Online MSN Adult-Gerontology NP Programs – Selecting the Best Program

The Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) pathway is a common online educational route for nurses who wish to enter the adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) specialty. An aspiring adult-gerontology nurse practitioner who wishes to pursue an MSN degree typically already has experience working in the nursing field. In addition, most already hold a bachelor’s degree. However, there are programs that address the needs of nurses who have earned an associate degree or that hold a general bachelor’s degree. In any case, those who wish to pursue the AGNP specialty via an online MSN program need to have a current, unencumbered RN license, a GPA of 3.0 or above, and some clinical experience in the adult-gerontology field.

Compare the 2024 Top Ranked Online AGNP MSN Programs

For those looking to enter the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner specialty through a traditional MSN degree, online program options have made the process more accessible than ever. Finding the right program, though, can be challenging. That's why we have analyzed programs across the country and ranked our top picks. Browse the best online AGNP MSN programs below to find the perfect fit for you. To see how we developed our rankings, visit our Methodology page.

1.

Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor, MI

Overview:

Spring Arbor University in Michigan has in its reserve an online MSN-Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) program focusing on primary care. Health Promotion & Disease Prevention as well as Chronic Disease in Adults are courses of note.

Highlights:

• Incorporates a faith-based nursing curriculum.
• A one-week break occurs between each course.
• A Student Success Coach walks students through the program.

MSN Programs

• Adult-Gerontology, Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Degree Online
• RN-Master of Science in Nursing- Adult-Gerontology, Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Degree Online

2.

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL

Overview:

Close to the Gulf Coast, the University of South Alabama offers an MSN Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) offering. The established program has several entry points depending on the RN's individual background. It is broken up into support, core, and clinical courses to prevent repeating coursework.

Highlights:

• A large, public research university located in Mobile.
• Three enrollment periods annually.
• Acute care and primary care options are available for the AGNP.

MSN Programs

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online

3.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Overview:

University of Alabama at Birmingham has in its catalog an MSN-Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) program delivered via distance and face-to-face models. Students can select from primary and acute care options. Some hands-on instructional intensives must be completed on campus.

Highlights:

• The degree is designed for nurses who work part-time.
• The 45-credit program can be completed in 2-3 years.
• Graduates can test for national cert exams.

MSN Programs

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online

Why Get an MSN Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Degree?

Obtaining an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner MSN degree provides you with a broad swath of knowledge and skills. These arm you with the education you need to treat, diagnose, and work with adults over their lifespan. Because you’ll work with a range of people ages 13 through seniors, the employment opportunities that are open to you are nearly endless. From correctional facilities and rehabilitation centers to college campuses and private practice offices, your diverse skills will be put to good use.

Whether you choose to pursue a primary care or acute care AGNP master’s program, there are some things to consider with this degree type.

Pros

• Easy to find both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP programs at the MSN level
• Online and hybrid programs readily available
• Quickest route for nurses with a BSN

Cons

• Curriculum won’t emphasize administration/leadership the way a DNP program will
• If research or teaching is the goal, students may wish to go directly to the DNP

How to Choose an Online MSN AGNP Program

When you are considering which online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner MSN program to enroll in, you’ll probably focus on the credit hours needed, as well as the cost and the length of time the program will take you to complete. In general, 45 credit hours are the average number required for this type of degree. Many schools offer both full and part-time enrollment options, which will impact the length of time a student will need to complete the program. If you wish to further specialize in Acute or Primary Care, you’ll need to look for a school that has an AGNP program with that emphasis.

You’ll also want to ensure that the program is accredited. Many employers require this of anyone they hire. In addition, make note of any requirements for on-site visits – while many programs are offered in a fully online format, some schools offer hybrid programs that require some on-campus learning.

MSN AGNP Curriculum

The curriculum for an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner MSN degree will provide you with a rich foundation of knowledge that spans many aspects. You can expect to take courses such as:

• Business of Healthcare: Finance
• Advanced Skin and Wound Management
• Advanced Continence Management

Around 700 clinical hours in the adult-gerontology field will be required as part of the MSN-AGNP curriculum, depending on your state. Clinical hours can take the form of on-campus intensives as well as rotations and residencies that involve direct patient care. Most schools have clinical coordinators who can help students secure placements in their local area; many students can even fulfill the clinical portion of the curriculum at the hospital or facility where they are currently employed.

List of Online MSN Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs

Finding an online or hybrid MSN-level AGNP program is easy with our school listings. Browse below to get started today!