Compare Budget Friendly Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Akron, Ohio

Last Updated/Verified: Sep 18, 2025
Budget Friendly Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Akron, Ohio

Adult gerontology nurse practitioners (AGNPs) provide advanced care for adults across the lifespan, from young adulthood through the later stages of life. With the U.S. Census Bureau projecting that nearly one in five Americans will be over the age of 65 by 2030, the need for healthcare providers specializing in adult and elder care is steadily increasing. In communities like Akron, Ohio, where industrial heritage intersects with a strong healthcare sector, nurses who pursue affordable graduate-level AGNP programs are uniquely positioned to respond to this demand while advancing their professional careers.

Affordability remains a significant factor when considering graduate nursing education. Tuition and related expenses can accumulate quickly, making it essential to explore budget friendly pathways. Akron's moderate cost of living, established hospital networks, and access to healthcare opportunities throughout northeast Ohio create an environment where nurses can complete advanced education without overwhelming financial strain. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners are among the fastest growing professions in healthcare, further reinforcing the value of cost conscious educational choices.

2026 Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Akron, Ohio

#1

University of Akron

Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu

Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Akron's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program equips advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive care to adult and elderly patients. This 30-credit curriculum emphasizes health assessment, clinical pharmacology, and evidence-based practice, meeting ANCC and AANP certification standards. It requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, 12 months of nursing experience, and includes advanced clinical practicums. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specifics should be confirmed with the school. Affordability is supported by its public university status, potentially offering lower tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

  • 30 credit hour MSN program
  • Meets ANCC and AANP certification
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • 12 months nursing experience needed
  • Advanced clinical practicums included
  • Minimum 'B-' grade requirement
  • Prepares advanced practice nurses
  • Multiple clinical nursing courses
#2

Walsh University

North Canton, OH - Private 4-year - walsh.edu

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Walsh University's online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner master's program prepares nurses for high-intensity hospital and clinical environments, focusing on complex patient management without a specific concentration. This program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE or HESI, and is offered by a Roman Catholic institution that is military-friendly. Affordability may be enhanced through potential scholarships, military benefits, and online delivery reducing costs for working professionals.

  • Online advanced nursing program
  • Specialized acute care training
  • Complex patient management focus
  • Advanced nursing skills development
  • Hospital and clinic settings preparation
#3

Malone University

Canton, OH - Private 4-year - malone.edu

Master's - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Malone University's online Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is a two-year, fully online master's-level offering that prepares nurses for advanced clinical roles in acute care settings. It includes evidence-based coursework, three advanced skills labs, and clinical internships, focusing on care for adult and elderly patients with complex conditions. The program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, for admission. Affiliated with the Friends denomination and military-friendly, it may be affordable due to potential financial aid options and the university's commitment to accessible education.

  • Fully online program
  • Complete in two years
  • Three advanced skills labs
  • Prepare for certification exam
  • Multiple practice settings
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Clinical internship opportunities
#4

Kent State University

Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Kent State University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner master's program is CCNE-accredited and prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver lifelong care for adults, emphasizing health promotion and complex illness management. This hybrid program offers flexible full- or part-time schedules with online courses and diverse clinical experiences in settings like primary care and emergency departments. It requires an entrance exam such as the GRE, though specific requirements may vary. Affordability is enhanced by Kent State's status as a public university, offering lower tuition rates compared to private institutions, and financial aid options are available.

  • Nationally certified faculty mentorship
  • Flexible full/part-time plans
  • Many online course options
  • Fall and spring start dates
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical experiences diverse settings
  • Advanced practice nursing competencies
#5

Kent State University at Geauga

Burton, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu

Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kent State University at Geauga offers an on-campus MSN program in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, designed for registered nurses seeking advanced skills in comprehensive care for adults and older adults. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, risk detection, and management of acute and chronic illnesses through dynamic clinical experiences in primary care settings. With full-time and part-time options, many courses are available online, allowing students to balance work and studies. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, a minimum 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and professional references. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program. Affordability may be enhanced by Kent State's public university status, offering lower tuition rates for in-state students and various financial aid opportunities.

  • Full and part-time curriculum options
  • Many courses available online
  • 4-5 semesters for full-time students
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Active RN license required
  • Clinical experiences in diverse settings
  • Prepare for national certification
#6

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Case Western Reserve University's MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid format blending online coursework with eight campus visits in Cleveland. It focuses on comprehensive care from adolescence through older adulthood, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and geriatric assessment. The 18-month, 41-credit-hour program includes 600 clinical hours and requires a 3.0 GPA. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specifics should be confirmed with the university. Affordability may stem from its military-friendly status and hybrid model, reducing relocation costs.

  • MSN Degree
  • Hybrid format
  • 41 credit hours
  • 600 clinical hours
  • 18-month duration
  • Focus on older adult care
  • Distance-friendly option
  • Eight Cleveland trips
  • 3.0 GPA required

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Case Western Reserve University offers an MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in a hybrid format, specializing in complex medical care for adult and geriatric patients. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and intervention strategies, with over 40 credit hours and 600+ clinical hours. As a master's program, entrance exams such as the GRE might be required; check with the university for details. Its military-friendly designation and hybrid approach could enhance affordability by minimizing travel expenses and supporting veteran benefits.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Minimum 40 credit hours
  • 600+ clinical practice hours
  • Specialized acute care focus
  • Advanced practice nursing preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

Why Akron Offers a Strong Foundation for AGNP Education

Akron has evolved from its manufacturing roots to become a regional hub for healthcare and innovation. The city's hospitals and clinics serve not only its residents but also populations from Summit County and the broader northeast Ohio region. This wide service area provides diverse clinical settings that are valuable for AGNP students.

Local demographics further emphasize the importance of adult and elder care. With a growing number of older adults, students gain meaningful training in chronic disease management, preventive health measures, and long-term wellness planning. Workforce studies from the Health Resources and Services Administration show consistent need for advanced practice nurses in regions with aging populations, including Ohio.

Key Components of Adult Gerontology NP Programs

AGNP programs prepare students to manage complex adult health needs and to practice independently in a variety of clinical environments. Coursework and clinical training emphasize advanced skills in patient management, diagnosis, and treatment.

Core Areas of Study

  • Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
  • Adult primary and acute care management
  • Pharmacology specific to gerontology
  • Chronic disease and comorbidity management
  • Preventive and health promotion strategies

Clinical experiences in Akron often include rotations in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities. Exposure to both acute and primary care contexts ensures that graduates are prepared for varied practice environments.

Approaches to Affordable Education in Akron

Graduate-level nursing education is a major investment, but there are multiple ways to make it more affordable for Akron-based students. With careful planning, nurses can reduce expenses while maintaining access to quality programs.

Cost Saving Strategies

  1. In-State Tuition: Ohio residents often benefit from reduced tuition rates compared to nonresidents.
  2. Employer Tuition Assistance: Many regional hospitals provide tuition reimbursement to encourage advanced training in high need specialties. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners highlights tuition support as a valuable benefit for graduate nursing students.
  3. Hybrid and Online Formats: Blended learning reduces travel and housing costs while still offering local clinical placements.
  4. Scholarships and Grants: Funding opportunities are available through gerontology associations and state-level nursing initiatives.
  5. Part-Time Enrollment: Flexible scheduling allows nurses to remain employed while completing coursework at a manageable pace.

These strategies create financially sustainable pathways for working nurses pursuing advanced practice roles.

Local Employment Prospects for AGNP Graduates

Akron's healthcare sector encompasses hospital systems, elder care facilities, and community clinics. AGNP graduates are in demand across settings that focus on both acute interventions and long-term care.

Examples of Career Settings

  • Primary Care Practices: Delivering preventive services and managing chronic conditions for adults.
  • Hospital Systems: Treating patients with complex health needs in acute care specialties such as cardiology or oncology.
  • Long-Term Care Facilities: Supporting older adults transitioning from hospitals to residential care.
  • Community Clinics: Providing accessible adult health services in underserved areas.

With northeast Ohio's aging population, AGNPs can expect stable employment and competitive compensation. The Ohio Board of Nursing provides regulatory guidance and licensure information to ensure safe and effective practice.

Balancing Cost with Program Quality

Affordable education should also meet high standards of academic rigor. When reviewing Akron AGNP programs, prospective students should evaluate:

Programs that meet these criteria prepare graduates to deliver advanced, evidence-based care across the continuum of adult health needs.

Case Example: Advancing While Living in Akron

Imagine a nurse working full time at a community hospital in Akron who pursues a part-time hybrid AGNP program. Online coursework provides flexibility, while clinical placements occur locally. With tuition reimbursement from the employer and the city's reasonable cost of living, the nurse manages to complete graduate education without incurring excessive debt.

This scenario demonstrates how Akron's educational opportunities and healthcare infrastructure support affordable, career advancing pathways.

Steps to Begin the Enrollment Process

Careful preparation ensures that aspiring AGNPs can choose nurse practitioner programs in Ohio that align with career goals and financial realities. Prospective students should:

  • Compare tuition and financial aid options across programs
  • Explore hybrid or flexible schedules that support continued employment
  • Confirm available clinical placements within Akron's healthcare network
  • Consult admissions advisors to clarify expectations and support resources
  • Verify accreditation and certification outcomes to ensure program quality

These steps provide clarity and confidence when selecting the right academic pathway.

Shaping the Future of Adult and Elder Care in Akron

Earning an AGNP degree in Akron contributes to more than personal career advancement. It strengthens the region's ability to address the healthcare needs of its aging population. With specialized knowledge in adult and gerontological care, graduates enhance local capacity for preventive, acute, and long-term services.

For adult-gerontology nurse practitioners who seek both affordability and opportunity, Akron offers a balanced environment to pursue advanced practice nursing. By combining cost conscious education with access to diverse clinical settings, graduates are well positioned to support adults and elders throughout northeast Ohio with skill and compassion.

Sources

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC
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