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.

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 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!