Most Affordable Online AGNP Programs for 2025
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) that are essential to the healthcare industry, considering the wide scope of their skills, knowledge, and practice. Because of this, NPs, including adult-gerontology nurse practitioners (AGNPs), are in high demand in the United States (US). Between 2023 and 2033, employment for NPs is expected to grow by 46% across the nation, translating to about 135,500 new jobs over the decade [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2024].
These figures underscore the important role that NPs play in providing an aging population with access to quality healthcare. However, during my research for this guide, I found that the cost of nursing education and training can often be an obstacle faced by healthcare workers wanting to advance their careers and provide better services. To help you in your search for competent academic options, I created this comprehensive guide on the most affordable online AGNP programs.
What are the benefits of getting a degree in AGNP?
- NPs who choose to specialize in adult-gerontology can venture into primary care or acute care. They may also shift to other NP specialties, such as family nurse practitioner (FNP), pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP), and psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP).
- Across the US, NPs had a median annual wage of $126,260 in 2023 (US BLS, 2024).
- Going through online AGNP programs enable practicing nurses to work and attend to personal obligations while working toward degree completion.
What can I expect from an online AGNP degree program?
Online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs provide students with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Coursework usually covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and evidence-based practices for care toward adult and elderly populations. Programs may include interactive online lectures, virtual simulations, and opportunities for collaborative learning.
Most online AGNP programs require clinical hours, which students complete in approved healthcare settings near their location. Flexible scheduling accommodates working professionals, and some programs offer part-time options. Graduates are equipped to assess, diagnose, and manage health conditions to prepare them for national certification exams and advanced practice roles.
Where can I work with an online AGNP degree?
Graduates of online AGNP programs are well-positioned to work in diverse healthcare settings. Their advanced training allows them to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and develop comprehensive care plans.
AGNPs can pursue roles in hospitals, outpatient clinics, primary care offices, and long-term care facilities, addressing the unique needs of adult and elderly patients. They can work in different specialties, such as internal medicine, palliative care, geriatrics, or chronic disease management. Beyond clinical roles, AGNPs may work in academia, research, or healthcare leadership, influencing policies and practices to improve patient outcomes
How much can I make with an online AGNP degree?
Across the US, NPs had a median annual wage of $126,260 in 2023 (US BLS, 2024). For AGNPs specifically, the average salary in the US was $101,447 in June 2024, with salaries usually ranging from $58,000 to $175,000 annually (Zippia, 2024).
To compare, registered nurses (RNs) in the country had a median annual wage of $86,070 in 2023. Moreover, in the third quarter of 2024, 120.8 million full-time wage and salary workers in the US had median weekly earnings of $1,165 (US BLS, 2024), which is approximately $55,920 annually.
Table of Contents
- List of Online AGNP Programs for 2025
- How long does it take to complete an online AGNP program?
- How does an online AGNP program compare to an on-campus program?
- What is the average cost of an online AGNP program?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online AGNP program?
- Is an online AGNP degree a sound financial investment?
- What are the common challenges of an online AGNP program?
- Can ADN Nurses Transition Directly into an AGNP Program?
- How is clinical training managed in online AGNP programs?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online AGNP program?
- How do accreditation and licensure standards impact online AGNP programs?
- How do AGNP programs integrate health informatics into their curriculum?
- What are the graduation and certification success rates of online AGNP programs?
- How are online AGNP programs adapting to evolving healthcare trends?
- What support services are available to online AGNP students?
- What courses are typically in an online AGNP program?
- How to choose the best online AGNP program?
- What career paths are available for graduates of online AGNP programs?
- Can individuals without a nursing background pursue an AGNP career?
- What is the job market for graduates with an AGNP degree?
- Other Things You Should Know about Online AGNP Programs
List of Online AGNP Programs for 2025
Aspiring AGNPs must know that while the projected job growth rate for NPs across the US is 46% between 2023 and 2033 (US BLS, 2024), the number of employable AGNPs may surpass the demand in the next few years. National supply for NPs in 2027 has been forecasted to be at 465,150, while national demand is at 369,050 (Health Resources & Services Administration, 2024). This means that the number of employable NPs may be 26% more than the number of professionals needed by 2027.
Exploring affordable yet quality options for AGNP degree programs can help increase your employability and set yourself apart from other aspirants. To help you narrow down your search, I created this list of some of the most affordable online AGNP programs based on the research methodology that my team and I established. We collected and analyzed recent data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.
1. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track (AGACNP). The university also accepts applications of Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree holders through its Post-masters Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate. Graduates of these programs are equipped and qualified to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam, or the American Association of Critical Care Nurses’ Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam.
- Program Length: 48 semester credit hours
- Specialty: Acute Care
- Cost per Credit: $272.43 per credit hour (Resident); $589 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 48 semester credit hours
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
2. East Carolina University
East Carolina University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program with an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) Specialty. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, with much of the coursework being done online. Students are also required to gain 720 hours of clinical practice and to finish a DNP project that spans three semesters.
- Program Length: 61 semester hours
- Specialty: Primary Care
- Cost per Credit: $263.83 per credit hour (Resident); $994.33 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 61 semester hours
- Accreditation: CCNE
3. Post University
Post University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with an adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (MSN-AGPCNP). The program curriculum includes essential advanced courses centered on caring for the aging population, such as advanced pathophysiology, advanced practice nursing, and complex concepts of aging. Notably, students are required to keep an active and unencumbered RN license while completing the program.
- Program Length: 2 years, 4 months
- Specialty: Primary Care
- Cost per Credit: $588 to $603.75 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 42 to 45 credit hours
- Accreditation: CCNE
4. Kent State University
Kent State University offers an MSN program for aspiring AGNPs in primary care, delivered in a hybrid format. The university also has a post-master’s certificate program in the AGNP specialization for professionals who have already earned their graduate degrees in nursing. Other than AGNP, the MSN program offers several other concentrations, including adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist, family nurse practitioner (FNP), and nurse educator.
- Program Length: 2 to 4 years
- Specialties: Primary Care; Acute Care
- Cost per Credit: $594.78 per credit hour (Resident); $604.78 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 42 to 43 credit hours
- Accreditation: CCNE
5. University of Texas Medical Branch
The University of Texas Medical Branch offers an online AGNP program with specialties in primary care and acute care. The program covers vital courses in the field, such as geriatric syndromes, advanced health assessment, and common problems of adults. The university also offers the FNP and neonatal NP concentrations in its MSN program.
- Program Length: 7 semesters
- Specialties: Primary Care; Acute Care
- Cost per Credit: $50 per credit hour (Resident); $470 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 49 credit hours
- Accreditation: CCNE
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online AGNP Programs
- “Earning my MSN with an AGNP concentration online allowed me to balance my career and family while advancing my education. The flexibility of the program let me complete coursework at my own pace, and the clinical placements were arranged close to home. It’s empowering to now provide specialized care for older adults, knowing my education truly prepared me for real-world challenges.” —Anthony
- “The online AGNP program exceeded my expectations with its interactive learning and supportive faculty. I could immediately apply what I learned to my job as a nurse, which made the experience even more rewarding. Completing this program online gave me the confidence and skills to take on leadership roles in geriatric care.” —Steven
- “At first, I worried an online program wouldn’t feel personal, but I was amazed by the sense of community. Virtual discussions with peers across the country enriched my perspective, and the curriculum was just as rigorous as any on-campus program. Graduating felt like a huge accomplishment—I’m now thriving as a nurse practitioner in a primary care setting.” —Katy
Key Findings
- Full-time students in a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) AGNP program can finish the program in 2 to 3 years, while part-time students may take up to 4 years. For students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with an AGNP concentration, completion usually takes 3 to 4 years full-time or 4 to 6 years part-time.
- Tuition for online AGNP programs may cost between $50 and $603.75 per credit for resident students. Meanwhile, non-resident students may pay between $470 and $994.33 per credit, based on current tuition data from affordable academic institutions across the US.
- Common courses required by online AGNP programs include advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and clinical management of adult and geriatric populations.
- In 2023, NPs across the US had a median annual wage of $126,260 (US BLS, 2024).
- Employment for nurse practitioners (NPs) is projected to grow by an impressive 46% from 2023 to 2033, adding approximately 135,500 new jobs nationwide (US BLS, 2024).
How long does it take to complete an online AGNP program?
The time required to complete an online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) program varies depending on different factors, such as program type, enrollment status, and prior education. Full-time students in a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) AGNP program can finish the program in 2 to 3 years, while part-time students may take up to 4 years.
For students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with an AGNP concentration, completion usually takes 3 to 4 years full-time or 4 to 6 years part-time. Accelerated programs, such as accelerated DNP programs and a 12-month FNP program online, are available for those seeking faster completion, often requiring a more intensive course load.
Many programs accommodate working nurses by offering flexible schedules, allowing clinical hours to be completed locally. Individual timelines can also depend on prerequisites or prior nursing experience, particularly for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders entering bridge programs.
How does an online AGNP program compare to an on-campus program?
Online and on-campus adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs offer the same foundational education but differ in delivery and structure. The following are three key differences:
- Flexibility: Online programs provide greater flexibility and enable students to access coursework at their convenience. They may be ideal for working nurses or those with family commitments. In contrast, on-campus programs often have fixed schedules requiring regular attendance.
- Learning Environment: Online programs use digital platforms for lectures, discussions, and assignments, fostering virtual collaboration. On-campus programs offer face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers, which some students prefer for hands-on engagement.
- Clinical Placement Logistics: Online programs typically allow students to complete clinical rotations near their location, offering convenience. On-campus programs may have predetermined clinical sites, which could require commuting.
For prospective students wondering, "Is an online nursing degree credible?" the answer lies in accreditation. Reputable online AGNP programs are accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring they meet high educational standards.

What is the average cost of an online AGNP program?
The cost of an online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) program in the US varies based on various factors, such as academic institution type, residency status, and program length. The following are the costs per credit of online AGNP programs as required by the academic institutions that I featured on my list of affordable online programs above:
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: $272.43 per credit hour (Resident); $589 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- East Carolina University: $263.83 per credit hour (Resident); $994.33 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- Post University: $588 to $603.75 per credit hour
- Kent State University: $594.78 per credit hour (Resident); $604.78 per credit hour (Non-resident)
- University of Texas Medical Branch: $50 per credit hour (Resident); $470 per credit hour (Non-resident)
Additional expenses include technology fees, books, and clinical placement costs. Public universities usually offer lower tuition, particularly for in-state students, while private institutions may charge higher rates. Many schools provide financial aid options, such as scholarships and tuition reimbursement programs, to help offset costs. Aspiring AGNPs can research funding opportunities to further lower the cost of affordable online AGNP programs.
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The chart below provides a visualization of the costs per credit of online AGNP programs offered by the academic institutions featured on my list of programs above.
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online AGNP program?
Students enrolling in online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs have several financial aid options to make their education more affordable:
- Federal Financial Aid: Eligible students can apply for federal loans, grants, or work-study programs by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These funds often cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Scholarships and Grants: Many universities, professional nursing organizations, and private foundations offer scholarships specifically for nursing students. These funds, unlike loans, do not need to be repaid and may target AGNP students or underrepresented groups.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Healthcare employers often provide tuition reimbursement programs for nurses pursuing advanced degrees. These programs may require a commitment to work for the organization post-graduation.
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Is an online AGNP degree a sound financial investment?
Evaluating an online AGNP program requires a thorough cost–benefit analysis. Compare tuition, fees, and ancillary costs with projected salary increments and long-term career stability to assess overall return on investment. Consider available financial aid, flexible payment structures, and competitive tuition rates when determining program affordability. Prospective students may also review insights on the cheapest online MSN programs to identify cost-effective alternatives while ensuring quality education.
What are the common challenges of an online AGNP program?
Online AGNP programs, while offering flexibility, present distinct challenges that require careful consideration. Participants may face difficulties coordinating clinical placements across varied geographic areas and managing self-directed learning alongside professional responsibilities. Technological hurdles, such as unreliable internet connectivity or limited access to simulation tools, can also affect the delivery of critical coursework and virtual collaboration. In addition, building a robust professional network in an online setting may demand extra effort to connect with faculty and peers. Evaluating these factors is essential for determining whether is being a nurse worth it relative to long-term career expectations.
Can ADN Nurses Transition Directly into an AGNP Program?
Nurses holding an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) who aspire to become AGNPs may explore bridge programs designed to expedite the transition into advanced practice roles. These specialized pathways often incorporate accelerated coursework, clinical rotations, and tailored support services that address the gap between foundational nursing education and graduate-level practice. For nurses interested in exploring alternative progression options, reviewing programs such as ADN to FNP can provide valuable insight into curriculum structures and admission criteria, even though AGNP tracks typically require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) as the baseline qualification.
How is clinical training managed in online AGNP programs?
Institutions ensure rigorous clinical exposure by partnering with diverse healthcare facilities that accommodate remote learning. Innovative strategies include the use of virtual simulation labs, telehealth modules, and structured preceptorship arrangements aligned with state licensure requirements. Certain programs offer accelerated tracks—similar to accelerated FNP programs online—which provide an intensified curriculum to fast‐track the development of clinical competencies. This integration of remote academic delivery with robust, hands-on clinical practice enhances long-term professional readiness.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online AGNP program?
To enroll in an online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) program, prospective students must usually meet the following prerequisites:
- Registered Nurse (RN) License: Applicants must hold an active and unencumbered RN license, ensuring that they have foundational nursing skills and experience.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most programs require a BSN from an accredited academic institution. RNs with an associate degree in nursing may earn their BSN degree through the cheapest RN to BSN online programs. Although some institutions offer bridge options for non-BSN degree holders.
- Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is often needed, reflecting academic readiness for rigorous graduate coursework.
- Clinical Experience: Many programs require a minimum of 1 or 2 years of professional nursing experience, preferably with adult or elderly populations. RN to BSN programs without clinicals
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit professional or academic references attesting to their skills, character, and suitability for advanced practice.

How do accreditation and licensure standards impact online AGNP programs?
Accreditation and state licensure requirements are key indicators of program quality and long-term career success. Evaluating a program’s accreditation status ensures that the curriculum and clinical components meet nationally recognized standards set by entities such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Similarly, programs that align with state-specific licensure criteria enhance graduates’ readiness for certification exams and professional practice. Prospective students should verify that the institution maintains effective partnerships for clinical placements and complies with state regulatory mandates, which are critical for ensuring smooth licensure transitions. For those interested in foundational educational pathways, exploring online LPN programs may provide additional insights into programs with robust accreditation and licensure support.
How do AGNP programs integrate health informatics into their curriculum?
Many online AGNP programs have begun incorporating dedicated modules on digital health, emphasizing the practical application of electronic health records, telehealth platforms, and clinical data management. These courses are designed to equip nurse practitioners with the skills necessary to utilize cutting-edge informatics tools, thereby enhancing patient care and streamlining decision-making processes in clinical settings. By integrating real-world simulations and interactive case studies focused on healthcare technology, programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the evolving landscape of digital healthcare. For additional insights on related roles and opportunities, please refer to careers in health informatics.
What are the graduation and certification success rates of online AGNP programs?
Many accredited online AGNP programs provide verified data on graduation rates and certification exam pass rates as indicators of academic effectiveness and clinical preparedness. Evaluating these metrics—such as on-time graduation figures, first-attempt exam success, and retake frequencies—offers prospective students a clearer perspective on program quality and long-term career readiness. Institutions typically publish these outcomes on their websites or in annual reports, and independent accreditors may also provide third‐party verification. For an example of rigorous evaluation practices from a complementary educational sector, please refer to our article on the cheapest online artificial intelligence programs.
How are online AGNP programs adapting to evolving healthcare trends?
Online AGNP programs are continually revising their curricula to incorporate shifts in healthcare policy, telehealth innovations, and data-informed care practices. Programs now feature updated modules on remote patient monitoring, digital documentation, and evolving regulatory standards that impact clinical practice. This responsive approach is reinforced by partnerships with healthcare providers to bring real-world insights into virtual learning environments. Additionally, adaptive learning technologies and current case studies are used to prepare graduates for the dynamic challenges of contemporary healthcare delivery. For further interdisciplinary insights, explore masters data science online affordable.
What support services are available to online AGNP students?
Online AGNP programs increasingly bolster their curricula with a range of support services to enhance student success. These services often include comprehensive academic advising, dedicated mentorship programs, and tailored career counseling that help students navigate both their studies and professional pathways. Additionally, many institutions offer networking opportunities with healthcare experts and alumni, as well as technical support for online learning environments. For professionals looking to broaden their skill set while managing costs, exploring low cost online nursing informatics programs can provide a viable complement to their AGNP education.
What courses are typically in an online AGNP program?
Online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs usually include a variety of advanced courses to prepare students for clinical practice:
- Advanced Pathophysiology: This course focuses on the biological mechanisms underlying common adult and geriatric diseases. This is essential for diagnosing and managing health conditions.
- Advanced Pharmacology: This course teaches students about medications, including dosages, side effects, and interactions, crucial for prescribing treatments safely and effectively.
- Adult-Gerontology Health Assessment: This course teaches comprehensive assessment techniques for evaluating the health of adult and older patients, including physical exams and diagnostic tools.
- Clinical Management of Adult and Geriatric Populations: Students learn to manage acute and chronic conditions in adult and elderly patients, emphasizing evidence-based care.
- Ethics and Health Policy: This course addresses ethical dilemmas and healthcare policies affecting adult-gerontology care, preparing students for leadership roles.
How to choose the best online AGNP program?
When selecting an online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) program, consider the following factors to ensure a high-quality education:
- Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by recognized organizations like CCNE or ACEN, which ensures academic rigor and eligibility for certification exams.
- Curriculum and Specializations: Look for a program offering a comprehensive curriculum aligned with your career goals, including specialized tracks like acute care or primary care.
- Clinical Placement Opportunities: Consider programs that offer robust support for local clinical placements, ensuring hands-on experience in relevant healthcare settings.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the program’s tuition and fees, and explore available scholarships, financial aid, and employer reimbursement options to manage expenses.
- Faculty Expertise and Support: Research the qualifications and experience of the program’s faculty, and ensure the program provides strong academic and career support services.
What career paths are available for graduates of online AGNP programs?
During my research for this guide, I found that graduates of online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs have diverse career opportunities in healthcare and education.
- Family Nurse Practitioners: Most graduates work as NPs, specializing in adult and geriatric care in settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or private practices. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage chronic conditions. AGNPs may also shift to other specialties, including family nurse practitioner (FNP). Additional education and training for these tracks can be achieved through the cheapest online FNP programs. In 2023, FNPs across the US had a median annual wage of $126,260 (US BLS, 2024).
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner: Some AGNPs may consider going into psychiatric nurse practitioner roles with additional training. For those on a budget, attaining this additional credentials is possible through the cheapest online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs Psychiatric nurse practitioners focus on mental health care, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. In 2023, psychiatric nurse practitioners in the US had a median annual wage of $120,680 (US BLS, 2024).
- Nurse Midwives: While less common, some AGNPs may transition into midwifery roles with additional training. Nurse midwives focus on reproductive health and childbirth. In 2023, nurse midwives in the US had a median annual wage of $129,650 (US BLS, 2024).
- Nurse Anesthetists: AGNP graduates interested in anesthesia can pursue further education to administer anesthesia and manage pain care, particularly for older adults undergoing surgery. In 2023, nurse anesthetists across the US had a median annual wage of $212,650 (US BLS, 2024).
- Nursing Instructors and Teachers: Many graduates leverage their advanced knowledge to teach in nursing schools, preparing the next generation of nurses and contributing to academic research. In 2023, nursing instructors and teachers in the US had a median annual wage of $80,780 (US BLS, 2024).
The chart below provides a visualization of the 2023 median annual wages of professions that may be available to graduates of online AGNP programs, according to 2024 data from the US BLS.
Can individuals without a nursing background pursue an AGNP career?
For professionals without a nursing background, alternative pathways exist that integrate foundational nursing education with advanced practice training. Some institutions offer accelerated tracks—such as online direct entry MSN programs—specifically designed to transition non-nurses into the AGNP field. These programs combine introductory nursing courses with AGNP-specific training, ensuring that candidates build essential clinical competencies while progressing toward advanced practice roles. Evaluating factors such as program accreditation, curriculum structure, and clinical placement policies is crucial when considering these nontraditional pathways.
What is the job market for graduates with an AGNP degree?
The job market for graduates of online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) programs is highly promising. Employment for nurse practitioners (NPs) is projected to grow by an impressive 46% from 2023 to 2033, adding approximately 135,500 new jobs nationwide (US BLS, 2024). This growth far exceeds the average for other professions, driven by increasing healthcare demands, particularly for aging populations.
AGNPs are in high demand in hospitals, primary care clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare services. Their specialized expertise in adult and geriatric care makes them vital as the elderly population expands. With competitive salaries and diverse work settings, AGNP graduates are well-positioned for fulfilling and secure careers in advanced nursing practice.
Other Things You Should Know about Online AGNP Programs
Does an online AGNP program prepare students for certification exams?
An online adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) program prepares students for certification exams by providing a robust curriculum and clinical training. Coursework usually includes advanced topics, such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice. These courses align with the content covered in certification exams, such as those offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Many programs also incorporate exam preparation resources, such as practice tests and review sessions. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, online AGNP programs ensure graduates are well-equipped to pass their certification exams and excel in advanced nursing roles.
Are online AGNP programs respected by employers?
Online AGNP programs are respected by employers, provided that the program is accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the curriculum meets rigorous academic and clinical standards, preparing graduates for real-world challenges.
Employers may value the advanced skills and knowledge AGNP graduates bring, regardless of whether their degree was earned online or in-person. The flexibility of online learning also demonstrates essential professional qualities, including time management and self-motivation, which are highly regarded in healthcare settings. Graduates who pass national certification exams further affirm their competence and readiness for advanced practice roles.
What is the difference between adult-gerontology acute care and primary care tracks?
The primary difference between adult-gerontology acute care (AGACNP) and primary care (AGPCNP) tracks lies in the patient populations and healthcare settings they serve. On the one hand, AGACNPs focus on managing complex, acute, and critical conditions in settings such as hospitals, intensive care units, and emergency departments. Their training emphasizes rapid assessment, intervention, and stabilization of severe illnesses.
On the other hand, AGPCNPs specialize in long-term, holistic care for adults and older adults, often working in outpatient clinics, private practices, or community health settings. They focus on preventive care, chronic disease management, and promoting overall wellness through ongoing patient relationships.
References:
- Health Resources & Services Administration. (2024, November). Nurse Workforce Projections, 2022-2037. Bureau of Health Workforce. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/data-research/nursing-projections-factsheet.pdf
- National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Table 318.30. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and field of study: Academic year 2021-22. Digest of Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_318.30.asp
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, 25-1072 Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes251072.htm
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Registered Nurses. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, October 17). USUAL WEEKLY EARNINGS OF WAGE AND SALARY WORKERS: THIRD QUARTER 2024. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/wkyeng.pdf
- Zippia. (2024, June 25). Adult Nurse Practitioner salary. https://www.zippia.com/salaries/adult-nurse-practitioner
