Best Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee

Tennessee Technological University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration is tailored for nurses seeking to deliver comprehensive primary care to adults and older adults. The program offers two entry pathways: a BSN-DNP track requiring 83 credits and an MSN-DNP track requiring 32 credits. Coursework spans evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, leadership, and population health, culminating in a 12-credit DNP project. Graduates are eligible for national certification and are prepared for careers in primary care clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices. Additional concentrations include Executive Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, making this a versatile terminal degree.

• 4 concentration options
• BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP entry paths
• DNP project required (12 hours)
• Eligible for national certification
• Prepares for varied healthcare settings

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Tennessee Tech features an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, offered jointly with East Tennessee State University. This hybrid program is designed for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses, with a 75-credit BSN-DNP track and a 31-35 credit MSN-DNP track. The curriculum focuses on acute care management for patients from adolescence through older adulthood, with coursework in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical management. Students complete a DNP project and gain skills for interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are eligible for the AGACNP national certification exam and can work in intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialty clinics. The program also offers six concentration options for tailored education.

• 6 concentration options
• Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner national certification examination
• Joint program with ETSU
• BSN-DNP track requires 75 credits
• MSN-DNP track requires 31-35 credits
• Focus on acute care management

Tennessee Tech's Doctor of Nursing Practice, in partnership with East Tennessee State University, offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration that prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute and critical care settings. This hybrid program requires 75 credit hours for the BSN-DNP pathway, integrating core DNP coursework with specialized clinical training. Students engage in evidence-based practice, healthcare systems leadership, and a DNP project addressing real-world clinical problems. The curriculum emphasizes managing complex acute conditions across the lifespan, from adolescents to older adults. Graduates are eligible for AGACNP national certification and are equipped for roles in intensive care, emergency departments, and specialty acute care practices, with a strong focus on collaborative, team-based care.

• 6 concentration options
• 75 total credit hours
• Joint program with ETSU
• Prepares for AGACNP certification
• Focus on acute care settings

Baptist Health Sciences University offers a hybrid BSN to DNP in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, preparing nurses to manage unstable chronic and complex acute conditions in adult populations. The 66-credit curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical reasoning, with over 1,000 clinical hours in ICUs, emergency departments, and hospitalist services, focusing on restorative care. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can work as acute care nurse practitioners, intensivists, or hospitalists. Small class sizes, faith-based values, and a clinical partnership with Baptist Memorial Health Care enhance learning. Full-time students finish in three years; part-time takes four. Rolling admissions with a January start and a September 1 priority deadline provide flexibility. The CCNE-accredited program has a 94% licensure pass rate and 100% job placement.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Tennessee Board of Nursing accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• 66 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts spring
• 94% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure

This hybrid DNP at Baptist Health Sciences University is designed for RNs seeking advanced primary care roles with adults and older adults. The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration emphasizes comprehensive, continuous care and long-term patient relationships. Coursework integrates advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice, enabling graduates to diagnose and manage common health conditions. Clinical experiences occur in primary care clinics, women's health, and long-term care settings, facilitated by partnerships with Baptist Memorial Health Care System. The program offers full-time (3-year) and part-time (4-year) options with January starts. It is CCNE-accredited, faith-based, and features small classes. Graduates are eligible for national certification and pursue careers in outpatient, community, and specialty practices.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts spring
• 94% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 100% job placement rate

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga's Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner equips MSN-prepared nurses with specialized skills for acute care practice. The hybrid program comprises 24 semester hours and 630 clinical clock hours, with clinical practicums paralleling didactic coursework. Students gain expertise in diagnostic reasoning and critical care for adult and geriatric populations, and the curriculum qualifies graduates for national certification exams such as AANP and ANCC. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing and relevant experience; no entrance exam is specified. Tuition and fees vary by residency and credit load, offering flexibility for working professionals seeking advanced practice roles in acute care settings.

• 24 semester hour program.
• 630 clinical clock hours.
• Hybrid online and campus format.
• Eligible for national certification.
• Post-Master's certificate level.
• Focus on adult gerontology care.
• Includes acute care nursing courses.
• Requires master's degree for admission.
• Clinical practicum parallels didactic courses.
• Prepares for AANP or ANCC exams.

East Tennessee State University's online MSN with a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner specialty trains registered nurses to provide advanced primary care to older adults, with a special focus on rural and underserved communities. The CCNE-accredited program includes core courses in theory, health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, plus specialized geriatric management, behavioral health, and case management. Clinical practicums and an internship prepare students for national certification. Applicants need a BSN with a 3.0 GPA and three references. GRE scores are required but waived for those with a 3.2 GPA or higher. The 46-credit program offers fall, spring, and summer starts, though full-time study begins each fall.

• CCNE accredited
• 6 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE
• Test optional
• 46 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Focus on rural and underserved populations

East Tennessee State University offers an online Post-DNP Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certificate, preparing advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive care to patients from adolescence through older adulthood. The 32-credit curriculum focuses on assessment, diagnosis, chronic condition management, and wellness promotion, with clinical requirements completed in person. Designed for DNP-prepared nurses, the program requires RN licensure, a cover letter, and resume for admission. Tennessee residents pay $672 per credit hour, while out-of-state and eRate options are available. The program can be completed in four semesters and qualifies graduates for national certification, opening career opportunities in primary care clinics, nursing homes, health departments, and education.

• Online coursework format.
• 32 credit hours required.
• 4 semesters completion time.
• $672 per credit hour.
• Tennessee resident tuition rate.
• eRate for out-of-state students.
• Out-of-state tuition $1,513.
• DNP degree required.
• RN licensure required.
• Cover letter required.

East Tennessee State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses to care for adolescents through older adults in primary care settings. The curriculum emphasizes advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and acute/chronic condition management, with a strong focus on rural and underserved populations. Students integrate evidence-based practice, lead teams, and improve outcomes through asynchronous courses and required on-campus intensives each semester. No entrance exam is required for admission. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can work in clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. The CCNE-accredited program is ranked in the top 100 by U.S. News, offers full- and part-time tracks, and provides clinical placement assistance.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Top 100 DNP program by U.S. News
• Clinical placement assistance provided
• Intensive on-campus sessions each semester

East Tennessee State University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration equips nurses to manage acute and critically ill patients across adolescent to older adult populations. The curriculum blends asynchronous and synchronous online learning with a required two-to-five-day intensive each semester, allowing working professionals to balance education and practice. Students learn evidence evaluation, interprofessional collaboration, and quality improvement leadership for hospital and clinic settings. The CCNE-accredited program has no entrance exam requirement, offers full- and part-time options, and features a rural-focused curriculum. Clinical placement coordination and faculty mentors support students. Graduates are prepared for the national AGACNP certification and careers in acute care.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• $672 per credit
• 9-Semester program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner national certification examination
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

Vanderbilt University's hybrid MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to adolescents through older adults. The curriculum blends online coursework with on-campus sessions and includes over 500 clinical hours. No entrance exam is required for admission. Students gain skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions. The program offers small classes, faculty with active practices, and subspecialty certificates in dermatology and cardiology. A dual AGPCNP/WHGRNP track and part-time study are available. With a 100% first-time ANCC/AANP pass rate, graduates practice in internal medicine, community clinics, university health centers, and long-term care.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• 4-Semester program
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 100% licensure pass rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)

The University of Memphis Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration is a 44-credit hour hybrid program that prepares nurses to manage complex acute and chronic conditions in adult patients. Comprising online coursework, local clinical practicums, and up to three on-campus intensives, the program requires a BSN, 3.0 minimum GPA, active RN license in Tennessee, and at least two years of ICU/ER experience. Core MSN courses (12 credits), advanced practice core (10 credits), and concentration courses (22 credits) cover advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Admission is competitive, requiring a personal statement, three recommendation letters, a statistics prerequisite, and a manager verification letter. The program boasts a 100% employment rate, national #33 ranking, and 75% graduation rate, with rolling admission and fall/spring start dates. Note: state residency requirements apply and the program is not authorized in California.

• 44-credit hour program
• Hybrid online/campus format
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
• Requires 2 years ICU/ER experience
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• RN license in Tennessee needed
• Up to three on-campus intensives
• Core MSN courses: 12 credits
• Advanced practice core: 10 credits
• Concentration courses: 22 credits

The University of Memphis offers a 100% online Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) concentration, designed for working nurses seeking to lead care in demanding clinical environments. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, emphasizing diagnosis and management of acute, critical, and complex conditions in adult and elderly patients. Students gain skills for ICUs, emergency departments, hospitals, and specialty clinics through evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. Online coursework is complemented by brief on-campus intensives (1-3 days) for simulation and hands-on skills training, with up to three experiences. The program prepares graduates for national certification and advanced practice roles. Ranked #17 among online nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report, it delivers the same respected MSN degree as on-campus students with flexibility for busy professionals.

• 100% online coursework
• On-campus intensives for clinical skills
• Up to three on-campus experiences
• Sessions last 1-3 days
• Same degree as on-campus students
• Prepares for national certification exams
• Designed for working nurses

The University of Memphis offers a hybrid Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) post-graduate certificate for advanced practice nurses seeking to expand their acute care expertise. This program emphasizes managing complex health conditions in adult and elderly patients, with clinical practicums in high-acuity settings such as hospitals, ICUs, and emergency departments. Coursework builds on existing knowledge in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, integrating patient-centered care approaches. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams, enhancing their credentials and scope of practice. The curriculum is tailored for specialty nurses aiming to improve patient outcomes and meet the growing demand for acute care practitioners through comprehensive training.

• Post-graduate certificate program.
• For advanced practice nurses.
• Hybrid program format.
• Focus on acute care.
• Adult and elderly patients.
• Clinical practicums required.
• High-acuity clinical settings.
• Hospitals and ICUs.
• Emergency departments included.
• National certification eligible.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Adult Gerontology/Acute Care for licensed advanced practice nurses seeking acute care specialization. This 20-credit, one-year hybrid program combines online coursework with intensive on-campus sessions held twice yearly for hands-on competency training. Clinical placements are arranged near the student's residence, ensuring convenient access to diverse acute care settings. The curriculum covers advanced acute care, diagnostic reasoning, critical care, and clinical management, addressing patients from disease prevention to palliative care. Graduates are prepared for the AG-ACNP certification exam. Admission requires a master's in nursing with an NP concentration, a 3.0 GPA, and current APRN certification. Small cohorts and personalized clinical experiences create a focused advanced practice pathway. TOEFL is required for non-native speakers.

• CCNE accredited
• 1-Year program
• Complete in one year program
• 20 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-12-01
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prerequisite courses required

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration at UTHSC is a hybrid DNP program preparing graduates to manage critically ill and unstable adult patients. Coursework is delivered online with required on-campus intensives three times per year, featuring skills labs and simulation sessions. The curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and critical care management, culminating in a DNP project. Students choose between post-BSN and post-MSN pathways, completing a minimum of 1,020 clinical hours in acute care settings such as ICUs and emergency departments. Faculty assist with clinical placement. The program prepares graduates for AGACNP certification and roles in hospitals and specialty practices. Dual concentration options are available, along with financial aid and scholarship support. CCNE accredited through 2034.

• CCNE accredited
• Full-time and part-time options
• $100,000 median earnings
• 1020 clinical hours
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Prepares for AGACNP certification
• On-campus intensives 3 times per year
• Faculty assist with clinical site placement

Southern Adventist University offers an accelerated RN to MSN pathway with an Acute Care–Adult/Gerontology NP emphasis, allowing registered nurses to earn a master's degree without first completing a bachelor's. The hybrid program bridges undergraduate and graduate coursework, focusing on advanced assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology for acute care settings. Graduates are prepared for roles as acute care nurse practitioners in hospitals, ICUs, and specialty clinics. Multiple emphasis options are available, including a fully online nurse educator track. This streamlined approach provides a cohesive learning experience for working RNs. Entrance exam requirements are not specified in program materials.

• 5 concentration options
• Accelerated RN to MSN pathway
• No intermediate BS degree awarded
• Awarded only MSN upon completion
• Nurse Educator emphasis online option

Southern Adventist University's Post-Master's Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a campus-based program tailored for nurses seeking acute care certification. Classes convene on Tuesdays, with full-time and part-time options to accommodate working professionals. Applicants must hold a master's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, possess current RN licensure, and have at least two years of nursing experience; critical care experience is preferred. The curriculum includes clinical placements and emphasizes competency and certification readiness. A $40 application fee applies. The program reflects the university's Seventh-day Adventist values and military-friendly status, preparing nurses for advanced roles in acute care settings.

• Campus-based program.
• Classes meet on Tuesdays.
• Full- or part-time options.
• Tailored to work schedules.
• Courses for competency or certification.
• Clinical placements in TN.
• NC-SARA member states allowed.
• Master's degree required.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Current RN licensure needed.

Southern Adventist University's DNP program offers a Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner concentration in a hybrid format, blending campus sessions with online coursework. The ACEN-accredited curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and primary care management, with clinical practicums in primary care and geriatric settings. Students complete a scholarly capstone project and are prepared for AGPCNP certification. Full-time and part-time options support working nurses, and the Christ-centered environment emphasizes whole-person care. The program also features seven concentration options and requires an annual DNP seminar. Financial aid and faculty advising are available, with no entrance exam requirement stated.

• ACEN accredited
• 7 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Christian learning environment
• Campus-based with online courses
• DNP seminar each August
• Multiple emphases available
• Faculty advisor assigned

Southern Adventist University's DNP with an Acute Care–Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner emphasis trains RNs and APRNs to manage acute illnesses in adult and geriatric populations. This hybrid program combines online coursework with campus experiences, including state-of-the-art simulation labs and an annual DNP seminar. The curriculum covers acute care management, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice, with credit requirements ranging from 42 to 50 depending on the emphasis. Full-time and part-time tracks allow completion in about two years, with two start dates per year. Applicants need a $50 application fee and at least two letters of recommendation. A 20% tuition discount is offered to recent alumni, and the program provides a Christ-centered learning environment.

• 7 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

The BSN to DNP pathway at Southern Adventist University features an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing RNs for advanced primary care roles. This hybrid program blends face-to-face instruction with online coursework, allowing students to continue working while earning a doctorate. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and population health, with emphasis on managing acute and chronic conditions. Graduates are eligible for AGPCNP certification and may work in clinics, community health centers, and private practices. The 77-credit program takes approximately three years and requires two years of nursing experience. Additional highlights include an annual DNP seminar, three letters of recommendation, and a $50 application fee.

• 7 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Complete in approximately three years
• 77 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required

King University's BSN to DNP program with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care. This eight-semester hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person sessions, focusing on evidence-based practice, policy, and ethics. The AGACNP track addresses complex needs of older adults in acute care. Small classes and faith-based, compassionate care principles from the Presbyterian Church (USA) tradition enhance learning. Graduates are ready for leadership roles like Chief Nursing Officer or Hospital Chief Executive, plus collegiate teaching. The program offers four concentration options and is military-friendly.

• 4 concentration options
• 8-Semester program
• Small class sizes
• Blended online and in-person
• Prepare for CNO or Hospital CEO
• Faith-based, real-world experience

South College’s online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs for advanced practice in acute care settings. The CCNE-accredited program blends rigorous coursework in advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice with supervised clinical experiences. Students can complete the degree in as little as 21 months of full-time study, making it ideal for working nurses. Admission requires a BSN or ASN with a 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license. The program also supports military students with grants and offers financial aid. Graduates are equipped to pursue national certification and provide high-quality care to adult and geriatric populations.

• Online program format.
• 21-month completion time.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care concentration.
• Requires BSN or ASN degree.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• Unencumbered RN license needed.
• Includes clinical practicum experiences.
• Covers advanced health assessment.
• Teaches advanced pharmacology.
• Focuses on evidence-based practice.

Designed for practicing nurses seeking to advance their careers, South College delivers its MSN with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner focus entirely online. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment while integrating hands-on clinical practice. Full-time students can finish in 21 months, and the program is accredited by CCNE. Applicants need a BSN or ASN with a 3.0 GPA, a current unencumbered RN license, and a $50 application fee. Students are responsible for securing their own clinical sites, with faculty guidance available. The program participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program and offers scholarships, supporting military students. Graduates emerge ready for national certification and leadership roles in acute care.

• Online program modality.
• 21-month full-time completion.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• Master of Science in Nursing degree.
• Combines online coursework with clinical practice.
• Requires current unencumbered RN license.
• Admissions require 3.0 GPA.
• $50 application fee.
• BSN or ASN prerequisite.
• Students find own clinical sites.