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 2021 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.

Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN

Overview:

Indiana University - Purdue University, Indianapolis, a partnership between two Big Ten schools, offers online MSN degrees in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, for both Acute and Primary Care. The top-ranked programs focus on nursing leadership, evidence-based practice, problem-solving, and information technology in healthcare.

Highlights:

• Graduates can sit for appropriate certifications and exams
• Clinical hours must be completed and supervised in Indiana
• Some in-person or hybrid courses may be required

 

MSN Programs

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Online/Hybrid

2.

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Galveston, TX

Overview:

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston has an online MSN degree in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, for both Acute and Primary Care concentrations. Nursing leadership, improving patient care outcomes and patient advocacy are key components of the program, which studies young adults and elderly populations.

Highlights:

• Program requires on-campus visits for each of its four semesters
• Small class sizes allow for individual attention and real-world application
• In-person clinicals are typically completed in the Houston or Galveston area

MSN Programs

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

3.

University of Southern Indiana

Evansville, IN

Overview:

Designed for nurses looking for career advancement, the online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute) program at the University of Southern Indiana provides instruction across foundational, specialty and clinical courses. Evidence-based practice, population-based care, healthcare informatics, and management of acutely ill adults are a sample of key courses.

Highlights:

• Students collaborate with faculty to set up in-person clinicals
• The AGNP specialty is 42 credit hours with 705 clinical hours
• No on-campus visits required; admission limited to certain states

MSN Programs

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Online/Hybrid
• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Online/Hybrid

4.

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

Peoria, IL

Overview:

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing based in Peoria, Illinois offers an online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner MSN degree. It concentrates on providing critical care and treatment of both acute and chronic ailments. Students learn how to diagnose, treat, and manage conditions as well as how to leverage information systems for healthcare.

Highlights:

• On-campus visits are required for hands-on instruction
• A private, Catholic college that directly serves the on-campus teaching hospital
• Affordable tuition rates

MSN Programs

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

5.

Briar Cliff University

Sioux City, IA

Overview:

A traditional women's college, Briar Cliff University, in Sioux City, Iowa offers an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner in an online format. The MSN degree prepares graduates to practice primary health care delivery in numerous clinical settings. The holistic program enables students to apply nursing research and evidence to care for aging patients.

Highlights:

• Students must attend six on-site visits for degree completion
• Clinicals may be completed in student's home state
• Readies graduates to sit for appropriate exams

 

MSN Programs

• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

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!