Advanced Practice Registered Nurse DNP

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Adult - Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG CNS)

APRN DNP Overview

Program Objectives

Admission Requirements

Application Procedures

The Adult–Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG CNS) prepares advanced practice nurses to promote, restore, and maintain health for adults and older adults. This program emphasizes both health restoration and health promotion, while building expertise in case management and clinical leadership. Faculty assist students to customize learning experiences, offering practicum placements in both hospital and community settings. Practicum courses provide opportunities to test innovative approaches and develop advanced clinical skills.

AG CNS Focus

Students in this speciality explore the physiological and psychosocial foundations of care for adult and geriatric populations. Key areas of emphasis include:

  • Holistic, person-centered care
  • Family and environmental influences on health
  • Conceptual and critical thinking
  • Independent nursing interventions
  • Research and evidence-based practice

Certification & Licensure

  • Graduates are eligible to take the national certification examination offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for recognition as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.
  • The curriculum also includes coursework required by the Texas Board of Nurse Examiners (TxBON) to be qualified as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Additional requirements and experience for APRN status are available from the TxBON.

Degree Plans & Resources

Plan your degree path and monitor your academic progress using the tools below:

DNP Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Program of Work (PDF)

DNP Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Schedule (PDF)

Visit the NACNS CNS Institute to explore the role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist.