Most Affordable Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs Near Chicago, IL

Last Updated/Verified: Jul 29, 2025

Chicago's vast network of Magnet® hospitals, neighborhood clinics, and senior-focused wellness centers makes the Windy City a premier training ground for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs). Cook County's 65-plus population grew by more than 85,000 between 2017 and 2022, and hospitals such as Northwestern Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, and Advocate Health are expanding teams that can manage complex adult and older-adult care needs. Add world-class teaching facilities at the Illinois Medical District and a growing roster of community health centers on Chicago's South and West Sides, and you have a clinical playground rich in high-acuity and primary-care placements for AGNP students.

At the same time, national demand for nurse practitioners is projected to jump 40 percent from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing most U.S. occupations. Salaries keep pace: NPs in the Chicago metro area earn a mean wage topping $126,000 annually, rivaling coastal markets without the coastal price tag. Tuition, however, can feel daunting. Fortunately, several Chicago-area AGNP pathways pair competitive per-credit prices with generous scholarship packages and even in-state tuition breaks for eligible neighboring-state residents. Whether an RN working nights in River North or a BSN-prepared nurse commuting from Aurora, you can level up to advanced practice without uprooting your life or finances.

2025 Most Affordable Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs Near Chicago, IL

#1

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu

Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lewis University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid program designed to prepare nurses for advanced roles in primary care, focusing on adolescents and adults. With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the program emphasizes patient education, health promotion, and disease prevention. It offers flexible learning options and competitive tuition rates, with potential employer tuition assistance making it an affordable choice. Graduates can look forward to lucrative career opportunities, with an average salary around $120,000 annually. The program is military-friendly and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Employer tuition assistance
  • Advanced patient care skills
  • Potential $120K average salary

Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Lewis University, with a focus on Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, is tailored for healthcare professionals aiming for advanced practice expertise. This hybrid program blends online coursework with immersion experiences, catering to working nurses. It stands out for its competitive tuition rates, scholarship opportunities, and 15% membership discounts, enhancing its affordability. The program boasts an 18:1 student-faculty ratio and emphasizes interprofessional collaboration. No entrance exam is required, simplifying the admission process for qualified candidates.

  • Online DNP coursework
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Multiple entry levels
  • BSN or MSN pathways
  • Advanced primary care focus
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • 15% membership discounts
  • 18:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Accredited program
  • Interprofessional collaboration emphasis

Doctorate - BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lewis University's BSN to DNP program in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a campus-based, 76-credit doctoral program. It prepares nurses for high-stakes environments, focusing on acute and intensive care for adult and geriatric patients. The curriculum covers complex patient management, healthcare policy, and research methodologies, complemented by clinical residencies. This program is military-friendly and offers a pathway to advanced practice without the need for an entrance exam, making it an accessible option for nurses seeking to elevate their careers in acute care settings.

  • 76 total credit hours
  • Doctoral level nursing practice
  • Advanced acute care focus
  • Clinical residency included
  • Comprehensive healthcare management
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Policy and informatics courses
  • Healthcare ethics component
  • Research design training
  • Advanced physiology curriculum
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Rush University

Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - rushu.rush.edu

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rush University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program stands out for its national ranking and comprehensive curriculum designed for healthcare professionals aiming to specialize in adult to geriatric care. With a focus on health promotion and disease prevention, the program offers both online coursework and clinical experiences in Chicago, making it accessible for working professionals. The tuition is set at $1,384 per credit hour, and the program duration ranges from 3 to 3.5 years, accommodating part-time and full-time students. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, emphasizing its accessibility. The presence of a hospital on campus enhances practical learning opportunities, contributing to the program's affordability and quality.

  • Online coursework available
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • 3-3.5 year program length
  • $1,384 per credit hour
  • Tracks for bachelor's/master's nurses
  • Preparation for certification exam
  • Clinical sites in Chicago area
  • Small class size of 21
  • Taught by practicing practitioners

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP at Rush University is a hybrid program that combines online learning with in-person clinical experiences, ranked third nationally. It prepares nurses for high-demand roles in acute care settings, focusing on advanced decision-making and patient management. With tuition at $1,384 per credit hour and flexible scheduling options, the program is designed to be affordable and accessible, completed in 2 to 3.5 years. No entrance exam is required, further lowering barriers to entry. The program's affiliation with a campus hospital provides students with invaluable clinical training, enhancing both learning outcomes and career readiness.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • $1,384 per credit hour
  • 2-3.5 year program length
  • 75% online coursework
  • Clinical sites in Chicago area
  • Expert practitioner faculty
  • Advanced nursing specialization
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - uic.edu

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Illinois Chicago offers a hybrid Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-PCNP) program designed for part-time students seeking flexibility. This program requires 77 credit hours and 1,000 clinical practicum hours, blending online and on-campus learning. Unique to UIC, faculty arrange clinical sites, providing students with diverse experiences in primary care settings. Notably, the program boasts a 100% board certification exam pass rate, preparing graduates to deliver comprehensive care from young adults to the elderly. With a hospital on campus, students have direct access to clinical environments, enhancing their learning experience. The program's hybrid format and faculty support make it an affordable option for many students.

  • Part-time hybrid program
  • 77 credit hours total
  • 1,000 clinical practicum hours
  • Faculty-arranged clinical sites
  • 100% board certification pass rate
  • Care across adult lifespan
  • Online and on-campus courses

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At the University of Illinois Chicago, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program is a doctoral-level, hybrid program focusing on acute and critical care. It combines online coursework with on-campus sessions, totaling 77 credit hours and 1,000 clinical practicum hours, including 675 specialty hours in AGACNP. The program stands out for its 100% board certification pass rate and prepares graduates to manage complex health issues in settings like ICUs and emergency departments. With a hospital on campus, students benefit from immediate access to clinical training. The program's part-time structure and comprehensive support contribute to its affordability and accessibility.

  • Part-time hybrid program
  • 77 credit hours total
  • 1,000 clinical practicum hours
  • 675 AGACNP specialty hours
  • 100% board certification pass rate
  • Clinical sites in hospitals/outpatient settings
  • Medicine and surgery specialties
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

North Park University

Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - northpark.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

North Park University's Master of Science in Nursing: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for healthcare professionals aiming to specialize in the care of aging populations. This CCNE-accredited program combines rigorous coursework with practical experience in advanced simulation labs, preparing graduates for diverse clinical settings. Unique features include evening classes tailored for working professionals and a focus on comprehensive health management. While the program does not specify entrance exam requirements, its affiliation with the Evangelical Covenant Church of America and military-friendly policies may offer additional support and affordability options for students.

  • Evening classes for working professionals
  • CCNE accredited nursing program
  • State-of-the-art simulation laboratory
  • Advanced clinical practice opportunities
  • Specialized adult-gerontology focus
#5

Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - luc.edu

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

Loyola University Chicago's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for advanced nursing professionals aiming to meet the healthcare needs of an aging population. This campus-based program offers a 69-credit-hour Doctor of Nursing Practice track, emphasizing primary care settings. Students will develop advanced assessment, diagnostic, and treatment skills, alongside leadership in population health and evidence-based care. Clinical experiences in Chicago's diverse healthcare environments enrich learning. Competitive admission requires a nursing degree and RN licensure. The program's focus on small class sizes and interprofessional education makes it a standout choice for aspiring nurse practitioners.

  • 69 total credit hours
  • Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
  • Clinical settings: hospitals, community centers
  • Competitive admission process
  • Focuses on aging population care
  • Advanced nursing leadership training
  • Evidence-based care approach
  • Small class sizes
  • Interprofessional education practicums
  • Chicago metropolitan clinical partnerships

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at Loyola University Chicago prepares nurses for high-intensity medical settings through a hybrid learning format. This 71-credit doctoral program is tailored for working professionals, offering flexible part-time and full-time options. Students gain expertise in acute and critical care for adult and geriatric patients, with clinical placements in Chicago's top healthcare facilities. The program requires a minimum of 2,000 clinical hours and a competitive admission process, including RN licensure. Its hybrid format and focus on acute care make it ideal for nurses seeking advancement in critical healthcare environments.

  • 71 total credit hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Minimum 2,000 clinical hours required
  • Customized clinical placements
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Chicago area healthcare partnerships
  • Competitive admission process
  • RN license prerequisite
  • Advanced practice nurse preparation

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Oncology - Campus Based - Visit Website

Loyola University Chicago offers a specialized Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program with an Oncology concentration. This 72-semester-hour DNP program is campus-based, focusing on oncology nursing, leadership, and patient safety. Students engage in over 2,000 clinical hours, benefiting from Chicago's clinical placements and a low student-to-faculty ratio. The program emphasizes evidence-based care and health equity, preparing graduates for leadership roles in oncology nursing. Competitive admission requires RN licensure, making it a rigorous yet rewarding path for nurses dedicated to cancer care.

  • 72 semester hour DNP program
  • Oncology nursing specialization
  • Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
  • Competitive admission process
  • Chicago metropolitan clinical placements
  • Registered nurse prerequisite
  • Advanced clinical skills training
  • Underserved community focus
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Data derived from the 2023 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Why Choose an AGNP Program in Chicago?

  • Rich clinical variety. Level I trauma centers (e.g., Rush, Northwestern Memorial), specialty cancer institutes, and Federally Qualified Health Centers expose AGNP students to acute and primary adult-gero care.
  • Aging population & job security. Demand for chronic-disease management, palliative care, and transitional services—core AGNP skill sets—keeps rising as Illinois residents live longer.
  • Competitive pay. The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro reports an NP mean wage of $60.59/hour ($126,020 annually).

Explore related content:
Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs & Schools | Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Illinois

Curriculum Snapshot & Clinical Expectations

Below is a high-level look at coursework and rotation sites you can expect in Chicago-area AGNP tracks.

Core Focus AreaRepresentative CoursesTypical Clinical Sites
Primary Care (AGPCNP)Advanced Adult Assessment; Health Promotion for Diverse Adults; Chronic Disease ManagementCommunity clinics, VA outpatient centers, suburban primary-care practices
Acute Care (AGACNP)Pathophysiology of Complex Illness; Diagnostic Reasoning; Acute Procedures LabMICUs, SICUs, step-down units at Rush & UIC, cardiac cath labs
Gerontology ElectivesCognitive & Functional Aging; Palliative Care; Polypharmacy ManagementLong-term-care facilities, hospice agencies, home-health providers

Most programs align with NONPF competencies and require 500–1,000 supervised clinical hours. Rush University, for instance, delivers 75 percent of didactic work online with intensive on-campus immersion weekends.

Admission Requirements

  • BSN or MSN from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited school
  • Active Illinois RN license (or eligibility)
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0–3.25 (varies)
  • Professional résumé and 2–3 academic/clinical references
  • Personal statement outlining adult-gerontology goals
  • GRE is frequently waived for GPAs ≥ 3.2
  • For AGACNP tracks, ≥ 1 year of adult acute-care RN experience
  • Faculty or committee interview (virtual or on-campus)

Tip: Affordable programs fill quickly—submit complete, error-free applications as early as possible.

Career Paths & Specializations for AGNP Graduates

AGNP graduates step into roles such as:

  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP) – managing wellness and chronic conditions in outpatient clinics, skilled-nursing facilities, and home-health settings
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP) – leading rapid-response teams or rounding in high-acuity hospital units
  • Sub-specialty NPs in cardiology, oncology, palliative care, or geri-psych
  • Clinical educators and advanced practice managers within academic health centers

Related reads:
Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Programs | Best Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Salary Expectations & Job Outlook

NP compensation remains strong statewide.

RegionHourly Mean WageAnnual Mean Wage*
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin Metro$60.59$126,020
Illinois (all NPs)$126,900
United States (all NPs)$129,210

*Based on May 2024 BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics

How Much Will My Degree Cost?

The table below spotlights three of Chicago's most affordable AGNP options. Always confirm current rates—schools update tuition every fiscal year.

UniversityDeliveryPublished Tuition*Cost-Saving Highlights
Rush University75 % online hybrid$1,344 per credit (DNP level)Merit scholarships up to $10 K; part-time pacing lets you keep full-time income
University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)HybridApprox. $31,026 per year (tuition + fees)UIC Aspire covers up to 100 % of tuition for eligible low-income Illinois residents
Loyola University ChicagoHybrid72-credit plan; latest rate ~$1,200 per creditGrants from the Marcella Niehoff School + HRSA traineeships

*Excludes books, travel, and university fees.

Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Tips

  • Graduate assistantships at UIC offset tuition and pay stipends.
  • HRSA NURSE Corps Loan Repayment forgives up to 85 % of debt for NPs serving in shortage areas.
  • Employer tuition programs – Advocate and Northwestern Medicine each offer $5 K–$8 K per year toward advanced NP study.
  • Illinois Nursing Education Scholarship Program (INESP) prioritizes APRN students who commit to in-state practice.

Still comparing credentials? See our guide to Best Online DNP Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Balancing Work, Study & Life

  1. Hybrid schedules let you keep working—Rush's first two years are mostly online.
  2. Smart commuting – Evening and weekend classes align with Metra & L-train timetables.
  3. Cohort study pods help conquer heavy courses like advanced pharmacology.
  4. Strategic PTO – Reserve vacation for intensive clinical rotations.

Accreditation & Certification

All listed programs hold CCNE or ACEN accreditation and prepare you for ANCC or AANP board exams—essential for Illinois APRN licensure. For a deeper dive, visit Nurse Practitioner Licensing & Certification.

Networking & Professional Development

  • Illinois Society for Advanced Practice Nursing (ISAPN) – annual Naperville conference and Chicago chapter meet-ups
  • Rush Center for Clinical Excellence – grand rounds and poster days for advanced practice providers
  • UIC DNP Q&A panels – free virtual sessions with faculty and alumni mentors

Local Employers Hiring AGNPs

Health SystemCurrent NP Openings*High-Demand Practice Areas
Northwestern MedicineMultiple AGACNP roles in thoracic surgery and lung transplantCardiology, transplant, critical care
Rush University Medical CenterHospital medicine and specialty clinicsOrthopedics, plastics, geriatric ED
University of Chicago MedicineAPN positions citywide and in suburbsOncology, palliative care, home health
Advocate Health10 hospitals & 400+ care sitesPrimary care, outpatient geriatrics

*Indeed listed 230+ NP openings across greater Chicago in June 2025.

How to Choose the Best (and Cheapest) Program

  1. Total credits matter—fewer credits usually mean lower tuition.
  2. Residency rules—UIC grants in-state rates to some bordering-state residents.
  3. Clinical placement fees—ask each school to spell these out.
  4. Scholarship renewals—check GPA or enrollment minimums for continued aid.
  5. Networking access—online convenience is excellent, but on-campus events can boost career placement.

Online & Hybrid Considerations

  • Reliable proctored testing platforms and EMR simulation software are mandatory.
  • Confirm the program supports Chicago-area preceptors, sparing you pricey travel.
  • Budget for 2–3 on-campus immersion weekends each term.
  • Expect 15–20 study hours per week during didactic semesters.

Enrich your search with Online Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) Programs.

Ready to Serve Chicago's Aging Population?

Affordable AGNP programs in Chicago help you master specialized adult-gero care without crushing debt, and local employers are eager to recruit graduates who can keep older adults thriving. Review the program list above, contact admissions teams, and start charting your path toward advanced practice leadership today.


Sources

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics – Nurse Practitioners (May 2024)
  • Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, ON TO 2050 Socio-Economic Forecast Appendix
  • Cook County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2025–29
  • Rush University College of Nursing – AGACNP & AGPCNP DNP tuition pages
  • University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing – DNP cost & UIC Aspire details
  • Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing – AGNP overview
  • Indeed.com Nurse Practitioner job listings, Chicago, IL (June 2025)
  • Northwestern Medicine careers portal – Advanced Practice postings
  • University of Chicago Medicine – Advanced Practice openings
  • Advocate Health – Careers pages

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC