Abstract Body: Positions in critical care specialties are highly competitive, with hospitals increasingly expecting new graduate nursing candidates to hold Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification at the time of hire—and in many cases, preferring it at the time of interview. Despite this growing expectation, access to ACLS training can be financially and logistically challenging for students, often posing a barrier to equitable career opportunities.
To address this gap, we developed and implemented a student-focused ACLS certification program that was affordable, conveniently located, strategically timed within the curriculum, and designed to foster a psychologically safe learning environment. Led by instructors familiar with the students’ academic progression and clinical knowledge base, the course was tailored to meet learners where they were, emphasizing confidence-building, clinical relevance, and peer support.
A total of 34 senior-level nursing students completed the program across three sessions. Post-course surveys revealed 100% positive feedback. Students identified affordability, accessibility, peer presence, and the familiarity of instructors as major strengths of the program. They also emphasized that the personalized instruction and inclusive learning environment enhanced their confidence and preparedness.
This initiative demonstrates that ACLS certification programs can be successfully adapted to meet the needs of pre-licensure nursing students, helping them gain a competitive edge in higher-acutity units while fostering competence and confidence. Future directions include program expansion and evaluation of longer-term outcomes related to job placement and early clinical performance.