Best Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee

Tennessee Tech's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for advanced practice nurses focusing on the healthcare needs of older adults and adults. This terminal professional degree prepares graduates to deliver patient-centered primary care, emphasizing quality outcomes and health promotion. Students can enter via BSN-DNP (83 credits) or MSN-DNP (32 credits) pathways, completing core coursework, concentration-specific classes, and a 12-credit DNP project. The curriculum covers evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, leadership, and population health, equipping nurses to work collaboratively in diverse clinical settings. Graduates are eligible for national certification and pursue careers in primary care clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices. The program is offered by the College of Nursing and features concentrations in Executive Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well.

• 4 concentration options
• BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP entry paths
• DNP project required (12 hours)
• Eligible for national certification
• Prepares for varied healthcare settings

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Tennessee Tech is a joint program with East Tennessee State University. Designed for both BSN and MSN-prepared nurses, the program offers two pathways: a 75-credit BSN-DNP track and a 31-35 credit MSN-DNP track. The curriculum emphasizes acute care management for patients from adolescence to older adults in hospital and clinic settings. Students gain advanced clinical skills and complete a DNP project. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification exam as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and are prepared for roles in varied healthcare settings such as intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty clinics. The program features six concentration options, allowing students to tailor their education. With a focus on interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice, this hybrid program prepares advanced practice nurses to meet complex healthcare needs.

• 6 concentration options
• Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner national certification examination
• Joint program with ETSU
• BSN-DNP track requires 75 credits
• MSN-DNP track requires 31-35 credits
• Focus on acute care management

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Tennessee Tech, offered jointly with East Tennessee State University, provides a terminal degree for advanced practice nurses. The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration prepares you to manage the healthcare of patients from adolescence through older adulthood in hospital and clinic settings. The curriculum blends core DNP coursework with specialized acute care training, covering pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical management across acute care environments. You'll complete 75 credit hours for the BSN-DNP track, including a DNP project that addresses real-world practice problems. Graduates are eligible for national AGACNP certification and are prepared for roles in intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty acute care practices. The program emphasizes collaboration with healthcare teams and evidence-based practice, equipping you to lead in complex clinical settings.

• 6 concentration options
• 75 total credit hours
• Joint program with ETSU
• Prepares for AGACNP certification
• Focus on acute care settings

Baptist University's BSN to DNP in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to manage unstable chronic and complex acute conditions across adult populations. The 66-credit curriculum blends advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical reasoning with population-specific acute care skills. Students complete 1,000+ clinical hours in settings like ICUs, emergency departments, and hospitalist services, with a special focus on restorative care. Graduates are eligible for national certification and pursue roles as acute care nurse practitioners, intensivists, or hospitalists. The program features small class sizes, faith-based values, and a clinical partnership with Baptist Memorial Health Care. Full-time students finish in three years, while a four-year part-time option is available. Rolling admissions with a January start and a priority deadline of September 1 offer flexibility for working nurses.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Tennessee Board of Nursing accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• 66 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts spring
• 94% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure

The BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at Baptist Health Sciences University is a doctoral-level hybrid pathway designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This concentration emphasizes comprehensive, continuous care for adults and older adults, focusing on long-term patient relationships and primary care management. The curriculum integrates advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to diagnose and manage common health conditions. Students benefit from a faith-based environment, small class sizes, and clinical partnerships with Baptist Memorial Health Care System, gaining hands-on experience in diverse settings like primary care clinics, women's health, and long-term care. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can pursue careers as primary care nurse practitioners in outpatient, community, and specialty practices. The program is accredited by the CCNE and offers full-time (3-year) and part-time (4-year) options with January cohort starts.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts spring
• 94% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 100% job placement rate

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings. It includes 24 semester hours of coursework and 630 clinical hours. Students gain skills in diagnostic reasoning and critical care. The program leads to eligibility for national certification exams. It focuses on adult and geriatric patient populations. The hybrid format combines online and on-campus learning. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing and relevant experience. Costs vary based on residency and credit load. This certificate enhances career opportunities in healthcare.

• 24 semester hour program.
• 630 clinical clock hours.
• Hybrid online and campus format.
• Eligible for national certification.
• Post-Master's certificate level.
• Focus on adult gerontology care.
• Includes acute care nursing courses.
• Requires master's degree for admission.
• Clinical practicum parallels didactic courses.
• Prepares for AANP or ANCC exams.

East Tennessee State University's online MSN with a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner specialty prepares nurses to deliver advanced primary care to older adults, with a strong emphasis on rural and underserved communities. The curriculum combines core nursing theory, advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology with specialized courses in geriatric management, behavioral health, and case management. Students gain clinical experience through practicums and an internship, focusing on care across the lifespan with a concentration on aging populations. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can pursue careers as geriatric nurse practitioners in clinics, nursing homes, and community health settings. The program is CCNE accredited and offers flexible application deadlines for fall, spring, and summer terms. Full-time study starts each fall, and GRE scores are waived for applicants with a BSN GPA of 3.2 or higher, making the program accessible to qualified registered nurses seeking to advance their practice.

• CCNE accredited
• 6 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE
• Test optional
• 46 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Focus on rural and underserved populations

East Tennessee State University offers an online Post-DNP Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certificate. This program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare to patients from adolescence through elderly years. Students complete 32 credit hours of coursework online, with in-person clinical requirements. The curriculum focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and management of chronic conditions while promoting wellness. Tennessee residents pay $672 per credit hour, with eRate and out-of-state options available. Admission requires a DNP degree, RN licensure, and submission of a cover letter and resume. The program typically takes 4 semesters to complete and leads to national certification eligibility.

• Online coursework format.
• 32 credit hours required.
• 4 semesters completion time.
• $672 per credit hour.
• Tennessee resident tuition rate.
• eRate for out-of-state students.
• Out-of-state tuition $1,513.
• DNP degree required.
• RN licensure required.
• Cover letter required.

East Tennessee State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares you to deliver primary care to adolescents through older adults. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and management of acute and chronic conditions, with a strong emphasis on rural and underserved populations. You'll learn to integrate evidence-based practice, lead multidisciplinary teams, and improve patient outcomes. The program features asynchronous online courses with required intensive on-campus sessions each semester. Graduates are eligible for national certification and are equipped for roles in primary care clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. With a top-100 ranking from U.S. News & World Report and CCNE accreditation, ETSU offers a flexible, supportive environment for working nurses. Full-time and part-time options are available.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Top 100 DNP program by U.S. News
• Clinical placement assistance provided
• Intensive on-campus sessions each semester

East Tennessee State University's DNP with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to manage acute and critically ill patients across adolescent to older adult populations. The curriculum blends online asynchronous coursework with synchronous components and includes a required intensive session each semester, offering flexibility while maintaining rigorous clinical preparation. Students learn to evaluate evidence, collaborate with healthcare teams, and lead quality improvement efforts in hospitals and clinic settings. Graduates are eligible for the national AGACNP certification. The program also emphasizes rural healthcare, and with a top 100 U.S. News ranking, CCNE accreditation, and part-time options, it accommodates working professionals. Faculty mentors support students' research and clinical placement, ensuring a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• $672 per credit
• 9-Semester program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner national certification examination
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) specialty at Vanderbilt University's MSN program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive, person-centered primary care to adolescents and adults across the lifespan. The rigorous curriculum combines online coursework with in-person sessions and over 500 hours of supervised clinical practice. Students develop deep clinical reasoning skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and diagnosis and management of common acute and chronic conditions. Graduates are prepared to pursue certification through the ANCC or AANP and practice in diverse settings including internal medicine offices, community clinics, university health centers, and long-term care facilities. The program features small class sizes, faculty with active clinical practices, and subspecialty certificate options in dermatology and cardiology. A part-time plan and dual AGPCNP/WHGRNP track are available. With a 100% first-time pass rate, Vanderbilt's AGPCNP program equips nurses to excel as evidence-based providers in modern healthcare.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• 4-Semester program
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 100% licensure pass rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)

The University of Memphis offers a Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This 44-credit hour hybrid program prepares nurses to manage complex acute and chronic health conditions in adult patients. Online coursework combines with local clinical practicums and up to three on-campus intensives. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, RN license, ICU/ER experience, and competitive application review. The program maintains national rankings and high employment rates for graduates.

• 44-credit hour program
• Hybrid online/campus format
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
• Requires 2 years ICU/ER experience
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• RN license in Tennessee needed
• Up to three on-campus intensives
• Core MSN courses: 12 credits
• Advanced practice core: 10 credits
• Concentration courses: 22 credits

The University of Memphis's Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) prepares registered nurses to lead care in the most demanding clinical environments. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, with an emphasis on diagnosing and managing acute, critical, and complex conditions in adult and elderly patients. Students develop skills for ICUs, emergency departments, hospitals, and specialty clinics through evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. The program is designed for working nurses, with 100% online coursework complemented by brief on-campus intensives for simulation and hands-on skills training. Graduates leave ready to sit for national certification and step into advanced practice roles. Ranked among the top online nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report, the program offers the same respected MSN degree as on-campus students, with flexibility that fits a busy professional life.

• 100% online coursework
• On-campus intensives for clinical skills
• Up to three on-campus experiences
• Sessions last 1-3 days
• Same degree as on-campus students
• Prepares for national certification exams
• Designed for working nurses

The University of Memphis offers an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) post-graduate certificate program. This hybrid program helps advanced practice nurses expand their acute care expertise. It focuses on managing complex health conditions in adult and elderly patients. Students complete clinical practicums in high-acuity settings like hospitals and ICUs. Graduates can sit for national certification exams to enhance their credentials. The program prepares nurses to meet growing demand for acute care practitioners. It builds on existing knowledge in advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology. Practical experience in diverse clinical environments is a key component.

• Post-graduate certificate program.
• For advanced practice nurses.
• Hybrid program format.
• Focus on acute care.
• Adult and elderly patients.
• Clinical practicums required.
• High-acuity clinical settings.
• Hospitals and ICUs.
• Emergency departments included.
• National certification eligible.

The Post-Graduate APRN (MSN) Adult Gerontology/Acute Care Certificate at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a 20-credit, one-year hybrid program for licensed advanced practice nurses seeking acute care specialization. Coursework is primarily online with intensive on-campus sessions twice yearly for hands-on competency training. Clinical placements occur near the student's residence. The curriculum covers advanced acute care, diagnostic reasoning, critical care, and clinical management, preparing nurses to care for adults who are unstable, technologically dependent, or vulnerable. Care ranges from disease prevention to palliative care. Graduates are prepared for the AG-ACNP certification exam. This certificate builds on an existing APRN foundation, allowing experienced practitioners to expand their scope. Admission requires a master's in nursing with NP concentration, 3.0 GPA, and current APRN certification. The program features small cohorts and personalized clinical experiences for a focused advanced practice pathway.

• CCNE accredited
• 1-Year program
• Complete in one year program
• 20 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-12-01
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prerequisite courses required

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration at UTHSC prepares graduates to care for critically ill and unstable adult patients. This hybrid DNP program blends online coursework with required on-campus intensives, including skills labs and simulation sessions three times per year. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and critical care management, alongside a DNP project. Students choose from post-BSN or post-MSN pathways and complete a minimum of 1020 clinical hours in diverse acute care settings, from ICUs to emergency departments. With faculty assistance in clinical placement, graduates are equipped for AGACNP certification and roles in hospitals, specialty practices, and critical care units. The program also offers dual concentration options and strong financial aid support.

• CCNE accredited
• Full-time and part-time options
• $100,000 median earnings
• 1020 clinical hours
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Prepares for AGACNP certification
• On-campus intensives 3 times per year
• Faculty assist with clinical site placement

Southern Adventist University’s RN to MSN program offers an accelerated pathway for registered nurses to earn a Master of Science in Nursing without completing an intermediate bachelor’s degree. The Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology NP emphasis prepares nurses to manage complex, acute health conditions in adult and geriatric populations. The curriculum combines undergraduate and graduate coursework, focusing on advanced assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology for acute care settings. Graduates are equipped for roles such as acute care nurse practitioners in hospitals, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. The program features multiple emphasis options, including family, psychiatric, and nurse educator, with some options available online. Students benefit from a streamlined, cohesive learning experience that bridges RN experience with advanced practice skills.

• 5 concentration options
• Accelerated RN to MSN pathway
• No intermediate BS degree awarded
• Awarded only MSN upon completion
• Nurse Educator emphasis online option

Southern Adventist University offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This campus-based program allows students to complete courses needed for competency or certification, with classes typically meeting on Tuesdays. Full- or part-time options are available to fit work and personal schedules. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and two years of nursing experience. The program includes clinical placements, with costs involving a $40 application fee. It prepares nurses for advanced roles in acute care settings.

• Campus-based program.
• Classes meet on Tuesdays.
• Full- or part-time options.
• Tailored to work schedules.
• Courses for competency or certification.
• Clinical placements in TN.
• NC-SARA member states allowed.
• Master's degree required.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Current RN licensure needed.

Southern Adventist University's DNP with a concentration in Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles caring for adolescents through older adults. The curriculum blends face-to-face instruction with some online courses, covering advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and primary care management of acute and chronic conditions. Students complete clinical practicums in primary care and geriatric settings, developing skills in disease prevention, health promotion, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped for certification as an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, working in clinics, private practices, and community health centers. The program emphasizes whole-person care within a Christian framework, integrating spiritual and ethical dimensions. DNP students also complete a scholarly capstone project, fostering leadership in translating research into practice. With full-time and part-time options, the program accommodates working professionals. Accreditation by ACEN ensures quality education aligned with national standards.

• ACEN accredited
• 7 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Christian learning environment
• Campus-based with online courses
• DNP seminar each August
• Multiple emphases available
• Faculty advisor assigned

Southern Adventist University’s DNP with an emphasis in Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) prepares registered nurses and advanced practice nurses to deliver high-level care to acutely ill adults and older adults. The hybrid program combines online coursework with campus-based experiences, allowing you to balance work and study. You’ll develop advanced clinical skills, evaluate healthcare delivery models, and lead evidence-based practice changes. The curriculum covers acute care management, pharmacology, and applied research. Graduates are ready to serve in hospitals, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. With a Christ-centered philosophy, small class sizes, and state-of-the-art simulation labs, this program stands out. Full-time and part-time options are available, and the degree can be completed in about two years.

• 7 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

Southern Adventist University's BSN to DNP with a concentration in Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in primary care settings. This hybrid program combines face-to-face courses with online coursework, allowing you to continue working while earning your doctorate. You'll develop expertise in evidence-based practice, clinical leadership, and whole-person care through a Christ-centered curriculum. The program covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and population health, with a focus on managing common acute and chronic conditions in adults and older adults. Graduates are equipped for roles in clinics, community health centers, and private practice. With 77 credits completed in about three years, the program requires two years of nursing experience and offers flexible part-time options. An annual DNP seminar and clinical placements through NC-SARA ensure real-world preparation.

• 7 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Complete in approximately three years
• 77 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required

King University's BSN to DNP program with a concentration in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) prepares you for leadership in acute care. The AGACNP track focuses on advanced practice nursing for older adults, blending online coursework with in-person sessions. Over eight semesters, you'll gain skills in evidence-based practice, policy development, and ethical decision-making. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention. Graduates are equipped for roles like Chief Nursing Officer or Hospital Chief Executive, and can teach at the collegiate level. The program emphasizes compassionate, faith-based care. Choose from four concentrations, but the AGACNP path specifically gears you for acute care settings. This hybrid format offers flexibility while maintaining strong faculty interaction.

• 4 concentration options
• 8-Semester program
• Small class sizes
• Blended online and in-person
• Prepare for CNO or Hospital CEO
• Faith-based, real-world experience

South College offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This online program prepares registered nurses for advanced roles in acute care settings. It can be completed in as little as 21 months full-time. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinicals. Admission requires a BSN or ASN with a 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify.

• Online program format.
• 21-month completion time.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care concentration.
• Requires BSN or ASN degree.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• Unencumbered RN license needed.
• Includes clinical practicum experiences.
• Covers advanced health assessment.
• Teaches advanced pharmacology.
• Focuses on evidence-based practice.

This MSN program offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration online, designed for working nurses. It combines online coursework with hands-on clinical practice, covering advanced topics like pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. The program can be completed in 21 months full-time. Admissions require a BSN or ASN with a 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and a $50 application fee. Students find their own clinical sites with faculty support. It prepares graduates for national certification and acute care roles.

• Online program modality.
• 21-month full-time completion.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• Master of Science in Nursing degree.
• Combines online coursework with clinical practice.
• Requires current unencumbered RN license.
• Admissions require 3.0 GPA.
• $50 application fee.
• BSN or ASN prerequisite.
• Students find own clinical sites.