Most important takeaways…
- Florida offers AGNP programs in both primary care and acute care tracks across MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate levels.
- AGPCNP graduates typically work in outpatient clinics while AGACNP graduates practice in hospitals and ICUs.
- Florida NPs earned a mean annual wage of roughly $129,010 as of 2024, closely matching the national median.
- Public in-state AGNP tuition can be significantly lower than private options, making net price comparison essential before applying.
One in five Florida residents is now 65 or older, a proportion that continues to climb as the state absorbs roughly 1,000 new retirees every day. That demographic reality translates directly into workforce demand: adult-gerontology nurse practitioners fill critical roles across primary care clinics, hospital critical care units, and long-term care facilities, and Florida hospitals and health systems are actively recruiting both tracks.
This page covers AGPCNP and AGACNP programs at all degree levels, including MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificates, across online, hybrid, and on-campus formats. You will find ranked programs, a head-to-head track comparison, tuition and net cost data, clinical hour requirements, earnings outcomes, and admissions expectations.
The choice between primary and acute care is not simply a lifestyle preference. It carries real consequences for certification eligibility (ANCC AGPCNP-BC versus ANCC AGACNP-BC or AACN ACNPC-AG), clinical placement logistics, and the types of employers likely to hire you. Getting that decision right before applying saves time, money, and the headache of a credential mismatch.
Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida for 2027
Adult-gerontology nurse practitioner programs in Florida split into two distinct paths, primary care and acute care, and the strongest schools make their focus clear before you apply. This ranking weighs affordability, graduate earnings, completion outcomes, and how flexibly each program can be finished alongside a full-time nursing job. Institution-wide graduation rates at the schools below range from roughly 48% to 91%, a useful signal about student support even though it does not describe any single program.
Factors considered
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- Earnings ten years after entry
- Net price and tuition cost
- Format flexibility for working nurses
- Completion and graduation outcomes
- Program-level records maintained in house
- Independent editorial research
- National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS) — nces.ed.gov
- Federal College Scorecard outcomes data — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- State cost-of-living adjustment from BEA Regional Price Parities — bea.gov
University of Florida
The University of Florida in Gainesville anchors the state's adult-gerontology acute care pipeline, offering a hybrid DNP that pairs online coursework with clinical placements in high-acuity inpatient settings across Florida. Applicants are expected to bring at least a year of critical care experience, and travel to clinical sites may be required. Institution-wide tuition runs about $6,381 for Florida residents and $28,659 for out-of-state students, and the school graduates roughly 91% of its students.
- Hybrid DNP with coursework online and clinicals in Florida
- High-acuity inpatient focus, including ICU and emergency settings
- At least one year of critical care experience required
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN certification exams
- Clinical sites limited to Florida; travel may be required
- Full-time and part-time options available
- CCRN certification recommended
- Specialty directors guide the clinical plan
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP) — Hybrid
Florida International University
Florida International University in Miami keeps resident tuition near $6,565 a year against about $18,964 out of state, making it one of the most affordable in-state routes into adult-gerontology primary care. FIU covers every credential level for the primary care role: a 45-credit MSN, a 32-credit post-graduate certificate for nurses who already hold a master's, and an online DNP. Coursework is predominantly online and clinical placements may be arranged outside the Miami area. The institution-wide graduation rate is about 74%.
- Predominantly online, 45 credit hours across six semesters
- Fall start with financial aid available
- Focus on prevention, health promotion, and chronic conditions
- Clinicals may be arranged outside the local area
- Optional Nurse Educator Certificate can be added
- Prepares for national NP certification
- CCNE accredited
- 32-credit certificate for nurses who already hold an MSN
- Fully online with no campus visits required
- Fall application deadline of March 1
- Students identify their own clinical sites; contract required
- Prepares for national certification
- Flexible for working professionals
- Online DNP with four concentration options
- Fall deadline March 1 and spring deadline August 1
- Prepares for national certification
- Clinicals may be completed outside traditional areas
- CCNE accredited
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — Online
Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care — Online
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP) — Online
University of South Florida
The University of South Florida in Tampa is one of the few schools here running adult-gerontology primary care and acute care side by side, from the MSN through the BSN-to-DNP. It also offers an occupational health subspecialty that pairs public health coursework with primary care. Most instruction happens on campus, with a hybrid acute care DNP for nurses who need flexibility. Resident tuition is about $6,410 a year and out-of-state tuition about $17,324, with an institution-wide graduation rate near 77%.
- 57 credit hours, campus-based in Tampa
- Comprehensive examination required to finish
- Covers the wellness-to-illness continuum for adults and older adults
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB certification
- CCNE accredited
- 74 credit hours with a public health subspecialty
- Combines nursing and occupational health coursework
- Prepares for ANCC, AANPCB, or ABOHN certification
- Grant funding may offset costs
- Campus-based delivery with a personalized plan of study
- BSN-to-DNP pathway with a primary care concentration
- Lock-step and new graduate plans available
- Scholarships and financial aid offered
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB certification
- Practice settings include ambulatory and community clinics
- BSN-to-DNP acute care concentration, campus or hybrid
- Manages acute, complex, and chronic conditions
- Practice in acute and outpatient settings
- Prepares for ANCC or AACN certification
- Individualized or lock-step program plans
- CCNE accredited
- DNP with a NIOSH-funded occupational health focus
- Prepares for ANCC, AANPCB, or ABOHN certification
- Two concentration options within the track
- Personalized plan of study after admission
- Manages work-related injuries and illnesses
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty (MSN) — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (BS-DNP) — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (BS-DNP) — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Concentration (BS-DNP) — On-Campus
Florida State University
Florida State University in Tallahassee focuses its adult-gerontology work on acute care, with an online post-master's certificate and a hybrid DNP that accepts nurses coming from the BSN or from a master's degree. The DNP lists tuition at about $444 per credit and asks for four on-campus day sessions plus a capstone, so most of the work happens online. Resident tuition runs about $5,656 a year and out-of-state tuition about $18,786, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 86%.
- 22 credit hours delivered online
- Synchronous components keep cohorts connected
- Online lectures, labs, and simulation exercises
- Clinical rotations in intensive care settings
- Trains students to diagnose and treat acutely ill adults
- Administered by the College of Nursing
- BSN-to-DNP and post-master's pathways
- About $444 per credit
- Four on-campus day sessions required
- Full-time and part-time options with a fall start
- Capstone or DNP project required
- 3.0 GPA minimum with three letters of recommendation
- Recommends one to two years of acute care RN experience
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN certification
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Graduate Certificate — Online
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP) — Hybrid
University of Miami
The University of Miami in Coral Gables covers both adult-gerontology tracks across four credentials, from a short post-graduate primary care certificate to 68- and 70-credit BSN-to-DNP pathways. Clinical work leans on South Florida academic medical centers, with partnerships that include UHealth and Jackson Health, giving both tracks a dense Miami-area practice network. Tuition is the same for residents and non-residents at about $62,616 a year, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 84%.
- 16 to 19 credit hours, campus-based
- For nurses who already hold an MSN or DNP
- Lock-step sequence: Adult Gerontology I, II, and III
- Individual gap analysis sets the plan of study
- Focused on primary care settings
- 37 credit hours, finishable in one to one and a half years
- Clinical experiences in South Florida hospitals
- Fall and spring starts, full-time or part-time
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN certification
- Interprofessional team approach
- Online Advanced Practice Preparation course
- 68 credit hours over two or four years
- 1,000 supervised clinical hours
- Placements with UHealth, Jackson Health, VA, and community clinics
- Fall start only, one cohort a year
- Prepares for AGPCNP certification
- Leadership development in health care policy
- 70 credit hours over two or four years
- 1,000 clinical hours in acute and critical care
- Clinical partnerships with UHealth and Jackson Health System
- Fall start only
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN certification
- Students are paired with practicing acute care NPs
Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (BSN-DNP) — On-Campus
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (BSN-DNP) — On-Campus
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton runs its primary care adult-gerontology track from three Florida campuses, with a hybrid MSN, a post-graduate certificate, and a BSN-to-DNP that lists roughly $28,629 in total program tuition. The MSN takes eight semesters part time with 780 clinical hours and no entrance exam, while the DNP adds 1,000 hours and monthly weekend classes. Resident tuition is about $4,879 a year and out-of-state tuition about $17,324, and the institution-wide graduation rate is near 63%. The AGNP track is limited access with a single fall cohort.
- 52 credit hours, about 2.5 years part time
- 780 clinical hours arranged in South Florida
- Hybrid online and in-person classes on three campuses
- No entrance exam; test optional admission
- 3.0 GPA minimum with one letter of recommendation
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Second MSN degree option for career changers
- On-campus classes held on Thursdays
- Certificate for nurses who already hold an MSN
- Campus-based delivery
- Requires a 3.0 GPA and Florida RN licensure
- Resume, essay, and one letter of recommendation
- Background check and possible interview
- Advisement meeting required before starting
- 77 credit hours across 11 semesters
- About $28,629 in total program tuition
- 1,000 clinical hours plus a capstone
- Weekend DNP classes once a month
- Master's Along the Way option
- Apply by January 15 for a summer start
- 3.0 GPA minimum with two letters of recommendation
Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — Hybrid
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate — On-Campus
BSN to DNP, Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida in Orlando serves both sides of the field: primary care and acute care graduate certificates for nurses who already hold an advanced degree, plus primary care DNP pathways that run hybrid with twice-yearly intensives. Clinical sites are assigned by a coordinator in Central Florida, and admission is tied to holding or being eligible for a Florida RN license. Resident tuition is about $6,368 a year and out-of-state tuition about $22,467, with an institution-wide graduation rate near 78%.
- 23 credit hours beyond a master's or DNP
- Hybrid format with clinical hours included
- Admission for certified APRNs
- Covers complex acute, critical, and chronic illness
- Prepares for state licensure and acute care practice
- Emphasis on diagnostic reasoning and leadership
- 19 credit hours in a hybrid format
- Up to 660 clinical hours
- Requires BSN and MSN degrees plus Florida APRN licensure
- Undergraduate statistics prerequisite
- Includes women's health and gerontologic courses
- Prepares for state licensure
- 73 to 74 credit hours across nine semesters
- 1,140 to 1,200 supervised clinical hours
- Hybrid format with twice-yearly Orlando intensives
- Full-time and part-time options; fall start only
- Capstone or DNP project required
- CCNE accredited
- Full-time and part-time options with a fall start
- Clinical placements in Central Florida
- Apply by February 1; Florida RN license required
- Written essay and possible faculty interview
- Prerequisite coursework required
- Hybrid program format
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP) — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (BSN to DNP) — Hybrid
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Florida A&M University in Tallahassee offers a fully online MSN in adult-gerontology primary care, a 42-credit curriculum that can be finished in five semesters full time or seven part time. It is one of the lowest-priced public options here, at about $5,785 a year in state and $17,725 out of state. The school describes a supportive, inclusive community, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 53%.
- 42 credit hours, fully online
- Five-semester full-time or seven-semester part-time
- Advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology
- Focus on health promotion and disease prevention
- Prepares graduates for primary care practice
- Financial aid available
Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — Online
Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College in Lakeland is a small private option with a hybrid MSN in adult-gerontology primary care that mixes live, hybrid, and online course formats. Class sizes stay small, clinical placement help is built in, and no entrance exam is required, though prerequisites in assessment, research, and statistics are. Tuition is the same for everyone at about $44,040 a year, or $675 per credit, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 71%.
- $675 per credit with three concentration options
- No entrance exam; 3.0 GPA minimum
- Live, hybrid, or online course formats
- Clinical placement assistance provided
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Up to two courses transferable
- Three video essays required to apply
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — Hybrid
Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale structures its adult-gerontology acute care options around a hybrid model with on-campus intensives at the Palm Beach campus, moving from a 24-credit postgraduate certificate to a 45-credit MSN and a 73-credit BSN-to-DNP. Students get a dedicated faculty adviser, and the certificate asks for a year of clinical experience plus ACLS certification. Tuition is about $37,500 a year regardless of residency, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 63%.
- 24 credit hours across four semesters
- Hybrid delivery with on-site work at the Palm Beach campus
- Requires an MSN, a 3.0 GPA, and Florida RN licensure
- 12 months of clinical experience and ACLS required
- 170 practicum hours plus 225 clinical hours
- Prepares for national certification
- NursingCAS application
- 45 credit hours, about six semesters
- Fall and winter starts, full-time or part-time
- Capstone required
- Optional live Zoom sessions and on-campus intensives
- Dedicated faculty adviser
- Postgraduate certificate option for MSN holders
- Bridge option for non-BSN students
- 73 credit hours across 23 courses
- 1,000 clinical hours plus a capstone
- Integrated MSN and DNP path
- Fall and winter starts
- Flexible online format with on-campus intensives
- Three concentrations to choose from
- Scholarships and financial aid available
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) — Hybrid
BSN to DNP, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University offers a campus-based BSN-to-DNP in adult-gerontology acute care that pairs doctoral leadership coursework with clinical training for intensive care, emergency, and acute settings. Admission is selective at a 3.3 GPA minimum, and graduates are prepared for ANCC and AACN certification before applying for Florida APRN licensure. Tuition runs about $46,963 a year, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 51%.
- Campus-based BSN-to-DNP pathway
- 3.3 GPA minimum for admission
- Treats critically complex and acute episodic illness
- Prepares for AGACNP certification exams
- ANCC and AACN certification eligibility
- DNP leadership and health policy coursework
BSN-DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
Miami Regional University
Miami Regional University in Miami Springs offers a 12-month post-master's certificate in adult-gerontology acute care, with 30 credits and 810 clinical hours delivered mostly online but anchored by on-campus skills sessions and a three-day simulation weekend. Admission is limited to Florida residents or nurses in SARA states, and students generally line up their own preceptors; if the university has to appoint one, an extra fee applies. Net price after aid lands near $22,113, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 84%.
- 12-month, 30-credit post-master's certificate
- 810 clinical hours with required preceptorships
- Hybrid: online coursework plus on-campus skills sessions
- Three-day simulation weekend on campus
- Requires MSN, RN license, ACLS, and BLS
- Florida residency or SARA state residency required
- Students secure their own clinical preceptors
- Faculty interview and three reference letters required
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Post-Master Certification — Hybrid
St. Thomas University
St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens delivers its MSN in adult-gerontology primary care fully online, with six start dates a year, an 18-month completion path, and a research thesis built into the curriculum. Clinical placements are arranged in Florida and Georgia, and billing is pay-by-course with no application fee. Tuition runs about $34,770 a year while net price after aid lands near $26,312, and the institution-wide graduation rate is about 48%.
- 47 credit hours, about 18 months
- $605 per credit, roughly $31,210 total tuition
- Six start dates a year; no application fee
- Clinical placements in Florida and Georgia
- Research thesis required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Fully online and built for working nurses
MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — Online
AGPCNP Vs. AGACNP: Choosing Between Primary Care and Acute Care Tracks
What is the difference between an AGPCNP and an AGACNP, and which track should a Florida nurse pursue?
This is one of the most common questions working nurses ask before applying to an adult-gerontology program, and it deserves a careful answer. The two tracks share a patient population (adults through older adults) but they diverge sharply in setting, patient acuity, and the certifications that follow graduation. For a broader look at how these roles compare, our guide to acute care vs. primary care NP differences is a helpful starting point.
Primary Care: The AGPCNP Track
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP) track prepares you to manage ongoing, longitudinal care. Think outpatient clinics, community health centers, assisted living facilities, and private practices. Patients here typically have stable or chronic conditions (hypertension, diabetes, or osteoarthritis) and your role centers on prevention, health maintenance, and long-term disease management.
Graduates from this track are eligible to sit for the ANCC AGPCNP-BC certification exam. Because certification requirements and eligibility criteria do change, visit ancc.org directly to review the current clinical hour minimums, academic prerequisites, and renewal policies before you apply to any program.
Acute Care: The AGACNP Track
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP) track is built for high-acuity environments: hospitals, intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty inpatient services. You will manage complex, unstable, or critically ill adult patients, often alongside physicians and interdisciplinary teams in fast-moving clinical settings. Our acute care nurse practitioner career guide dives deeper into what this role looks like day to day.
Graduates can pursue either the ANCC AGACNP-BC or the AACN ACNPC-AG certification. These two credentials are issued by different bodies (ANCC and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, respectively) and each has its own eligibility rules. Check ancc.org and aacn.org side by side to understand which exam aligns with your program's curriculum and your intended specialty area. You can also compare eligibility details in our overview of NP certification exams.
What Both Tracks Have in Common
Regardless of which path you choose, a few considerations apply to both:
- Accreditation: Most certification bodies require graduation from a program accredited by CCNE or ACEN. Confirm this before you enroll.
- Clinical hours: Programs vary in how many supervised clinical hours they require and how they structure placements. Ask admission advisors for a specific breakdown, and cross-reference that figure with current exam eligibility guidelines.
- Scope of practice: Florida state law, not just your certification, defines what you can do in practice. Review your state board of nursing guidelines alongside national certification standards so there are no surprises after graduation.
If you are drawn to prevention, relationships, and community-based care, the AGPCNP track is likely the better fit. If you thrive in high-stakes, rapidly changing clinical environments, the AGACNP track may feel more natural. Neither path is easier than the other; they are simply different, and the right choice depends on where you picture yourself working five years from now.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Florida AGNP Program Costs: Tuition and Net Price Compared
Tuition for adult-gerontology NP programs in Florida varies widely depending on whether you attend a public or private institution, and whether you qualify for in-state rates. The net price figures shown below are institution-wide averages (not program-specific guarantees) drawn from federal data. They reflect the typical cost after grants and scholarships for first-time students and can give you a useful baseline for comparison. Keep in mind that your total cost of attendance may also include clinical-related expenses such as simulation software fees, background checks, malpractice insurance, and preceptor placement charges.
| School | Sector | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Net Price (Avg.) | Track Offered | Degree Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Atlantic University | Public | $6,693 | $18,482 | $8,752 | AGPCNP | Master's |
| University of Florida | Public | $12,737 | $30,130 | $6,541 | AGACNP | Doctorate (DNP) |
| University of Central Florida | Public | $8,872 | $28,657 | $10,411 | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
| University of South Florida | Public | $10,428 | $21,126 | $9,812 | AGPCNP | Master's |
| Florida State University | Public | $10,553 | $26,707 | $11,297 | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
| Florida International University | Public | $11,334 | $24,439 | $9,288 | AGPCNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
| Florida A&M University | Public | $9,876 | $24,669 | $13,739 | AGPCNP | Master's |
| South University, West Palm Beach | Private | $16,611 | $16,611 | $20,271 | AGPCNP | Master's |
| South University, Tampa | Private | $16,611 | $16,611 | $20,434 | AGPCNP | Master's |
| Barry University | Private | $19,650 | $19,650 | $22,613 | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
| Jacksonville University | Private | $21,818 | $21,818 | $25,180 | AGACNP | Master's |
| Miami Regional University | Private | N/A | N/A | $22,113 | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
| Florida National University | Private | $22,168 | $22,168 | $23,043 | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate |
Clinical Hours, Format, and Time to Completion at Florida AGNP Programs
Clinical hour requirements vary significantly across Florida AGNP programs, and acute care tracks generally demand more hands-on time than primary care tracks. Nationally, MSN-level AGNP programs require a minimum of 500 clinical hours, while DNP programs typically call for at least 1,000 hours. Below is a comparison of confirmed clinical hours, delivery formats, and preceptor placement policies at Florida programs offering adult-gerontology NP tracks. Always verify current requirements directly with each school, as policies can change between application cycles.
| School | Track | Degree Level | Clinical Hours | Format | Preceptor Support | Completion Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | AGACNP | DNP (BSN-to-DNP) | 1,020 | Hybrid | Faculty-coordinated placements | Full-time and part-time options available |
| Florida Atlantic University | AGPCNP | MSN | 780 | Campus (hybrid components noted) | Contact program for details | 8 semesters; part-time available |
| Miami Regional University | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate | 810 | Hybrid (online coursework, on-campus skills sessions) | Students secure own preceptors; university can assign for additional fee | Approximately 12 months |
| Florida A&M University | AGPCNP | MSN | 675 | Online | Contact program for details | 5 semesters full-time; part-time option available (up to 5 years maximum) |
| Nova Southeastern University | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate | 395 (170 practicum + 225 clinical) | Hybrid (on-site at Palm Beach campus) | Contact program for details | 4 semesters |
| Florida Southern College | AGPCNP | MSN | Contact program for details | Hybrid (live, hybrid, or online formats) | Program-assigned clinical placements | 5 semesters |
| University of South Florida | AGPCNP | MSN | Contact program for details | Campus | Tampa Bay health system network placements | Contact program for details |
| University of Miami | AGPCNP | Post-Master's Certificate | Contact program for details | Campus | UHealth system placements | Contact program for details |
| Florida State University | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate | Contact program for details | Online (includes synchronous components) | Contact program for details | Contact program for details |
| University of Central Florida | AGACNP | Post-Master's Certificate | Contact program for details | Hybrid | Faculty-coordinated placements | Contact program for details |
| St. Thomas University | AGPCNP | MSN | 125 (as listed by program) | Online | Clinical placements in Florida and Georgia | 18 months |
| Jacksonville University | AGACNP | MSN | Contact program for details | Campus (includes simulation labs) | Contact program for details | Full-time and part-time options; fall start only |
Common Questions About AGNP Programs in Florida
Choosing between primary care and acute care adult-gerontology tracks raises a lot of practical questions. Below are answers to the ones Florida nurses ask most often, drawn from national certification data, Florida regulatory updates, and program details.
- How much does an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner make in Florida?
- Salaries vary by setting, experience, and track. Acute care AGNPs working in hospitals and ICUs often earn more than their primary care counterparts in outpatient clinics. Statewide averages for nurse practitioners generally fall in the six-figure range, but exact figures shift year to year. Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics or individual program outcome reports for the most current Florida numbers.
- What is the difference between AGPCNP and AGACNP?
- AGPCNP (primary care) providers manage chronic conditions and preventive health in outpatient settings such as clinics and long-term care facilities. AGACNP (acute care) providers treat acutely ill or critically ill adults in hospitals, emergency departments, and intensive care units. Each track has its own certification exam, and the two are not interchangeable, so your career setting should drive your choice.
- Which Florida schools offer online AGACNP DNP programs?
- Several Florida universities offer DNP programs with an acute care adult-gerontology focus in online or hybrid formats. Availability changes as schools add or restructure programs. Because clinical rotations still require in-person hours, even fully online programs will include a face-to-face clinical component. Check each school's current catalog and confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation before applying.
- What certifications do you need for adult-gerontology nurse practitioner in Florida?
- Primary care graduates typically sit for the ANCC AGPCNP-BC or the AANPCB AGPCNP exam. Acute care graduates pursue the ANCC AGACNP-BC or the AACN ACNPC-AG credential. Florida requires national board certification for APRN licensure, so passing one of these exams is mandatory before you can practice.
- What are the clinical hour requirements for AGNP programs in Florida?
- Most MSN-level AGNP programs require a minimum of 500 direct patient care clinical hours, while DNP programs often exceed 1,000 total practice hours. Some schools set higher thresholds to align with accreditation standards. Hours must be completed in settings that match your track (primary care sites for AGPCNP, acute care settings for AGACNP).
- What do board certification pass rates look like for Florida AGNP programs?
- Florida does not publish statewide, school-by-school NP certification pass rates the way some states do. Nationally, the 2024 first-time pass rate was about 85% for the ANCC AGPCNP-BC exam and roughly 83% for the AGACNP-BC. Individual programs may share their own rates on request. For example, the University of Central Florida has previously reported a 100% pass rate for its AGPCNP cohort.
- Does Florida grant full practice authority to AGNPs?
- As of 2026, Florida grants partial practice authority. Newer APRNs must practice under a supervisory relationship initially, but those who complete at least 3,000 hours of clinical practice can apply for autonomous practice status. This means experienced AGNPs in Florida can eventually prescribe and practice independently without a physician supervision agreement.
Related Articles
What Florida AGNPs Earn: Program Outcomes and Salary Data
Florida nurse practitioners earned a mean annual wage of roughly $129,010 as of 2024, placing the state's NPs right in line with the national median of about $129,210. That headline figure, though, tells only part of the story. Your actual earnings will depend on where you practice, whether you choose primary care or acute care, and how many years of experience you bring to the role.
Statewide Wage Range
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a wide spread across Florida NP pay levels:2
- 10th percentile: approximately $100,540
- Median: approximately $101,920
- Mean: approximately $129,010
- 90th percentile: approximately $155,490
That range reflects differences in specialty, setting, employer type, and metro area. Entry-level NPs or those working in lower-cost regions may start closer to the $100,000 mark, while experienced providers in high-acuity hospital settings or underserved areas can push well past $150,000.
Metro Area Differences
Location matters. The Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro area, for example, reported a mean annual wage of about $101,870 as of the most recent available metro-level data, with total employment of roughly 5,450 NPs.3 Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville also employ large numbers of nurse practitioners, though the most current metro-level wage data for those areas has not been updated in the same reporting cycle. Generally, urban hospital systems and specialty practices in these metros tend to offer competitive compensation packages that include signing bonuses, loan repayment assistance, and shift differentials.
AGACNP vs. AGPCNP: A Salary Nuance
One important caveat: BLS data does not break NP wages down by specialty certification. That said, industry patterns consistently show that acute care NPs working in ICUs, emergency departments, and surgical services often command higher base salaries than their primary care counterparts. For a deeper look at how compensation varies across the profession, see our breakdown of nurse practitioner salary by specialty. The combination of shift differentials, weekend premiums, and the specialized skill set required for critically ill patients contributes to this gap. If maximizing early-career earnings is a priority, the AGACNP track may offer a faster path to the upper end of the pay scale.
Program-Level Earnings: What the Data Shows
Program-specific earnings data after graduation, such as median salaries one, two, or four years post-completion, is not yet available for Florida's adult-gerontology NP programs. These figures are published on a rolling basis and can lag behind by several years, particularly for newer or smaller cohorts. Until that data is released, the statewide and metro-level BLS figures above offer the most reliable salary benchmarks.
Putting Earnings in Context With Debt
Median graduate debt at the Florida schools offering AGNP programs generally falls between about $15,000 and $27,000, depending on whether you attend a public university or a private institution. Even at the higher end, a monthly ten-year repayment on $27,000 in student loans runs roughly $280 to $310 per month (assuming standard federal loan rates). Compared to a starting salary north of $100,000, that debt-to-income ratio is quite manageable. Public university options like the University of Florida, Florida Atlantic University, and the University of South Florida carry median institutional debt closer to the $15,000 to $18,000 range, making the return on investment even more favorable. You can also explore the full range of NP programs in Florida for additional comparisons.
The bottom line: Florida AGNPs, whether in primary or acute care, enter a job market where six-figure salaries are the norm rather than the exception, and where typical graduate debt levels represent a relatively small fraction of first-year earnings.
Florida AGNP Salary Snapshot
Florida's growing aging population is driving strong demand for adult-gerontology nurse practitioners in both primary and acute care settings. Here is a quick look at the numbers shaping the AGNP career landscape in the state.
Admissions Requirements and Application Tips for Florida AGNP Programs
Every accredited adult-gerontology nurse practitioner program in Florida mandates an active, unencumbered RN license, a bachelor's degree in nursing from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited institution, and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Beyond those baseline qualifications, expectations diverge based on the degree pathway you select and the institution's philosophy on standardized testing, clinical experience, and prerequisite coursework.
RN Licensure and Clinical Experience
Your Florida RN license must remain in good standing throughout the application process and enrollment. While a handful of programs accept multistate compact licenses from other states, most require Florida licensure before your first clinical rotation. Clinical experience requirements vary: some DNP programs prefer a minimum of one year in acute care, medical-surgical, or gerontology settings, while MSN tracks may accept new graduates with strong academic records. If you are targeting an AGACNP track, documented ICU, emergency department, or step-down unit experience strengthens your application considerably.
Prerequisite Coursework and GPA Thresholds
Most programs expect completed undergraduate courses in statistics, health assessment, and pathophysiology within the past five to seven years. If your BSN curriculum omitted statistics or used a combined research-and-statistics course, you may need to take a standalone graduate-level biostatistics course before matriculation. For a deeper look at what's typically required, review the full list of DNP prerequisites before you start applying. Post-master's certificate applicants often satisfy these requirements through their initial MSN coursework, but verify transcript equivalency with each program's admissions office. GPA thresholds are firm: a 2.9 cumulative GPA typically disqualifies you unless paired with exceptional GRE scores or a strong upward trend in your final two years.
GRE and Test-Optional Policies
GRE requirements have fractured across Florida AGNP programs. University of Florida and Florida State University still require GRE scores for DNP applicants, while the University of South Florida and Florida Atlantic University have adopted test-optional policies for candidates with GPAs above 3.3. If your GPA hovers near the minimum, a strong GRE verbal and quantitative performance can offset transcript weaknesses. Conversely, if you earned a 3.7 or higher and have two years of relevant clinical experience, many programs waive the exam entirely.
Application Deadlines and Rolling Admissions
Deadlines span August through February, with most cohorts starting in May or August. University of Florida's BSN-to-DNP track closes applications in mid-October for the following May start, while several MSN programs accept rolling applications through February for August entry. Early submission matters: competitive programs fill seats before the official deadline, and clinical placement coordination begins months before orientation.
Practical Application Strategies
- Documentation: Begin compiling clinical hour logs, continuing education certificates, and RN license verification at least three months before your first application deadline. Programs expect detailed records of your patient population, settings, and supervising providers.
- Letters of Recommendation: Secure at least one letter of recommendation nurse practitioner faculty or a physician who has directly observed your clinical judgment. A charge nurse or nurse manager letter suffices for a second reference, but NP faculty or collaborating providers carry more weight in admissions committee reviews.
- Goal Statement Specificity: Write separate statements for AGPCNP and AGACNP applications. A generic essay about "caring for older adults" fails to distinguish between managing diabetes in an outpatient clinic and titrating vasopressors in a cardiac ICU. Specify your track, describe patient populations you have served, and name the practice settings where you plan to work after graduation. Admissions committees sort hundreds of applications; clarity and precision make yours memorable.
How Long Does It Take to Become an AGNP in Florida?
Your timeline to practice as an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner in Florida depends on the degree path you choose and whether you enroll full time or part time. Below is a realistic roadmap from program entry through Florida APRN licensure. Part-time enrollment typically adds one to two years to any pathway.
How We Evaluated These Florida AGNP Programs
Some prospective students want a straightforward list of accredited programs; others need granular data on costs, outcomes, and format flexibility before committing. Our evaluation balanced both approaches, weighting factors that matter most to working nurses while acknowledging the limitations of available data.
Ranking Factors We Considered
We examined each program across several dimensions:
- Accreditation status: Only programs holding CCNE or ACEN accreditation were included, since Florida Board of Nursing licensure and national certification require graduation from an accredited program.
- Tuition affordability: We compared both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, recognizing that online learners often pay the same rate regardless of residency.
- Post-completion earnings: Salary figures come from College Scorecard program-level outcomes, offering a snapshot of what graduates actually earn after finishing.
- Graduate debt levels: Lower median debt relative to expected earnings signals stronger return on investment.
- Format flexibility: Programs offering fully online, hybrid, or part-time options received consideration for accessibility to working nurses.
What the Data Shows and What It Cannot
Graduation rates and net price figures are institution-wide metrics, not specific to AGNP programs. A university's overall six-year graduation rate reflects undergraduate performance more than graduate nursing outcomes. We include these figures for context, but they should not be interpreted as AGNP-specific completion rates.
Earnings data, when available, comes from College Scorecard and reflects reported outcomes for program completers. Not every program has published earnings information, and we noted those gaps rather than estimating.
Scope of Programs Included
Both AGPCNP and AGACNP tracks appear in our rankings across MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate levels. If you are weighing the best online MSN adult gerontology nurse practitioner programs nationally before narrowing your search to Florida, our broader rankings can help. For those considering a doctoral pathway, our guide to online DNP NP programs in Florida covers additional options. This broad scope gives readers the fullest picture of Florida's adult-gerontology NP landscape, whether you prefer a primary care focus or an acute care specialty.
Cross-Reference for Yourself
You can verify program accreditation through CCNE or ACEN directories and review institutional data directly on College Scorecard. These public resources let you confirm the figures we cite and explore additional metrics that matter to your decision.
Additional Adult-Gerontology NP Programs in Florida
In addition to the top-ranked programs, several other Florida schools offer adult-gerontology NP tracks in both primary and acute care. These programs provide flexible formats and different degree levels, from post-master's certificates to DNPs, to suit your career goals.
South Florida
Barry University Miami, FL · Hybrid
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Practitioner, MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
- Nursing Practice, Post-Baccalaureate DNP (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Palm Beach Atlantic University West Palm Beach, FL · Hybrid
- DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Florida National University Hialeah, FL · On-Campus
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
South University-West Palm Beach Royal Palm Beach, FL · Online
- MSN with a Specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Tampa Bay Area
South University-Tampa Tampa, FL · Online
- MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
