Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Program

100% Online » MSN, Post-Graduate Certificate, & DNP

Adult-Gerontology CNS Program Overview

Kent State's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS) program will prepare you for a unique, multi-faceted role in advanced nursing practice.

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) play an essential role in healthcare. Similar to their Nurse Practitioner (NP) colleagues, many CNSs provide specialized advanced nursing care. However, CNSs also work behind-the-scenes to ensure that patients in their units and across their organizations are receiving the highest quality care.

Every CNSs' responsibilities are unique. When they are not providing care, the CNS may be found advocating for patients and their families, leading interdisciplinary healthcare teams to promote patient and organizational outcomes, teaching and consulting nurses, conducting nursing research, and/or influencing policy both within their organization and across the healthcare system.

As the population in this country grows older, CNSs who have an adult and gerontological population-focus are increasingly called upon for their distinctive expertise in applying evidence-based practice guidelines and addressing skyrocketing health care costs.

In the CNS program, you will develop the necessary competencies to practice as a CNS for patients spanning the entire adult to older-adult spectrum. These include direct care, consultation, systems leadership, collaboration, coaching, research, ethical decision-making, moral agency, and advocacy.

Class and clinical experiences focus on providing advanced nursing care across the health continuum, from wellness to acute care. The Adult-Gerontology CNS program curriculum is verified by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses for the Acute Care CNS–Adult-Gerontological certification.

Why Kent State? We offer you:

  • Expert faculty. You will receive faculty mentorship and advising from nationally certified advanced practice nurses, as well as active researchers with decades of experience.
  • Excellent online courses. Classes in the AGCNS program are held 100% online and delivered by expert nurses via leading edge instructional technology.
  • Maximum flexibility. Choose the path that is best for you – MSN or DNP (or certificate for graduate-degree holding nurses). Start in the fall or spring semester and complete the program full or part-time.
  • Affordability. The Adult-Gerontology CNS program costs only $525 per credit hour, no matter where you live.*
  • Credibility. Kent State’s graduate program is recognized by employers and universities around the world for its excellence.
  • Hands-on learning. You will complete 525 clinical practicum hours with qualified clinical nurse specialist preceptors in your primary state of residence. Each practicum will expose you to the variety of opportunities that you will have after graduation.
  • Top-notch preparation for certification. Graduates of this program meet educational eligibility requirements to sit for ANCC Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC) certification or AACN Acute Care CNS–Adult-Gerontological (ACCNS-AG) certification. In 2018, Kent State graduates across all advanced practice programs attained a 98% average board certification pass rate.

Meet the Faculty

Learn more about the Adult-Gerontology CNS instructors:

Photo of Cindy Wilk

Cindy Wilk
MSN, RN, CNS, CCRN, CNE
Concentration Coordinator

Photo of Tina Saunders

Tina Saunders
MSN, RN, CNE, GCNS-BC
Senior Lecturer

Proudly CCNE Accredited

CCNE Accredited

The MSN, DNP, and Post-graduate APRN certificates at Kent State are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education†. Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Kent State: An NLN Center of Excellence

NLN Center of Excellence Seal

Kent State University is a two-time designated Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (2013-2017, 2017-2022). We are recognized in the "Advancing the Science of Nursing Education" category for our dedication to innovative and evidence-based nursing education.

Program Outcomes

MSN & Post-graduate Certificates

Graduates will be able to:

  • Acquire educational eligibility to meet standards for advanced practice certification or other advanced professional distinction.
  • Acquire competencies based on professional standards to assume advanced roles in nursing, and for leadership and career advancement, including doctoral study.
  • Communicate, integrate and apply advanced nursing knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based, culturally sensitive nursing care and promote quality outcomes in nursing and health care.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Graduates will be able to:

  • Develop systems and strategies to promote health and fiscal outcomes across the healthcare continuum.
  • Provide expert, advanced nursing care to select populations within a variety of settings based on evidence, ethics, theory, professional standards and models of care.
  • Provide leadership and interdisciplinary consultation and collaboration to plan, implement and evaluate programs of care delivery to improve health outcomes.
  • Synthesize and translate evidence for implementation and dissemination to improve healthcare outcomes

* This program is only offered in select states. See the Admissions section for more information.

† The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at Kent State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

Admission to the Adult-Gerontology CNS Program

We invite you to apply if you meet the criteria for the degree in which you are interested:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
  • Bachelor's and/or graduate degree from an accredited registered nursing program1 for unconditional admission
  • Minimum 3.000 undergraduate/graduate GPA on a 4.000 point scale2 for unconditional admission
  • Completion of an undergraduate statistics course with a minimum C grade.
  • Active, unrestricted registered nurse license in the state in which clinical coursework will be completed.
  • Résumé or curriculum vitae.
  • Essay (2-3 pages) describing reasons for seeking the master's degree in the identified specialty and professional goals.
  • Three letters of reference from a health care professional or academic faculty who can speak to the applicant's professional and academic abilities.
  • English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning one of the following:
    • Minimum 560 TOEFL PBT score (paper-based version)
    • Minimum 83 TOEFL IBT score (Internet-based version)
    • Minimum 78 MELAB score
    • Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
    • Minimum 55 PTE score

Admission to the M.S.N. degree is a selective process. In the selection process for applicants, program faculty will consider years of registered nurse experience, professional experience relevant to the specific M.S.N. concentration and evidence of scholarship and involvement in the nursing profession as indicated on the applicant's résumé, along with GPA. Students selected for admission to the nursing program must meet the College of Nursing's Clinical Compliance Policy. For more information about graduate admission, please visit the Graduate Studies website. For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website. 

  1. Applicants with an RN license and a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field will be considered based on faculty review of a portfolio submitted with the application.

  2. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered for conditional admission according to the University's Graduate Student Admission Policy.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Bachelor's degree in nursing1 or master's degree in advanced practice nursing2 that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing for unconditional admission
  • Minimum overall 3.000 GPA on a 4.000 point scale for unconditional admission
  • Completion of an undergraduate- or graduate-level statistics course with a minimum C grade
  • Active, unrestricted registered nurse license in the state in which the student's practica will be completed
  • GRE scores, no more than five years old (Effective spring 2019, GRE scores will only be required for post-Bachelor of Science in Nursing applicants)
  • Résumé or curriculum vitae that demonstrates professional experience in nursing
  • Essay (300 words) describing professional goals and reasons for seeking the professional practice doctorate
  • Three letters of reference from health care professionals or academic faculty who can speak to the applicant's professional and academic abilities
  • Pre-admission interview
  • English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning one of the following:
    • Minimum 560 TOEFL PBT score (paper-based version)
    • Minimum 83 TOEFL IBT score (Internet-based version)
    • Minimum 78 MELAB score
    • Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
    • Minimum 55 PTE score

Students selected for admission to the nursing program must meet the College of Nursing's Clinical Compliance Policy. For more information about graduate admissions, please visit the Graduate Studies admission website. For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website.

  1. Upon admission to the D.N.P. degree, students who hold only a CCNE- or NLNAC-accredited bachelor's degree in nursing will be admitted also to the M.S.N. degree. This will allow students to complete M.S.N. coursework and enroll in some D.N.P. coursework after successfully completing their first two full-time semesters of graduate study. Students must first complete M.S.N. coursework, earn the M.S.N. degree and obtain APRN national certification before they can continue with D.N.P. coursework and earn the D.N.P. degree.

  2. Students with a master's degree must submit proof of current, national certification as an advanced practice registered nurse within their first semester or prior to beginning their practicum hours, whichever comes first.

Post-graduate Certificate
  • Master's degree in nursing or a doctorate in nursing practice from an accredited nursing program
  • Minimum 3.000 graduate GPA on a 4.000 scale
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Active, unrestricted registered nurse license in the state in which practicum hours will be completed
  • Résumé or vita
  • Transcript(s) of all previous graduate coursework1
  • Syllabi of all courses to considered for transfer in the gap analysis
  • Three letters of reference from health care professionals or faculty members
  • English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning one of the following:
    • Minimum 560 TOEFL PBT score (paper-based version)
    • Minimum 83 TOEFL IBT score (Internet-based version)
    • Minimum 78 MELAB score
    • Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
    • Minimum 55 PTE score

Effective for admission in spring 2019 and later, applicants will be required to submit a goal statement (no more than 250 words) describing reasons for seeking the certificate in the identified specialty and professional goals.

For more information about graduate admission, please visit the Graduate Studies website. For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website.

  1. Transcript(s) must indicate completion of graduate-level courses in advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology and advanced health assessment, with a minimum B grade earned in each course. Applicants who do not meet the grade requirement for advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology and advanced health assessment may be considered for a conditional admission. For applicants who have not practiced as an advanced practice registered nurse within the two-year period preceding application to the certificate, completion of graduate-level courses in advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology and advanced health assessment must not be greater than five years old at the time of the student's first semester of course registration in the certificate.

Is the GRE required? Yes for BSN-to-DNP applicants. No for MSN and Post-graduate Certificate applicants.

International applicants: Under most student visas, international applicants are not eligible to complete online-based programs. We strongly encourage international applicants to discuss their eligibility with the Office of Global Education at +1-330-672-7980 or intladm@kent.edu prior to applying.

Apply Now

Priority Application Deadlines
Fall 2020: March 1, 2020
Spring 2021: October 1, 2020

Materials to Submit with Application

Applicants should upload all required documents in your application portal:

  • Transcripts
    Copies of official transcripts (front and back) are required at the time of application from all universities where 8 or more credit hours were earned. Admitted students are required to submit official transcripts after they have accepted an offer of admission.
  • Admission Essay
    • MSN: A two to three-page admission essay describing reasons for seeking the master's degree in the identified specialty and professional goals.
    • DNP: A 300-word essay describing professional goals and reasons for seeking the professional practice doctorate.
    • Certificate: A goal statement (no more than 250 words) describing reasons for seeking the certificate in the identified specialty and professional goals.
  • A resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Proof of RN licensure.
    1. Search for your license on NURSYS.com Quick Confirm License Verification. Find and review the information to ensure that it is you.
    2. Click on “View Report”
    3. Click on "Download Report"
    4. Upload the document to your application portal.
    If your state does not participate in NURSYS, please contact your state’s Board of Nursing to send licensure verification to Kent State University.
  • References
    Three letters of reference from health care professionals or academic faculty who can speak to the applicant's professional and academic abilities
  • GRE (only BSN-to-DNP applicants)
    Scores will only be accepted when sent directly from the test provider to the Division of Graduate Studies as an official test report. Scores reported by applicants will not be accepted.
    Kent State University's GRE code is 1367.
  • Portfolio (for MSN applicants without a BSN)
    If you are an RN with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, you will be considered based on a review of a portfolio submitted with the application. Please contact the Office of Student Services for additional information prior to applying.
    Download Portfolio Requirements (PDF)

Approved States for Online Learning

Kent State University is authorized to offer the Adult-Gerontology CNS program in the following states:*

* In order to be compliant with federal and state laws related to online education and consumer protection, as well as State professional licensure/certification regulations, Kent State University may not be able to offer online programs to students residing in certain states. In addition, some state laws may impose limitations that could affect a program of study, including inability to offer clinical practicum courses. Since these regulations undergo continuous updates (1) non-Ohio residents interested in pursuing any College of Nursing online program are advised to consult with their State licensing/certification agency and official Kent State information on state authorization before applying to this program (2) any student that is planning to move or practice in a different state after having been admitted to either the RN BSN, MSN or DNP programs must immediately inform the Office of Student Services at 330-672-7911 to determine whether or not he/she can continue in the program.

** MSN and Certificate programs only.

Required Courses

Courses are 100% online – students are never required to come to campus.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) [37 credit hours]

Year 1

Fall - Semester 1

This course will be used to study concepts and theories common to all specialty areas of nursing. It provides a firm basis for advanced clinical nursing practice. Progress in theory development for nursing practice is addressed.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Provides graduate nursing students with a theoretic foundation of human physiology and the phenomena that produce alterations or pathology in human physiologic function; and an understanding of the basis of disease processes across the lifespan.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing in nursing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Advanced Health Assessment comprises foundational skills including the comprehensive history, physical and psychological assessment of the patient. Students apply the diagnostic reasoning process to develop a comprehensive plan of care for patients in a variety of settings.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60045.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 2

(Slashed with NURS 80441) A survey course addressing the fundamental principles of medication prescribing and administration necessary for nurses in advanced practice. Course addresses pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacotherapeutics.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Prepares the student in the selection, use and interpretation of laboratory and other diagnostic tests for screening, examination, and therapeutics in the care of ambulatory adults. The course examines comprehensive laboratory and diagnostic techniques and guides the student in safe and appropriate application. The student is be able to use their understanding of complex clinical situations to build specialty nursing knowledge. Throughout this course the student is guided in the demonstration of sound clinical judgment in diagnostic testing for patient assessment and evaluation using case management problems.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60015 and NURS 60045.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
(Slashed with NURS 80110) Introduction to the clinical nurse specialist role with adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions. The focus is on developing a foundation for evidence-based, patient-centered advanced nursing care, including teaching, coaching and identification and management of symptoms, functional problems and risk behaviors. The scientific and theoretical basis for interventions to achieve clinical outcomes in health promotion and illness care for adults and older persons across the care continuum are explored. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 61192 for clinical application. Pre/ Corequisite: NURS 61192.
Prerequisite: NURS 60015; and graduate standing in adult gerontology clinical nurse specialist (AGCN) concentration or adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist (C844) certificate.
Corequisite: NURS 60441 and NURS 60506.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Clinical practicum of 150 hours with application of principles of clinical nurse specialist practice introduced in NURS 60110. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60110.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Year 2

Fall - Semester 3

Application and further development of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) role introduced in NURS 60110, with continued emphasis on direct care competencies for adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions in a variety of settings. Evaluation of care outcomes including quality and safety are examined. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 62192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60403.
Corequisite: NURS 62192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Application of principles of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) practice introduced in NURS 60210. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 225 hours of practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60210.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 15 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
(Cross-listed with NURS 80403) Surveys types of research designs and methods that produce evidence contributing to positive patient outcomes. For each design the student learns essential elements, appropriate use and the criteria for rigor within the context of patient outcomes.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 4

Development of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) competencies in the organizational sphere of influence, including analysis of health promotion and care delivery models and their impact on patient health and organizational outcomes. CNS leadership competencies involving consultation, mentoring, coaching, role modeling and education with the interdisciplinary health care team are developed. Strategies for developing and evaluating programs of care based on analysis of professional standards, clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness are addressed. This course is taken concurrently with NURS63192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192.
Corequisite: NURS 63192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Acquires CNS systems and leadership competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 150 hours of clinical practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60310.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course focuses on cost, quality and access as fundamental concepts of health policy. Students will analyze historical and current policy initiatives that influence health care funding and delivery and consider the role of government, organizations, the discipline of nursing, health care leaders, and individuals in setting health policy. The impact of policies on nursing practice, health care delivery, and quality of life for citizens will be explored. Students will examine the concept and practice of advocacy from a nursing perspective.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course focuses on the role of informatics in advanced nursing practice through examination and application of theories, trends, and policies for generation, storage, retrieval, and analysis of health information. The use of information structures, processes, and technology to support clinical decision-making to achieve patient and healthcare outcomes is examined.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) [71 credit hours]

Year 1

Fall - Semester 1

This course will be used to study concepts and theories common to all specialty areas of nursing. It provides a firm basis for advanced clinical nursing practice. Progress in theory development for nursing practice is addressed.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Provides graduate nursing students with a theoretic foundation of human physiology and the phenomena that produce alterations or pathology in human physiologic function; and an understanding of the basis of disease processes across the lifespan.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing in nursing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Advanced Health Assessment comprises foundational skills including the comprehensive history, physical and psychological assessment of the patient. Students apply the diagnostic reasoning process to develop a comprehensive plan of care for patients in a variety of settings.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60045.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 2

(Slashed with NURS 80441) A survey course addressing the fundamental principles of medication prescribing and administration necessary for nurses in advanced practice. Course addresses pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacotherapeutics.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Prepares the student in the selection, use and interpretation of laboratory and other diagnostic tests for screening, examination, and therapeutics in the care of ambulatory adults. The course examines comprehensive laboratory and diagnostic techniques and guides the student in safe and appropriate application. The student is be able to use their understanding of complex clinical situations to build specialty nursing knowledge. Throughout this course the student is guided in the demonstration of sound clinical judgment in diagnostic testing for patient assessment and evaluation using case management problems.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60015 and NURS 60045.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
(Slashed with NURS 80110) Introduction to the clinical nurse specialist role with adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions. The focus is on developing a foundation for evidence-based, patient-centered advanced nursing care, including teaching, coaching and identification and management of symptoms, functional problems and risk behaviors. The scientific and theoretical basis for interventions to achieve clinical outcomes in health promotion and illness care for adults and older persons across the care continuum are explored. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 61192 for clinical application. Pre/ Corequisite: NURS 61192.
Prerequisite: NURS 60015; and graduate standing in adult gerontology clinical nurse specialist (AGCN) concentration or adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist (C844) certificate.
Corequisite: NURS 60441 and NURS 60506.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Clinical practicum of 150 hours with application of principles of clinical nurse specialist practice introduced in NURS 60110. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60110.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Summer - Semester 3

(Slashed with HI 60411) The use of well-defined and well integrated clinical analytics throughout the healthcare value chain can be transformative. Through careful implementation of health analytics, hospitals can transform unwieldy amalgamations of data into information that can: Improve patient outcomes, increase safety, enhance operational efficiency and support public health. Given the immense size of the data challenge, the distinctness and geographic spread of many healthcare-related activities, and the fact that so many healthcare activities are conducted by different entities which must interact with each other, there is really no other way to provide operations management tools necessary to deliver personalized medicine and to control spiraling costs. Since clinical analytics is an immature discipline, we carefully examine the practices of those institutions who are standard setters in the industry.
Prerequisite: HI 80401; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Year 2

Fall - Semester 4

Application and further development of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) role introduced in NURS 60110, with continued emphasis on direct care competencies for adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions in a variety of settings. Evaluation of care outcomes including quality and safety are examined. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 62192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60403.
Corequisite: NURS 62192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Application of principles of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) practice introduced in NURS 60210. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 225 hours of practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60210.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 15 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
(Cross-listed with NURS 80403) Surveys types of research designs and methods that produce evidence contributing to positive patient outcomes. For each design the student learns essential elements, appropriate use and the criteria for rigor within the context of patient outcomes.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Students will explore care delivery models and strategies for health promotion and disease prevention in individuals, aggregates and populations. Gaps in care and healthcare access will be explored, including social, cultural, economic, and policy and political barriers. The role of genomics in healthcare delivery of populations will be discussed. Students will develop skills to design and evaluate health promotion and disease prevention programs.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 5

Development of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) competencies in the organizational sphere of influence, including analysis of health promotion and care delivery models and their impact on patient health and organizational outcomes. CNS leadership competencies involving consultation, mentoring, coaching, role modeling and education with the interdisciplinary health care team are developed. Strategies for developing and evaluating programs of care based on analysis of professional standards, clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness are addressed. This course is taken concurrently with NURS63192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192.
Corequisite: NURS 63192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Acquires CNS systems and leadership competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 150 hours of clinical practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60310.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course focuses on cost, quality and access as fundamental concepts of health policy. Students will analyze historical and current policy initiatives that influence health care funding and delivery and consider the role of government, organizations, the discipline of nursing, health care leaders, and individuals in setting health policy. The impact of policies on nursing practice, health care delivery, and quality of life for citizens will be explored. Students will examine the concept and practice of advocacy from a nursing perspective.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course focuses on the role of informatics in advanced nursing practice through examination and application of theories, trends, and policies for generation, storage, retrieval, and analysis of health information. The use of information structures, processes, and technology to support clinical decision-making to achieve patient and healthcare outcomes is examined.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Advanced competencies of the doctoral-prepared advanced practice nurse for transformational leadership in healthcare to improve patient and population health outcomes are addressed. Five key leadership competencies including creating and leading change; self-knowledge; strategic vision; interpersonal communication; and organizational effectiveness are presented with examples and case studies. Transcending themes of ethics, research, interprofessional collaboration, creativity, and insuring accountability are addressed throughout the course. Students conduct a self-assessment, and develop and implement individualized action plans for advanced competency in interprofessional healthcare leadership.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Summer - Semester 6

MSN is awarded. You must pass your national APRN certification exam before you can continue in the DNP program.

Year 3

Fall - Semester 7

This course is an introduction and overview of the DNP degree as the foundation for translational science in healthcare organizations. DNP Essentials and the associated competencies will be explored (i.e., DNP scholarly inquiry, interdisciplinary collaboration, systems thinking, and organizational leadership). The structure and function of the DNP committee and the requirements for the final scholarly project will be discussed. A complete and thorough literature review to support the DNP Scholarly Project will be a requirement. A Committee Chair will be assigned. The role of the academic advisor and committee chairperson will be explained.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The focus of this course is to provide instruction regarding concepts related to statistical methods and their application in evidence-based practice. Essentials of research methods in evidence-based practice will also be covered. Students will learn to critically analyze and synthesize research findings.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 8

This course will be repeated beginning the second semester of enrollment until the completion of the scholarly project. The student will design a scholarly project, complete the project proposal defense, successfully obtain IRB approval if needed, implement the scholarly project and successfully defend the completed scholarly project. A minimum of 7 credit hours of this course, which equals 525 practicum hours, are required for these scholarly project activities. The Project Chair will be responsible for the oversight of these activities.
Prerequisite: NURS 70630 and NURS 70620; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 5-10 other
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory-IP
Focus of course is on the concepts, models, and methods for implementation of evidence-based nursing practice at both individual clinician and system levels. Students will learn to design, implement and evaluate processes and programs at the practice and organizational level to improve healthcare outcomes. Leadership attributes necessary to lead change in practice will be discussed. Factors that facilitate and impede implementing and sustaining evidence-based practice are considered.
Prerequisite: NURS 70630; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Summer - Semester 9

This course will be repeated beginning the second semester of enrollment until the completion of the scholarly project. The student will design a scholarly project, complete the project proposal defense, successfully obtain IRB approval if needed, implement the scholarly project and successfully defend the completed scholarly project. A minimum of 7 credit hours of this course, which equals 525 practicum hours, are required for these scholarly project activities. The Project Chair will be responsible for the oversight of these activities.
Prerequisite: NURS 70630 and NURS 70620; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 5-10 other
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory-IP
Building on the skills in Advanced Leadership for Healthcare Providers, students will gain an understanding of organizational culture and management structures that contribute to the design and delivery of healthcare. Economic, political and cultural aspects of organizational systems will be discussed.
Prerequisite: NURS 70640; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Year 4

Fall - Semester 10

This course will be repeated beginning the second semester of enrollment until the completion of the scholarly project. The student will design a scholarly project, complete the project proposal defense, successfully obtain IRB approval if needed, implement the scholarly project and successfully defend the completed scholarly project. A minimum of 7 credit hours of this course, which equals 525 practicum hours, are required for these scholarly project activities. The Project Chair will be responsible for the oversight of these activities.
Prerequisite: NURS 70630 and NURS 70620; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 5-10 other
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory-IP
Focus on the design, implementation and evaluation of quality and patient safety initiatives to improve healthcare delivery at the individual patient and system levels. Data necessary to support quality initiatives will be considered as well as policy, legal and ethical implications.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Fall - Semester 11

This course will be repeated beginning the second semester of enrollment until the completion of the scholarly project. The student will design a scholarly project, complete the project proposal defense, successfully obtain IRB approval if needed, implement the scholarly project and successfully defend the completed scholarly project. A minimum of 7 credit hours of this course, which equals 525 practicum hours, are required for these scholarly project activities. The Project Chair will be responsible for the oversight of these activities.
Prerequisite: NURS 70630 and NURS 70620; and doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 5-10 other
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory-IP
Students will gain an understanding of healthcare finance, economics and policy on healthcare delivery systems. The impact of current healthcare laws-policies (Affordable Care Act, HCAHPS, and other care delivery and reimbursement strategies) will be discussed. The DNP prepared nurses' role in patient advocacy and policy development will be discussed. Student will gain an understanding of cost-benefit analyses and creating budgets to support the design, implementation and sustainability of healthcare delivery initiatives.
Prerequisite: Doctoral standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Post-Graduate Certificate [19 credit hours]

Year 1

Spring - Semester 1

(Slashed with NURS 80110) Introduction to the clinical nurse specialist role with adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions. The focus is on developing a foundation for evidence-based, patient-centered advanced nursing care, including teaching, coaching and identification and management of symptoms, functional problems and risk behaviors. The scientific and theoretical basis for interventions to achieve clinical outcomes in health promotion and illness care for adults and older persons across the care continuum are explored. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 61192 for clinical application. Pre/ Corequisite: NURS 61192.
Prerequisite: NURS 60015; and graduate standing in adult gerontology clinical nurse specialist (AGCN) concentration or adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist (C844) certificate.
Corequisite: NURS 60441 and NURS 60506.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Clinical practicum of 150 hours with application of principles of clinical nurse specialist practice introduced in NURS 60110. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60110.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Prepares the student in the selection, use and interpretation of laboratory and other diagnostic tests for screening, examination, and therapeutics in the care of ambulatory adults. The course examines comprehensive laboratory and diagnostic techniques and guides the student in safe and appropriate application. The student is be able to use their understanding of complex clinical situations to build specialty nursing knowledge. Throughout this course the student is guided in the demonstration of sound clinical judgment in diagnostic testing for patient assessment and evaluation using case management problems.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60015 and NURS 60045.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Year 2

Fall - Semester 2

Application and further development of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) role introduced in NURS 60110, with continued emphasis on direct care competencies for adults and older adults experiencing common health and illness conditions in a variety of settings. Evaluation of care outcomes including quality and safety are examined. This course is taken concurrently with NURS 62192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Pre/corequisite: NURS 60403.
Corequisite: NURS 62192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Application of principles of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) practice introduced in NURS 60210. The student acquires direct care CNS competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 225 hours of practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60110 and NURS 61192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60210.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 15 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Spring - Semester 4

Development of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) competencies in the organizational sphere of influence, including analysis of health promotion and care delivery models and their impact on patient health and organizational outcomes. CNS leadership competencies involving consultation, mentoring, coaching, role modeling and education with the interdisciplinary health care team are developed. Strategies for developing and evaluating programs of care based on analysis of professional standards, clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness are addressed. This course is taken concurrently with NURS63192 for clinical application.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192.
Corequisite: NURS 63192.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Contact Hours: 3 lecture
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Acquires CNS systems and leadership competencies in specialty practice with adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings in consultation with faculty and a clinical preceptor. 150 hours of clinical practicum.
Prerequisite: NURS 60210 and NURS 62192; and graduate standing.
Corequisite: NURS 60310.
Schedule Type: Practicum or Internship
Contact Hours: 10 other
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Summary of Program Requirements

Program Minimum Credit Hours Practicum Hours Timeframe to Complete
MSN 37 credit hours 525 practicum hours 2-3.5 years
DNP 71 credit hours 1,050 practicum hours 3.5-6 years
Certificate 19 credit hours 525 practicum hours 1-2 years

Tuition & Aid

A top-tier education at an affordable price.

As a public institution, we see it as our duty to offer the highest-quality education at a cost that is within the reach of students from all backgrounds.

Tuition & Costs at a Glance

Program Residential Status Cost per Credit Hour Distance Learning Fee Out-of-State Surcharge Total Hours Estimated Cost
MSN Ohio Resident $525 $12 per hour N/A 37 $19,869
Non-Ohio Resident $10 per hour $20,239
DNP Ohio Resident $525 $12 per hour N/A 71 $38,127
Non-Ohio Resident $10 per hour $38,837
Certificate Ohio Resident $525 $12 per hour N/A 19 $10,203
Non-Ohio Resident $10 per hour $10,393

Costs are as of the 2019-2020 academic year. Totals are estimates and do not include books, practicum fees, or other incidental fees. Rates are subject to change at any time by the Board of Trustees. For more information about Kent State's tuition and fees, see the university fee register.

Financial Aid

At Kent State University, we try to make the financial aid process as simple as possible. Our financial aid services and scholarship programs help a wide range of students make their goals affordable. Financial aid options for Adult Gerontology CNS students include:

  • Tuition Reimbursement: Many employers will pay some or all of the cost of a graduate degree program. Talk with your human resources department to find out if you qualify.
  • Scholarships: Kent State University, the College of Nursing, and many nursing and health care organizations provide scholarship support for nursing students. See our Financial Aid & Scholarships page for more information.
  • Federal Loans and Grants: You may be eligible for federal and/or private loans and federal/state grants. Contact the One Stop for Student Services at 330-672-6000 for more information.

Payment Options

  • Tuition can be paid online using a credit card or check, by mail with a check, or in-person with a check.
  • Monthly payment plan options are available.* Tuition can be spread out over 3, 4, or 5 monthly payments.
  • Students who are receiving tuition reimbursement through their employer can apply to defer tuition payment to after the semester ends.*

* Fall and spring semester only

Online Learning at Kent State

E-learning is unparalleled at Kent State University.

A laptop sitting on a desk near a bookshelf with the Kent State University logo overlayed on the screenKent State online students have access to the same resources as on-campus students, without ever stepping foot on campus. From applying to the program to applying for graduation, Kent State provides the tools to complete these tasks online.

Although there are no on-campus requirements, online students are more than welcome to visit our campus in Kent, Ohio (or take a virtual tour online). You will be invited to various events throughout your time at Kent State, including our pinning (Convocation) and graduation (Commencement) ceremonies.

Some of the benefits to earning your graduate degree online from Kent State include:

  • Courses developed by expert faculty and delivered via Blackboard Learn, the industry-leading learning management system (LMS).
  • Small class sizes and individualized attention from nurse educators with decades of practical experience.
  • Innovative learning activities tailored to the online environment.
  • 24/7 technical support through Kent State’s TechHelp.
  • Tests and exams proctored virtually – no need to go to a testing center.
  • FlashLine, the university’s centralized portal system, will allow you to schedule classes, track your degree progress, schedule advising appointments, pay your tuition, and more right from your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are both Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Many people – including nurses – do not understand the differences between these roles. This confusion may be in part due to the similarities between CNSs and NPs; by comparison, the functions of the other two APRN roles, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives, are more obvious.

Despite the seeming similarities between CNSs and NPs, each role is unique in its approach to practice, specialization, and patient care philosophy.

 

CNS

NP

Specialization

May specialize and subspecialize in many combinations of populations, settings, diseases or medical subspecialties, types of care, and types of problem.

For example, all Adult-Gerontology CNSs specialize in the adult-gerontological population, but some CNSs also specialize in critical care (setting) and cardiology (medical subspeciality) while some other CNSs specialize in primary care (setting) and pain (type of problem).

Typically specialize in one of three ways:

  • Primary care for a population (family, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, or women)
  • Acute care for a population (adult-gerontology or pediatrics)
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health care for the family population

Some NPs also get certified in subspecialities, such as Emergency NP certification (for Family NPs) or Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse certification.

Approach to Patient Care

A CNSs approach to patient care is both direct and indirect. They work within the three spheres of influence to ensure the highest quality of care:

  • Patients
    CNSs provide direct specialized care to patients and assist other nurses with direct patient care.
  • Nurses and Nursing Practice
    CNSs are go-to experts for other nurses in the practice area and serve as teachers and mentors, which raises the standards of patient care.
  • Organization and System
    CNSs work make improvements within their organizations, such as implementing new evidence-based practice guidelines.

NPs provide direct patient care. Their approach to care is holistic, focusing on not only treating and preventing disease, but also promoting overall wellbeing in the patient through means such as health counseling.

Typical Practice Environment(s)

While you will find CNS practicing in a wide variety of environments, the majority practice in acute care settings.

Additionally, a large minority of CNSs (10%) are primarily employed in academic settings.

Nearly 3/4 of NPs practice in primary care settings. Most of the remainder practice in either acute care, psychiatric care, or long-term care settings.

Prescriptive Authority

In a majority of states, including Ohio.

In all 50 states

Median Pay

$109,518, according to Indeed.com (as of Mar. 24, 2020)

$107,030, as of 2018 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Is your CNS program online? Which courses are online?

The Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist program is 100% online. Every course is delivered online using the latest distance learning technology.

Will I have to come to campus?

No. Kent State does not require online students to come to campus for orientation, intensives, etc. However, you will need to complete your clinical practicums with preceptors in-person at a location near you.

I do not live in Ohio. Can I complete the Adult-Gerontology CNS program in my state?

Kent State University is authorized to offer the Adult-Gerontology CNS programs in the following states*:

* In order to be compliant with federal and state laws related to online education and consumer protection, as well as State professional licensure/certification regulations, Kent State University may not be able offer online programs to students residing in certain states. In addition, some state laws may impose limitations that could affect a program of study, including inability to offer clinical practicum courses. Since these regulations undergo continuous updates (1) non-Ohio residents interested in pursuing any College of Nursing online program are advised to consult with their State licensing/certification agency and official Kent State information on state authorization before applying to this program (2) any student that is planning to move or practice in a different state after having been admitted to either the RN BSN, MSN or DNP programs must immediately inform the Office of Student Services at 330-672-7911 to determine whether or not he/she can continue in the program.

** MSN and Certificate programs only.

Will I complete my practicum courses where I live?

Yes, you will be completing your practicum courses in the state in which you reside and in which you have a valid RN license.

Will I need to find my own preceptors?

Yes, it is primarily the student's responsibility to locate a preceptor. However, your concentration coordinator and faculty will work closely with you to help you secure a preceptor.

Can I complete the degree part time? Can I work and go to school at the same time?

Yes. In fact, many students attend part-time (4-6 hours) and also work.

However, your concentration may require at least one full-time semester (8 or more hours). Also, intent for full-time study will be considered in the selection process for applicants who meet all admission criteria.

Is work experience as an RN required?

No. However, years of registered nurse experience, professional experience relevant to the specific concentration and evidence of scholarship and involvement in the nursing profession as indicated on the applicant's resume, along with GPA and intent for full-time study, will be considered in the selection process for applicants who meet all admission criteria.

Do I need to take the GRE for admission?

No for the MSN and Post-graduate Certificate programs. Yes for the BSN-to-DNP program.

Scores will only be accepted when sent directly from the test provider to the Division of Graduate Studies as an official test report. Scores reported by applicants will not be accepted.

Kent State University's GRE code is 1367.

Will I be required to attend online lectures at a specific time, or can I complete the course on my own schedule?

Most online courses are asynchronous, meaning that you are not required to log in at a certain time. Some courses are synchronous and may require weekly or monthly scheduled online course meetings.

Request Information

Graduate Information

Apply Now

Phone: 330-672-2661
Toll Free: 855-277-6952
Fax: 330-672-6262
www.kent.edu/graduatestudies
Domestic Email: gradapps@kent.edu
International: www.kent.edu/admissions/international
intladm@kent.edu

For information on all of Kent State’s degrees and majors, go online to www.kent.edu/gps

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