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's Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a 23-credit hybrid program designed for certified APRNs with MSN or DNP degrees. This program prepares nurses to manage complex acute, critical, and chronic illnesses across various care settings through evidence-based practice and clinical hours. It emphasizes diagnostic reasoning, leadership skills, and a strong scientific foundation while preparing graduates for state licensure. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this post-master's certificate program.
- 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
UCF's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate is a 19-credit hybrid program requiring up to 660 clinical hours. Designed for nurses with BSN and MSN degrees from accredited institutions, it focuses on gerontologic care, women's health, and adult primary care through courses like Adult I Primary Care. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare policy while preparing graduates for state licensure and certification. Florida APRN licensure and an undergraduate statistics course are required. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this post-master's certificate.
- 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 is a rigorous 72-credit hybrid program with 1,080 practicum hours. Designed for registered nurses with a BSN, it develops high-level clinical expertise in comprehensive healthcare for adult and elderly populations. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, leadership, and innovative healthcare solutions while offering competitive in-state tuition. Graduates are prepared to analyze complex clinical scenarios and lead quality improvement initiatives. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral program.
- 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
UCF's cutting-edge Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a 76-credit hybrid-online degree with 1,080 clinical hours. This program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for complex adult and gerontology patients across diverse healthcare settings. It includes twice-yearly campus intensives, evidence-based practice training, leadership development, and interprofessional learning opportunities. The program meets national certification requirements and prepares graduates for certification exams. RN license and BSN from an accredited institution are required. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral program.
- 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 BSN to DNP program with an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner focus at UCF is a hybrid program combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences in Florida. Designed for nurses with a BSN degree and Florida RN license, it offers both full-time and part-time options. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient care improvement, and leadership roles in healthcare. An undergraduate statistics course is required for admission. Financial aid and scholarships may be available. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral program.
- 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 offers an online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program that prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare across age spectrums. This 45-credit program emphasizes disease prevention, health promotion, and managing complex multi-system health conditions for adolescents, adults, and elderly patients. The predominantly online curriculum positions graduates as critical healthcare providers in diverse medical settings without requiring entrance exams for admission.
- 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's online Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care builds on an MSN foundation, requiring 32 credits for completion. This flexible program allows clinical placements outside traditional areas and prepares nurses for national certification without requiring entrance exams. Designed for working professionals, it focuses on enhancing clinical skills in managing adult and geriatric patient care, with a fall application deadline of March 1.
- 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 with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration provides specialized online training for advanced nurse practitioners. This comprehensive 77-credit program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse settings, focusing on advanced clinical skills in disease prevention and complex health management. The program qualifies graduates for national certification and state advanced practice registration without requiring entrance exams.
- 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 Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner equips nurses with specialized skills for managing critically ill adult and geriatric patients. This 22-credit CCNE-accredited program combines online lectures, labs, and clinical rotations with synchronous components for interactive learning. Focused on complex illness management and critical care delivery, it prepares graduates for advanced acute care roles in intensive care settings. No entrance exam is required for this certificate program.
- 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 hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Acute Care prepares experienced nurses for high-level clinical leadership roles. This flexible program blends primarily online coursework with minimal campus sessions, offering full-time and part-time options for working professionals. With multiple entry pathways including BSN-to-DNP and post-master's options, the program emphasizes comprehensive clinical training and prepares graduates for certification exams. No entrance exam is required for admission to this DNP program.
- 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 hybrid BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice through a curriculum aligned with AACN Essentials and NONPF Core competencies. This flexible program combines online coursework with five on-campus sessions, offering both full-time and part-time study options. Designed for nurses with RN experience, it prepares graduates for the ACNP certification exam with a focus on acute care management. GRE waivers are 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 University of Florida's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for experienced critical care nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This hybrid program focuses on managing complex acute and critical illnesses in high-intensity healthcare settings across adult age groups. Students must have at least one year of critical care experience. The program prepares graduates for national certification and features clinical placements within Florida. This master's-level program requires an entrance exam.
- 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
University of Florida's BSN to DNP program with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for independent management of acute, critical, and chronic conditions in diverse adult populations. This hybrid program emphasizes high-acuity inpatient care and requires critical care experience. Graduates qualify for ANCC and AACN certification. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time options with clinical experiences arranged throughout Florida, though travel may be required. This doctorate-level program requires an entrance exam.
- 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 Primary Care concentration is a 52-credit campus program that prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. This part-time program includes 780 clinical hours and hybrid online/in-person courses, with no prior clinical experience required. The curriculum focuses on specialized gerontological expertise, preparing graduates for certification exams. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.
- 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 Post Graduate Certificate in Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner is a campus-based program for nurses with an MSN degree. This certificate program enhances skills in caring for adult and older adult populations through courses like Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, Florida RN licensure, a resume, nursing philosophy essay, and one letter of recommendation. No entrance exam is required for this advanced certificate program.
- 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 features an Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner concentration in a hybrid format combining online coursework with intensive weekend sessions. This doctoral program requires 80 credits and 1000 clinical practice hours, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare. No GRE is required, and admission requires a 3.0 GPA with two recommendation letters. In-state tuition is approximately $29,745 with summer admission only across three campuses.
- 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
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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