The Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Gerontology (CNS-AG) Post Graduate Certificate is designed for MSN-prepared nursing professionals seeking to foster skills that enhance their ability to advance the care of middle-aged and older adult patients. The CNS-AG Post Graduate Certificate curriculum is built upon the three spheres of impact (Patient, Nurse, System) model for CNS practice with courses in advanced pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, advanced pharmacology, differential diagnosis, adult-gerontology concepts, and advanced clinical practice preparing graduates as expert practitioners who work with the middle-aged and older adult population. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist-Board Certified (AGCNS-BC) exam.
Applicants must provide the following:
a. Evidence of an MSN or DNP degree from a nursing program accredited by a national nursing accreditation body.
b. Provide evidence of a baccalaureate or more advanced degree from a nursing program accredited by a national nursing accreditation body with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for regular admission status. The cumulative grade point average is computed on the highest degree held at the time of application to the Edgewood College graduate program.
c. Complete and submit graduate application to Graduate and Professional Studies Admissions.
d. Request that official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate academic credits received from any post-secondary institutions be sent directly to Graduate and Professional Studies Admissions.
e. Provide two letters of recommendation from nursing supervisors, and/or colleagues who can focus on the candidate’s probability of success in graduate school.
f. Submit a written statement, no more than 500 words, addressing your ambition to be admitted specifically into Edgewood College’s MSN program. Please also comment on your past educational and professional experiences that will foster your growth and success in this program.
g. Currently hold a license as a registered professional nurse.
h. Prior to beginning the MSN program’s practicum requirements, students will be required to complete a health form, criminal background check, and proof of a current RN license from the state/country in which they plan to complete their practicum.
Program Notes:
Substitutions and waivers are determined by the Assistant Dean of Advanced Practice Graduate Nursing Programs or their designee. A full transcript and syllabi review of all prior courses will be required. APRN Core Courses (advanced pathology, advanced physical assessment, and advanced pharmacology) must have been taken separately and have delineated titles that are within the population or role focus.
Students cannot receive more than one C in the certificate program or they will be placed on probation. A student will be dismissed if he/she does not achieve a 3.0 in the next term following probation status.
