Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida
- 2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Degree Options
- Why Florida Is a Top State for AGNP Students
- Program Formats: Online, Hybrid, and Campus
- Clinical Training and Program Requirements
- Certification and Licensure in Florida
- What to Look for in a Florida AGNP Program
- Careers for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners
- FAQs
- Latest Articles & Guides

Florida's large and rapidly aging population makes it one of the most important states for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs). From the retirement communities of South Florida to major medical centers in Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami, advanced practice nurses play a key role in delivering care to adults and older adults.
Graduate programs in Florida prepare registered nurses for advanced clinical roles treating adult and geriatric patients across settings such as hospitals, primary care clinics, and long-term care facilities. Most AGNP programs lead to national certification and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure, enabling graduates to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care.
This article will cover:
- The differences between MSN, DNP, and post-master's AGNP programs
- How Florida schools deliver AGNP programs through online, hybrid, and campus formats
- Where students typically complete clinical rotations across the state
- What to expect from Florida licensure and certification pathways
- Tips for choosing the best AGNP program for your goals
2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida offers a Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. This hybrid program requires 23 credit hours beyond a master's or DNP degree. It prepares advanced practice nurses to manage complex acute, critical, and chronic illnesses across various care settings. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and diagnostic skills. Admission requires an MSN or DNP degree and national certification as an advanced practice registered nurse. The program includes clinical hours and prepares graduates for state licensure, focusing on flexibility and a strong scientific foundation.
- 23 credit hours required.
- Post-master's graduate certificate program.
- Hybrid program type.
- Prepares for acute care settings.
- Requires MSN or DNP degree.
- Admission for certified APRNs.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Includes clinical hours.
- Prepares for state licensure.
- Flexible curriculum offered.
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate at the University of Central Florida prepares experienced nurses with a master's degree for advanced practice roles. This 19-credit hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical practice, requiring up to 660 clinical hours. Students develop skills in health promotion, gerontologic care, and women's health through courses like Adult I Primary Care and Gerontologic Care for APNs. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare policy. It prepares graduates for state licensure and certification. Applicants need a BSN and MSN from accredited institutions, an undergraduate statistics course, and Florida APRN licensure. The College of Nursing delivers this flexible certificate for working professionals seeking career advancement in adult and geriatric primary care.
- 19 credit hours.
- Hybrid program format.
- Up to 660 clinical hours.
- Requires BSN and MSN degrees.
- Florida APRN licensure needed.
- Undergraduate statistics prerequisite.
- Post-master's certificate program.
- Prepares for state licensure.
- Includes women's health course.
- Gerontologic care focus.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at UCF prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adult and elderly populations. This rigorous 72-credit program develops high-level clinical expertise through 1,080 practicum hours, focusing on evidence-based practice, leadership, and innovative healthcare solutions. Designed for registered nurses with a BSN, the program offers a strong scientific foundation with competitive in-state tuition of $369.65 per credit hour. Graduates emerge as sophisticated healthcare professionals equipped to analyze complex clinical scenarios, develop practice models, and lead quality improvement initiatives.
- 72 credit hours total
- 1,080 practicum hours
- In-state tuition $369.65/credit
- BSN degree prerequisite
- RN licensure in Florida
- Advanced health assessment
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership development
- Clinical reasoning skills
- Healthcare policy understanding
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida offers a cutting-edge Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty. This hybrid-online degree prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for complex adult and gerontology patients across diverse healthcare settings. Students gain advanced clinical skills through 1,080 clinical hours, evidence-based practice training, and leadership development. The program meets national certification requirements and provides opportunities for interprofessional learning and critical thinking skill enhancement.
- Hybrid-online DNP program
- 1,080 total clinical hours
- Twice yearly campus intensives
- 76 total credit hours
- Nationally accredited program
- Acute care focus 18+ patients
- RN license required
- BSN from accredited institution
- Clinical sites assigned by program
- Certification exam preparation
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP: Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida offers a BSN to DNP program with a focus on Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, designed for nurses aiming to advance their careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences in Florida, catering to both full-time and part-time students. Applicants need a BSN degree, an RN license in Florida, and must meet specific admissions criteria, including an undergraduate statistics course. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient care improvement. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to eligible students.
- Hybrid program format
- Focus on Adult/Gerontology Primary Care
- Requires Florida RN license
- BSN degree prerequisite
- Undergraduate statistics course required
- Full-time and part-time options
- Clinical placements in Central Florida
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Financial aid available
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare across age spectrums. Through a predominantly online curriculum, students gain expertise in disease prevention, health promotion, and managing complex multi-system health conditions. The 45-credit program emphasizes advanced clinical skills for treating adolescents, adults, and elderly patients, positioning graduates as critical healthcare providers in diverse medical settings.
- Predominantly online program
- 45 total credit hours
- 6 semester completion track
- Care for adolescents to elderly
- National certification eligible
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University offers an online Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. This program builds on an MSN degree, preparing nurses for national certification. It requires 32 credits and is designed for flexibility, allowing clinicals outside traditional areas. Admissions require an MSN from an accredited program. The Fall application deadline is March 1. This certificate enhances skills in managing adult and geriatric patient care.
- Online program format.
- 32 credits required.
- Builds on MSN degree.
- Prepares for national certification.
- Clinicals allowed outside local areas.
- Fall application deadline March 1.
- Requires MSN from accredited program.
- Focus on adult-gerontology primary care.
- Enhances clinical nursing skills.
- Flexible for working professionals.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers specialized training for advanced nurse practitioners focusing on Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. This comprehensive online program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse settings. Students gain advanced clinical skills in disease prevention, health promotion, and complex multi-system health management. The program qualifies graduates for national certification and state advanced practice registration, positioning them as critical healthcare leaders addressing evolving patient needs.
- Online Adult-Gerontology Specialization
- 10 semesters total program length
- 77 total credit hours
- National certification preparation
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - fsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida State University's online Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Graduate Certificate prepares nurses for advanced acute care roles. The 22-credit program focuses on complex illness management and critical care delivery. Students gain skills for intensive care unit settings through online lectures, labs, and clinical rotations. The program uses synchronous components for interactive learning. It prepares graduates to diagnose and treat critically ill adult and geriatric patients. The College of Nursing administers this CCNE-accredited certificate. This program suits nurses seeking specialized acute care certification.
- 22 credit hours
- Post-Master's Certificate program
- Online delivery format
- Synchronous course components
- College of Nursing administration
- CCNE accreditation
- Adult gerontology acute care focus
- Advanced practice nursing specialty
- Complex illness management training
- Critical care delivery preparation
MSN to DNP - DNP- Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Acute Care prepares advanced practice nurses for high-level clinical roles. This hybrid program combines online coursework with minimal campus sessions, offering flexibility for working healthcare professionals. Designed for nurses with acute care experience, the program meets national nursing education standards and prepares graduates for certification exams. Tuition ranges from $32,440 for in-state to $78,475 for out-of-state students, with multiple entry pathways including BSN-to-DNP and post-master's options.
- Full-time and part-time study
- Primarily online coursework
- Five campus sessions required
- Multiple entry pathways
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes
- RN experience recommended
- Certification exam preparation
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Seven-year completion timeline
- Comprehensive clinical training
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice. This hybrid program blends online coursework with five on-campus sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It aligns with AACN Essentials and NONPF Core competencies, ensuring graduates are ready for the ACNP certification exam. With full-time and part-time options, students can tailor their education to their schedules. The program emphasizes acute care management, requiring one to two years of RN experience. Graduates will lead in improving patient outcomes in adult-gerontology acute care settings. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and RN license, with GRE waivers available for qualified applicants.
- Hybrid program format
- Prepares for ACNP certification
- Full-time and part-time options
- Requires RN experience
- Aligns with AACN Essentials
- Five on-campus sessions
- BSN degree required
- 3.0 GPA for admission
- GRE waivers available
- Focus on acute care management
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Florida prepares advanced nursing professionals to manage complex medical needs of adults across age groups. Designed for experienced critical care nurses, this specialized track focuses on acute and critical illness management in high-intensity healthcare settings. Graduates become eligible for national certification through prestigious nursing credentialing organizations, positioning them for dynamic healthcare careers with advanced clinical expertise.
- Requires 1+ year critical care experience
- Hybrid program format
- Nationally certifiable track
- Clinical sites within Florida
- Focuses on acute care management
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (A-G ACNP) program at the University of Florida prepares graduates for independent and collaborative management of acute, critical, or chronic illnesses in young, middle-aged, and older adults. This hybrid program focuses on high-acuity inpatient settings, requiring at least one year of critical care experience. Graduates are eligible for national certification through ANCC and AACN. Clinical experiences are arranged within Florida, with potential travel. The program emphasizes stabilization and management across diverse populations, offering both full-time and part-time curriculum plans.
- Hybrid program format.
- Focus on high-acuity inpatient settings.
- Requires critical care experience.
- Eligible for ANCC and AACN certification.
- Clinical sites within Florida.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Prepares for diverse populations.
- Emphasizes stabilization and management.
- Travel may be required.
- Individualized clinical experiences.
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Primary Care concentration provides advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to specialize in adult and geriatric healthcare. This rigorous 52-credit, part-time program equips students with critical skills to deliver comprehensive primary care across adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. With 780 clinical hours and strategic coursework, graduates are prepared to take certification exams and work in diverse healthcare settings. In-state tuition is competitively priced at $371.81 per credit hour, making it an accessible option for aspiring advanced practice nurses seeking specialized gerontological expertise.
- 52 credit hours total program
- 780 clinical practice hours
- Part-time study format
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Clinical sites in South Florida
- Multiple campus locations
- No prior clinical experience needed
- Hybrid online/in-person courses
- Certification exam preparation
Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers a Post Graduate Certificate in Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner for nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing. This campus-based program enhances skills in caring for adult and older adult populations. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure in Florida, a resume, a nursing philosophy essay, and one letter of recommendation. The curriculum includes required courses like Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring. The program is designed for working professionals seeking advanced practice certification.
- Post Graduate Certificate program.
- Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner track.
- Campus-based delivery.
- Requires MSN degree.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed.
- RN licensure in Florida.
- Resume or CV required.
- Nursing philosophy essay.
- One letter of recommendation.
- Background check mandatory.
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's BSN to DNP program with an Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive doctoral pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. This rigorous program prepares professionals to deliver innovative, evidence-based care to vulnerable and diverse populations. Students benefit from a hybrid learning format, combining online coursework with intensive weekend sessions across multiple campuses. The curriculum emphasizes clinical skill development, with 1000 required practicum hours, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in healthcare.
- Hybrid learning format
- No GRE required
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Concentrations in advanced nursing
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Three campus options
- Summer admission only
- In-state tuition ~$29,745
- 80 total credit hours
- Two recommendation letters needed
South University-West Palm Beach
Royal Palm Beach, FL - Private 4-year - southuniversity.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN with a Specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
South University's online MSN with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialization prepares you for advanced nursing roles. The program focuses on caring for elderly and vulnerable populations. You'll develop skills in diagnosis, treatment, and evidence-based practice. National certification is available through ANCC or AANP after completion. The curriculum aligns with NONPF core competencies. Clinical or practicum components are required. The program is accredited by CCNE. It offers flexible online learning formats. Admissions require a nursing background and relevant experience. Costs vary; financial aid options include grants and scholarships. Application deadlines are rolling; early submission is encouraged.
- Online program format.
- MSN degree with specialization.
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus.
- Prepares for national certification.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Clinical or practicum required.
- Flexible learning options.
- Focus on elderly populations.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Advanced nursing skills development.
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) MSN program at USF prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across the adult and geriatric spectrum. Spanning 45 credit hours, the program equips nurses with advanced clinical decision-making skills, research capabilities, and leadership expertise. Graduates are eligible to take certification exams through prestigious nursing credentialing bodies, positioning them for high-demand healthcare roles with expanded professional opportunities.
- 45 total credit hours
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
- Certification exam eligibility
- Part-time or full-time enrollment
- Independent clinical decision-making
- Graduate comprehensive exam required
- Health policy development skills
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty (Occupational Health Nursing)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida offers an MSN program for Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners with an Occupational Health Nursing concentration. This 74-credit campus-based program prepares nurses for certification exams through ANCC or AANPCB. It combines nursing coursework with public health collaboration. Tuition and fees may be covered by grant funding. The program includes a comprehensive exam requirement. It's designed for nurses seeking advanced practice roles in adult and geriatric primary care with occupational health specialization.
- 74 credit hours required
- Campus-based program delivery
- Occupational Health Nursing concentration
- Prepares for ANCC certification exam
- Prepares for AANPCB certification exam
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus
- Combines nursing and public health courses
- Grant funding may cover costs
- Comprehensive exam required
- Standard curriculum plan followed
MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration
Campus Based - Visit Website
The BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care for adult and elderly populations. Graduates become specialized Nurse Practitioners equipped to provide quality primary care across wellness and illness spectrums. The program develops advanced clinical skills, enabling professionals to work in diverse ambulatory settings and qualify for national certification through prominent nursing credentialing organizations.
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Focus
- Prepares for ANCC/AANPCB Certification
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- Patient-Centered Care Approach
- Multiple Ambulatory Care Settings
- Comprehensive Adult Health Coverage
- Advanced Nursing Practice Program
MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Concentration
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares registered nurses to provide advanced patient-centered care for adults and older adults with complex health needs. Students develop expertise in acute and critical illness management across various healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take certification exams through ANCC or AACN, positioning them for high-demand nursing roles that require specialized clinical skills and comprehensive patient care approaches.
- Graduate-level nursing degree
- Acute care nurse practitioner focus
- Multiple certification options
- Part-time and full-time enrollment
- Complex patient care preparation
- Versatile healthcare settings
- Advanced clinical skills training
BSN to DNP - BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Concentration
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Concentration at the University of South Florida prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute and critical care settings. This hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, focusing on the care of adults and older adults with complex acute, critical, and chronic illnesses. Graduates are eligible to take certification exams from ANCC or AACN. The program offers both part-time and full-time options, with course sequences tailored upon admission. Financial aid and scholarships may be available. Admission details and course requirements are outlined in the Graduate Catalog, making it a solid choice for nurses aiming to advance their careers in acute care.
- Hybrid program format.
- Focuses on acute care.
- Eligible for ANCC/AACN certification.
- Part-time and full-time options.
- Tailored course sequences.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships may apply.
- Graduate degree in nursing.
- Prepares for advanced practice.
- Clinical experiences included.
BSN to DNP - BS-DNP Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration (Occupational Health)
Campus Based - Visit Website
- Focus on occupational health.
- Prepares for multiple certifications.
- Funding opportunities available.
- Part-time and full-time options.
- Detailed course sequence provided.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida A&M University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adults and older adults. Students synthesize evidence-based practices and leadership skills to improve patient outcomes across diverse healthcare settings. The flexible online program can be completed in five semesters full-time or seven semesters part-time, spanning 42 credits. With accreditation from ACEN and competitive salary potential averaging $102,000, graduates can work in various healthcare environments like clinics, community centers, and public health facilities.
- Online MSN program
- 42 credit hours total
- 5-7 semester completion
- ACEN accredited program
- Average salary $102,000
- Diverse career opportunities
- Full-time and part-time options
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
BSN to MSN - M.S.N. Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing career with Nova Southeastern University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner M.S.N. program. This comprehensive 51-credit hybrid degree equips healthcare professionals with advanced skills to provide critical care for complex adult and geriatric patients. Students gain expertise in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment through a rigorous seven-semester curriculum. The program combines online coursework and on-site training at the Palm Beach campus, offering flexibility for working professionals. With dedicated faculty support and comprehensive clinical practicum experiences totaling up to 255 hours, graduates are prepared to excel in acute care settings and make meaningful patient care impacts.
- 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 a Postgraduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner for MSN-prepared nurses. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-site clinicals at Palm Beach campus. It prepares you for national certification with a 24-credit curriculum. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, Florida RN licensure, and 12 months clinical experience. Financial aid options help manage costs. The program builds advanced skills for acute care settings.
- Postgraduate certificate program.
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care specialization.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- 24 credit hours required.
- Four semester curriculum.
- On-site at Palm Beach campus.
- Requires MSN degree.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Florida RN licensure needed.
- 12 months clinical experience.
BSN to DNP - B.S.N. to D.N.P. (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's B.S.N. to D.N.P. program with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to doctoral-level expertise. This rigorous 75-credit program prepares nurses to deliver expert care in complex healthcare settings, focusing on advanced clinical skills, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, gaining extensive hands-on experience across diverse healthcare environments. The hybrid learning model accommodates working professionals, with courses delivered both online and on-campus. Tuition details are available on the university's website, and applicants must submit transcripts through NursingCAS by August 1 for fall or December 1 for winter admission.
- 75 total credit doctoral program
- Hybrid online/face-to-face delivery
- 1,000 total clinical hours
- Advanced acute care specialization
- Leadership and clinical expertise focus
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, FL - Private 4-year - pba.edu
MSN to DNP - DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Palm Beach Atlantic University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for diverse healthcare settings. This comprehensive program equips students with comprehensive skills to provide high-quality care across various patient populations. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams and can pursue careers in primary care, home health, and community settings. The curriculum emphasizes holistic healthcare approaches, integrating faith-based principles with advanced clinical training. Admission requires a nursing baccalaureate degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of RN experience.
- Hybrid program format
- Christ-centered nursing education
- Advanced lab technologies
- National certification preparation
- Personalized learning approach
- No GRE required typically
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
- One year RN experience required
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Mentorship program available
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Degree Options
Florida universities offer several educational pathways for becoming an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
| Degree Pathway | Typical Length | Best For | Outcome |
| MSN – Adult-Gerontology NP | 2–3 years | BSN-prepared RNs seeking NP entry | Eligible for national certification |
| DNP – Adult-Gerontology NP | 3–4 years | Nurses seeking leadership or advanced clinical training | Terminal clinical degree |
| Post-Master's AGNP Certificate | 1–2 years | MSN-prepared NPs adding a new population focus | Specialty certification |
To practice as a nurse practitioner in Florida, graduates typically must complete a graduate nursing degree or post-master's certificate and obtain national certification before applying for APRN licensure.
Why Florida Is a Top State for AGNP Students
Florida has one of the largest senior populations in the United States, creating strong demand for providers who specialize in adult and geriatric care.
AGNP students in Florida often benefit from:
- Diverse clinical training environments
- Major teaching hospitals and medical centers
- Large retiree populations needing chronic disease management
- Growing telehealth and outpatient care systems
Common Florida clinical training sites:
Students may complete clinical rotations in settings such as:
- Hospital systems in Tampa Bay, Miami, and Orlando
- Veterans Affairs medical centers
- Community health clinics
- Long-term care facilities and rehabilitation centers
- Geriatric specialty clinics
Because AGNPs focus on patients from young adulthood through advanced age, clinical rotations often include both primary care and acute care experiences.
Check out nurse practitioner schools in Florida.
Program Formats: Online, Hybrid, and Campus
Many Florida nursing schools now offer flexible learning formats to accommodate working nurses.
Online AGNP Programs
Online programs allow students to complete didactic coursework remotely while completing in-person clinical rotations locally.
Benefits include:
- Flexible scheduling for working RNs
- Reduced commuting and relocation costs
- Access to programs across the state
However, students should verify whether the school assists with clinical placement or requires them to find preceptors independently.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs combine online coursework with periodic campus visits for:
- Clinical skills labs
- Simulation experiences
- Research presentations
This format offers a balance between flexibility and hands-on training.
Campus-Based Programs
Traditional campus programs remain common, particularly for DNP programs that include extensive clinical and leadership training.
Advantages include:
- Face-to-face faculty mentorship
- Structured clinical partnerships
- Access to simulation labs and research facilities
Clinical Training and Program Requirements
Clinical education is a core component of AGNP training. Students typically complete hundreds of supervised clinical hours under experienced nurse practitioner or physician preceptors.
Examples of clinical experiences may include:
- Adult primary care clinics
- Internal medicine practices
- Geriatric care settings
- Hospital inpatient units
- Long-term care facilities
Some programs require 600–800 clinical hours or more before graduation.
Tip for Florida Students:
If you live in a rural or coastal area, confirm that the program can arrange clinical placements near your location.
Certification and Licensure in Florida
After graduating from an accredited AGNP program, candidates typically pursue national certification, commonly through organizations such as ANCC or AANP.
Certification eligibility usually requires:
- Active RN license
- Completion of an accredited AGNP graduate program
- Required clinical hours
After passing certification exams, graduates can apply for Florida Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing.
Florida also allows experienced nurse practitioners to apply for autonomous practice status after completing additional supervised clinical experience, including approximately 3,000 practice hours.
What to Look for in a Florida AGNP Program
Choosing the right program requires evaluating several factors.
Accreditation
Look for programs accredited by:
- CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
- ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)
Accreditation ensures programs meet national education standards.
Clinical Placement Support
Ask whether the school:
- Provides clinical placement assistance
- Has partnerships with Florida healthcare systems
- Allows placements near your location
Specialty Track
Many AGNP programs offer two different tracks:
- Primary Care AGNP – focuses on outpatient and preventive care
- Acute Care AGNP – prepares nurses for hospital-based care
Program Length and Cost
Costs vary significantly between Florida public universities and private institutions. Consider:
- Tuition and fees
- Clinical travel costs
- Simulation or campus residency requirements
Careers for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners
Graduates of AGNP programs in Florida may pursue roles such as:
- Adult primary care nurse practitioner
- Geriatric nurse practitioner
- Hospitalist or acute care NP
- Long-term care provider
- Specialty clinic NP (cardiology, oncology, endocrinology)
AGNPs often work in settings like hospitals, outpatient clinics, and assisted living or nursing facilities caring for aging populations.
FAQs
Q: Can I complete an AGNP program online in Florida?
A: Many programs offer online coursework, but clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities.
Q: How long does it take to become an AGNP?
A: The timeline typically includes:
- BSN degree (4 years)
- MSN AGNP program (2–3 years)
Doctoral pathways, such as a DNP, may take 3–4 additional years.
Q: What certification exams do AGNP graduates take?
A: Graduates commonly pursue ANCC or AANP Adult-Gerontology NP certification exams, which assess clinical knowledge and decision-making skills.
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