Tennessee’s aging population is creating unprecedented demand for specialized healthcare providers. With over 1.2 million residents aged 65 and older (a number expected to grow significantly by 2030), Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) are becoming essential to the state’s healthcare infrastructure. Whether you’re drawn to Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s intensive care units or community-focused care at rural health clinics in East Tennessee, the right AGNP program can launch your career in this rewarding specialty.

Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner programs prepare advanced practice nurses to care for adults across the lifespan. These programs offer two distinct tracks: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) for hospital-based critical care settings, and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) for outpatient and preventive care environments.

This article will cover:

  • The difference between AGACNP and AGPCNP specializations, and which career path fits your goals
  • Top-ranked MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate programs available throughout Tennessee
  • What to expect from AGNP curriculum and clinical training requirements
  • How to secure clinical placements at leading Tennessee healthcare systems
  • Career outcomes and salary expectations for AGNPs practicing across the state

2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee

#1

Tennessee Tech

Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu

MSN to DNP - Nursing Practice (Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tennessee Tech's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered healthcare across lifespans. Students gain expertise in quality care, managing acute and chronic conditions, and collaborative healthcare delivery. The rigorous 83-hour BSN-DNP or 32-hour MSN-DNP program equips graduates for diverse healthcare settings and national certification examinations, emphasizing advanced clinical skills and professional leadership.

  • Terminal professional nursing degree
  • BSN-DNP 83 total credit hours
  • MSN-DNP 32 total credit hours
  • Across lifespan patient care
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Multiple healthcare settings
  • Collaborative healthcare approach
  • Core, concentration, DNP project
  • Advanced practice nursing focus

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tennessee Tech's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a specialized Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration preparing advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for patients from adolescence to older adults. This rigorous 75-credit program equips professionals to manage complex acute care settings, collaborate across healthcare teams, and pursue national certification. Graduates develop advanced clinical expertise through a structured curriculum combining core nursing competencies, specialized concentration coursework, and a comprehensive DNP project.

  • BSN-DNP 75 total credit hours
  • Acute care focus adolescence to elderly
  • National certification preparation
  • Joint TTU-ETSU nursing program
  • Varied healthcare settings employment

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Tennessee Technological University, in collaboration with ETSU, specializes in the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This hybrid program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, focusing on acute care from adolescence to older adults. It combines rigorous academic coursework with practical experience, preparing graduates for certification and diverse healthcare settings. The BSN-DNP track requires 75 credit hours, including core courses, concentration-specific classes, and a DNP project. The MSN-DNP pathway is shorter, at 31 credit hours. Admission requires meeting specific academic and professional criteria, with details available on the nursing school's website.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on acute care
  • BSN-DNP: 75 credit hours
  • MSN-DNP: 31 credit hours
  • Prepares for certification
  • Collaborative healthcare team focus
  • Adolescent to older adult care
  • Combines academic and practical experience
  • Diverse healthcare settings preparation
  • Specific admission criteria
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu

BSN to MSN - Nursing, M.S.N. (Adult, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Specialty)

Online Learning - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) with a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality, cost-effective healthcare to older adult populations. The comprehensive program focuses on rural and underserved communities, offering specialized training in complex care management, clinical assessment, and patient-centered interventions. Graduates are equipped to take national certification exams and pursue leadership roles in geriatric healthcare settings. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, and current nursing licensure.

  • 46 total credit hours
  • CCNE fully accredited program
  • Specialized geriatric nursing focus
  • National certification preparation
  • Rural healthcare emphasis
  • Advanced clinical practicum included
  • Multiple clinical practice courses
  • Comprehensive health assessment training
  • Professional role development

Graduate Certificate - Post-DNP Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Post-DNP Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certificate provides advanced practice nurses an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive healthcare for patients from adolescence to elderly. Designed for working professionals, this 32-credit online program prepares nurses to enhance their clinical skills, manage chronic conditions, and promote wellness across diverse patient populations. Coursework leads to national certification eligibility, with tuition ranging from $646-$1,487 per credit hour. Ideal for DNP-prepared nurses seeking to expand their professional capabilities in primary care settings.

  • 32 credit hour program
  • 100% online coursework
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Requires existing DNP degree
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Multiple practice setting options
  • Promotes community health leadership

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to become leaders in healthcare. The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration equips students with specialized skills to provide comprehensive care for patients from adolescence through older adulthood. With a fully online curriculum featuring asynchronous courses and periodic intensive sessions, students can advance their careers while maintaining professional flexibility. The program offers competitive tuition rates, with Tennessee residents paying $646 per credit hour, and provides opportunities for full-time or part-time enrollment. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can pursue diverse healthcare roles in clinics, hospitals, and community settings.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Multiple Concentration Options
  • Full/Part-Time Enrollment
  • No GRE Required
  • CCNE Accredited
  • Top 100 DNP Programs
  • Flexible Learning Format
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • Competitive Tuition Rates
  • National Certification Eligible

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across diverse patient populations. Designed for working professionals, this flexible online program allows students to enhance their clinical expertise while maintaining current employment. Graduates become highly skilled practitioners capable of managing complex patient care in acute settings, with competitive per-credit tuition rates ranging from $646-$1,487. The program offers full-time and part-time enrollment options, with completion times varying from 4-9 semesters depending on entry point.

  • 100% Online Nursing Doctorate
  • Multiple Enrollment Options
  • Top 100 DNP Program
  • No GRE Required
  • Flexible Asynchronous Coursework
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • Semester Intensive Sessions
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN - Public 4-Year - utc.edu

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program prepares advanced nursing professionals for critical acute care roles. This comprehensive 48-credit, 24-month program allows students to work while studying through flexible hybrid learning formats. Students receive rigorous training in advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, and pharmacology, with extensive clinical experiences preparing them for national certification. The program emphasizes evidence-based clinical knowledge for caring for patients across adult age spectrums in acute care settings, ensuring graduates are highly skilled and confident practitioners.

  • 48-credit MSN program
  • 24-month flexible schedule
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced clinical training
  • National certification preparation
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Low regional tuition rates
  • Clinical practicum included
  • Online, hybrid, face-to-face courses
  • Advanced practice core courses

RN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program offers an intensive 2.5-year Doctor of Nursing Practice pathway. Students gain comprehensive clinical expertise in advanced acute care, preparing to provide specialized healthcare for diverse adult and geriatric populations. The rigorous 80-credit hour program includes 1,050 clinical hours, blending online, hybrid, and face-to-face learning. Graduates consistently achieve high certification exam pass rates, with a 90% first-time success rate, positioning them competitively in the healthcare job market.

  • 80 credit hours total
  • 1,050 clinical practice hours
  • Multiple course delivery formats
  • 90% first-time certification exam pass rate
  • Advanced acute care specialization
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Full-time, 2.5-year program

Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post Master's Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post Master's Certificate provides advanced nursing professionals a specialized pathway to enhance their clinical expertise in acute care settings for adult and geriatric patients. This 24-semester hour program prepares graduates to sit for national certification exams through comprehensive specialty coursework and an intensive 630-hour clinical practicum. Designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized acute care skills, the program offers an in-depth curriculum focusing on diagnostic reasoning, critical care, and gerontological nursing principles.

  • 24 semester hour post-MSN program
  • 630 clock hours clinical practicum
  • National certification exam preparation
  • Advanced acute care nursing focus
  • Specialized gerontology coursework
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN - Private 4-year - southern.edu

RN to MSN - RN to MSN (Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology NP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's RN to MSN program with a concentration in Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology NP is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This hybrid program accelerates your path to a Master of Science in Nursing, focusing on acute care for adults and the elderly. It combines BS and MSN coursework, awarding an MSN upon completion. Ideal for those seeking specialized knowledge in acute care settings, the program prepares graduates for advanced practice roles. Admission requires an RN license, with details on costs and requirements available through the university. This program is a great choice for nurses looking to specialize and enhance their clinical expertise.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology NP concentration
  • No BS degree awarded
  • Accelerated path to MSN
  • RN license required for admission
  • Combines BS and MSN coursework
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles
  • Focus on acute care settings
  • Specialized knowledge in gerontology
  • Clinical expertise enhancement

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Certificate (Acute Care Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University offers a specialized Post-Master's Certificate in Acute Care Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner for experienced nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Designed for RNs with a master's degree, this program provides targeted coursework to enhance critical care skills and prepare professionals for specialized certification. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, current RN licensure, and two years of nursing experience. The flexible program accommodates working professionals with part-time and full-time enrollment options, meeting on Tuesdays to balance work, home, and academic commitments.

  • Specialized Acute Care Certification
  • Flexible Tuesday Class Schedule
  • Minimum 3.0 Graduate GPA
  • Two Years Nursing Experience
  • Master's Degree Required
  • Part-Time and Full-Time Options
  • Current RN Licensure Needed

MSN to DNP - Primary Care - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's Primary Care - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adult and older adult populations. This hybrid program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training, equipping students to provide high-quality, patient-centered care. Graduates develop advanced assessment skills, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice techniques essential for managing complex health needs across the adult lifespan. The program offers flexible learning options, with courses designed to accommodate working healthcare professionals seeking career advancement.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Comprehensive adult healthcare focus
  • Prepares advanced practice nurses
  • Flexible learning options

MSN to DNP - Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology NP

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Acute Care—Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner prepares experienced nurses to deliver advanced clinical care. This post-master's program emphasizes cutting-edge practice, research application, and comprehensive patient management. Designed for registered nurses with a master's degree, the program offers flexible full-time and part-time options. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, current RN licensure, two years of professional experience, and advanced practice certification. Students engage in rigorous coursework and practical clinical experiences, positioning themselves for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments.

  • Accredited by ACEN
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Post-master's DNP option
  • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
  • Two years nursing experience required
  • Advanced clinical practice focus
  • Multiple emphasis areas available

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Primary Care—Adult/Gerontology NP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's BSN to DNP program in Primary Care—Adult/Gerontology NP offers a hybrid learning model, combining online coursework with essential face-to-face classes. Accredited by ACEN, this program is designed for RNs with a BSN aiming for doctoral advancement. It requires 77 credit hours, integrating clinical practicum experiences. Applicants need a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure. The program emphasizes primary care for adult and geriatric populations, preparing graduates for advanced practice roles. With a focus on flexibility, it accommodates working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in gerontology and adult primary care.

  • Hybrid learning model
  • ACEN accredited
  • 77 credit hours
  • BSN required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • RN licensure needed
  • Primary care focus
  • Adult/Gerontology NP
  • Clinical practicum included
  • Flexible for professionals
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#5

Baptist Health Sciences University

Memphis, TN - Private 4-year - baptistu.edu

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Baptist Health Sciences University in Memphis, TN, offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a concentration in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This hybrid program prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings, focusing on patients with unstable chronic, complex acute, and critical conditions. The program offers both full-time (3 years) and part-time (4 years) options, with rolling admissions and cohorts starting each January. Applicants need a BSN or MSN, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and an unencumbered RN license. The curriculum includes 66 credit hours, blending online and on-campus learning to fit working professionals' schedules.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Focus on acute care.
  • Full-time and part-time options.
  • 66 credit hours.
  • BSN or MSN required.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Unencumbered RN license needed.
  • Rolling admissions.
  • Cohorts start each January.
  • Prepares for advanced practice.

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Baptist Health Sciences University in Memphis, TN, offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. This hybrid program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, focusing on comprehensive, continuous care for adults. With options for BSN to DNP or MSN to DNP pathways, students can choose full-time or part-time study. The program emphasizes leadership, quality care, and evidence-based practice. Admission requires a BSN or MSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered RN license. Graduates are ready to sit for certification exams and excel in primary care settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
  • BSN to DNP pathway available
  • MSN to DNP pathway available
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 3 years full-time completion
  • 4 years part-time completion
  • Rolling admissions with January start
  • Priority deadline September 1
  • Requires unencumbered RN license
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - memphis.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Memphis offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, providing advanced practice nurses with an intensive 44-credit hour program. Designed for registered nurses seeking specialized expertise, this hybrid program prepares professionals to deliver complex care for adult patients with acute and chronic health conditions. Students gain advanced clinical skills through a combination of online coursework and hands-on clinical practicums, focusing on advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and specialized acute care nursing techniques.

  • 44-credit hour specialized program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced practice nursing preparation
  • Focuses on acute adult care
  • Clinical practicum included
  • Competitive graduate admission
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required

Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate provides advanced practice nurses an opportunity to specialize in acute care for adult and elderly patients. Designed for nurses with existing specialty training, this hybrid program equips professionals with advanced skills in managing complex health conditions. Coursework integrates pathophysiology, pharmacology, and specialized acute care training, preparing graduates for high-stakes clinical environments like intensive care and emergency departments. Students gain practical experience through clinical practicums and become eligible for national certification exams, enhancing career opportunities in healthcare.

  • Post-graduate nursing certificate
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced acute care focus
  • Clinical practicum included
  • National certification preparation
  • For existing advanced practice nurses
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

King University

Bristol, TN - Private 4-year - king.edu

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

King University in Bristol, Tennessee, offers a BSN to DNP program designed for nurses aiming to advance their careers into leadership roles. This hybrid program combines online and in-person learning over eight semesters, focusing on advanced practice nursing, leadership, and policy development. Students can specialize in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, among other concentrations. The program emphasizes small class sizes for personalized attention, preparing graduates for roles such as Chief Nursing Officer or collegiate teaching positions. It integrates faith-based values with clinical knowledge, empowering nurses to make a significant impact in healthcare.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Eight-semester completion.
  • Small class sizes.
  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care specialization.
  • Prepares for leadership roles.
  • Faith-based clinical education.
  • Focus on policy development.
  • Personalized faculty attention.
  • Combines online and in-person courses.
  • Designed for working nurses.
#8

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - uthsc.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN (MSN) Adult Gerontology/Acute Care Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post-Graduate APRN Adult Gerontology/Acute Care Certificate is an intensive one-year program designed for experienced advanced practice nurses seeking specialized training in acute and critical care. Tailored for nurses with existing nurse practitioner credentials, this 20-credit hybrid program prepares professionals to provide comprehensive patient care for adults with complex medical needs. Graduates gain advanced skills in assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical management, positioning themselves for expanded healthcare roles. The program combines online coursework with periodic on-campus intensive sessions and localized clinical experiences, offering flexibility and practical training.

  • 20-credit hybrid nursing certificate
  • One-year comprehensive program
  • Online with on-campus intensives
  • Requires existing APRN license
  • Prepares for AG-ACNP certification
  • Clinical experiences near residence
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Advanced clinical assessment focus
  • Comprehensive healthcare management training

MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) DNP concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive, high-quality care for critically ill and complex adult patients. Designed for nurses seeking specialized expertise, this program equips students with advanced clinical skills to manage physiologically unstable patients across various acute care settings. Graduates learn to perform complex procedures, make critical diagnoses, and provide evidence-based interventions. The rigorous curriculum combines comprehensive didactic coursework with extensive clinical training, requiring 500-1020 supervised clinical hours. Potential students should anticipate a full-time commitment with competitive career opportunities in hospitals, emergency rooms, and specialty practices.

  • Comprehensive 59-credit DNP program
  • Minimum 500 clinical hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced clinical assessment skills
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Multiple entry pathways
  • Specialized acute care focus
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • On-campus simulation experiences
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

South College

Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - south.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with a Concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

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.
#10

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu

BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for patients aged 13 and older. Students gain extensive clinical expertise through over 500 supervised practice hours, learning to assess, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic health conditions. The hybrid program combines online learning with in-person sessions, offering a flexible, high-quality educational path. With a 100% first-time exam pass rate and curriculum aligned with the latest nursing education standards, graduates are well-positioned for diverse healthcare roles in medical offices, clinics, and community health settings.

  • 4 Full-time Semesters
  • Online/Hybrid Learning Format
  • 500+ Clinical Practice Hours
  • 100% Exam Pass Rate
  • Comprehensive Care Training
  • Diverse Practice Settings
  • Evidence-Based Curriculum
  • Part-Time Option Available
*Original data: IPEDS 2024, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Understanding Adult Gerontology NP Specializations

Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP)

AGACNPs work in hospital settings, emergency departments, and intensive care units, managing acutely and critically ill adult and geriatric patients. In Tennessee, you’ll find AGACNP opportunities at major medical centers, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, University of Tennessee Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and Erlanger Health System. These practitioners perform procedures, manage ventilators, interpret complex diagnostics, and provide rapid-response care to unstable patients.

Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP)

AGPCNPs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic disease management in outpatient settings. Tennessee offers diverse primary care opportunities through Community Health Centers across rural Appalachian communities, Federally Qualified Health Centers in underserved areas, private specialty practices, and long-term care facilities. With 95 counties and significant rural populations, Tennessee has substantial need for AGPCNPs in primary care shortage areas, making loan repayment programs available for qualifying practitioners.

Types of AGNP Degree Programs Available in Tennessee

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Entry-level programs requiring a BSN, typically taking 2-3 years to complete. MSN programs provide comprehensive preparation for your first NP certification.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

DNP programs are doctoral degrees that emphasize clinical scholarship and evidence-based practice. Available as BSN to DNP (3-4 years) or post-master’s DNP options (1-2 years), these programs prepare you for clinical leadership roles.

Post-Master’s Certificates

Already hold an MSN in another specialty? Post-master’s AGNP certificates allow practicing NPs to add adult gerontology credentials, typically within 12-18 months.

What to Expect: AGNP Curriculum Overview

Tennessee AGNP programs combine advanced coursework with extensive clinical training. Core curriculum typically includes:

Foundational Courses

  • Advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment
  • Diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making
  • Healthcare policy and ethics

Specialty-Specific Content

AGACNP programs focus on acute and critical care management, including advanced cardiac life support, ventilator management, invasive procedures, rapid response protocols, and complex diagnostic interpretation. AGPCNP programs emphasize chronic disease management, preventive care, geriatric syndromes (falls, dementia, polypharmacy), Medicare/Medicaid regulations, and population health management.

Clinical Requirements

Most Tennessee programs require 500-700 clinical hours for MSN students and 1,000+ hours for DNP students. Clinical experiences progress from basic assessment skills to independent patient management under preceptor supervision.

Online vs. Campus-Based Programs

Online AGNP Programs offer maximum flexibility for working nurses across Tennessee’s diverse geography, featuring asynchronous lectures, virtual simulation labs, and clinical placements arranged near your home. Tennessee nurses in rural areas particularly benefit from online formats while completing clinical hours at local facilities.

Campus-based Programs provide face-to-face mentorship, built-in peer networking, direct access to simulation centers, and streamlined clinical placement at affiliated healthcare systems. Many Tennessee programs offer hybrid models combining online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives.

Clinical Training Opportunities Across Tennessee

Quality clinical experiences distinguish exceptional AGNP programs. Tennessee’s healthcare landscape provides diverse training environments:

Major Academic Medical Centers: Vanderbilt University Medical Center, UT Medical Center, Regional One Health (Memphis)

Community Health Systems: Tennessee’s 14 FQHCs and rural health clinics offer primary care experiences in medically underserved communities

Specialty Care Settings: HCA Healthcare facilities (60+ hospitals statewide), Ascension Saint Thomas, Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System

Clinical Placement Tip: Start networking with potential preceptors early. Tennessee’s expanding NP programs create competition for clinical sites. Join the Tennessee Nurses Association and attend regional conferences to connect with practicing AGNPs willing to precept students.

Browse Nurse Practitioner Schools in Tennessee.

Tennessee Licensing and Certification Requirements

After graduating, you’ll need national AGNP certification from either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), then apply for APRN licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Tennessee requires APRNs to maintain collaborative practice agreements with physicians, though the 2019 APRN Modernization Act reduced some practice restrictions after accruing experience.

Career Outlook and Salary for Tennessee AGNPs

The Tennessee Department of Health projects 28% growth in NP positions through 2028. Major employers include HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt Health, Ballad Health, Erlanger, patient-centered medical homes, and skilled nursing facilities. Rural communities offer particularly strong incentives including sign-on bonuses and loan repayment.

Experience LevelAnnual Salary Range
New Graduate$95,000 – $110,000
3-5 Years$105,000 – $125,000
5+ Years$115,000 – $140,000+

AGACNPs in acute care typically earn 5-10% more than primary care counterparts due to shift differentials and higher acuity.

Choosing the Right Tennessee AGNP Program

Evaluate potential AGNP programs in Tennessee based on:

  • Accreditation status (CCNE or ACEN)
  • Clinical placement support
  • First-time certification pass rates (look for 90%+ pass rates)
  • Specialty focus alignment
  • Alumni networks with Tennessee healthcare systems

FAQs

Q: Does Tennessee accept AGNP graduates from online programs in other states?

A: Yes, Tennessee’s Board of Nursing recognizes graduates from any CCNE or ACEN-accredited program, regardless of location or delivery format, as long as clinical hours meet requirements.

Q: What’s the job market difference between AGACNPs and AGPCNPs in Tennessee?

A: Both specializations show strong demand. AGACNPs find opportunities in hospital systems and trauma centers, while AGPCNPs are recruited for Health Professional Shortage Areas and primary care settings. Your choice should reflect preferred work environment rather than job availability.

Q: Are there AGNP residency programs in Tennessee?

A: Yes, Vanderbilt University Medical Center offers a 12-month AGACNP residency, and HCA Healthcare’s TriStar division offers hospitalist NP fellowships. These provide mentored transition-to-practice experiences with competitive salaries ($85,000-$95,000).

Q: How does Tennessee’s collaborative practice agreement requirement affect AGNPs?

A: Tennessee requires APRNs to maintain collaborative practice agreements with physicians, though recent modernization allows more autonomy after gaining experience. Most employers arrange physician collaboration as part of your job, and this requirement rarely limits employment opportunities.

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