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 2026
Florida's AGNP landscape spans both primary care and acute care tracks, offered at every degree level from post-master's certificates to the DNP. The programs below were evaluated on what matters most to working nurses: affordability and net cost after aid, graduate earning potential, institutional completion outcomes, and format flexibility for professionals who need to keep working while they study. Several schools cover both tracks, giving you the option to pivot between clinic-based primary care and high-acuity hospital practice within the same institution.
- Program affordability and net price
- Graduate earnings after completion
- Institutional graduation and retention rates
- Format flexibility for working nurses
- Track and degree level breadth
- Internal program database
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Independent program research
University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a hybrid DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care that pairs online coursework with clinical placements at high-acuity inpatient sites across the state. Students need at least one year of critical care RN experience and should expect to travel within Florida for clinical rotations. With an institution-wide graduation rate of 91.1% and a net price of roughly $6,541, UF delivers strong outcomes at one of the lowest costs on this list. Both full-time and part-time pacing are available, and graduates leave eligible for ANCC and AACN certification.
- Hybrid format: online courses plus Florida-based clinicals
- Requires minimum one year of critical care RN experience
- Full-time and part-time pacing options available
- Prepares for both ANCC and AACN national certification
- Clinical sites limited to Florida inpatient settings
- Individualized clinical learning experiences with specialty directors
- Travel within Florida may be required for placements
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP (BSN to DNP) — Hybrid
Florida International University
Florida International University stands out for offering the AGPCNP track at three distinct degree levels: an online MSN (45 credits, six semesters), an online DNP, and a fully online post-graduate certificate (32 credits) for nurses who already hold an MSN. FIU's in-state tuition is among the lowest in the state, and clinicals can be arranged outside South Florida, adding flexibility for nurses in rural or less-populated areas. The university reports a 74.4% graduation rate and a net price near $9,288.
- Online format with 45 total credit hours over six semesters
- Clinicals allowed outside the local South Florida area
- Prepares for national NP certification through ANCC or AANPCB
- Option to add a Nurse Educator Certificate alongside the MSN
- Covers adolescents through older adults across the care continuum
- Financial aid available; starts each fall semester
- Fully online DNP with AGPCNP concentration
- Fall application deadline March 1; spring deadline August 1
- Prepares for national primary care NP certification
- Clinical placements outside traditional areas permitted
- Multiple concentration options within the DNP framework
- Four concentration choices within the doctoral program
- Online certificate requiring 32 credit hours
- Designed for nurses who already hold an MSN degree
- Flexible format with no campus visits needed
- Prepares for national AGPCNP certification
- Students identify and arrange their own clinical sites
- Enhances clinical skills in adult and geriatric care
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, MSN — Online
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, DNP — Online
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, Post-Graduate Certificate — Online
University of South Florida
The University of South Florida is one of the few Florida schools that houses both the AGPCNP and AGACNP under one roof, spanning MSN and BSN-to-DNP pathways. The primary care MSN requires 57 credit hours on campus and concludes with a comprehensive exam, while the acute care DNP track prepares graduates for ANCC or AACN certification in hospital and outpatient acute settings. USF also offers a distinctive Occupational Health Nursing subspecialty layered onto the AGPCNP, expanding career options for nurses interested in workplace health. Net price sits at approximately $9,812 with an institutional graduation rate of 76.8%.
- Campus-based program requiring 57 total credit hours
- Comprehensive exam required for degree completion
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB certification exams
- Covers research, health policy, leadership, and consultation
- Personalized program plans after admission
- 74 credit hours combining NP and public health coursework
- Campus-based delivery with Occupational Health concentration
- Grant funding may cover tuition and fees
- Collaborative courses through College of Public Health
- Prepares for ANCC, AANPCB, or ABOHN certification
- Unique dual focus on primary care and workplace safety
- Lock-step and new-graduate program plans available
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB certification
- Scholarships and financial aid available
- Focus on ambulatory and patient-centered primary care
- Specialization in adult gerontology primary care
- Multiple pacing options for working nurses
- Prepares for ANCC or AACN certification exam
- Practice scope includes acute and outpatient settings
- Manages acute and complex health conditions across adult populations
- Hybrid and campus-based format options available
- Lock-step curriculum with standard course sequence
- Financial aid and scholarship support offered
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, MSN — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP with Occupational Health Subspecialty, MSN — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, BSN to DNP — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, BSN to DNP — On-Campus
Florida State University
Florida State University focuses exclusively on the AGACNP track, available as a hybrid DNP (BSN-to-DNP and post-master's pathways) and a 22-credit online post-master's certificate. The DNP lists tuition at $444 per credit and requires only four on-campus day sessions, making it practical for nurses who cannot relocate. FSU recommends one to two years of acute care RN experience and prepares graduates for both ANCC and AACN certification. The school carries an 85.6% graduation rate and a net price near $11,297.
- Hybrid format with only four required on-campus sessions
- $444 per credit; GRE waivers available
- Full-time and part-time pacing with fall start
- Synchronous and asynchronous course components
- Prepares for AGACNP certification through ANCC and AACN
- Recommends one to two years of acute care RN experience
- Capstone project required for degree completion
- 22 credit hours delivered fully online
- Synchronous components for interactive learning
- CCNE-accredited through the College of Nursing
- Focus on complex illness management and critical care
- Includes clinical rotation requirements and simulation
- Prepares for diagnosing and treating critically ill adults
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, DNP (BSN to DNP and Post-Master's) — Online
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Post-Master's Certificate — Online
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University centers on the AGPCNP track through an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, and a post-graduate certificate. The MSN runs eight semesters part-time with 52 credits and 780 clinical hours, all placed in South Florida. FAU operates across three campuses (Boca Raton, Davie, and Harbor Branch, with Harbor Branch expected to transition to the Jupiter campus soon). Clinical sites span Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, Brevard, and Orange counties, giving students a clearly defined regional footprint. In-state tuition of roughly $6,693 makes FAU one of the most affordable public options.
- 52 credit hours with 780 clinical hours required
- Part-time format over eight semesters; starts each fall
- Hybrid online and on-campus sessions at three FAU campuses
- Clinical sites across several South Florida counties
- Holistic, caring-based philosophy guides the curriculum
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP national certification
- No entrance exam or prior clinical experience required
- 77 total credit hours across 11 semesters; $28,629 total tuition
- Weekend DNP classes offered monthly
- 1,000 clinical hours with placements in South Florida
- Master's Along the Way option for early credential
- Synchronous and asynchronous delivery; capstone required
- Admits once per year with a January 15 application deadline
- Campus-based certificate for MSN-prepared nurses
- Requires 3.0 GPA and Florida RN licensure
- Limited-access program with selective admission
- Advisement meeting required before enrollment
- Background check and writing sample may apply
- Focused on primary care for adult and older adult populations
Adult Gerontological NP (Primary Care), MSN — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, BSN to DNP — Hybrid
Adult/Gerontological NP, Post-Graduate Certificate — On-Campus
University of Central Florida
UCF serves both tracks through a hybrid model anchored in Orlando. The AGPCNP is available as a BSN-to-DNP (73 to 74 credit hours, up to 1,200 clinical hours) and a 19-credit post-master's certificate. The AGACNP is offered as a 23-credit post-master's certificate. Twice-yearly in-person intensives in Orlando keep on-campus time manageable, and clinical sites are coordinated within UCF's Central Florida service region. All tracks require a Florida RN license. The school posts a 78% graduation rate and a net price near $10,411.
- Hybrid format with twice-yearly Orlando intensives
- 73 to 74 total credit hours; up to 1,200 clinical hours
- CCNE accredited; admits once per year each fall
- Clinical sites assigned by coordinator in Central Florida
- Financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships available
- Bridge option for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required for academic progression
- 19 credit hours in a hybrid format
- Up to 660 clinical hours included
- Requires BSN, MSN, and Florida APRN licensure
- Undergraduate statistics prerequisite required
- Includes women's health and gerontologic care courses
- Prepares for state NP licensure and advanced practice roles
- 23 credit hours in a hybrid format
- Requires MSN or DNP degree and APRN certification
- Covers disease prevention through critical care management
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice and diagnostic reasoning
- Includes clinical hours for hands-on acute care training
- Flexible curriculum designed for certified APRNs
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, BSN to DNP — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, Post-Master's Certificate — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Post-Master's Certificate — Hybrid
University of Miami
The University of Miami leverages its South Florida academic medical center network to offer both the AGPCNP and AGACNP at the MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and post-graduate certificate levels. Clinical partnerships with UHealth, Jackson Health System, VA facilities, and community clinics create a rich, multicultural practice environment. The AGACNP MSN can be completed in as little as one year (37 credits), while the BSN-to-DNP acute care track runs 70 credits over two to four years with 1,000 clinical hours. As a private institution with a net price of $37,244, UM sits at a higher price point, but graduates report median earnings of $75,328 ten years out, the highest among schools on this list.
- 37 credit hours; completable in one to one-and-a-half years
- CCNE accredited with fall and spring start options
- Clinical experiences in South Florida hospital settings
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN AGACNP certification
- Interprofessional team-based learning approach
- Full-time and part-time pacing available
- 70 total credit hours with 1,000 clinical hours
- CCNE accredited; completable in two to four years
- Partnerships with UHealth and Jackson Health System
- Eligible for ANCC and AACN certification upon graduation
- Multicultural clinical environment in the Miami area
- Evidence-based and patient-centered practice emphasis
- 68 total credit hours with 1,000 clinical hours
- Diverse clinical sites including VA and community clinics
- Full-time and part-time options; starts each fall
- Leadership development in health care policy
- Eligible for AGPCNP certification exam
- Multicultural South Florida clinical settings
- Campus-based certificate for MSN or DNP graduates
- 16 to 19 credit hours with lock-step sequencing
- Individual gap analysis determines required coursework
- Core courses in Adult Gerontology I, II, and III
- Focused on primary care for adult and older populations
- Contact Office of Student Services for admissions details
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, MSN — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, BSN to DNP — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, BSN to DNP — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, Post-Graduate Certificate — On-Campus
Miami Regional University
Miami Regional University offers a focused 12-month post-master's certificate in AGACNP through a hybrid format that pairs primarily online coursework with required on-campus skills sessions and a three-day simulation weekend at its Miami Springs campus. The program requires 30 semester credits and 810 clinical hours. Students must be Florida residents (or reside in a SARA member state) and hold current ACLS and BLS certification. Note that students are expected to arrange their own clinical preceptors; if the university appoints one, an additional fee applies. The institution reports an 84.5% graduation rate.
- 30 semester credits with 810 clinical hours in 12 months
- Hybrid format: online coursework plus on-campus skills labs
- Three-day simulation weekend required at Miami Springs campus
- Requires MSN degree, Florida residency (or SARA state), RN license
- ACLS and BLS certification mandatory for admission
- Students arrange their own preceptors; additional fee if assigned
- Meets APRN consensus model and certification exam requirements
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Post-Master's Certificate — Hybrid
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Florida A&M University's fully online AGPCNP MSN is designed for working nurses who want to complete their degree in as few as five semesters (or seven semesters part-time). The 42-credit curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and management of acute and chronic conditions, and it is accredited by both ACEN and SACSCOC. As a historically Black university, FAMU emphasizes a supportive, inclusive community. In-state tuition runs approximately $9,876, though the net price after aid lands closer to $13,739.
- Fully online format; completable in five or seven semesters
- 42 total credit hours covering the adult lifespan
- Accredited by ACEN and SACSCOC
- Full-time and part-time pacing for working professionals
- Focus on evidence-based practice and health promotion
- Careers in community centers, home health, public health, and more
- Financial aid available; supportive, inclusive learning environment
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, MSN — Online
Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College provides an AGPCNP concentration within its MSN, priced at $675 per credit with no GRE required. The CCNE-accredited program offers live, hybrid, and online course formats, so students can choose the mix that fits their schedule. Small class sizes and clinical placement assistance round out a personalized experience at this private Lakeland-based college. The institution carries an 70.5% graduation rate.
- $675 per credit; no GRE or entrance exam required
- CCNE accredited with three delivery format options
- Clinical placement assistance provided by the program
- Intimate class sizes with close faculty mentorship
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP national certification
- Transfer up to two courses from a prior graduate program
- Three video essays required as part of admission
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, MSN — On-Campus
Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University covers the AGACNP through an MSN (45 credits, six semesters), a BSN-to-DNP (75 credits, 1,000 clinical hours), and a 24-credit postgraduate certificate based at the Palm Beach campus. The hybrid delivery blends online coursework with on-site intensives and optional live Zoom sessions. Admission to the certificate requires 12 months of clinical experience and residency within 225 miles of campus. CCNE accredited, with a 63.3% institutional graduation rate and a net price near $30,371.
- CCNE accredited; 45 credit hours over six semesters
- Hybrid delivery with optional live Zoom sessions
- Full-time and part-time pacing; fall and winter starts
- Dedicated faculty adviser and on-campus intensives
- Capstone project required for graduation
- Bridge option available for non-BSN students
- 75 total credit hours with 1,000 clinical hours
- Hybrid online and face-to-face delivery
- Advanced acute care specialization with leadership focus
- Prepares for national AGACNP certification
- Clinical expertise combined with doctoral scholarship
- Financial aid and scholarship support available
- 24 credit hours over four semesters at Palm Beach campus
- Hybrid format; requires residence within 225 miles of campus
- MSN required plus 12 months of clinical experience
- ACLS certification and Florida RN licensure needed
- Includes 170 practicum hours and 225 clinical hours
- Prepares for national AGACNP certification
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, MSN — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, BSN to DNP — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Postgraduate Certificate — Hybrid
St. Thomas University
St. Thomas University offers a fully online AGPCNP MSN that can be completed in about 18 months at $605 per credit ($31,210 total). The CCNE-accredited program has six start dates per year, making it one of the most flexible options for nurses who want to start quickly. Clinical placements are arranged in Florida and Georgia, covering hospitals, specialty clinics, long-term care, and telehealth settings. A research thesis project integrates evidence-based practice throughout the curriculum.
- $31,210 total tuition at $605 per credit; $0 application fee
- Fully online with six start dates per year
- 47 credit hours completable in approximately 18 months
- CCNE accredited with thesis research requirement
- Clinical placements available in Florida and Georgia
- Pay-by-the-course billing ideal for working nurses
- 125 clinical hours plus 500 total practicum hours
Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, MSN — Online
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University focuses on the AGACNP track through a campus-based MSN and a BSN-to-DNP pathway. Clinical experiences take place in ICU, trauma, and hospital medicine settings, and instruction is led by board-certified acute care NPs. Students benefit from live simulation activities and virtual reality labs. Important note: JU's MSN AGACNP program is currently not accepting new applications, so prospective students should confirm availability before applying. The school has an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the lowest among programs on this list.
- Campus-based with full-time and part-time options; fall start
- Taught by board-certified acute care nurse practitioners
- Clinical experiences in ICU, trauma, and specialty settings
- Virtual reality labs and telepresence robots for simulation
- Prepares for ANCC and AACN national certification
- Currently not accepting new applications; verify status
- BSN-to-DNP pathway specializing in acute care
- Requires 3.3 GPA and active nursing license for admission
- Combines advanced theory with hands-on clinical practice
- Prepares for APRN licensure in Florida
- Focuses on complex adult health conditions
- Enhances critical thinking and leadership skills
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, MSN — On-Campus
Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, BSN to DNP — On-Campus
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.
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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
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