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Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

An education with a focus on AGPCNP helps you develop versatile skills that allows you to pursue work with adults of all ages, from young adults to geriatric patients.

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10 Weeks

10-week terms allow for start dates throughout the year

39 Months

Earn your BSN in as few as 39 months at the Accelerated program pace

5 Locations

Miami, Texas, LA, Orange County, & Ontario

Online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) Track

<p>Work as a primary care nurse practitioner with a diverse array of doctors and patients</p>

Work as a primary care nurse practitioner with a diverse array of doctors and patients

<p>Train in telehealth, special populations, and new trends in healthcare</p>

Train in telehealth, special populations, and new trends in healthcare

<p>Multiple starts throughout the year, flexible online classes including mobile-accessible learning, and accelerated and working profession program pacing options</p>

Multiple starts throughout the year, flexible online classes including mobile-accessible learning, and accelerated and working profession program pacing options

<p>Competitive tuition with financial aid options for those who qualify</p>

Competitive tuition with financial aid options for those who qualify

Why an AGPCNP Degree?

Why an AGPCNP Degree?

The primary care field of nursing and healthcare requires versatility in treatment, and an ability to adapt your care decisions for patients ranging from mid-adolescence to those of geriatric age. Primary caregivers are often what stands between a patient and the potential need for acute care. Their work also requires trust over time. At WCU, our track is set up to learn both care and communication.

In addition to online coursework as well as clinical experience on the ground, your West Coast University education will include a forward-thinking approach that anticipates new technologies and practices that will provide a future-focused approach to your education and practice.

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  • Flexible online and campus programs
  • 58,000 alumni across the globe
  • Experienced faculty and staff

Overview: Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Program Details

At WCU, you can choose a program pace that works for your schedule. Whether you want to go full-speed in your studies or complete your program at a slower pace to balance school with your other responsibilities, we have an option for you.

Here are the available paces for the BSN program:

Accelerated Pace

  • On-Campus
  • 120 Credits
  • 39 Months
  • 8 Semesters

Evening & Weekend Pace*

  • On-Campus
  • 120 Credits
  • 44 Months
  • 9 Semesters

Working Professional Pace*

  • On-Campus
  • 120 Credits
  • 54 Months
  • 11 Semesters

*Only available at the Miami campus

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program Track

A WCU AGPCNP education prepares you to provide primary care to adults of all ages. WCU offers multiple degrees with an AGPCNP track.

Additional Information About our Online AGPCNP Degree

THE AGPCNP EXPERIENCE

We believe in end-to-end support. Throughout our Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner tracks, you will:

  • Learn to provide primary care for adults of all ages, from younger adults to geriatric patients
  • Engage with faculty members who are experienced nursing professionals, active in relevant clinical practice, and nationally board-certified
  • Get hands-on practice through on-site intensives at a WCU campus*
  • Gain experience online and through clinical placements
  • Be matched with a AGPCNP faculty mentor
  • Be eligible to sit for the national board certification upon completing the program
  • Receive 24-hour access to library and courses
  • Receive help obtaining your transcripts and any eligible transferable credits

* Students enrolled through the Orange County campus must complete their OSI’s in California. Students enrolled through the Texas campus must complete them in Texas. Travel costs are not included in tuition and fees, and students are responsible for arranging transportation.

AGPCNP Curriculum

Our curricula are aligned with the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). Here’s a preview of the number of credits needed, and the number of months your degree will take (depending on whether you choose the accelerated or working professional pace). We recommend reviewing your prospective curriculum in detail, so you know what to expect.

RN-MSN AGPCNP

MSN AGPCNP

Post-Master’s AGPCNP

Academic Calendar

New academic sessions begin, on average, and depending on programs, every eight weeks. You can review and consider an up-to-date start-to-completion schedule by degree.

View Calendar

How Much Does The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track Cost?

We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track costs at West Coast University.

We offer several Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track financial aid options – including scholarships, grants, and loan access – to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses.

For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track

Tuition and Fees

Accelerated*

Degree Type

Master of Science (Effective prior to Summer 2 2025)

Master of Science (Effective Summer 2 2025) 
Total Program Credits 1541  1541  
Program Length(full time) 6 trimesters  6 trimesters 
BSN Core (per credit x 15 credits  $495 $495 
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits; 12 credits effective Fall I 2024) $680  $700 
APRN Core(per credit x 31 credits; 37 credits effective Fall I 2024) $785  $810  
Total Tuition Cost $44,630  $45,795  
STRF2 $0  $0 
Technology Fee3 $3,000 $3,000 
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 $2,300  $2,300 
Program Fee (Clinical)5 $3,300  $3,300 
Estimate Total Program Costs (Texas) $53,230  $54,395  
Estimate Total Program Costs (California) $53,230  $54,395  

Working Professional*

Degree Type

Master of Science (Effective prior to Summer 2 2025)

Master of Science (Effective Summer 2 2025) 
Total Program Credits 1541  1541 
Program Length(full time) 11 trimesters  11 trimesters
BSN Core (per credit x 15 credits)
$495  $495 
RN to MSN Core(per credit x 33 credits; 12 credits effective Fall I 2024) $680  $700 
APRN Core(per credit x 31 credits; 37 credits effective Fall I 2024) $785  $810  
Total Tuition Cost $44,630  $45,795  
STRF2  $0 $0 
Technology Fee3 $5,500  $5,500 
Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees4 $2,300  $2,300
Program Fee (Clinical)5 $3,300  $3,300 
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) $55,730  $56,895  
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) $55,730  $56,895  

 

Indirect Costs

8 Month Academic Year6    
  Prior to Fall I 2024  Starting Fall I 2024 
with parents off campus with parents  off campus 
Federal Student Loan Fee  $220  $220  $220  $220 
Living Expenses (Food & Housing) $2,384 $7,936 $2,496  $8,328 
Transportation $1,648 $1,648 $1,728  $1,728 
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $5,392 $5,392 $5,656  $5,656 
Total $9,644 $15,196 $10,100  $15,932 

* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course a term.

1 Includes 42 credits for unobstructed RN License, assumes 48 transfer credits for non-nursing courses, and the remaining 64 credits are required to be taken at WCU.

2 As of April 1, 2024, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be zero hundred and zero cents ($0.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

4 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and APRN predictor exams for APRN students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.  

5 Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.  

6 The purpose of the Cost of Attendance (COA) is to provide students and families with an estimated cost to attend West Coast University. The COA includes both direct and indirect cost estimates. Direct costs are paid directly to West Coast University and are shown separately for each program. Indirect costs are not paid to West Coast University and are estimates students may use to budget expenses they may incur while attending school. While actual indirect costs may vary, West Coast University estimates these amounts based on the number of months in an academic year and whether students will live with parents or off campus.

Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track

Tuition and Fees

Accelerated*

Degree Type

Master of Science

(Effective prior to Summer 2 2025)

 Master of Science
(Effective Summer 2 2025)
Total Program Credits 49 49
Program Length(full time) 5 trimesters 5 trimesters 
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits;12 credits effective Fall I 2024) $680 $700 
APRN Core(per credit cost x 31 credits; 37 credits effective Fall I 2024) $785  $810 
Total Tuition Cost $37,205 $38,370 
STRF1 $0  $0 
Technology Fee2 $2,500  $2,500 
Estimate for Program Supply Fees3 $2,300 $2,300 
Program Fee (Clinical)4 $3,300 $3,300 
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) $45,305  $46,470 
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) $45,305  $46,470 

Working Professional*

Degree Type

Master of Science

(Effective prior to Summer 2 2025)

Master of Science (Effective Summer 2 2025) 
Total Program Credits 49  49 
Program Length(full time) 8 trimesters  8 trimesters
MSN Core(per credit x 18 credits; 12 credits effective Fall I 2024) $680  $700 
APRN Core(per credit cost x 31 credits; 37 credits effective Fall I 2024) $785  $810 
Total Tuition Cost $37,205  $38,370  
STRF1 $0 $0 
Technology Fee2 $4,000  $4,000 
Estimate for Program Supply Fees3 $2,300  $2,300 
Program Fee (Clinical)4 $3,300  $3,300 
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) $46,805  $47,970  
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) $46,805  $47,970  

 

Indirect Costs

8 Month Academic Year5    
  Prior to Fall I 2024 Starting Fall I 2024
with parents off campus with parents off campus
Federal Student Loan Fee  $220  $220  $220 $220 
Living Expenses (Food & Housing) $2,384 $7,936 $2,496  $8,328 
Transportation $1,648 $1,648 $1,728  $1,728 
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $5,392 $5,392 $5,656  $5,656 
Total $9,644 $15,196 $10,100  $15,932 

* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course a term.

1 ffective April 1, 2024, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be zero hundred and zero cents ($0.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

2 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

3 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and AGPCNP predictor exams for AGPCNP students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.

4 Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.  

5 The purpose of the Cost of Attendance (COA) is to provide students and families with an estimated cost to attend West Coast University. The COA includes both direct and indirect cost estimates. Direct costs are paid directly to West Coast University and are shown separately for each program. Indirect costs are not paid to West Coast University and are estimates students may use to budget expenses they may incur while attending school. While actual indirect costs may vary, West Coast University estimates these amounts based on the number of months in an academic year and whether students will live with parents or off campus.

Post Master's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Tuition and Fees

 

Degree Type Certificate (Effective prior to Summer 2 2025)  Certificate (Effective Summer 2 2025) 
Total Program Credits 28  28
Program Length(full time) 4 trimesters  4 trimesters 
AGPCNP Core(per credit x 28 credits) $785  $810 
Total Tuition Cost $21,980  $22,680 
STRF1 $0  $0 
Technology Fee2 $2,000  $2,000 
Estimate for Program Supply Fees3 $2,300  $2,300
Program Fee (Clinical)4 $3,300  $3,300 
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) $29,580  $30,280  
Estimated Total Program Costs (California) $29,580  $30,280  

 

Indirect Costs

8 Month Academic Year5    
  Prior to Fall I 2024  Starting Fall I 2024 
with parents off campus with parents  off campus
Federal Student Loan Fee  $220  $220  $220  $220 
Living Expense (Food & Housing) $2,384 $7,936 $2,496  $8,328 
Transportation $1,648 $1,648 $1,728  $1,728 
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $5,392 $5,392 $5,656  $5,656 
Total $9,644 $15,196 $10,100  $15,932 

1 As of April 1, 2024, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be zero dollars and zero cents ($0.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

2 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

3 Supplies and licensure prep fees include a WCU identification card, background check, standardized patients, supplies, equipment for onsite intensives, and APRN predictor exams for APRN students. Supplies become student purchases once issued to students. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all the supplies please contact the Bursar Office.  

Program Fee covers the establishment, on-going management, scheduling, coordination, site visits, and any other expenses related to clinical rotations.

5 The purpose of the Cost of Attendance (COA) is to provide students and families with an estimated cost to attend West Coast University. The COA includes both direct and indirect cost estimates. Direct costs are paid directly to West Coast University and are shown separately for each program. Indirect costs are not paid to West Coast University and are estimates students may use to budget expenses they may incur while attending school. While actual indirect costs may vary, West Coast University estimates these amounts based on the number of months in an academic year and whether students will live with parents or off campus.

Support for Students Beyond Graduation

We are committed to helping our graduates throughout their careers, and our Career Services department provides ongoing assistance with professional and career development through workshops and guidance designed for our online AGPCNP students and graduates.

Placement Opportunities

Graduates of the AGPCNP program will be eligible to sit for their national board certifications. AGPCNPs have the versatile skills needed to provide nursing care across a variety of settings.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners (including AGPCNPs) can work in:

  • Physician’s offices
  • Hospitals (state, local, and private)
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Educational services1

1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners

Pursue your BSN at one of the following campuses
Technologically Advanced Sim Labs

At WCU, our goal is to build both the skills and confidence required in the nursing field. Practice using high-fidelity manikins that cry, sweat, and react like real patients. Coupled with hands-on clinical experiences, our simulations give students the opportunity to master foundational skills and graduate with confidence.

Our BSN students experience a range of patient care situations from routine to emergency. During simulation sessions, each student independently practices the functions of a registered nurse. The simulation labs at West Coast University use a full range of scenarios at all levels of the core nursing program:

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Attend an info session to learn what all the buzz is about.

Get Started

We’re here to help you, from the moment you apply to beyond graduation. It all starts here.

Clinical Placements

WCU is dedicated to building long-term clinical relationships and hospital affiliations that offer students a world of options and meaningful clinical experiences.

We have coordinators of clinical relations who support students by facilitating clinical site and preceptor selection, helping streamline approvals, and assisting with compliance tracking. Our Clinical Placements team also provides coaching calls for students who need guidance on how to make their clinicals a success.

NCLEX Support

NCLEX Support

Helping BSN Students Prepare for Licensure

Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a critical milestone for all nurses. That’s why WCU helps prepare you every step of the way.

As a BSN student, you have access to:

  • One-on-one support from NCLEX advisors
  • NCLEX bootcamps
  • No-cost tutoring
  • A virtual library of educational books and videos

“WCU helped prepare us for the NCLEX by providing an adequate test environment, providing us with opportunities to take proctored tests that simulate the NCLEX and to test our nursing knowledge in those tests.”

– Stephanie P., BSN ’21*

“West Coast prepares you unlike any other school I have seen for the NCLEX.”

– Leslie G., BSN ’18*

Career Services

Providing Hands-On Career Support

WCU graduates get to enjoy support from our Career Services team.2 Starting when you’re a student, through graduation, and beyond, you’ll have access to individualized career advice, professional development workshops on topics like resume writing and interview preparation, help finding job leads, assistance connecting with industry recruiters, and more.

Potential Job Opportunities

Once you receive your licensure as a registered nurse, you will have various options to choose from for your career path. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a registered nurse usually works with physicians and other healthcare specialists. Additionally, they may be charged with overseeing licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, and home health aides.

The largest employers of registered nurses (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics) are:

The Career Services team can help you find job opportunities that meet your goals!

Featured Faculty

Chiarina P. Piazza, PhD, MEd, RN Dean, College of Nursing | California Program Director

Dr. Piazza has been working in the university since 2009. Her past roles included Faculty; Campus Associate Dean of Nursing, Academics; Campus Dean of Nursing; and Associate Dean, College of Nursing. Most recently, she has been appointed to the position of Dean, College of Nursing.

She has a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from the University of San Diego, a Master of Education from Cambridge College, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Los Angeles.

With a commitment to community service, Dr. Piazza is a Commissioner for the Sister Cities Commission of Anaheim. And has previously served as Commissioner, Orange County Human Relations, and Board Member for the School Nurses of California Foundation.

FAQs

How does the program prepare me for today’s adult-gerontology primary healthcare needs?

All our nursing programs deliver a student-centric, evidence-based education that includes topics relevant to an evolving healthcare environment. As an AGPCNP student, you can expect in-depth learning in a versatile range of skills, and other modalities. Our curricula also address telehealth, special populations, and upcoming trends in medicine.

Will my previous coursework transfer into the program?

WCU accepts transfer credits on a case-by-case basis. We recommend speaking with your admission advisor about your eligible credits. WCU may accept credit for previous courses taken through other academic institutions as long as the course meets the requirements of the specific academic program for which it is being considered and a grade of B- (80%) or better was achieved for a graduate course as documented on official transcripts. Each program maintains its own transfer credit requirements.

Will I learn from experienced faculty?

Every faculty member that teaches in our programs is an experienced nursing professional, active in relevant clinical practice, and nationally board-certified. Additionally, WCU professors are accessible to students. Through the Remind app, faculty members are only a call or text away.

If you need career insight or advice, you will be paired with a AGPCNP faculty advisor that can provide one-on-one guidance as needed.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Below are the time-to-completions for our programs when enrolled in an AGPCNP track:

  • MSN (Accelerated Pace) – 20 months
  • MSN (Working Professional Pace) – 32 months
  • RN to MSN (Accelerated Pace) – 24 months
  • RN to MSN (Working Professional Pace) – 44 months
  • Post-Master’s Certificate – 16 months  
Will I be eligible to sit for my certification exam?

Yes, after you complete the program, you will be eligible to sit for your certification exam. WCU offers two tools to help you prepare for the examination: Lecturio and BoardVitals. Both tools are mobile-friendly platforms that will help you review materials so you can approach the exam with confidence.

What is a MSN AGPCNP?

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) is a specialized degree that gives you the skills to provide care for adults of all ages. WCU's online AGPCNP program combines coursework with hands-on clinical experience.

Can I get an MSN AGPCNP degree online?

WCU's MSN AGPCNP program includes 100% online coursework. Some in-person practice experience is also necessary to complete your MSN AGPCNP degree.

How long does it take to earn an MSN AGPCNP degree?

WCU offers two different program paces for the online MSN AGPCNP program track. The Accelerated MSN AGPCNP program can be completed in as little as 20 months. The Working Professional Pace lets you earn your online AGPCNP degree in as few as 32 months.

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1 American Association of Colleges of Nursing, “Employment of New Nurse Graduates and Employer Preferences for Baccalaureate-Prepared Nurses,” October 2022

2 WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.

3 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, “What Registered Nurses Do,” Updated Sept. 8, 2022

4 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, “Work Environment,” Updated Sept. 8, 2022

*The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

Additional Resources:

1 Challenge Credit

2 Transfer Credit Policy

2a Military Training or Experience

2b Credit for Previous Education or Training for Veterans

3 Military Educational Benefits