Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
- 2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
- Choose Your AGNP Role: Primary Care or Acute Care?
- Ohio Pathways: MSN vs DNP vs Post-Master's Certificate
- Where Ohio AGNP Students Commonly Train: Region-by-Region Examples
- Online, Hybrid, and Campus Options in Ohio
- Ohio Practice and Prescribing: What Students Should Know
- How to Choose an AGNP Program in Ohio
- FAQs
- Latest Articles & Guides

Ohio is a strong state for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) training because it combines major academic medical centers with large regional health systems and community-based primary care across urban and rural areas. Whether you're aiming for outpatient continuity care or high-acuity inpatient practice, Ohio offers a wide variety of degree programs and clinical training, especially around Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
In this article, you'll learn:
- How to choose between Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP)
- The differences between MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate routes
- What "online," "hybrid," and "campus" really mean for AGNP programs in Ohio
- Ohio-specific clinical site examples and training settings
- Key Ohio practice and prescribing considerations for new APRNs
2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Online MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare for patients aged 13 and older. This two-year program emphasizes preventative care, disease management, and holistic patient treatment across various clinical settings. Students develop skills in diagnosis, education, and healthcare promotion, positioning themselves for diverse career opportunities in clinics, hospitals, private practices, and long-term care facilities.
- 2-year online MSN program
- Care for patients 13+
- Comprehensive healthcare training
- Multiple practice settings
- Preventative and chronic care focus
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate at the University of Cincinnati prepares registered nurses for advanced care in high-acuity settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical practice and on-campus labs. It leads to national certification from ANCC or AACN. Admission requires an MSN, active RN license, and residency in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. Tuition starts at $836 per credit for Ohio residents. The program admits for fall starts only, with application deadlines like July 1, 2026. Students gain hands-on skills in procedures like suturing and airway management.
- Hybrid program delivery.
- Prepares for national certification.
- Requires MSN and RN license.
- Residency in OH, KY, or IN.
- Tuition from $836 per credit.
- Fall semester start only.
- Online coursework with in-person labs.
- Clinical practice included.
- Skills like suturing taught.
- Admission via NursingCAS.
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP Post-Graduate Certificate at University of Cincinnati prepares nurses to deliver advanced care for patients aged 13 and older. This hybrid program combines flexible online coursework with in-person clinical practice and on-campus immersions. It focuses on physical exams, diagnostics, prescribing, and holistic care, considering social and environmental factors. Graduates are ready for national certification exams. Admission requires a BSN and MSN from accredited institutions, active RN licensure, and residency in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. Tuition is $836 per credit for Ohio residents, with part-time and full-time options available. The program offers support from enrollment advisors and clinical coordinators.
- Hybrid program delivery.
- Online coursework with in-person clinicals.
- Prepares for national certification exams.
- Focuses on patients 13 and older.
- Includes holistic care considerations.
- Requires active RN licensure.
- BSN and MSN from accredited institutions.
- Minimum BSN GPA of 3.25 recommended.
- Minimum science GPA of 3.0.
- One year RN experience required.
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive care for adolescents, older adults, and frail elderly patients with complex medical conditions. This hybrid program offers intensive hands-on training, with students mastering critical clinical skills through in-person sessions. Designed for experienced registered nurses, the flexible three to five-year curriculum enables professionals to advance their expertise in acute care settings, preparing them for national certification and leadership roles in healthcare.
- Hybrid DNP program format
- Minimum 3-year completion time
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Hands-on campus sessions
- Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana residents
- One year acute care experience required
- Certification exam preparation
- Faculty with current practice experience
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips students with advanced skills to care for patients aged 13 and older, focusing on preventative, chronic, and acute care. This program emphasizes education, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation, preparing graduates for leadership roles in nursing. With a curriculum that includes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership, students also complete a DNP project impacting healthcare outcomes. Admission requires a BSN, RN license, and one year of RN experience. No GRE is needed. This program is ideal for nurses aiming to advance their careers in primary care settings.
- Online program format.
- BSN to DNP pathway.
- Focus on patients 13+.
- No GRE required.
- RN license needed.
- One year RN experience.
- Evidence-based practice focus.
- Quality improvement included.
- Systems leadership training.
- DNP project completion.
Ursuline College
Pepper Pike, OH - Private 4-year - ursuline.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) MSN track prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adult and older populations. Ranked #41 nationally and #3 in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report, this program emphasizes health maintenance, disease prevention, and patient education. Students gain advanced clinical skills to provide independent or team-based patient care, positioning themselves in a high-demand healthcare role recognized as a top healthcare job with excellent growth potential and competitive compensation.
- CCNE Accredited through 2025
- Minimum 1-year nursing experience required
- Comprehensive patient care focus
- Current RN license mandatory
- Fall and spring semester starts
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) MSN track prepares advanced practice nurses for high-intensity healthcare environments. Ranked #41 nationally and #3 in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report, this program equips students with complex monitoring and therapeutic skills. Graduates are positioned for top-tier healthcare roles, with nurse practitioners ranking first in healthcare job opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes advanced nursing interventions, clinical experience, and research utilization across adult and gerontological patient populations.
- CCNE Accredited through 2025
- Hybrid program format
- Minimum 1-year nursing experience required
- Requires unencumbered RN license
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College's Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced-practice nurses for high-acuity care settings. This two-course program offers hybrid learning with clinical experience. It focuses on complex patient monitoring and nursing interventions for adult and geriatric populations. Graduates gain certification eligibility through accredited coursework. The program is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in acute care nursing. Admission requires an MSN degree and nursing license. Financial aid options are available to support students.
- Two-course certificate program.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Focuses on adult-gerontology acute care.
- Requires MSN degree for admission.
- Includes clinical experience component.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for AGACNP certification.
- Designed for advanced-practice nurses.
- Covers complex patient monitoring.
- High-intensity nursing interventions focus.
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares nurses to become specialized leaders in health maintenance, disease prevention, and patient education. It focuses on care for adolescents through advanced ages. The hybrid format blends online and on-campus learning. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is designed for nurses with a master's degree seeking advanced practice certification. Graduates gain skills for roles in private practice or patient education. The curriculum emphasizes primary care expertise. Ursuline's nursing school is nationally recognized for excellence. This certificate enhances career opportunities in a high-demand healthcare field.
- Post-graduate certificate program.
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- For nurses with master's degree.
- Prepares for advanced practice roles.
- Focus on health maintenance.
- Disease prevention emphasis.
- Patient education training.
- Care for adolescents to elderly.
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) program at Ursuline College prepares nurses for advanced practice in adult and geriatric care. This hybrid program blends online and on-campus learning, focusing on health maintenance, disease prevention, and patient education. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is a terminal practice degree, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership in healthcare. Students can complete the program in 24 months full-time or extend it over four years part-time. The curriculum covers advanced physiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and includes clinical practicums. Graduates are equipped for roles in direct patient care or healthcare systems leadership, ready to improve health outcomes for adult and aging populations.
- Hybrid learning format
- 24-month full-time option
- Four-year part-time option
- Focus on adult-gerontology care
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice
- Includes clinical practicums
- Covers advanced health assessment
- Advanced pharmacology included
- Leadership in healthcare focus
- Terminal DNP degree
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - franklin.edu
BSN to MSN - M.S. in Nursing-Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's M.S. in Nursing-Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses to specialize in comprehensive healthcare for patients from adolescence through adulthood. The flexible online program focuses on advanced nursing skills, evidence-based practice, and holistic patient care. Designed for working professionals, the accredited degree equips nurses with leadership capabilities, clinical expertise, and the ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
- Online flexible nursing program
- CCNE accredited degree
- Specialization in adult-gerontology
- Advanced clinical preparation
- Leadership skill development
- 150-hour clinical experiences
- Comprehensive patient care focus
- Advanced pathophysiology training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Diagnostic methods training
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares nurses for advanced roles in adult and geriatric care. The 39-credit program is fully online and can be completed in 24 months. It includes built-in clinical hours and hands-on training. Competitive tuition is $670 per credit hour. Applicants need an MSN or DNP with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. The program is CCNE-accredited and prepares graduates for certification exams. Flexible start dates are available throughout the year.
- 39 credit hours.
- 24-month completion.
- 100% online format.
- $670 per credit hour.
- CCNE accredited.
- Built-in clinical hours.
- Transfer credits available.
- GMAT/GRE not required.
- Active RN license needed.
- MSN or DNP prerequisite.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice-Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive, holistic care for patients from adolescence through older adulthood. With a curriculum focused on wellness-based approaches and evidence-based practices, this online program offers flexibility for working professionals. Students can complete the degree in as few as 3 years, with a total of 53 credit hours and 1,100 practicum and clinical hours. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and costs $748 per credit hour, with potential scholarship opportunities reducing overall tuition.
- Online coursework
- 53 total credit hours
- 1,100 practicum hours
- Finish in 3 years
- CCNE Accredited
- $748 per credit hour
- Ages 13+ patient focus
- Evidence-based curriculum
- No dissertation required
- 98% student satisfaction
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program at Ohio State University prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for adolescents, adults, and older adults. Students learn to diagnose and treat common conditions, promote wellness, and develop critical clinical skills across diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, enabling graduates to become certified by leading nursing credentialing organizations. Designed for working nurses seeking career advancement, the program offers flexible online and on-campus options, including Traditional Master's, BSN to DNP, and Post-Master's pathways.
- Advanced practice nursing specialty
- Online and campus options
- Multiple degree pathways
- ANCC/AANP certification eligible
- Comprehensive clinical training
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty. This program prepares nurses to provide advanced care for patients aged 13 and older with acute, complex, and critical conditions. It includes coursework, clinical experience, and research to build skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Admission requires one year of full-time acute care work experience. Graduates can pursue certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The program is available on campus through traditional master's, post-master's, BSN to DNP, and BSN to PhD pathways, focusing on health promotion and cultural competency.
- On-campus program.
- Focuses on acute care.
- Requires one year experience.
- Eligible for AGACNP certification.
- Includes clinical practicum courses.
- Available in multiple degree programs.
- Teaches health promotion skills.
- Emphasizes cultural competency.
- Uses simulation equipment.
- Nationally recognized faculty.
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State University's BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise and leadership development. Designed for full-time or part-time students, this rigorous three to four-year program enables graduates to achieve the highest level of nursing practice. Specifically for the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration, students will learn to promote health, diagnose, and treat adolescents through older adults. The program combines advanced coursework with synchronous distance learning, preparing healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
- Three to four-year program duration
- Synchronous distance learning options
- Advanced practice certification
- Multiple specialty tracks available
- Ohio state licensure preparation
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
The BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Ohio State University prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical expertise. Specializing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, this program blends advanced practice skills with leadership development. Graduates earn a DNP degree, a master’s degree, and eligibility for certification. The program is available through distance learning or on-campus, offering flexibility. It focuses on improving patient outcomes, a core nursing goal. Full-time students can complete it in three years, part-time in four. The curriculum includes DNP immersion experiences and a final project, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse healthcare settings.
- Earn DNP and master’s degree.
- Specialize in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care.
- Flexible distance or on-campus learning.
- Complete in 3 years full-time.
- Prepares for advanced practice certification.
- Focus on improving patient outcomes.
- Includes DNP immersion experiences.
- Final project required.
- Leadership development integrated.
- Synchronous distance learning classes.
Malone University
Canton, OH - Private 4-year - malone.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise, Malone University's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic pathway to specialized healthcare. This fully online, two-year program prepares nurses to provide critical care for adult and elderly patients with complex medical conditions. Students gain comprehensive skills through evidence-based coursework, advanced skills lab sessions, and clinical internships. Graduates are equipped to take the certification exam and work in diverse settings like hospitals, intensive care units, and acute care facilities, opening doors to challenging and rewarding career opportunities.
- Fully online program
- Complete in two years
- Three advanced skills labs
- Prepare for certification exam
- Multiple practice settings
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Clinical internship opportunities
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Malone University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate for Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners. This program builds on advanced nursing skills for registered nurses with an MSN degree. It prepares graduates for certification exams through AANP or ANCC. The curriculum focuses on acute care for adult and elderly patients. Admissions require an Ohio RN license, MSN degree, and critical care experience. Tuition is fixed per cohort. Courses are delivered online with a sequential cohort model. The program emphasizes holistic care and Christian values. It is accredited by CCNE. No application dates are specified.
- Online delivery format.
- Post-Master's Certificate program.
- AGACNP concentration available.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Requires Ohio RN license.
- MSN degree prerequisite.
- Critical care experience needed.
- Fixed tuition per cohort.
- Sequential cohort model.
- 24 to 36 months completion.
Ohio University
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's online Post-Graduate Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares nurses to care for acutely ill patients. The 20-credit program spans three semesters with 750 clinical hours. Ohio residents pay $785 per credit. Admission requires an MSN degree, a 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure. No GRE is needed. The curriculum includes advanced pharmacology and diagnostic reasoning. Graduates can pursue roles in emergency departments and intensive care units.
- Three semesters program length.
- 20 total credit hours.
- $785 per credit Ohio resident.
- Online program format.
- No GRE required.
- MSN degree prerequisite.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- 750 clinical hours included.
- Four total courses.
- Accredited by CCNE.
BSN to DNP - BSN-DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's BSN-DNP program specializes in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, offering a comprehensive online curriculum designed for working professionals. This program prepares students for advanced nursing roles with a focus on leadership, informatics, and evidence-based practice. With a total of 70 credits, the program is flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Ohio residents benefit from a cost of $608 per credit. Admission requires a BSN degree, a minimum GPA of 3.20, and valid RN licensure. The program is CCNE accredited, ensuring high-quality education and preparation for national certification.
- 70 total credits
- CCNE accredited
- Online coursework
- Ohio resident cost $608/credit
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Part-time curriculum
- 1000 clinical/practicum hours
- Specialization in Adult Gerontology Acute Care
- Flexible scheduling
- Direct patient care focus
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - mccn.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This hybrid program combines online learning with scheduled immersions, completed in 18 months over five semesters. It includes 48 credit hours and 650 clinical hours, preparing graduates for high-acuity settings like intensive care and emergency departments. Admissions require meeting graduate program criteria, with costs detailed in tuition and fees information. The program emphasizes technical skills and digital literacy, ensuring readiness for modern healthcare environments. It focuses on adult patients with complex conditions, promoting restoration to maximal health potential across various care settings.
- Hybrid program with immersions.
- 18-month completion time.
- 48 credit hours total.
- 650 clinical hours required.
- For registered nurses.
- Advanced practice nursing role.
- Focus on acute care.
- Adult-gerontology specialization.
- High-acuity settings employment.
- Online eligibility check required.
Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH - Private 4-year - cedarville.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Cedarville University's MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide critical care for patients across age ranges experiencing complex medical conditions. Students gain comprehensive skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing acute healthcare challenges. The affordable, online program features a Christian worldview integration, offering flexible part-time and full-time options. Graduates are equipped to work in intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialized medical settings, with opportunities to seek national certification through respected nursing credentialing organizations.
- Online flexible format
- Lowest cost in Ohio
- 800 clinical experience hours
- Biblical worldview integration
- National certification preparation
- Four on-campus experiences
- Advanced practice nurse training
- High-fidelity simulation learning
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cedarville University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver critical care for patients experiencing complex medical conditions. Students gain expertise in diagnosing and treating acute and chronic health challenges across age ranges, from young adults to elderly patients. The program emphasizes Christian compassion and evidence-based practice, offering flexible online learning with comprehensive clinical experience. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse healthcare settings like intensive care units and emergency departments, with opportunities for national certification through leading nursing organizations.
- Online flexible program format
- 800 hours direct clinical experience
- Biblical worldview integration
- 4 on-campus clinical experiences
- Advanced practice nursing skills
- Part-time and full-time options
- Scholarships available
- National certification preparation
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - Public 4-Year - utoledo.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Toledo's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for patients from young adults to seniors. This nationally ranked M.S.N. program offers a flexible, online curriculum with in-person clinical experiences, enabling registered nurses to advance their clinical practice. Graduates are well-positioned to work in diverse healthcare settings, with a high employment rate and opportunities for certification through ANCC or AANP. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and innovative learning through state-of-the-art facilities.
- Online courses with in-person clinicals
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
- High post-graduation employment rate
- Practice in multiple healthcare settings
- Certification exam preparation
- Experienced practicing faculty
- Advanced simulation technology
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Toledo offers an advanced Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. This nationally ranked M.S.N. program prepares healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive acute care for adult and elderly populations. Graduates gain specialized skills in intensive care, trauma units, and specialty clinics, with online coursework and in-person clinical experiences. The program boasts high employment rates, with nearly 75% of graduates securing positions within 12 months of graduation.
- Online courses, in-person clinical
- Full-time and part-time options
- Accredited by CCNE
- Practicing faculty members
- Advanced technology facilities
- Service learning opportunities
- Graduate assistant positions
- High employment success rate
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Become an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Case Western Reserve University's MSN program. This hybrid program offers comprehensive training in wellness, acute, and chronic illness care for patients from adolescence through older adulthood. Focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and geriatric assessment. The program typically takes 18 months for full-time students and involves roughly eight visits to the Cleveland campus. Contact the university for specific admissions requirements, application deadlines, and cost information.
- MSN Degree
- Hybrid format
- 41 credit hours
- 600 clinical hours
- 18-month duration
- Focus on older adult care
- Distance-friendly option
- Eight Cleveland trips
- 3.0 GPA required
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced acute care roles. This hybrid program combines online and campus learning. It requires 40 credit hours and 600 clinical hours, typically completed in 18-24 months. Students gain expertise in managing complex health conditions in adult and older adult populations. The program offers specialty options like flight nursing. Admissions require a nursing background, and financial aid is available. The curriculum focuses on professional development, scientific inquiry, and advanced nursing practice.
- Hybrid program format.
- 40 credit hours required.
- 600 clinical hours minimum.
- 18-24 month completion time.
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care focus.
- Flight nursing specialty option.
- Nursing background required.
- Financial aid available.
- Post-master's certificates offered.
- Core courses in three areas.
Choose Your AGNP Role: Primary Care or Acute Care?
AGNP programs typically prepare you for one of two roles:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP)
Primary care AGNPs deliver longitudinal adult/older adult care with a strong focus on prevention, chronic disease management, and health promotion. The AACN competencies describe the AGPCNP as a direct care provider synthesizing clinical knowledge for assessment and management across health/illness states.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP)
Acute care AGNPs focus on complex, acute, and high-acuity adult/older adult care, most often hospital-based. AACN's AGACNP competencies emphasize care for adult-gerontology acute populations and participation in evidence-based standards and quality improvement.
How to Choose Your Track
- Choose AGPCNP if you want outpatient continuity care and long-term management.
- Choose AGACNP if you want inpatient/acute complexity and medically unstable conditions.
Ohio Pathways: MSN vs DNP vs Post-Master's Certificate
MSN-AGNP (Primary or Acute)
MSN programs are a common AGNP entry point for BSN-prepared RNs. You'll complete advanced core courses plus track-specific management and supervised clinicals.
DNP-AGNP (BSN to DNP or MSN to DNP)
A DNP program typically adds leadership, systems, and evidence translation on top of advanced practice preparation, which is helpful if you want to lead quality initiatives or program development in Ohio's larger systems.
Post-Master's AGNP Certificate
If you already hold an MSN (or APRN certification in another population focus), an AGNP post-master's certificate can be a practical way to add AGPCNP or AGACNP preparation without completing a second full degree.
Explore nurse practitioner schools in Ohio.
Ohio AGNP Degree Comparison Table
| Path | Typical goal | What to compare | Best for |
| MSN-AGNP | Enter AGNP practice efficiently | Clinical placement support, track depth | RNs wanting direct entry |
| DNP-AGNP | Practice + systems leadership | DNP project support, faculty mentorship | RNs targeting leadership/impact roles |
| Post-master's certificate | Add a new population focus | Clinical hours, certification alignment | APRNs pivoting into adult-gero |
Where Ohio AGNP Students Commonly Train: Region-by-Region Examples
Ohio's clinical opportunities differ by metro. Even if your program is online, your clinical reality is local.
Northeast Ohio (Cleveland and surrounding)
- Cleveland Clinic Main Campus (Cleveland)
- MetroHealth Main Campus Medical Center (Cleveland)
Great for: inpatient specialty exposure (acute care), complex adult medicine, and large-system outpatient specialty clinics.
Central Ohio (Columbus and surrounding)
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center / University Hospital is a flagship facility with extensive inpatient capacity and ICU beds—useful context for acute care training opportunities.
- OhioHealth is a large multi-hospital network across central and other parts of the state, which can support diverse outpatient/inpatient experiences depending on your placement model.
Great for: broad adult medicine, specialty clinics, and large-network primary care access.
Southwest Ohio (Cincinnati and Tri-State)
- UC Medical Center (UC Health) (Cincinnati)
Great for: academic medical center experiences, adult acute rotations, and specialized consult services.
Clinical placement tip:
Ask each program whether they (1) place you, (2) help you place, or (3) expect you to secure preceptors, and what their typical placement radius is for Cleveland/Columbus/Cincinnati vs smaller cities.
Online, Hybrid, and Campus Options in Ohio
AGNP education is often designed for working nurses, but formats vary:
- Online didactic + in-person Ohio clinicals: common model; you still complete supervised clinical hours on-site.
- Hybrid: online courses plus on-campus intensives for skills validation/simulation.
- Campus: can offer closer faculty support and sometimes stronger local site contracts, depending on the program.
Ohio Practice and Prescribing: What Students Should Know
Ohio has specific regulatory requirements for APRN practice and prescribing. The Ohio Board of Nursing provides guidance on APRN licensure and practice.
Ohio also requires a Standard Care Arrangement (a regulated collaboration framework) for CNP/CNS/CNM practice, detailed in administrative rules.
Prescriptive authority in Ohio is tied to legal limits, including that an APRN's prescriptive authority may not exceed the collaborating physician/podiatrist's authority.
Separately, national summaries categorize states by NP practice environment; this can help you frame questions for programs about transition-to-practice support in Ohio.
How to Choose an AGNP Program in Ohio
1) Match track to your target job market
- Outpatient adult primary care, geriatrics, specialty clinics → AGPCNP
- Hospital medicine, specialty inpatient, high acuity → AGACNP
2) Look for adult-gero complexity in clinicals
"Adult" should include older adult complexity (multimorbidity, polypharmacy, frailty considerations) and not just general adult clinic exposure.
3) Prioritize measurable outcomes
Strong programs help you graduate with:
- Procedure/skills competency tracking
- Clear clinical objectives by rotation
- Certification prep support aligned to your AG track
4) Decide what matters more: flexibility or structure
Working full-time? A structured program and clinical placement process can be worth more than maximum scheduling flexibility.
FAQs
Q: What's the difference between AGPCNP and AGACNP?
A: AGPCNP focuses on longitudinal primary care and prevention across adult-gero populations, while AGACNP focuses on complex acute and high-acuity care, often hospital-based.
Q: Can I do an AGNP program online and still complete clinicals in Ohio?
A: Often, yes, many programs deliver coursework online while requiring in-person, supervised clinical rotations in approved Ohio settings. Check with your program before enrolling to be clear.
Q: What should I know about collaboration requirements in Ohio?
A: Ohio rules describe Standard Care Arrangements for CNP/CNS/CNM practice. Programs should be able to explain how graduates operationalize collaboration and prescribing transitions.
Q: Is a post-master's certificate enough to add adult-gerontology primary or acute care?
A: It can be, if the certificate includes the required didactic and supervised clinical experiences aligned to the AG population focus you're adding.
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