5 Best AGNP Programs in Minnesota (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Graduates of AGNP programs in Minnesota have opportunities for career advancement that simply aren't available to other advanced practice RNs. Adult gerontology nurse practitioners are trained to deliver care to patient populations over the course of those patients' lifetimes, from age 18 on up. They can also choose to specialize in primary or acute care delivery. This versatility means demand for their services is high and is expected to increase by 44 percent within one decade. AGNPs command excellent salaries, too: $139,950 annually. Could this be the career path you've been searching for? The guide below to the 5 best AGNP programs in Minnesota will help you get started.
FOLLOWING ARE THE 5 BEST AGNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 5 best campus-based and online AGNP programs in Minnesota.)
1. University of Minnesota - Minneapolis
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP and Post-Graduate Certificate
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Graduate Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult/Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a registered nurse looking for a top doctoral-level AGNP program in Minnesota, the University of Minnesota has an option worth considering. The program is available to bachelor’s-prepared registered nurses and awards a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
The BSN-to-DNP program offers a three-year, full-time program and a four-year, part-time pathway. Classes are held on campus. The program includes core courses, specialty courses, enhancement programming, advisement meetings. Beginning in the second year of the program, you will attend classes one or two days every other week for coursework throughout the semester and attend clinicals at assigned sites.
The 82-credit curriculum features classes, including Nursing Informatics & Digital Health Technologies, Assessment & Management of Health for Advanced Practice Nurses, Healthcare of Older Adults for AGNPs, and Advanced Nursing for Public, Population, & Planetary Health.
In this program, you will accomplish a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. The program has 840 hours of planned direct patient care clinical hours and 160 scholarly project and course activity hours.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: The Post-Graduate Certificate program at the University of Minnesota offers doctoral-prepared nurses with an APRN specialization the opportunity to complete specialty practice as an Acute Care or Primary Care Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. The program admits students in the summer and takes three to five semesters to complete, based on which specialty concentration you choose.
The Post-Graduate AGNP pathways feature 13-21-credit curriculum plans that include 840 clinical hours. However, an analysis of the coursework and clinical hours you completed for your previous graduate degree and APRN certification will determine any adjustments to your individualized plan of study.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Clinical experiences are an integral part of a quality nursing program. One of the things I like about the AGNP program at the University of Minnesota is that clinical placements and assignments are individualized to match your interests and career plans.• At the University of Minnesota, you will learn from faculty who are nationally and internationally renowned for their experiences and contributions to nursing education and research. Each faculty member’s unique perspectives, personal insight, and individual experiences add value to the program, ensuring you receive the education and training you need to succeed as an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
• Upon completion of the AGNP program at the University of Minnesota, you will be eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and/or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Graduates of the program at U-M have an excellent record of first-attempt success on the exam, which is a great indication that the program is strong and designed to help promote your success.
2. Saint Catherine University - Saint Paul
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Saint Catherine University is home to another of the best AGNP programs in Minnesota. The program is a post-bachelor’s pathway that leads to earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice with preparation to sit for the Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner national certification exam.
The BSN-to-DNP program is designed for full-time study and is typically completed in three years. In some cases, students may be approved for a part-time, four-year option. The program features a hybrid format with some fully online classes combined with interactive, in-person core nurse practitioner courses. New classes are admitted each fall semester.
The post-baccalaureate AGNP DNP program consists of a 68-credit curriculum. Some of the classes you will take include Health Promotion in Primary Care: Adult & Geriatric Populations, Common and Acute Conditions in Adult & Geriatric Populations, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, and Chronic and Complex Health Challenges in Adult & Geriatric Populations. Each clinical course is complemented by a clinical practicum experience. All DNP students complete a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The St. Catherine University School of Nursing has a history of more than 75 years of educating highly qualified nursing professionals and practitioners.• As a nurse educator, I can tell you that where you go to school is important. Finding a school that is known for growth and has a reputation for producing well-prepared practitioners is essential. St. Catherine University’s School of Nursing has a history of producing highly respected graduates who are known in their communities as knowledgeable, competent, caring, and capable of providing excellent patient care.
• St. Catherine University’s School of Nursing is ranked by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice category. As you search for the perfect school for an AGNP program, I recommend looking for schools that are highly ranked by reputable sites like U.S. News. U.S. News & World Report uses indicators of excellence to assess a school/program’s performance.
3. The College of St. Scholastica - Duluth
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP and Post-Graduate APRN Certificate
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Graduate APRN Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you want to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and specialize as an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, The College of St. Scholastica has a great program worth considering. This AGNP program in Minnesota is designed for registered nurses who hold a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, or a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
The program offers a fast track to advanced nursing, taking three years to complete on a full-time basis. If you prefer a slower pace, you can opt for a part-time schedule, which takes four years to complete. New classes begin in the summer semester each year.
The Acute Care AGNP DNP program features online/hybrid course delivery and minimal campus visits, typically one to three days per semester. The 78-credit curriculum consists of classes, including Acute Care, Practice, Therapeutics, & Diagnostics, Advanced Practice Nursing Roles, and Acute Care Adult Gerontology Management. Each clinical course has a corresponding clinical practicum. The program includes a total of 1,020 direct patient care hours and 500 DNP Project hours.
Post-Graduate APRN Certificate Program Details: Advanced practice nurses interested in pursuing a specialized certification as an AGACNP can do so through the Post-Graduate APRN Certificate program at The College of St. Scholastica. You can complete the certificate program through a hybrid learning format that combines online courses and clinical courses with a few on-campus requirements. The program admits new students in the summer of each year.
To earn the Post-Graduate Certificate, students must complete a total of 42 credits and 900 clinical hours. You may transfer up to 19 credits and 240 clinical hours from your previous graduate nursing program. A GAP analysis will be conducted for each student, and a personalized plan of study will be established. Students who transfer the maximum number of credits can complete the program in as little as three semesters.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The faculty of the AGNP program at The College of St. Scholastica is comprised of scholars who are experts in the field. The School of Nursing promotes good faculty/student communication and relationships. Faculty members are dedicated to hearing you, challenging you, and being involved in every aspect of your education to help you succeed!• After completing the DNP or Post-Graduate APRN Certificate program, you will be eligible to take the national certification examination to become a certified Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Graduates of the programs at The College of St. Scholastica have an outstanding record of 100% pass rate among first-time testers!
• The College of St. Scholastica has a history of more than 100 years of preparing highly qualified students for successful careers in nursing. The AGNP program features a focus on the needs of patients in both rural and urban communities and addresses the healthcare concerns of underserved populations. As a student in this program, you will become part of the ongoing tradition of nursing education and professional development and will carry your knowledge and skills to the communities you serve.
4. Winona State University - Rochester
Programs Offered: DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP) and Post-Graduate Certificate
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Graduate Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Another of the top AGNP programs in Minnesota can be found at Winona State University. This post-bachelor’s DNP program is designed for nurses who want to provide acute care to adults and geriatric patients. The program can be completed in just six semesters, including two summer sessions.
The BSN-to-DNP program comprises a 74-credit curriculum. Your plan of study in this pathway includes classes such as Epidemiological Approaches to Population Health, Advanced Diagnostics & Therapeutics for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NPs, Advanced Clinical Pharmacology, and Research & Evidence-Based Practice for Advanced Nursing. The program also includes 1,260 clinical hours.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you have already earned a master’s degree in nursing and wish to earn a DNP and become an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, the MSN-to-DNP program at Winona State University is a great option.
The MSN-to-DNP program is a 40-credit pathway. The curriculum plan includes preadmission courses, nursing science core courses, and clinicals. All DNP students are required to have a total of at least 1,000 post-bachelor’s clinical hours. The post-master's DNP program provides 840 clinical hours. The remaining clinical hours may be transferred from your master’s degree program. However, if you do not have enough eligible hours to transfer, additional clinical hours will be added to your plan of study.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: Registered nurses who have previously earned a graduate degree and now wish to gain certification as an Acute Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner can do so through the Post-Graduate Certificate Program at Winona State. The program is designed to be completed in three semesters, including one summer session. Students in the Post-Graduate Certificate program complete 21 credits and at least 600 clinical hours. Courses are delivered in a distance-learning format. Clinicals are arranged in your home region and precepted by licensed nurse practitioners and physicians.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Finding a nursing program with a good reputation for providing high-quality education and preparing strong nurse leaders is crucial. As a nurse educator, I encourage all potential students to research schools carefully. Look for schools with good rankings from reputable sources. For example, Winona State University has been named one of the strongest nursing schools and AGNP programs in Minnesota. The school has been named by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice category, as well.• Graduates of the AGNP program at Winona State University have excellent job placement rates. According to the Department of Graduate Nursing, program graduates have a 98% rate of job placement within the first three to six months following completion of the program and passing national certification exams.
• At Winona State University, you will have an academic advisor as well as other faculty and staff who will work with you from the time you apply to the AGNP program until you graduate. Each faculty and staff member is dedicated to your success.
5. Walden University - Minneapolis
Programs Offered: MSN, DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP), and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master’s Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
MSN Program Details: At Walden University, whether you are a registered nurse with an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing, you can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing degree and specialize as an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. The MSN program, which is one option the school offers, is one of the best online AGNP programs in Minnesota. The program can be completed in as little as 24 months if you enroll as a full-time student.
Both the RN-to-MSN and MSN pathways offer the option to specialize as either an Acute Care or Primary Care Adult Gerontology NP. The RN-to-MSN pathway consists of an 84-quarter-credit curriculum, which includes foundation courses, core courses, and specialization courses. The MSN Acute Care AGNP pathway features a 58-quarter-credit curriculum comprised of core courses and specialization courses. Both MSN options include a minimum of 640 practicum hours.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are an RN with a bachelor’s degree and you want to earn a terminal doctorate in nursing while specializing in adult gerontology care, the BSN-to-DNP program at Walden University is an excellent option to consider.
The post-baccalaureate DNP AGNP program offers an Acute Care and Primary Care pathway. Each pathway requires the completion of 90 quarter credits. You will take essential core courses, including Theoretical & Scientific Foundations of Nursing, Epidemiology & Population Health, and Data Collection & Analysis for Evidence-Based Practice.
Students in the BSN-to-DNP program complete a total of 1,040 clinical hours, including at least 400 DNP-level practicum hours. The program culminates with the completion of a DNP Scholarly Project.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: The MSN-to-DNP program option is an excellent choice if you have already earned a master’s degree in nursing and wish to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The program can be completed in two or three years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.
Post-master’s DNP students complete 45 quarter credits. The curriculum plan includes foundation, core, and specialty courses. Additionally, all DNP students must complete a minimum of 1,000 post-bachelor’s clinical hours. You may transfer up to 600 precepted clinical hours from your master’s nursing program. A Verification of Precepted Clinical Hours form should be submitted to your Student Advisor or an Enrollment Specialist for review to determine the number of eligible transfer hours. At least 400 of the 1,000 required clinical hours must be DNP-level and are completed via the completion and dissemination of the DNP Scholarly Project.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with a master’s degree in nursing and you now want to pursue certification as an Acute Care or Primary Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, the Post-Master’s Certificate program at Walden University is worth considering. The program admits students in the fall annually.
The Acute and Primary Care AGNP Post-Master’s Certificate programs have curriculum plans that consist of 38 quarter credits and 640 practicum hours. However, a GAP analysis will be conducted to determine the number of credits and clinical hours that are transferable from your master’s degree program, and a personalized study plan will be developed for you. The time it takes to complete the program varies from one student to another based on the final plan of study.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• There is nothing like learning from individuals who have personal, real-world experience and knowledge. One of the things I find appealing about the AGNP programs in Minnesota at Walden University is that you will learn from faculty who are practicing NPs. You will gain advanced training and learn from their personal insight and professional experiences as you prepare to transition and become an Adult Gerontology NP.• At Walden University, distance education does not mean “on your own” education. Faculty and advisors are available and fully engaged, dedicated to helping ensure your success in the program and beyond!!
• Another highlight to consider about the AGNP programs at Walden University is that you will engage in virtual learning opportunities designed to promote positive experiences and outcomes. You will participate in virtual skills labs, which feature engaging training and videos. Additionally, you will meet virtually with faculty and classmates for Walden Grand Rounds, where you will evaluate real-life scenarios that you will later address in your practice.
HOW MUCH DO AGNP GRADUATES MAKE IN MINNESOTA?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF AGNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA EXPECT?
| Hourly | $49.50 |
| Weekly | $1,980 |
| Monthly | $8,580 |
| Annual | $102,960 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF AGNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $49.50 | $1,980 | $8,580 | $102,960 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $56.01 | $2,240 | $9,710 | $116,500 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $66.12 | $2,645 | $11,460 | $137,520 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $73.63 | $2,945 | $12,760 | $153,150 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $87.99 | $3,520 | $15,250 | $183,020 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA?
| Hourly | $67.28 |
| Weekly | $2,691 |
| Monthly | $11,660 |
| Annual | $139,950 |
HOW MUCH DO AGNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF MINNESOTA?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Duluth | $74.73 | $2,989 | $12,950 | $155,430 |
| Mankato-North Mankato | $68.71 | $2,748 | $11,910 | $142,920 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington | $66.31 | $2,652 | $11,490 | $137,920 |
| Rochester | $65.15 | $2,606 | $11,290 | $135,520 |
| St. Cloud | $62.09 | $2,483 | $10,760 | $129,140 |
AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. OTHER SALARIES
AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. AGNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Minnesota AGNP Annual Salary | Average National AGNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $139,950 | $133,190 | +$6,760 | +5.08% |
AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. AGNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $167,450 | -$27,500 | -16.42% |
| Nevada | $154,110 | -$14,160 | -9.19% |
| Washington | $150,720 | -$10,770 | -7.15% |
| New Jersey | $150,340 | -$10,390 | -6.91% |
| Oregon | $150,250 | -$10,300 | -6.86% |
| Massachusetts | $149,280 | -$9,330 | -6.25% |
| New York | $148,050 | -$8,100 | -5.47% |
| Connecticut | $141,990 | -$2,040 | -1.44% |
| New Mexico | $141,770 | -$1,820 | -1.28% |
| Minnesota | $139,950 | $0 | 0.00% |
| District of Columbia | $139,780 | +$170 | +0.12% |
| Rhode Island | $138,340 | +$1,610 | +1.16% |
| Hawaii | $137,460 | +$2,490 | +1.81% |
| Arizona | $137,410 | +$2,540 | +1.85% |
| Delaware | $135,910 | +$4,040 | +2.97% |
| Iowa | $135,610 | +$4,340 | +3.20% |
| New Hampshire | $135,520 | +$4,430 | +3.27% |
| Texas | $134,770 | +$5,180 | +3.84% |
| Wisconsin | $133,020 | +$6,930 | +5.21% |
| Maryland | $132,670 | +$7,280 | +5.49% |
| Utah | $132,500 | +$7,450 | +5.62% |
| North Dakota | $132,430 | +$7,520 | +5.68% |
| Pennsylvania | $132,110 | +$7,840 | +5.93% |
| Illinois | $131,540 | +$8,410 | +6.39% |
| Alaska | $130,790 | +$9,160 | +7.00% |
| Vermont | $130,710 | +$9,240 | +7.07% |
| Montana | $129,200 | +$10,750 | +8.32% |
| Idaho | $129,110 | +$10,840 | +8.40% |
| Oklahoma | $128,880 | +$11,070 | +8.59% |
| Wyoming | $128,080 | +$11,870 | +9.27% |
| Indiana | $127,830 | +$12,120 | +9.48% |
| Maine | $127,440 | +$12,510 | +9.82% |
| Ohio | $127,360 | +$12,590 | +9.89% |
| Colorado | $126,450 | +$13,500 | +10.68% |
| Nebraska | $126,130 | +$13,820 | +10.96% |
| North Carolina | $126,040 | +$13,910 | +11.04% |
| Georgia | $125,580 | +$14,370 | +11.44% |
| South Dakota | $125,410 | +$14,540 | +11.59% |
| Virginia | $125,290 | +$14,660 | +11.70% |
| Michigan | $125,090 | +$14,860 | +11.88% |
| Florida | $124,090 | +$15,860 | +12.78% |
| Kansas | $123,630 | +$16,320 | +13.20% |
| Louisiana | $123,010 | +$16,940 | +13.77% |
| Mississippi | $121,790 | +$18,160 | +14.91% |
| South Carolina | $121,220 | +$18,730 | +15.45% |
| Missouri | $120,950 | +$19,000 | +15.71% |
| West Virginia | $117,600 | +$22,350 | +19.01% |
| Arkansas | $117,560 | +$22,390 | +19.05% |
| Kentucky | $114,410 | +$25,540 | +22.32% |
| Alabama | $114,040 | +$25,910 | +22.72% |
| Tennessee | $107,510 | +$32,440 | +30.17% |
AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN MINNESOTA
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $221,650 | -$81,700 | -36.86% |
| Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner | $139,950 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $121,860 | +$18,090 | +14.84% |
| Registered Nurse | $94,830 | +$45,120 | +47.58% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $84,730 | +$55,220 | +65.17% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $58,870 | +$81,080 | +137.73% |
| Nursing Assistant | $42,960 | +$96,990 | +225.77% |
AGNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN MINNESOTA
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Podiatrist | $229,120 | -$89,170 | -38.92% |
| Dentist | $211,100 | -$71,150 | -33.70% |
| Pharmacist | $143,210 | -$3,260 | -2.28% |
| Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner | $139,950 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Optometrist | $138,010 | +$1,940 | +1.41% |
| Physician Assistant | $134,870 | +$5,080 | +3.77% |
| Veterinarian | $110,120 | +$29,830 | +27.09% |
| Audiologist | $97,950 | +$42,000 | +42.88% |
| Physical Therapist | $97,860 | +$42,090 | +43.01% |
| Dental Hygienist | $90,140 | +$49,810 | +55.26% |
| Radiation Therapist | $89,820 | +$50,130 | +55.81% |
| Occupational Therapist | $85,840 | +$54,110 | +63.04% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $83,990 | +$55,960 | +66.63% |
| Chiropractor | $82,840 | +$57,110 | +68.94% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits AGNP Programs In Minnesota?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited AGNP Schools Are There In Minnesota?
| 5 |
3. On Average, How Much Does An Adult-Gerontology NP Make Per Hour In Minnesota?
| $67.28 |
4. On Average, How Much Does An Adult-Gerontology NP Make Per Week In Minnesota?
| $2,691 |
5. On Average, How Much Does An Adult-Gerontology NP Make Per Month In Minnesota?
| $11,660 |
6. On Average, How Much Does An Adult-Gerontology NP Make Per Year In Minnesota?
| $139,950 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For AGNPs In Minnesota?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
| +43.81% |
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
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