Find Leading Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Springfield, Massachusetts

Last Updated/Verified: Sep 16, 2025
Find Leading Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Springfield, Massachusetts

Springfield, Massachusetts, blends a rich cultural history with a growing healthcare sector, making it a practical and rewarding location for nurses pursuing advanced practice roles. The demand for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) has been rising nationally, and in western Massachusetts, the aging population and regional healthcare needs highlight the importance of this specialty. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly one in five Americans will be over the age of 65 by 2030, underscoring the urgency for well-trained providers in gerontological care.

This demographic shift is especially relevant in Springfield and Hampden County, where older adults already make up a significant portion of the population. The rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia places increasing pressure on healthcare systems. For nurses seeking advanced practice, Springfield presents an opportunity to gain specialized skills while serving a community with evolving health needs.

2026 Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs Springfield, Massachusetts

#1

College of Our Lady of the Elms

Chicopee, MA - Private 4-year - elms.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Elms College's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program designed for RNs seeking specialization in acute care. It emphasizes advanced diagnostic and treatment skills through 1,000 clinical hours, preparing graduates for ANCC certification. The curriculum includes a practice-focused scholarly project and clinical placement support, with a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership in settings like ICUs and emergency departments. No entrance exam is required for this doctorate-level program, making it accessible for working nurses.

  • Three-year full-time study option
  • 1,000 clinical practicum hours
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Practice-focused scholarly project
  • Clinical placement support provided
  • Hybrid program format
  • NONPF recommended pathway
  • Advanced diagnostic skills training
  • Leadership and healthcare innovation focus
  • Specialized acute care competencies

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice at Elms College, concentrating on Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, offers a hybrid format blending academic rigor with clinical practicum. It prepares RNs for ANCC or AACN certification, focusing on complex patient care across adult ages. The program includes a scholarly project for quality improvement and provides flexible 3-4 year study plans with clinical support. Admission requires BSN or MSN and RN licensure, but no entrance exam is needed for this advanced practice degree.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Focus on AGACNP specialization.
  • Prepares for ANCC/AACN certification.
  • Includes scholarly project.
  • Clinical placement support.
  • Flexible 3-4 year study plans.
  • Requires BSN or MSN for admission.
  • RN licensure needed.
  • Combines coursework and clinical practicum.
  • Focuses on complex patient care.
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#2

University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School

Worcester, MA - Public 4-Year - umassmed.edu

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at UMass Chan Medical School is a hybrid doctoral track that prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adult and elderly populations. It emphasizes specialized clinical skills, advanced assessment, and evidence-based practice, focusing on primary care management, disease prevention, and holistic wellness. As a doctoral-level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the school. This rigorous training addresses complex health needs across diverse adult age ranges.

  • Hybrid program delivery format
  • Doctoral level nurse practitioner track
  • Specialized adult-gerontology focus
  • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • Comprehensive healthcare management training

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UMass Chan Medical School's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid doctoral offering that trains advanced nursing professionals for critical and intensive care settings. It provides advanced clinical skills, diagnostic expertise, and leadership capabilities to manage complex health challenges in acute care environments. As a doctoral program, entrance exams such as the GRE might be required; applicants should confirm details. The curriculum focuses on comprehensive, specialized care for adult and elderly patients in high-stakes situations.

  • Hybrid Doctorate of Nursing Practice
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Focus
  • Advanced Clinical Preparation
  • Specialized Nurse Practitioner Track
  • Complex Patient Care Training

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at UMass Chan Medical School is a hybrid track designed for working professionals, blending online coursework with clinical experiences. It focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and managing complex issues in adult and older adult care. Admission requires a BSN, RN license, and clinical experience. As a doctoral-level program, it may necessitate entrance exams like the GRE; check with the school for specifics. Graduates are prepared to meet the rising demand for primary care providers in an aging population.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on adult and older adult care
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • BSN and RN license required
  • Clinical experience needed for admission
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#3

Salem State University

Salem, MA - Public 4-Year - salemstate.edu

Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Salem State University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Practitioner MSN program is a 42-credit hybrid track designed for working healthcare professionals, offering part-time evening classes over approximately three years. No entrance exam is required for admission, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program prepares students for advanced nursing practice in adult and geriatric care, allowing up to 9 transferable credits and maintaining certification eligibility for career advancement.

  • 42-credit MSN program
  • Part-time evening classes
  • Hybrid learning format
  • No GRE required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Up to 9 transferable credits
  • Practitioner certification eligible
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Meeting the Needs of an Aging Population in Springfield

AGNPs are essential for addressing the complexities of care associated with aging populations. They not only provide direct treatment but also focus on health promotion, preventive services, and patient education. In Springfield, where health equity is a priority, AGNPs often work with community initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in chronic illness management.

Practical examples include local wellness fairs offering screenings for high blood pressure and diabetes, or outreach programs that connect older adults with nutrition and fitness resources. These initiatives highlight the real world role of AGNPs in shaping healthier communities.

Diverse Healthcare Settings in Western Massachusetts

Springfield serves as the medical and economic hub of western Massachusetts, supporting a wide range of healthcare environments. AGNPs who train or practice here benefit from exposure to diverse patient populations and care settings. Students often rotate through acute care hospitals, long term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics.

This variety helps AGNPs build competencies in managing patients across the continuum of care. For instance, a clinical placement might involve treating post-surgical patients in a hospital unit, followed by rotations in rehabilitation facilities supporting recovery and chronic disease management.

Educational Pathways for AGNPs

Pursuing advanced practice in adult-gerontology typically requires completing a graduate nurse practitioner program, either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Programs in Springfield and the surrounding area often emphasize evidence-based practice and clinical leadership.

Common coursework may include:

  • Advanced physiology and pathophysiology of adult and aging populations
  • Pharmacology for managing complex chronic conditions
  • Gerontology acute and primary care
  • Population health and disease prevention in older adults
  • Policy and leadership for aging populations

Clinical experiences are equally important, giving students opportunities to apply classroom learning in real world settings. Springfield's healthcare facilities provide hands on practice that prepares AGNPs to make independent clinical decisions and lead interdisciplinary teams.

Certification and Licensure Requirements in Massachusetts

Graduates pursuing careers as AGNPs must meet certification and licensure standards. Options for certification include the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). In Massachusetts, licensure requires:

  1. Holding an active RN license in the state
  2. Completion of a board-approved AGNP program
  3. Passing a national certification exam in adult-gerontology care
  4. Applying for prescriptive authority through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing

These requirements ensure that AGNPs practicing in Springfield are fully equipped to deliver safe, effective, and autonomous care.

Career Options in Springfield's Healthcare Sector

Career opportunities for AGNPs in Springfield are expanding alongside the healthcare needs of the region. Employment options may include:

  • Primary care practices that provide preventive and ongoing care to adult patients
  • Acute care hospital units managing complex medical cases
  • Geriatric rehabilitation centers focusing on post-hospital recovery
  • Long term care and skilled nursing facilities
  • Community wellness programs and outreach initiatives

AGNPs are often valued for their ability to manage both chronic conditions and acute episodes of illness, making them versatile contributors to Springfield's healthcare system.

Salary and Benefits for Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts

Massachusetts consistently ranks as one of the top paying states for nurse practitioners. Salaries in Springfield reflect this trend, offering competitive compensation packages that recognize the expertise required for adult-gerontology care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's nurse practitioners earn above the national average.

Estimated Salary Ranges for Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts

Experience LevelEstimated Salary Range
Early Career (1–3 years)$115,000 – $125,000
Mid Career (4–7 years)$125,000 – $140,000
Experienced (8+ years)$140,000 – $155,000+

Compensation often includes retirement plans, continuing education stipends, and professional development support. Some Springfield employers also offer tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees, further incentivizing career advancement.

Professional Development and Networking in Western Massachusetts

AGNPs in Springfield benefit from professional organizations that support lifelong learning and advocacy. The Massachusetts Coalition of Nurse Practitioners and regional branches of the AANP provide workshops, conferences, and policy updates.

Local networking opportunities include mentorship programs where experienced practitioners guide early career AGNPs. These relationships help strengthen clinical skills while building confidence for independent practice.

Real World Impact of AGNPs in Springfield

AGNPs in Springfield contribute to measurable improvements in community health outcomes. For example, nurse practitioners working in local community health programs have helped increase rates of preventive screenings and early detection of chronic conditions. Others have led initiatives aimed at improving access to care for older adults in rural parts of Hampden County.

These contributions highlight the value of AGNPs not just in direct patient care but also in shaping public health strategies that benefit entire populations.

Building a Career in Springfield as an AGNP

Springfield offers a combination of strong educational programs, robust healthcare facilities, and professional development opportunities that make it an excellent location for advancing in adult-gerontology practice. The region's growing need for specialized care providers ensures that AGNPs will remain vital to the local healthcare system for years to come.

For nurses ready to move into advanced practice, Springfield provides both the professional foundation and the real world experiences necessary to succeed. Pursuing a nurse practitioner program in Massachusetts means contributing to the health and wellbeing of Springfield communities while achieving a fulfilling and meaningful career.

Sources

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC
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