a robust foundation for those seeking to elevate their nursing expertise and potentially pursue doctoral studies. Admission requires a baccalaureate nursing degree, current New Jersey RN licensure, and a competitive 3.0 GPA.

• Hybrid program format.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration.
• 42 credits required.
• Full or part-time study options.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Focus on health promotion.
• Acute and chronic health problems.
• Requires RN licensure in NJ.
• 3.0 GPA for admission.
• Emphasizes research and leadership.

Hunter College's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program represents an advanced nursing pathway uniquely tailored for professionals seeking specialized geriatric healthcare expertise. Spanning 42 comprehensive credits, the master's curriculum delivers intensive training in complex adult medical-surgical domains, emphasizing evidence-based practice and clinical leadership. Students engage in extensive 500-hour clinical practicum experiences, developing sophisticated assessment and intervention skills across acute and community healthcare environments. The program's flexible evening scheduling accommodates working nurses, enabling seamless professional development. Graduates emerge prepared for specialty certification, equipped with sophisticated competencies in adult-gerontology healthcare delivery, health promotion strategies, and advanced practice nursing interventions.

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

East Carolina University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration offers an innovative master's program designed to transform experienced nurses into advanced practitioners. With flexible full-time and part-time tracks spanning 2-3.5 years, students develop sophisticated clinical expertise in adult and geriatric healthcare. The curriculum emphasizes complex care environments, enabling nurses to become versatile professionals capable of serving as clinicians, educators, and consultants. Uniquely positioned with no entrance exam requirement, graduates gain comprehensive theoretical training and become eligible for national certification, positioning themselves at the forefront of gerontological nursing practice.

• Two completion pathways available
• Full-time: 2 years
• Part-time: 3.5 years
• No entrance exam required
• National certification eligible
• Multiple professional roles
• Advanced theoretical training
• Complex care settings focus
• Nationally approved curriculum

East Carolina University's Post-Master's Certificate in Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist provides a specialized pathway for experienced RNs seeking advanced practice expertise. Tailored for nurses with a master's degree and minimum two years of neonatal experience, this program delivers intensive training in cutting-edge neonatal care techniques. The curriculum integrates research, leadership development, and comprehensive clinical skills across wellness and acute care settings. Students benefit from a nationally approved program that prepares them for multifaceted roles as neonatal clinicians, educators, and healthcare leaders, with a clear trajectory toward national certification in this critical specialty.

• Post-Master's Neonatal CNS Certificate
• Nationally approved curriculum
• Advanced practice nursing preparation
• Requires master's in nursing
• Two years neonatal experience
• Research and theory focused
• Leadership skill development
• Clinical practicum included
• National certification eligible

San Diego State University's Master of Science in Nursing offers a specialized Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults and the Elderly concentration designed to cultivate high-level clinical expertise in gerontological healthcare. Students engage in a rigorous 50-unit curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based practice, focusing on complex health management for aging populations. The program strategically prepares nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists through comprehensive coursework and practical training. Candidates must possess an active RN license and preferably demonstrate two years of acute care experience. Flexible full- and part-time study options accommodate working professionals seeking advanced clinical knowledge in adult and elderly healthcare delivery.

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

College of Staten Island CUNY's Master of Science in Adult-Gerontological Health Nursing - Clinical Nurse Specialist offers a comprehensive program targeting advanced practice nursing in geriatric care. Specifically designed for Adult-Gerontology professionals, the curriculum emphasizes critical skills in complex patient management and health promotion. Students gain expertise in evidence-based interventions tailored to aging populations, learning sophisticated clinical techniques and leadership strategies. The program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, specialized healthcare across diverse medical settings, with a strong focus on understanding and addressing the multifaceted health challenges faced by adult and elderly patients.

• Master's in Adult-Gerontological Nursing
• Clinical Nurse Specialist Concentration
• Advanced Practice Nursing Preparation
• Specialized Gerontological Healthcare Focus
• Evidence-Based Clinical Interventions

The Doctor of Nursing Practice with Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration at College of Staten Island CUNY represents an advanced educational pathway for experienced nursing professionals seeking to elevate their clinical capabilities. This intensive doctoral program cultivates transformative leadership skills, emphasizing evidence-based practice and systemic healthcare improvement. Designed for seasoned clinicians, the curriculum develops sophisticated diagnostic and treatment competencies, enabling graduates to implement innovative patient care strategies. Students will engage in advanced research, strategic healthcare planning, and develop the expertise necessary to drive meaningful change in complex clinical environments.

• DNP with Clinical Nurse Specialist focus
• Advanced nursing leadership training
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Campus-based program
• Targeted for experienced nurses

West Chester University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program stands out as a cutting-edge online MSN track tailored for ambitious nursing professionals. Accredited by CCNE, this comprehensive program equips nurses with advanced skills in adult and geriatric healthcare through flexible full- and part-time learning formats. Students benefit from synchronous and asynchronous course options, enabling seamless career advancement while maintaining professional commitments. The curriculum emphasizes specialized precepted practicum hours, ensuring graduates are prepared for complex clinical roles. With projected 6% job market growth in advanced nursing positions, this program offers strategic professional development for nurses seeking specialized adult-gerontology expertise.

• 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

University of Arkansas's Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health Master's program delivers a cutting-edge online curriculum designed for advanced nursing professionals. Through an intensive 500-hour clinical practicum, students develop sophisticated patient care strategies, medication prescription skills, and leadership capabilities. The program uniquely blends evidence-based practice with comprehensive professional development, preparing nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments. Military-friendly and accessible through a global campus platform, this program empowers nurses to transform adult health interventions and elevate their clinical expertise. Graduates emerge as highly skilled advanced practice nurses ready to make significant contributions to healthcare systems.

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

The University of Pittsburgh's DNP Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a transformative educational journey for advanced practice nurses seeking comprehensive healthcare leadership training. Over three intensive years, students develop sophisticated clinical expertise through a meticulously designed curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice and complex patient care management. With a minimum requirement of 1,000 clinical hours, students gain extensive hands-on experience in world-class healthcare settings. The CCNE-accredited program uniquely prepares graduates to diagnose, implement innovative interventions, and drive strategic healthcare improvements. Adult-Gerontology specialty track and robust APRN core curriculum ensure students are equipped to excel in diverse clinical environments and emerging healthcare challenges.

• 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

Binghamton University offers an Advanced-Standing DNP program specializing in Clinical Nurse Specialist preparation that strategically prepares experienced nurses for advanced healthcare leadership roles. Uniquely designed for master's-prepared RNs, the program emphasizes critical skills in health system management and policy development through a comprehensive 35-38 credit curriculum. Students benefit from flexible online and hybrid learning formats, enabling completion within 2-3 years. The program distinctively focuses on translating research into practice, driving healthcare innovations, and enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration. Rigorous admission standards require a master's degree in nursing, active RN licensure, national certification, and a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA. Graduates emerge as transformative clinical nurse specialists equipped to significantly impact complex medical environments.

• 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

California State University-Los Angeles' Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration provides a transformative educational experience for advanced practice nurses. The hybrid program strategically equips nurses to revolutionize healthcare delivery through comprehensive evidence-based methodologies. Candidates must possess a master's degree in nursing, maintain national certification, and meet a 3.0 GPA requirement. The program emphasizes leadership development, advanced clinical skills, and innovative healthcare strategies. Designed for experienced nursing professionals, this program offers flexible learning with robust academic rigor, preparing graduates to assume critical roles in complex healthcare environments and drive meaningful patient care improvements.

• Hybrid program delivery
• Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• National nursing accreditation
• Active California nursing license
• Full-time program commitment
• Master's degree prerequisite
• National certification required

The University of Colorado's Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program offers a cutting-edge hybrid MSN track designed to equip advanced practice nurses with specialized skills in geriatric and acute care. Students engage in comprehensive training focused on complex patient populations, developing advanced clinical assessment techniques and leadership capabilities. The program emphasizes comprehensive patient care across wellness and acute care settings, preparing graduates to excel in managing healthcare challenges for adult and elderly patients. With national program recognition and a robust clinical training approach, graduates are positioned to obtain critical national certifications and make significant contributions in specialized nursing practice.

• Top 10 national nursing program
• Hybrid learning format
• Comprehensive clinical training
• Specialization in Adult Gerontology
• Advanced clinical assessment skills
• Prepare for national certification
• Focus on complex patient populations