Explore Affordable Adult Gerontology NP Programs Near Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- 2025 Affordable Adult Gerontology NP Programs Near Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Why Fort Lauderdale Is Ideal for AGNP Training
- Key Benefits of AGNP Programs
- Curriculum & Clinical Components
- Admission Requirements
- Career Paths & Specializations
- Salary Expectations
- Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Strategies
- Balancing Study, Work, and Life
- Accreditation & Program Quality
- Networking & Professional Development
- Local Employment Outlook & Key Employers
- Decision-Making Checklist
- Start Your AGNP Journey in Fort Lauderdale Today
Fort Lauderdale, known for its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant maritime culture, also hosts a growing healthcare ecosystem anchored by Broward Health and Nova Southeastern University's medical campus. With an average rent 12 percent below that of Miami and strong demand for primary and acute care providers among Fort Lauderdale's aging population, this coastal city offers an ideal setting to pursue an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) specialization affordably. In-state tuition rates at Florida Atlantic University and partnerships with Memorial Healthcare System keep costs competitive. To see how Fort Lauderdale's programs compare across the state, review the 2025 Best Nursing Schools in Florida rankings for tuition, graduation rates, and certification outcomes.
AGNP tracks near Fort Lauderdale emphasize geriatric assessment, chronic disease management, and pharmacology, blending online coursework with clinical practicums at local hospitals and long-term care facilities. For RNs seeking to transition swiftly into advanced practice, our RN to NP Programs overview details bridge options that recognize your bedside experience and shorten your path to certification. In the sections below, explore program benefits, curriculum structure, admission requirements, career trajectories, salary expectations, funding strategies, work–life balance tips, accreditation essentials, networking opportunities, local employment outlook, and a decision checklist to guide your choice.
2025 Affordable Adult Gerontology NP Programs Near Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Looking for affordable Adult Gerontology NP programs near Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2025? registerednursing.org has you covered with a list of top programs that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re starting your nursing career or looking to advance, finding the right program is key. Our rankings highlight options that balance cost with quality education, making your decision easier. We’ve done the research so you can focus on your future. Check out our picks and see which program fits your goals and budget. For details on how we rank these programs, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
Barry University
Miami, FL - Private 4-year - barry.edu
Master's - Nurse Practitioner, MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Campus Based - Visit Website
The MSN in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Barry University is a campus-based program designed for RNs aiming to specialize in acute care for adult and elderly patients. With a 25% tuition scholarship and CCNE accreditation, it offers an affordable pathway to advanced practice nursing. The program requires no entrance exam, focusing instead on small class sizes and personalized faculty attention to foster professional growth and clinical expertise in acute care settings.
- 25% MSN tuition scholarship
- CCNE accredited program
- Small class sizes
- Personalized faculty attention
- Advanced nursing specialization
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's hybrid Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) Post-Master's Certificate is tailored for RNs with a master's degree, focusing on acute, critical, and chronic care for adults and the elderly. The program stands out for its 30% tuition scholarship, small class sizes, and CCNE accreditation, making it both affordable and high-quality. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing its accessibility. The hybrid format offers flexibility, combining online coursework with hands-on clinical training, ideal for working professionals seeking advancement in gerontology acute care.
- Hybrid program format
- Specialized acute care focus
- Post-Master's Certificate option
- 30% tuition scholarship
- Small class sizes
- CCNE accredited program
- Personalized faculty guidance
- Advanced clinical training
Doctorate - Nursing Practice, Post-Baccalaureate DNP
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's Post-Baccalaureate DNP with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program that prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. It features a 30% tuition scholarship, over 1000 clinical hours, and CCNE accreditation, ensuring affordability and excellence. The part-time, technology-enhanced curriculum is designed for working nurses, requiring no entrance exam. Graduates are equipped to provide comprehensive, culturally competent care and sit for national certification, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention in adult and elderly populations.
- Part-time hybrid program
- Minimum 1000 clinical hours
- Focuses on adult/elderly care
- Technology-enhanced curriculum
- 30% tuition scholarship
- CCNE Accredited program
- Small class sizes
- Nationally certified preparation
- Advanced practice nursing focus
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Master's - M.S.N. Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The M.S.N. Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care at Nova Southeastern University is a 51-credit hybrid program designed for nurses aspiring to specialize in acute care for adult and geriatric patients. Over seven semesters, students engage in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment courses, complemented by up to 255 clinical practicum hours. The program's hybrid delivery offers flexibility, blending online learning with on-site training at the Palm Beach campus. With no GRE requirement and a military-friendly policy, it presents an affordable pathway for working professionals to enhance their expertise and impact in acute care settings.
- 51 total credit program
- Hybrid online/on-site delivery
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Advanced nursing skills training
- Experienced faculty guidance
- Multiple semester clinical rotations
- Palm Beach campus option
- Graduate-level advanced courses
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate, a hybrid program tailored for MSN graduates seeking specialization in acute care for adults. This 24-credit postgraduate certificate combines online coursework with on-site training at Palm Beach campuses, requiring 170-225 clinical hours. Admission demands a 3.0 GPA, active nursing license, and 12 months of clinical practice. The program stands out for its advanced courses in physiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, alongside the requirement for ACLS certification. Its hybrid format and focus on acute care make it an affordable option for nurses aiming to advance their careers without relocating.
- 24 total program credits
- Hybrid learning format
- Requires 170-225 clinical hours
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- 12 months clinical practice needed
- ACLS certification required
- Advanced physiology courses
- Advanced pharmacology training
- Advanced health assessment
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - Private 4-year - miami.edu
Master's - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Miami's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for nurses aiming to specialize in acute care settings. With a curriculum that spans 37 credit hours, the program offers both full-time and part-time tracks, accommodating students' schedules. It emphasizes evidence-based practices and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for ANCC certification. The program's affordability is enhanced by its military-friendly status and the presence of a hospital on campus, providing students with diverse clinical experiences without the need for extensive travel.
- 37 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Evidence-based curriculum
- ANCC certification eligible
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Multicultural patient populations
- Interprofessional team approach
- Nationally accredited program
Doctorate - BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Track
Campus Based - Visit Website
Offering a BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Track, the University of Miami caters to nurses seeking advanced practice roles in critical care. This 70-credit program requires 1,000 clinical practice hours, offering immersive experiences in varied healthcare settings. Its focus on evidence-based practice and leadership, combined with CCNE accreditation, ensures graduates are well-prepared for certification and high-demand roles. The program's affordability is supported by its military-friendly policy and on-campus hospital, reducing external clinical site costs and providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities.
- 70 total credit program
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- ANCC certification eligible
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Multicultural clinical experience
- Evidence-based practice focus
- CCNE accredited program
Why Fort Lauderdale Is Ideal for AGNP Training
- Clinical partnerships with Broward Health and Memorial Hospital System provide diverse geriatric practicum sites.
- In-state tuition at public universities is 20 percent lower than comparable out-of-state rates.
- Strong community support via the APRN Programs rankings for advanced practice nurses
- Growing need for AGNPs in home health and primary care, with Florida projecting a 30 percent increase by 2030
- Coastal lifestyle and lower living expenses support study–life balance
Key Benefits of AGNP Programs
Affordable AGNP tracks near Fort Lauderdale enhance your clinical expertise in:
- Comprehensive geriatric assessment and wellness promotion
- Management of chronic conditions such as heart failure and diabetes
- Pharmacotherapeutics tailored to older adults
- Health promotion and disease prevention across care settings
- Preparation for the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP-BC) or Acute Care NP (AGACNP-BC) certification
Curriculum & Clinical Components
Most AGNP programs require 40–45 credits over six to eight semesters, with a mix of online theory and local clinical hours.
| Course Category | Sample Courses | Practicum Site Examples |
| Geriatric Health Assessment | Advanced Physical Assessment in Older Adults | Long-term care units at Memorial Hospital South |
| Chronic Disease Management | Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for AGNP | Heart failure clinics at Broward Health Coral Springs |
| Health Promotion & Screening | Preventive Care Strategies for Aging Populations | Wellness programs at community health centers |
| Leadership & Ethics | Policy and Advocacy in Geriatric Care | QI projects with the Florida Department of Health |
| Capstone Practicum | AGNP Role Integration | Rotations across primary care practices |
Admission Requirements
To qualify for AGNP tracks near Fort Lauderdale, applicants typically need:
- Active RN license in Florida or via the Nurse Licensure Compact
- BSN degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Résumé highlighting geriatric or community health experience.
- Personal statement focused on older adult care.
- Two professional references, at least one from a clinical supervisor
- Prerequisites in statistics, health assessment, and advanced physiology
Participation in unit-based elder care committees or health fairs strengthens applications.
Career Paths & Specializations
Graduates often pursue roles such as:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP in outpatient clinics
- Acute Care AGNP in hospital or step-down units
- Home health NP coordinating care for homebound seniors.
- Case manager NP overseeing transitions from hospital to community
- Clinical educator for geriatric nursing teams. See our Nursing Resources page for continuing education opportunities.
Salary Expectations
Adult Gerontology NPs in South Florida earn competitive salaries:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary* |
| Entry-Level AGNP (0–2 years) | $95,000 |
| Mid-Career AGNP (3–5 years) | $110,000 |
| Senior AGNP/Lead Practitioner | $125,000 |
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024.
Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Strategies
To keep costs down, consider:
- In-state tuition rates at FAU and NOVA Southeastern University
- Federal loans via FAFSA, including Unsubsidized Stafford and Grad PLUS
- Employer tuition reimbursement through Memorial Healthcare System
- Grants and scholarships listed on our Scholarships & Grants Available to Nursing Students page
- Graduate assistantships in university research centers for stipends and tuition waivers
Balancing Study, Work, and Life
Fort Lauderdale's coastal environment and transit options support balance:
- Evening and weekend course offerings reduce conflict with clinical shifts
- Beach and waterfront parks provide stress relief.
- Peer study groups organized through local nursing association.s
- Convenient simulation lab access at university campuses
Accreditation & Program Quality
Ensure your AGNP track is CCNE or ACEN accredited and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Our Nursing School Accreditation guide explains accreditation seals, state approvals, and why high certification pass rates matter.
Networking & Professional Development
Advance your career by:
- Joining the Florida Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties
- Attending the South Florida Geriatric Education Center seminars
- Presenting at the Florida Gerontological Society annual conference
- Participating in mentorship programs through the RN Jobs: Everything You Need to Know guide.
Local Employment Outlook & Key Employers
Key employers hiring AGNPs in Fort Lauderdale include:
- Broward Health family medicine and elder care clinics
- Memorial Healthcare System’s acute care and long-term care units
- Home Instead Senior Care for advanced home health roles
- Florida Department of Health geriatric wellness programs
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center primary and acute care NP positions
Decision-Making Checklist
When comparing AGNP programs, evaluate:
- Credit-hour requirements, bridge options, and program length
- Variety and quality of clinical practicum sites and preceptor expertise
- Tuition per credit, in-state discounts, and scholarship availability
- Delivery format (online vs. hybrid) and scheduling flexibility
- Faculty credentials, research opportunities, and certification pass-rate metrics
A side-by-side matrix will reveal the program that best fits your background, goals, and budget.
Start Your AGNP Journey in Fort Lauderdale Today
Gather your transcripts, note application deadlines, and contact program advisors at local schools to secure your place in an affordable Adult Gerontology NP program near Fort Lauderdale.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Nurse Practitioners," May 2024.
- Florida Board of Nursing. "Approved Nursing Education Programs," accessed July 2025.
- Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. "AGNP Program Curriculum Overview," 2024.
- Memorial Healthcare System. "Tuition Reimbursement and Educational Partnerships," 2024.
Upon completing an ADN from Pacific Union College, Catherine worked in various bedside roles until her career evolved into nursing leadership for a large HMO in Northern California. She then completed a BSN at the University of Phoenix and a Masters in Organizational Leadership at Colorado State University.
In addition to her freelance writing, Catherine is the founder and CEO of Burger Legal Nurse Consulting, is an advanced board-certified nurse executive, and is the CNO & Media Response Specialist for RegisteredNursing.org.
Situated in the beautiful Idaho mountains, Catherine loves traveling and spending time with her husband and their five children.