Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Virginia
- 2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Virginia
- Primary Care vs. Acute Care Specializations
- Educational Pathways in Virginia
- Program Formats Across Virginia
- Clinical Training Throughout Virginia
- Admission Requirements
- Financial Investment
- Virginia APRN Licensure and Practice
- Virginia Scope of Practice
- Career Opportunities in Virginia
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Latest Articles & Guides
Virginia’s rapidly expanding older adult population, particularly concentrated in Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, and the Richmond metro, creates urgent demand for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) skilled in managing complex chronic conditions, coordinating care transitions, and addressing the unique healthcare needs of aging Virginians. From serving military retirees at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth to managing Medicare populations at VCU Health and University of Virginia Health, AGNPs play an essential role in Virginia’s healthcare delivery system.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How primary care and acute care AGNP program tracks prepare you for different Virginia practice environments
- What MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate pathways offer Virginia nurses
- How online, campus, and hybrid programs serve students across the Commonwealth
- Where Virginia AGNP students complete clinical training
- How Virginia’s scope of practice and job market support AGNP careers
2026 Best Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Virginia
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA - Public 4-Year - jmu.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration at James Madison University prepares graduate nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments. Students gain comprehensive skills in diagnosing and managing adult patient health needs, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention. The hybrid program offers 780 clinical practicum hours, enabling students to apply advanced clinical theories and research across diverse healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take certification exams through prominent nursing credentialing organizations, with the program boasting an impressive 100% certification pass rate since 2020.
- Hybrid program for working RNs
- 780 total clinical practicum hours
- 100% certification pass rate
- Small cohort sizes
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- In-person classes one day weekly
- Faculty maintain current practice
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a transformative educational journey for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The program provides two specialized concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Designed as a comprehensive hybrid program, students benefit from a three-year full-time curriculum blending online and face-to-face learning. Graduates develop advanced skills to lead nursing practice, enhance patient outcomes, and meet national professional competency standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
- Hybrid learning format
- Three-year full-time plan
- Two concentration options
- Small cohort sizes
- Dedicated program coordinator
- Nationally renowned faculty
- Advanced practice preparation
BSN to DNP - Advanced Practice Post-BSN-DNP (Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University's Advanced Practice Post-BSN-DNP program, with a concentration in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, is designed for BSN graduates aiming to become APRNs. This hybrid program blends online and face-to-face learning over a 3-year full-time study. It prepares students for leadership in nursing practice, focusing on improving patient outcomes. The program boasts small cohort sizes, dedicated faculty, and assistance with clinical placements. Graduates meet the AACN's core competencies for professional nursing education. Ideal for those seeking to advance their nursing career with a focus on adult and geriatric primary care.
- Hybrid learning format
- 3-year full-time study
- Small cohort sizes
- Dedicated clinical placement support
- Focus on AACN competencies
BSN to DNP - Advanced Practice Post-BSN-DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University in Virginia offers a hybrid Advanced Practice Post-BSN-DNP program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner. This program is designed for BSN graduates aiming to become advanced practice registered nurses. It combines online and face-to-face learning over a full-time 3-year plan, starting in January. With small cohort sizes, students benefit from personalized attention and support from dedicated faculty. The program includes assistance with clinical placements, preparing graduates for certification in Virginia. It's an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their nursing career with a focus on family care.
- Hybrid learning model
- Full-time 3-year duration
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- January start date
- Small cohort sizes
- Dedicated faculty support
- Clinical placement assistance
- Prepares for APRN certification
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA - Public 4-Year - virginia.edu
BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Virginia's MSN in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to manage acute and chronically ill adults. This hybrid program offers full-time and part-time options, with 500 clinical hours and eligibility for certification exams. Tuition ranges from $25,756 for Virginia residents to $40,328 for non-residents. Admissions require a BSN, 3.0 GPA, RN license, and one year of RN experience. Application deadlines are January 5. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership skills.
- Hybrid program format.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Two-year full-time completion.
- Three-year part-time completion.
- 500 clinical hours required.
- Eligible for certification exams.
- Guaranteed admission for alumni.
- Application deadline January 5.
- BSN degree required.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA.
MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at UVA prepares advanced practice nurses to manage complex patient care for adolescents and adults with acute, critical, or chronic illnesses. Students develop advanced diagnostic skills, clinical decision-making expertise, and leadership capabilities through a hybrid learning model. The program offers comprehensive training with 750 clinical practicum hours, preparing graduates for certification exams and professional practice. Full-time students can complete the DNP pathway in 33 months, with tuition ranging from $21,302 to $34,788 depending on residency status.
- Hybrid learning model
- 750 clinical practicum hours
- Certification exam preparation
- 33-month DNP pathway
- Individualized clinical plans
- Advanced practice specialty focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Multiple entry pathways
- Scholarly project requirement
- Nationwide clinical placement options
South University-Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, VA - Private 4-year - southuniversity.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care)
Online Learning - Visit Website
South University's online Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care specialization prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. The program focuses on caring for elderly and vulnerable populations. It builds expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and treating common health problems. Students develop leadership, clinical judgment, and communication skills. The curriculum meets national competencies for adult-gerontology primary care. Graduates can pursue national certification through ANCC or AANP. The program includes required in-person clinical components. It's designed for working nurses seeking career advancement in geriatric care.
- Online program format
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care specialization
- Master of Science in Nursing degree
- Prepares for national certification
- Meets NONPF core competencies
- Focuses on elderly populations
- Builds clinical judgment skills
- Develops leadership abilities
- Enhances communication skills
- Evidence-based practice approach
South University-Richmond
Glen Allen, VA - Private 4-year - southuniversity.edu
BSN to MSN - RN to Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
South University offers an online RN to MSN program specializing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles in adult and geriatric care. It focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common health issues in aging populations. The curriculum includes interactive coursework and supervised practicum experiences. Admission requires an associate's degree in nursing or equivalent, a 2.5 GPA, and a valid RN license. The program aligns with national certification standards for nurse practitioners. Graduates can pursue careers in various healthcare settings after passing required exams.
- Online program format.
- RN to MSN pathway.
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- 227 total credits required.
- Includes supervised practicum experiences.
- Admission requires RN license.
- 2.5 GPA minimum for admission.
- Associate's degree in nursing required.
- Meets NONPF core competencies.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA - Public 4-Year - vcu.edu
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Virginia Commonwealth University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a specialized Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for advanced practice nurses seeking expertise in complex adult and elderly patient care. This hybrid program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver sophisticated, evidence-based interventions in high-acuity settings. Graduates develop advanced clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and leadership competencies essential for providing comprehensive, patient-centered care in acute and critical care environments.
- Hybrid program delivery format
- Advanced practice nursing specialization
- Focus on acute care settings
- Adult-Gerontology patient population
- Leadership and clinical expertise
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - Public 4-Year - gmu.edu
MSN to DNP - Nursing - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - DNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
George Mason University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide specialized care for older adults. This hybrid program offers flexibility for working nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. Designed for BSN and MSN graduates, the program requires an active RN license, one year of work experience, and a recent statistics course. Prospective students must submit comprehensive application materials, including transcripts, recommendations, and a detailed goals statement outlining their professional trajectory.
- Hybrid DNP program format
- BSN and MSN pathways available
- Requires active RN license
- One year nursing experience
- Fall and Spring admission terms
- Comprehensive application process
- Advanced gerontology specialization
Primary Care vs. Acute Care Specializations
Virginia programs prepare AGNPs for two distinct practice tracks with different national certifications and employment paths.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP)
Primary care AGNPs manage chronic diseases, provide preventive services, and treat common acute illnesses in outpatient settings. Virginia AGPCNP graduates practice in internal medicine groups throughout Loudoun and Fairfax counties, geriatric medicine clinics at Sentara Healthcare and Bon Secours systems, community health centers serving underserved populations in Petersburg and Danville, nursing homes across Virginia’s 95 counties, and house call programs reaching homebound seniors in rural areas like Tazewell County and Accomack County.
This track suits nurses interested in longitudinal patient relationships, managing polypharmacy in older adults, and addressing geriatric syndromes including falls, cognitive decline, and functional impairment.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP)
Acute care AGNPs manage critically ill and hospitalized adults. Virginia AGACNP graduates work in intensive care units at Inova Fairfax Hospital, Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, and VCU Medical Center, emergency departments throughout the Sentara Healthcare system, hospitalist medicine programs at University of Virginia Health, cardiac care units at Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, and surgical services at Virginia Commonwealth University Health.
This track prepares nurses for rapid assessment, complex decision-making, and managing acutely decompensated patients requiring hospital-level interventions.
Educational Pathways in Virginia
MSN Programs: Entry-Level AGNP Preparation
Structure: 45-52 credits, 18-24 months full-time or 2-3 years part-time
Clinical hours: 500-700 supervised hours
Virginia MSN programs combine advanced practice nursing foundations (pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment) with gerontology-specific content covering normal aging, age-related pharmacology changes, geriatric assessment, and managing older adults with multiple comorbidities.
Graduates are eligible for national AGNP certification through AANPCB or ANCC and Virginia APRN licensure, allowing immediate practice throughout the Commonwealth.
DNP Programs: Terminal Clinical Degrees
BSN to DNP pathway: 75-85 credits, 3-4 years
These programs integrate all MSN-level AGNP content with doctoral education in evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, quality improvement, and systems leadership. Virginia BSN to DNP students complete scholarly projects addressing Commonwealth-specific issues—perhaps examining diabetes management in Hampton Roads’ African American communities, improving care transitions at rural Virginia hospitals, or evaluating fall prevention programs in Northern Virginia nursing homes.
Post-Master’s DNP pathway: 30-40 credits, 1-2 years
Already certified as an AGNP? Post-master’s DNP programs add doctoral credentials for Virginia AGNPs pursuing leadership at Sentara Healthcare, Inova Health System, or Bon Secours, faculty positions at University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, or Old Dominion University nursing schools, or policy roles influencing Virginia healthcare.
Post-Master’s AGNP Certificates
Structure: 36-45 credits, 12-18 months
Clinical hours: 500-600 supervised hours
Virginia nurses holding master’s degrees in other specialties can add AGNP certification through adult gerontology NP post-master’s certificate programs. This benefits family NPs wanting to focus on adult populations, psychiatric NPs seeking primary care skills, or women’s health NPs expanding scope; particularly valuable in rural Virginia where generalist skills enhance employment prospects.
Explore all nurse practitioner schools in Virginia.
Program Formats Across Virginia
Campus-Based Programs
Traditional on-campus programs concentrate in Richmond, Charlottesville, Norfolk, and Fairfax, offering in-person instruction, simulation labs, and established clinical partnerships. Campus students benefit from face-to-face faculty mentorship and networking with Virginia healthcare professionals at institutions like VCU Health, University of Virginia Health, Sentara Healthcare, and Inova Health System.
Advantage: Immediate access to university resources, structured learning environments, and built-in peer support networks.
Consideration: Requires geographic proximity to campus or willingness to commute regularly; challenging for nurses in Southwest Virginia or the Eastern Shore.
Online Programs
Fully online programs allow Virginia nurses from Abingdon to Virginia Beach to complete didactic coursework remotely while arranging clinical practica near their communities. Students study asynchronously with flexibility around work schedules at institutions like Johnston Memorial Hospital, Sentara RMH in Harrisonburg, or Mary Washington Healthcare in Fredericksburg.
Advantage: Geographic flexibility, ability to maintain full-time employment, and access to programs outside Virginia offering competitive tuition.
Consideration: Requires strong self-discipline, reliable technology access, and personal responsibility for securing clinical placements at Virginia facilities.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs combine online coursework with periodic campus requirements—weekend intensives, week-long summer sessions, or monthly on-campus meetings. This format suits Virginia nurses wanting some face-to-face interaction without weekly commuting from places like Roanoke, Lynchburg, or Winchester.
Advantage: Balances flexibility with in-person learning and relationship-building.
Consideration: On-campus sessions require advance planning for travel and time away from work.
Clinical Training Throughout Virginia
All AGNP programs require substantial hands-on clinical experience at Virginia healthcare facilities, regardless of program format.
Clinical Sites Across the Commonwealth
| Region | Major Healthcare Systems | Clinical Opportunities |
| Northern Virginia | Inova Health System, Virginia Hospital Center, Kaiser Permanente | Diverse populations, suburban practices, geriatric specialty services |
| Richmond Metro | VCU Health, Bon Secours, HCA Virginia | Academic medicine, urban health disparities, specialty geriatrics |
| Hampton Roads | Sentara Healthcare, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (adult services), Naval Medical Center Portsmouth | Military retirees, coastal communities, teaching hospitals |
| Central Virginia | University of Virginia Health (Charlottesville), Sentara RMH (Harrisonburg) | Academic medical center, Shenandoah Valley populations |
| Western Virginia | Carilion Clinic (Roanoke), LewisGale Medical Center (Salem) | Appalachian health, regional referral centers |
| Southwest Virginia | Ballad Health facilities, Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon) | Rural healthcare, medically underserved communities |
Students complete rotations at diverse settings, including hospital medicine, outpatient primary care, long-term care facilities, palliative care programs, and Veterans Affairs facilities throughout Virginia. Programs typically assist with placement but often expect student participation, particularly for specialized settings or geographic preferences.
Admission Requirements
| Requirement | Typical Expectation |
| RN License | Current Virginia RN license (or compact state license) |
| Undergraduate Degree | BSN from accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA |
| Nursing Experience | 1-2 years recommended; medical-surgical or critical care valued |
| GRE | Waived by most Virginia programs |
| References | 2-3 professional letters from supervisors or faculty |
| Personal Statement | Essay demonstrating commitment to adult-gerontology nursing |
| Interview | Many programs conduct virtual or in-person interviews |
Financial Investment
Program Costs
| Program Type | Estimated Total Cost |
| Public university MSN (Virginia residents) | $18,000 – $32,000 |
| Public university MSN (non-residents) | $38,000 – $62,000 |
| Private university MSN | $40,000 – $70,000 |
| Public university DNP (Virginia residents) | $32,000 – $52,000 |
| Private university DNP | $62,000 – $92,000 |
| Post-master’s certificate | $20,000 – $40,000 |
Virginia residents attending UVA, VCU, Old Dominion, or other public institutions benefit significantly from in-state tuition.
Virginia APRN Licensure and Practice
Certification and Licensure Process
- Complete Virginia Board of Nursing-approved AGNP program
- Pass national certification (AGPCNP-BC or AGACNP-BC through AANPCB or ANCC)
- Apply for Virginia APRN licensure through Virginia Board of Nursing
- Establish practice agreement (see below)
Virginia Scope of Practice
Autonomous practice after meeting requirements: Virginia APRNs who complete 5 years of practice (or equivalent experience) can practice without a practice agreement, gaining full autonomy including independent prescriptive authority.
Initial practice agreement: New graduate AGNPs must maintain a practice agreement with a licensed physician for the first years of practice. This is collaborative rather than supervisory—physicians provide consultation as needed but don’t oversee daily practice.
Full prescriptive authority: Virginia AGNPs prescribe all medications including Schedule II-V controlled substances. After meeting experience requirements, this authority becomes completely independent.
This progressive framework means Virginia AGNPs initially practice with physician backup but transition to complete autonomy, balancing new graduate support with recognition of advanced practice capabilities.
Career Opportunities in Virginia
Virginia’s aging population and provider shortages create strong demand for AGNPs.
Employment settings: Primary care practices throughout Northern Virginia suburbs and growing metro areas, hospital medicine programs at VCU Health and University of Virginia Health, geriatric specialty practices at Sentara and Inova systems, long-term care facilities statewide, hospice and palliative care programs, Veterans Affairs facilities in Hampton, Richmond, and Salem, and community health centers addressing health equity.
Salary expectations:
- Northern Virginia: $105,000 – $130,000 annually
- Richmond Metro: $95,000 – $118,000 annually
- Hampton Roads: $95,000 – $120,000 annually
- Charlottesville/Roanoke: $90,000 – $115,000 annually
- Rural Virginia: $88,000 – $110,000 (plus loan repayment and bonuses)
Northern Virginia’s proximity to Washington, DC drives higher compensation. Rural areas offer lower base salaries but frequently include signing bonuses ($15,000-$30,000), relocation assistance, and generous loan repayment that can total $30,000-$50,000 over commitment periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Virginia AGNP programs require gerontology nursing experience for admission?
A: Most prefer but don’t require gerontology experience. Strong academic performance, professional references, and demonstrated interest in older adult care offset lack of specific background. Programs provide foundational gerontology content assuming diverse nursing backgrounds.
Q: How does Virginia’s practice agreement requirement affect new graduate AGNPs?
A: The practice agreement is consultative; physicians provide backup and guidance but don’t supervise daily practice or co-sign charts. Most Virginia employers help new AGNPs establish agreements. After gaining required experience, you practice completely independently. Many new graduates find the arrangement supportive rather than restrictive.
Q: Can I complete clinical hours in one Virginia region while attending a program based elsewhere in the state?
A: Yes. Most programs support students completing clinical rotations near their home location. Online and hybrid programs particularly accommodate this. However, verify the program’s clinical placement support in your region during admissions discussions.
Q: Will my Virginia AGNP license allow me to practice in neighboring states?
A: Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact for RN licensure but not for APRN licensure. You’ll need separate APRN licensure for Maryland, DC, West Virginia, North Carolina, or other states. Your national AGNP certification is recognized nationwide, simplifying out-of-state applications.
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