Best Online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

Texas is experiencing unprecedented growth in its aging population, with adults 65 and older projected to comprise 16.4% of the state’s population by 2030. This demographic shift is driving demand for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) across Houston’s Texas Medical Center, Dallas-Fort Worth’s extensive healthcare network, San Antonio’s military medical facilities, and Austin’s emerging health tech sector. For registered nurses seeking to advance their careers, online AGNP programs offer the flexibility to earn advanced credentials without relocating or leaving current positions.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The top online AGNP programs available to Texas residents (MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificates)
- Key factors to consider when choosing an online program in Texas
- Clinical placement requirements and costs
- Career outlook and salary expectations for AGNPs in Texas
2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, TX - Public 4-Year - utmb.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program at UTMB provides advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to enhance patient care across age spectrums. Students develop critical skills in holistic healthcare delivery, learning to diagnose, treat, and manage complex adult health conditions from adolescence through geriatrics. The hybrid program combines online learning with strategic campus intensives, allowing working nurses to advance their careers without disrupting professional commitments. Graduates are prepared for national certification and equipped to improve healthcare outcomes through evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and specialized clinical expertise.
- Part-time hybrid program format
- 7 semester comprehensive curriculum
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 1+ year RN experience needed
- BSN degree prerequisite
- National certification preparation
- Clinical practicum included
- Small class sizes
- Online learning support
- Limited campus visits
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at UTMB prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver sophisticated care across acute and critical care settings. Designed for experienced RNs, this hybrid program equips students with comprehensive skills to manage complex patient needs from young adults to geriatric populations. With a rigorous curriculum spanning seven semesters, students develop advanced diagnostic reasoning, clinical expertise, and leadership capabilities. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, one year of acute care nursing experience, and offers flexible learning with periodic campus visits. Graduates are positioned to sit for national certification and excel in demanding healthcare environments.
- Hybrid part-time program
- 7 semester curriculum
- Minimum 1-year RN experience required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- National certification preparation
- Advanced clinical training
- Small class sizes
- Online flexibility
- Clinical practicum opportunities
- Experienced faculty support
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is designed for nurses seeking to specialize in acute care for adults and the elderly. This hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. Admission requires an MSN degree, a current RN license, and specific documents including transcripts and a letter of reference. The program prepares graduates for advanced practice roles in acute care settings, emphasizing geriatric syndromes, episodic and acute illness, and complex critical care. Clinical hours are integral, ensuring hands-on experience in real-world healthcare environments.
- Hybrid program format.
- Requires MSN degree.
- Current RN license needed.
- Focus on geriatric syndromes.
- Includes 180 clinical hours.
- Covers acute illness care.
- Teaches complex critical care.
- Spring semester start.
- Official transcripts required.
- One letter of reference needed.
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas Medical Branch's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) DNP track offers a comprehensive, flexible pathway for working nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This 12-semester hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality acute care across adult and gerontology settings. Designed for busy healthcare professionals, the curriculum combines online coursework with occasional on-campus seminars. Students complete 1,020 clinical hours, gaining advanced skills in complex patient care, diagnostics, and leadership. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, one year of nursing experience, and professional references. With nationally recognized faculty and a focus on transforming healthcare, graduates are well-positioned to become expert practitioners addressing critical health needs.
- 12-semester hybrid DNP program
- 1,020 total clinical hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Online curriculum with campus seminars
- Advanced acute care nurse practitioner track
- One year nursing experience prerequisite
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Focuses on healthcare transformation
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas Medical Branch's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) offers a comprehensive, flexible online pathway for working nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The 12-semester program prepares nurses to excel in acute and critical care settings, featuring nationally recognized faculty and a student-centered approach. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and one year of nursing experience, students engage in advanced coursework covering transformational leadership, healthcare policy, and clinical specialization. The program emphasizes improving healthcare access and equity for diverse populations, with 1,020 clinical hours providing hands-on learning experiences.
- Online flexible curriculum
- 12 semesters total program length
- 1,020 clinical practice hours
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced clinical specialty training
- Focuses on healthcare transformation
- One year nursing experience needed
- High-quality, affordable education
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uth.edu
Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) post-graduate program at UTHealth Houston provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive adult and geriatric healthcare. This hybrid nondegree program prepares experienced nurses to deliver high-quality primary care across adult lifespans. Students complete a rigorous curriculum combining advanced pharmacology, physical examination techniques, diagnostic procedures, and specialized clinical training. The program requires 20-40 credit hours and includes extensive clinical practicums totaling 780 hours, ensuring graduates develop robust, hands-on expertise in adult primary care settings.
- Nondegree post-graduate completion
- 20-40 total credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- 780 total clinical hours
- Advanced practice nursing focus
BSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston prepares students for a rewarding career in inpatient care. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus clinical requirements, offering flexibility for working nurses. Graduates are eligible to take national certification exams and apply for an APRN license in Texas. The program boasts affordable tuition, with clinical experiences available in the Texas Medical Center and other top hospitals. Admission is open for Spring and Fall terms, with an average completion time of 10 semesters. The curriculum is designed for both full- and part-time students, making it accessible to nurses at various career stages.
- Hybrid program format
- Affordable tuition rates
- Spring and Fall admission
- 10 semesters average completion
- Online and on-campus learning
- Clinical experiences in Texas
- Eligible for national certification
- APRN license preparation
- Flexible for working nurses
- Part-time study option
BSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program at Cizik School of Nursing prepares students to care for adults from adolescence through the lifespan. Focused on healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and illness management, graduates are eligible for national certification exams. The hybrid program combines online and on-campus learning, offering flexibility. With one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas, it's an affordable option for advancing your nursing career. Accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ensures quality education. Note: Admissions are currently on hold starting Fall 2023.
- Hybrid learning format
- Focus on adult/gerontology care
- Prepares for national certification
- Low tuition rates
- Accredited by CCNE
- Admissions on hold Fall 2023
- 10 semesters average completion
- 79 hours for BSN-DNP
- 29-30 hours for post-graduate
- Online and on-campus
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX - Public 4-Year - uta.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN at the University of Texas at Arlington prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for individuals from adolescence through end of life. Graduates are trained to manage acute and chronic health conditions, emphasizing health promotion and illness prevention for adults and older adults. The program equips students with skills to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, use research methodologies, and deliver quality healthcare across elder services. Successful candidates can take national certification exams and become licensed advanced practice registered nurses in Texas.
- Online graduate nursing program
- Prepares for national certification
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Health promotion specialization
- Comprehensive adult healthcare training
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Arlington's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG ACNP) program equips healthcare professionals to manage complex health needs of patients from 18 years through adulthood. This specialized master's degree focuses on health restoration and advanced management of acute and chronic conditions. Students develop skills to care for physiologically unstable and technologically dependent patients, preparing for critical roles in healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible for national certification and recognition by the Texas Board of Nursing, positioning them for meaningful careers in acute and specialized medical environments.
- Online and classroom study options
- Prepares for national certification
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Manages complex patient health needs
- Recognized by Texas Board of Nursing
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Arlington's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides an accelerated pathway for experienced nurses to expand their clinical expertise. Designed for MSN-prepared professionals, this online program enables nurses to specialize in comprehensive healthcare for adolescents through elder populations. Graduates gain advanced skills in illness prevention, health management, and interdisciplinary care delivery. The certificate requires as few as five courses and prepares students for board certification, with tuition at $654 per credit hour. Admission requires an MSN from an accredited program, an active RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Online post-master's certificate program
- As few as 5 courses
- Board certification preparation
- $654 per credit hour
- Comprehensive adult gerontology focus
- Clinical placement assistance
- CCNE accredited program
- Individualized curriculum
- Multiple start dates
- Experienced nursing faculty
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Texas Christian University specializes in adult-gerontology acute care, preparing nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare to young adults, adults, and elders in acute care settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus intensives for skill development. Graduates are eligible for national certification through ANCC or AACN. The program offers flexible three- or four-year tracks, requires 70 hours total, and includes a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. Admission does not require GRE scores, and clinical practicum experiences are arranged close to students' homes. Applicants need one year of full-time RN experience in an acute care setting.
- Hybrid program format
- No GRE required
- Three- or four-year tracks
- 1000 clinical hours minimum
- On-campus intensives
- Spring or fall admission
- 70 hours total
- Clinical practicum near home
- Eligible for ANCC/AACN certification
- One year RN experience required
Baylor University
Waco, TX - Private 4-year - baylor.edu
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Baylor University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP-AGACNP) prepares experienced nurses to excel in complex acute care settings. This rigorous online program equips students with advanced clinical skills to provide comprehensive care for adult and geriatric patients across critical healthcare environments. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible learning with a total of 75 credits completed in approximately three years. Students benefit from nationally recognized faculty, clinical placement support, and a curriculum focused on evidence-based practice. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, one year of professional nursing experience, and an unencumbered RN license. The program boasts a competitive edge with CCNE accreditation and recognition by U.S. News & World Report.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 75 Total Credits
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
- No GRE Required
- 3.0 Minimum GPA
- 15-week Course Terms
- Clinical Placement Support
- Expert Faculty Guidance
- Multiple Nursing Tracks Available
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Baylor University's online DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares RNs to provide acute care for adults and older adults. This CCNE-accredited program offers a blend of online coursework and on-campus immersions, with a focus on complex acute, chronic, and critical care needs. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and one year of nursing experience. The program spans over three years for BSN holders, featuring 1,125 practicum hours. Graduates are equipped to lead in acute healthcare settings, improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice.
- CCNE-accredited program
- Online coursework with immersions
- 1,125 practicum hours
- 3 years to completion for BSN holders
- No GRE or MAT required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- 75 total credits
- 15-week courses
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Clinical placement support
Understanding AGNP Education Pathways in Texas
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners can specialize in acute care or primary care settings, managing adult and elderly patients in hospitals, emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. Texas offers three educational pathways:
- For RNs with a BSN seeking first advanced practice certification
- Typically 2-3 years of part-time online study
- Prepares graduates to sit for AGNP certification exam
- Terminal degree combining advanced clinical practice with leadership
- BSN to DNP programs: 3-4 years
- Increasingly preferred by major Texas health systems
Post-Master’s AGNP Certificate:
- For nurses who already hold an MSN in another specialty
- Typically 1-2 years to complete
- Popular among Family NPs seeking acute care expertise
Texas Advantage: Many online programs have established clinical partnerships with Texas health systems, including Houston Methodist, Baylor Scott & White, UT Health facilities, and HCA Healthcare locations, making it easier for Texas-based students to secure quality clinical placements.
What to Look for in an Online AGNP Program
Accreditation Status
Verify that any program you’re considering holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The Texas Board of Nursing requires graduation from an accredited program for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure.
Clinical Hour Requirements and Placement Support
AGNP programs require 500-700 clinical hours for MSN programs and 1,000+ hours for DNP programs. For Texas students, consider:
- Clinical Placement Assistance: Does the program help arrange preceptors, or are students responsible for finding their own?
- Geographic Flexibility: Can you complete clinical hours near your Texas location?
- Specialty Exposure: Ensure clinical rotations include ICU, emergency department, cardiology, and other acute care settings
Program Format and Flexibility
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous: Most online programs use primarily asynchronous formats, allowing you to complete coursework around nursing shifts.
Intensive On-Campus Sessions: Many programs require brief on-campus visits for skills labs. Verify whether the program offers these sessions at Texas locations or requires travel.
Part-Time Options: Full-time programs typically take 2 years, while part-time tracks extend to 3-4 years, ideal for working Texas nurses.
Cost and Financial Considerations
Online AGNP program costs in Texas vary significantly:
| Program Type | Typical Total Cost Range | Time to Complete |
| MSN AGNP | $25,000 – $60,000 | 2-3 years |
| BSN-to-DNP AGNP | $40,000 – $90,000 | 3-4 years |
| Post-Master’s Certificate | $15,000 – $35,000 | 1-2 years |
Financial Aid for Texas Students:
- Federal student loans and grants (FAFSA)
- Texas-specific nursing scholarships (Texas Nurses Foundation, hospital systems)
- Employer tuition reimbursement (common at major Texas health systems)
- Military benefits (particularly valuable near San Antonio)
- Loan repayment programs for underserved Texas communities
Cost-Saving Tip: Texas residents may qualify for in-state tuition at Texas public universities offering online AGNP programs, significantly reducing costs compared to out-of-state private institutions.
Clinical Training in Texas Healthcare Settings
Texas offers diverse clinical environments for AGNP students:
Major Urban Medical Centers:
- Houston: Texas Medical Center, Memorial Hermann, Houston Methodist
- Dallas-Fort Worth: UT Southwestern, Baylor University Medical Center
- San Antonio: UT Health San Antonio, Christus Santa Rosa, military medical centers
- Austin: Dell Seton Medical Center, St. David’s HealthCare
Specialty Hospitals:
- MD Anderson Cancer Center (oncology acute care)
- Texas Heart Institute (cardiovascular specialization)
- Texas Children’s Hospital (adult congenital heart disease)
Students typically complete rotations across multiple settings, including ICUs, emergency departments, cardiac care units, and specialty acute care clinics. Many Texas health systems actively precept AGNP students and recruit graduates.
Explore other nurse practitioner programs in Texas.
Certification and Licensure Requirements in Texas
After completing your AGNP program, you must obtain national certification and Texas APRN licensure:
Step 1: National Certification – Pass the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner certification exam in Acute Care or Primary Care from either:
Step 2: Texas APRN Licensure – Apply through the Texas Board of Nursing for APRN recognition. Requirements include:
- Current Texas RN license
- Graduation from Board-approved AGNP program
- National AGNP certification
- Prescriptive authority application (if prescribing medications)
Texas Practice Note: Texas AGNPs must maintain a collaborative practice agreement with a physician. This requirement is less restrictive than full supervision but more restrictive than full practice authority states.
Career Outlook and Salaries for AGNPs in Texas
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 45% growth for nurse practitioners nationally through 2032, with Texas experiencing even stronger demand due to population growth.
Average AGNP Salaries in Texas (2024):
- Entry-level AGNPs: $100,000 – $120,000
- Mid-career AGNPs: $120,000 – $140,000
- Experienced AGNPs: $140,000 – $165,000+
- Leadership/Specialized roles: $165,000 – $190,000+
Salary Variations by Texas Region:
| Metro Area | Average AGNP Salary | Cost of Living Factor |
| Houston | $125,000 – $145,000 | Moderate |
| Dallas-Fort Worth | $120,000 – $140,000 | Moderate-High |
| Austin | $125,000 – $150,000 | High |
| San Antonio | $115,000 – $135,000 | Low-Moderate |
| El Paso | $110,000 – $130,000 | Low |
Higher salaries are typically found in large urban teaching hospitals, specialty practices (cardiology, critical care, trauma), and locum tenens positions.
Choosing Between MSN, DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates
Choose MSN AGNP if:
- You have a BSN and want the fastest route to practice
- You’re primarily interested in direct patient care
- Cost and time efficiency are top priorities
Choose DNP AGNP if:
- You aspire to leadership, education, or policy roles
- You work for a health system that values doctoral degrees
- You’re comfortable with a longer, more intensive program
Choose Post-Master’s Certificate if:
- You already hold an MSN in another NP specialty
- You want to expand your scope to acute care
- You want the most time-efficient pathway to AGNP certification
Texas Trend: Major Texas health systems increasingly prefer or require DNP preparation for leadership positions, though MSN-prepared AGNPs remain highly employable in direct care roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I complete an online AGNP program while working full-time in Texas?
A: Yes, most students work at least part-time throughout their programs. The asynchronous nature of online coursework allows you to study around nursing shifts. However, clinical rotations may require schedule adjustments. Many Texas health systems offer flexible scheduling or educational leaves. Plan to potentially reduce to part-time work during clinical-intensive semesters.
Q: What if I can’t find my own preceptor in Texas?
A: Many programs now provide placement assistance. If your program requires self-placement, start early (at least 3-6 months before rotations begin). Network through your current employer, join Texas NP professional groups, contact local hospitals’ education departments, and consider rural or underserved areas where preceptors may be more available.
Q: Do out-of-state online programs qualify me for Texas APRN licensure?
A: Yes, as long as the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and meets Texas Board of Nursing requirements. However, ensure clinical hours meet Texas standards and that you can obtain appropriate preceptors. Check the Texas Board of Nursing website to verify a specific program’s acceptability before enrolling.
Q: How competitive is admission to online AGNP programs?
A: Admission generally requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a minimum 3.0 GPA (many prefer 3.5+), current RN licensure, typically 1-2 years of acute care nursing experience, and strong recommendation letters. Texas nurses working in ICU, emergency, or step-down units are particularly competitive candidates.
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