15 Best Online DNP-AGACNP Programs – 2023


Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you a registered nurse who loves caring for adults and geriatric patients? Do you enjoy working in acute care? Have you thought of earning a doctorate and specializing in adult gerontology care? If so, a DNP-AGACNP program could be the perfect option to help take your career to the next level. Many nurses would love to go back to school but worry about the time it takes to go back and forth to campus. Some nurses simply prefer the flexibility of online learning. If that sounds familiar, you may wonder, “What are the best online DNP-AGACNP programs?”

As a healthcare educator, I understand the importance of a high-quality education. So, in this article, I will share the 15 best online DNP-AGACNP programs for 2023. I will tell you about admission criteria, curriculum plans, and practical training requirements and share some information about jobs you can get as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, the type of income you can expect, and what the job outlook is like for program graduates. By the time you finish reading, you will have enough information to decide if taking the next step to become an Adult Gerontology ACNP is something you wish to pursue.



What Exactly is the Goal of an Online DNP-AGACNP Program?


The goal of online DNP-AGACNP programs is to prepare graduates to provide care to adult and geriatric patients experiencing acute illnesses or injuries across the continuum of care. These programs prepare students as doctorally prepared nurses, which is the highest level of clinical practice. Graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs offer care in high-intensity environments, which require critical thinking, analytical, and effective communication skills. These programs are designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and clinical experience to work both as independent providers and integral parts of the interdisciplinary healthcare team.



5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online DNP-AGACNP Program


The best online DNP-AGACNP programs prepare students with a wide range of skills and abilities. You will learn from expert faculty and experienced clinical preceptors whose priority is to prepare you for independent practice. The following are five of the main skills and abilities you will gain as a student in a DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP program.

1. You will learn to provide care specifically relevant to geriatric health issues:

Like infants and children, older adults respond to age-related changes, illnesses, and diseases differently. Online DNP-AGACNP programs will help you develop an understanding of normal age-related physiological changes and how disruptions in health impact adults and geriatric patients. In your program, you will learn to identify variations from the norm and discover ways of providing individualized, age-appropriate care.

2. You will learn to be a strong advocate for the patients you serve:

As an Adult Gerontology ACNP, one of your primary responsibilities is to advocate for your patients. You will work with patients, family members or caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to find the best solutions to your patient’s needs. Depending on where you work, you could advocate for new equipment that makes patient care safer and more effective. You could advocate for changes in policies related to patient/staff ratios, which could improve care quality and patient satisfaction. Also, you may advocate for new healthcare policies or laws related to the care of adult and geriatric patients.

3. You will learn a patient-centered approach to healthcare:

Our patients have a right to be treated with dignity and respect and to be involved in every aspect of their care. In DNP-AGACNP online programs, you will learn about using a patient-centered approach to providing care that involves your patients in their treatment plans, which increases their likelihood of compliance, resulting in improved outcomes.

4. You will develop the ability to use the process of differential diagnosis:

Using a list of differential diagnoses helps guide you as you assess patients and work up plans for their treatment. Because adult geriatric patients often have more complicated disease processes, it is essential to identify common and “must-not-miss" diagnoses to provide effective care. In your DNP-AGACNP program, you will learn to use your knowledge of physiology and pathophysiology to form appropriate diagnoses for clients based on their individual needs.

5. You will learn to use evidence-based treatment options:

All nurses are responsible for implementing evidence-based practice. However, as clinical leaders, Adult-Gerontology ACNPs have even greater responsibilities. In DNP-AGACNP online programs, you will learn to use evidence-based practice across patient groups and in collaborating with and leading interdisciplinary teams.



5 Main Advantages of Online DNP-AGACNP Programs


There are many advantages afforded to students and graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs. Comparing advantages and disadvantages before committing to an academic pathway or career can help you make a more informed decision based on facts. The following are five of the main advantages of pursuing your degree through online DNP-ACACNP programs.

1. You can earn a great income!:

If a career with good income potential is something you want, you will not be disappointed by becoming an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. AG-ACNPs earn an average annual salary of just above $114,000.

2. The long-term outlook for jobs is excellent!

Another awesome advantage of online DNP-AGACNP programs is they prepare you for a career with an awesome long-term job outlook. In fact, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that graduates in this industry will see an increase in jobs by at least 45.68% through 2031. This rate of increase is much higher than the rate of most other jobs reported by the BLS.

3. You will become a leader in healthcare:

When you earn a doctorate in nursing and become an Adult Gerontology ACNP, you will have the knowledge and the clinical skills needed to help you excel as a leader in the healthcare industry. Whether you open an independent practice, work with a group of collaborating healthcare providers, or choose one of the many other opportunities this degree offers, you can lead others in providing excellent healthcare services.

4. You can impact nursing by educating future nurses:

Many graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs work as nursing faculty. You may choose to work as an adjunct instructor while continuing your clinical role, or you could decide to transition to a nonclinical role and become a full-time faculty member. When you teach nursing, you can impact future generations of nurses on many levels. I can tell you from experience that nothing is as exciting as teaching new nurses to become the best nurses they can be.

5. You can significantly impact patient outcomes:

Adult Gerontology Acute Care NPs provide care to patients experiencing sudden or acute health problems. Given the urgency of many acute medical conditions, the decisions you make as an AG-ACNP can have a significant impact on your patient’s recovery. You can use your knowledge and experience to make critical decisions about care that promote positive patient outcomes.



2 Main Disadvantages of Online DNP-AGACNP Programs


While there are several advantages to online DNP-AGACNP programs, there are disadvantages to consider, as well. Everyone has their own ideas about what is an advantage and a disadvantage. So, your opinion may differ. Based on my nursing experience and talks with a few of my friends who are Adult-Gerontology ACNPs, the following are two things you may consider disadvantages.

1. Some of Your Patients Will Die:

Patients of all ages experience acute or chronic illnesses that lead to death. As an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, the patient population you care for will be older and may have more health issues than younger patients, which can be exacerbated by an acute illness or injury. Having been a nurse for nearly 30 years, I can assure you that losing patients never gets easy. Unfortunately, no matter how good online DNP-AGACNP programs are, they cannot give you a magic solution to save everyone.

2. Being an AG-ACNP can be physically and mentally exhausting:

Being an Adult Gerontology ACNP involves caring for people in emergency situations where rapid, critical decisions must be made, which can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. Depending on the setting where you work, you could spend hours on your feet, which can also be physically taxing. If you prefer an easy job, you may feel disadvantaged in this type of role.



Who Accredits DNP-AGACNP Online Programs?


As a registered nurse, you probably understand the importance of finding an accredited nursing program. To sit for the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), you had to graduate from an accredited nursing program. Employers also prefer candidates for any job who earn degrees from accredited colleges or universities. Accreditation is important because it helps you feel assured that the education you will receive meets high educational standards, and that is also why employers look for candidates who are graduates of accredited degree programs. In your search for the best DNP-AGACNP online programs, you should look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

S.NO.Accrediting Agency
1Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
1Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)



When Do DNP-AGACNP Online Programs Start?


Some colleges and universities offer one or two start dates for their programs each year. Others offer several opportunities to begin studying throughout the year. The decision of when to begin a program is independently decided by each school. Because each school is different, it is crucial that you verify start dates and deadlines for applying for each school that interests you. The following are examples of start dates for five of the online DNP-AGACNP programs featured in this article.

At Rush University, the online DNP-AGACNP program begins in the fall semester of each year.

The University of Kentucky admits students to its online DNP-AGACNP programs in the fall and spring semesters of each academic year.

Johns Hopkins University begins its online DNP-AGACNP programs each year in the fall.

At the University of Texas Health- Houston, the DNP-AGACNP online programs admit students in the spring and fall semesters yearly.

The DNP-AGACNP online programs at Emory University begin in the fall.



How Many Credits are There in DNP-AGACNP Online Programs?


Credit requirements for DNP-AGACNP online programs vary depending on your current degree upon entry to the program. Post-master's programs often require students to complete 30 to 45 credits. Post-baccalaureate programs often have curriculum plans that feature 60 to 80 credits. Of course, if you have previously completed some of the classes required in a school’s curriculum, you may be able to transfer those credits and complete fewer credits than the prescribed curriculum outlines. The list below shows examples of some of the credit requirements for five of the nation’s top programs.

The University of Pittsburgh offers two DNP-AGACNP online programs, the BSN to DNP and the MSN to DNP pathways. The BSN to DNP pathway features a 79-credit curriculum. The MSN to DNP AGACNP concentration is a 32-35 credit program.

At the University of South Carolina, the BSN to DNP-AGACNP program requires 60 credits.

The curriculum for the post-BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology ACNP program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a 59-credit program.

The program post-baccalaureate DNP-AGACNP program at George Washington University requires you to complete 72 credits.

The curriculum for the post-BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology ACNP program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham requires 79 credits. You will earn 59 credits through didactic coursework and 20 hours through clinical practicum experiences.



How Long are DNP-AGACNP Online Programs?


Online DNP-AGACNP programs can take two to four years on average, depending on whether you enter the program with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing. While two to four years is the average time to complete these programs, some students extend the time it takes to graduate by taking lighter courseloads. I recommend talking with an academic advisor to discuss your options and goals before registering for classes.

The University of Iowa offers post-baccalaureate and post-master's online DNP-AGACNP programs with part-time and full-time enrollment options. The post-baccalaureate program is available in a three- or four-year study plan. The post-master's program can be completed in two or three years.

At the University of Illinois-Chicago, the post-BSN to DNP AGACNP program offers part-time and full-time study options. You can complete the program in as few as two years or up to six years.

The BSN to DNP AGACNP program at the University of Kentucky is available in a five-year part-time plan or a four-year full-time plan. The MSN to DNP pathway can be completed in two to three years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

The DNP-AGACNP online programs at the University of Arizona can be completed in two and a half years if you enroll full-time or in three and half years if you enroll part-time.

At the George Washington University, you can pursue the BSN to DNP-AGACNP program in four years.



How Much Do DNP-AGACNP Online Programs Cost?


Earning a doctorate in nursing can be expensive. Although there are some programs that cost around $50,000, others cost $100,000 or more. Unless you have money set aside for school and other expenses, you may need to apply for some type of financial assistance.

While graduate programs are not eligible for federal grants, you may qualify for a Direct Unsubsidized Loan or Grad PLUS Loan, both of which are a type of federal student assistance. You may find out your eligibility for these loans by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is also a wide range of scholarships, grants, and fellowships you can apply for, which could help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for school.

The following are some examples of the cost of some of the best DNP-AGACNP online programs for 2023.

Tuition at Rush University costs $1,286 per credit hour. The university offers two pathways to earn the DNP-AGACNP degree: the BSN to DNP, which requires a minimum of 71 credits, and the MSN to DNP, which requires at least 38 credits. Depending on the track you choose, your tuition will range between $48,868 and $91,306.

At the University of Maryland, tuition costs are determined based on where you live. Students residing within the state of Maryland pay $873 per credit hour. Non-resident students pay $1,549 per credit hour. The BSN to DNP pathway requires you to complete 80 credits. The MSN to DNP program includes a minimum of 48 credits. Therefore, depending on your residency status and the number of credits you need, tuition can cost between $41,904 and $74,352 for the MSN to DNP program. The BSN to DNP program costs $69,840 to $124,920, depending on whether you live in-state or out-of-state.

At Johns Hopkins University, tuition is calculated at the same rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. The online DNP-AGACNP programs cost $1,939 per credit. The BSN to DNP track requires 70.5 credits. Therefore, the program’s tuition cost is approximately $136,699.50.

The cost of the post-baccalaureate DNP-AGACNP program at the University of South Carolina varies based on whether you are a state resident and whether you enroll part-time or full-time. In-state students enrolling full-time pay $7,885 per semester, and part-time students pay $5,914 per semester. Out-of-state students attending school full-time pay $13,545 per semester, and part-time students pay $10,159 per semester. Full-time students complete the program in nine semesters, making the cost between $70,965 and $121,905. Part-time students complete 12 semesters, which means tuition costs between $70,968 and $121,908.

At the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, students who are residents of Tennessee state pay an average of $117,106 for tuition for the DNP-AGACNP program. Non-residents pay approximately $119,806 in tuition costs.



What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online DNP-AGACNP Programs?


Most DNP-AGACNP online programs require candidates to have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale to be eligible for admission. However, I urge you to keep in mind that when a school lists its “minimum GPA required,” that does not mean everyone with the minimum required average will be accepted. Admission to these specialized programs is a competitive process. So, the higher your cumulative college grade point average, the more viable a candidate you become. I recommend trying to achieve a GPA of at least 3.5 to be a competitive applicant.



What are the Admission Requirements For Online DNP-AGACNP Programs?


As you research different online DNP-AGACNP programs, you will find that some of the admission requirements are the same, while others vary a bit from school to school. In general, most programs require candidates to have a minimum BSN and an active RN license with no restrictions. The minimum GPA requirement may vary but averages 3.0. You will likely be required to have a minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience, usually in an acute or critical care setting.

Each school will also request documents such as official transcripts from colleges and universities you attended and a copy of your RN license and any certifications. Applicants are typically asked to submit letters of recommendation, an admission essay or Goal Statement, a resume or curriculum vitae, and may be asked to participate in an admission interview.

Candidates who wish to attend Johns Hopkins University’s online DNP-AGACNP programs must meet the following admission criteria. You need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or an entry-level master’s nursing degree. Your degree must have been earned at an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited college or university. Applicants must have one year of full-time RN experience working in direct care of adults and older adults. You must provide official college transcripts reflecting a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, three letters of academic and professional reference, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and a Goals Statement. You must complete an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of “B” or higher. If you meet the aforementioned criteria, you will move to the next phase of the admissions process and interview with the program faculty.

Admission to the DNP-AGACNP online programs at the University of Arizona is extremely competitive. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Entry-Level MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited institution. You must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 for your last 60 credits of nursing coursework and a current, unencumbered RN license. If you are applying to the post-Master's DNP program, you must also have a current APRN license. When applying, you must complete applications for both the University of Arizona Graduate College and the NursingCAS application and submit two letters of professional reference, official post-secondary transcripts, and a curriculum vitae.

To be considered for admission to the online DNP-AGACNP programs at the University of Kentucky, you must have a minimum BSN degree from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited nursing program, a current, unrestricted RN license, and at least one year of clinical nursing experience prior to enrolling in the first DNP clinical course. You must provide copies of all college or university transcripts and have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale. Additionally, you must provide three letters of recommendation, a Goal Statement, a sample of scholarly written work, and a curriculum vitae or resume. You will also be required to participate in an admission interview with the program faculty.

The University of Maryland requires candidates for its DNP-AGACNP online programs to have a BSN from an NLN/CNEA-, ACEN- or CCNE-accredited college or university or an equivalent degree from a comparable foreign university. You must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. To begin the admission process, you must complete an online application and pay a $75 application fee. All candidates must provide a copy of a valid, unrestricted United States RN license, a typed resume or CV, official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, an admission essay, and two letters of recommendation.

At the University of Texas Health- Houston, you must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a BSN grade point average of 3.0 or higher, and a current unencumbered Texas RN license to be considered for admission. You must have at least one year of clinical experience working as a registered nurse. Additionally, you must submit a professional CV or resume, a 500-word essay, and the names and email addresses of two or three academic or professional references. Finally, you must complete a basic Statistics course with a grade of “C” or higher.



What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online DNP-AGACNP Programs?


The curriculum for DNP-AGACNP online programs includes MSN and DNP core courses, specialty courses, and electives. You will learn about topics including healthcare ethics and law, informatics, statistics, and pathophysiology. Additionally, you will study in classes related to the Adult Gerontology population, such as diagnosing and managing adult-gerontological illnesses, trauma, and injury.

At the University of Pittsburgh, you will study Human Genetics and Clinical Applications, Applied Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice, Public Policy in Healthcare, Ethics in Healthcare, and Introduction to Health Informatics.

The online DNP-AGACNP programs at Emory University include classes such as Information and Healthcare Technologies, Quality, Safety, and Systems-Based Practice, Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, Patient-Centered Care, and Advanced Health Assessment.

The University of Iowa's BSN to DNP-AGACNP program features a curriculum with classes, including Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing, Interprofessional Skills and Team-Based Healthcare, Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutic Procedures for Acute Care, Clinical Data Management and Evaluation, and Applied Epidemiology.

The curriculum for the programs offered at the University of Arizona includes the courses Diagnosis and Management of Chronic and Acute Illness, Healthcare Informatics: Theory and Practice, Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare Teams, Evaluation Methodologies for Safety and Quality Improvement, and Adult-Gerontology Traumatic Injury and Emergent Illness.

At the University of Kentucky, you will take classes in the online DNP-AGACNP programs, including Protection of Human Subjects, Concepts, Theories, and Models for Advanced Practice Nursing, Applied Biostatistics for Outcome Evaluation, Quality and Safety in Nursing and Healthcare, and Epidemiology Applied to the Design and Evaluation of Nursing and Health Services.



What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online DNP-AGACNP Programs?


The Doctoral Essentials states that to achieve DNP competencies, doctoral nursing programs must provide at least 1,000 hours of post-baccalaureate practice hours as part of a supervised academic program. Therefore, any student entering a DNP-ACNP program with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree should anticipate completing a minimum of 1,000 clinical practicum hours. If you have a Master of Science in Nursing, the school you plan to attend will typically perform a GAP analysis to determine how many clinical hours you completed in your MSN program and calculate the hours you need to meet DNP competencies for graduation. The following are examples of the practical training requirements for some of the best online DNP-AGACNP programs in the nation.

At the University of Texas Health- Houston, the Graduate Clinical Coordinator will work with you to find appropriate clinical sites and qualified preceptors. All students in the DNP program must complete at least 1,140 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The curriculum includes three clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicums. You will also complete an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP preceptorship.

All DNP students at the University of South Carolina must complete at least 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The university will perform a GAP analysis to determine any master’s level clinical hours completed for applicants pursuing the MSN to DNP pathway. The required number of clinical hours for post-master's students will be outlined prior to matriculation.

When you pursue your DNP as an Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP at the University of Illinois at Chicago, you will experience high-value clinical experiences at healthcare facilities close to your geographic region. Clinical experiences are arranged by faculty to ensure you have a wide range of exposure to direct patient care with experienced preceptors. All DNP students complete a minimum of 1,000 post-BSN clinical hours to meet graduation requirements.

The curriculum for the post-baccalaureate DNP-AGACNP program at George Washington University includes 1,000 clinical hours. You will complete 500 hours of direct patient care and 500 indirect DNP practice hours. Clinicals are arranged collaboratively between you and the clinical faculty at sites as close to your home as possible.

At Johns Hopkins University, you will work collaboratively with the specialty Track Coordinator and Clinical Placement Teams to identify clinical sites and preceptors. Final approval of both sites and preceptors must be obtained from the Track Coordinator. You will complete a minimum of 1,000 practice hours, which are earned through direct patient care and completion of the DNP Scholarly Project.



What are the Best Online DNP-AGACNP Programs in the Nation?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 15 Best Online DNP-AGACNP Programs in the nation for the year 2023.)


1. Rush University - Chicago, IL


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


2. Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and Entry-Level MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Entry-Level MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


3. University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh, PA


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


4. University of South Carolina - Columbia, SC


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


5. The George Washington University - Washington, DC


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


6. Emory University - Atlanta, GA


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


7. University of Iowa - Iowa City, IA


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult/ Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult/ Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


8. University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


9. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Birmingham, AL


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


10. University of Illinois at Chicago - Chicago, IL


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


11. University of Connecticut - Storrs, CT


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


12. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston - Houston, TX


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


13. University of Maryland - Baltimore, MD


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner / Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner / Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist


14. University of Kentucky - Lexington, KY


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

MSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


15. University of Tennessee Health Science Center - Memphis, TN


Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

BSN-to-DNP Specialties Offered:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner


VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



Where Do Graduates of Online DNP-AGACNP Programs Mostly Work?


After graduating from online DNP-AGACNP programs, you can work in a variety of settings. Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners may work in emergency rooms, urgent care clinics, private practice, or as travel AG-ACNPs. The following are three of the top places where program graduates work.

1. Hospitals:

Graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs commonly work in hospitals. In this setting, you may provide complex monitoring of, and develop treatment plans for, adults and geriatric patients.

2. Academia:

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP role often extends beyond the clinical role to include teaching or research. Some graduates become nursing instructors, while others work as in-house nurse educators for hospitals or other healthcare organizations.

3. Long-Term Care Facilities:

As an Adult Gerontology ACNP, you could work in an administrative role in a nursing home or other long-term care facility. Your knowledge and expertise related to adult and geriatric care make you a perfect candidate to become an administrator or clinical director.



3 Best Jobs For Graduates of Online DNP-AGACNP Programs


Graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs have many wonderful job opportunities. The job you choose should be something you are passionate about. Whether you wish to teach nursing, work in a residential living facility or hospital, or open an independent practice, when you do what you love, it makes all the difference! The following are three of the best jobs for program graduates.

1. Nursing Home or Long-Term Care Facility Administrator:

The role of a nursing home or LTC administrator is to supervise, monitor, plan, and maintain standards of care through all departments of the facility. This role requires you to utilize essential nursing schools, including effective communication, cultural competence, and leadership. You must also implement business skills to create financial plans and manage budgets.

2. Intensive Care Unit AG-AC Nurse Practitioner:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners in intensive care units assess, diagnose, and manage care for critically ill patients. You may perform procedures such as placing arterial or central lines or dialysis catheters or perform other procedures appropriate for intensive care patients.

3. Skilled Nursing Facility Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner:

Skilled nursing facilities are often the intermediate step where patients transition from the hospital and prepare to return home. Adult Gerontology ACNPs may work in these facilities, acting as an extension of the inpatient care provider. The responsibilities in these jobs are like any other AG-ACNP role, including assessing and diagnosing patients, preparing and implementing treatment plans, monitoring plans for effectiveness, and educating patients and their families.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?


The starting salary for graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs is $76,950 per year. This pay is equal to $37 per hour, $1,480 per week, or $6,410 per month.

Hourly$37.00
Weekly$1,480
Monthly$6,410
Annual$76,950



What Average Salary Can Graduates of DNP-AGACNP Online Programs Expect?


Graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs earn generous salaries. The average annual income for most graduates is $114,290. This pay is equal to $54.95 per hour, $2,198 per week, or $9,520 per month.

Hourly$54.95
Weekly$2,198
Monthly$9,520
Annual$114,290



10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of DNP-AGACNP Online Programs


The 10-year job outlook for graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs is quite impressive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects professionals in this field will see an increase in jobs of 45.68% between 2021 and 2031. Several factors may be the reason for this growth. For example, by 2030, the number of adults aged 65 or older in the United States is projected to increase by nearly 18,000 million. That means at least 20% of the American population will be considered elderly. Adults and older adults are at higher risk of experiencing injuries and acute illnesses or complications related to chronic diseases. So, if you want to earn the highest nursing degree possible in a field with an excellent long-term outlook, becoming a DNP-AGACNP is an excellent option!

2021-31
+45.68%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Is the Cost of an Online DNP-AGACNP Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?


Online DNP-AGACNP programs can be costly, which may leave you wondering if they are worth the money. Some of the top programs cost as little as $50,000, while others cost $100,000 or more. While this is a steep amount for an education, you also have good income potential after graduating.

On average, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners earn $114,290 per year. Additionally, AG-ACNPs who work for hospitals or other healthcare organizations often receive nice benefits packages, which can be worth tens of thousands of dollars. When you compare the cost of the programs to your potential earnings plus the value of benefits, the cost is well worth the return on investment.



Bonus! 5 Things You Need to Know Before Enrolling Into the Best Online DNP-AGACNP Programs


Before enrolling in one of the best DNP-AGACNP online programs, there is much to consider. The following are five things I believe every prospective student should know before committing to a program.

1. The programs are challenging

Anything worth having is worth working hard for, right? The curriculum and clinical practicum requirements for online DNP-AGACNP programs are rigorous. Additionally, you may be required to complete a DNP Scholarly Project and present it before graduating. Although the programs can be challenging, with hard work and determination, you can succeed!

2. You may need to find your own clinical sites and preceptors

Clinical training is an essential part of DNP-AGACNP programs. Some schools have clinical directors or teams that help match students with clinical training sites and preceptors. Other schools require students to locate their own and submit their choices to the program for approval. It is essential that you find out who is responsible for locating and securing clinical sites and preceptors when applying. If you wait until later and have difficulty finding appropriate placement or mentors, it could delay your ability to begin your clinical training.

3. You may be faced with making tough decisions about patient care

As nurses, we naturally want to help and heal. It is simply not in our nature to give up. Unfortunately, the patients you care for as an Adult Gerontology ACNP often have complex issues. There will be times when you must break the news to patients and loved ones that you have done everything medically possible and suggest that treatment is no longer an option. If you doubt your ability to do this, another nursing specialty may be worth considering.

4. Not all patients want to start or continue treatment for their illness or disease

I know that statement may be hard to believe, but in my years of nursing, I have had many patients who felt they were tired of fighting illness and disease. Some patients, especially the elderly, feel they have lived a long life and would rather enjoy the time they have left without taking medications or treatments. For them, quality of life becomes more important than quantity of life. As an Adult Gerontology NP, you must be willing to accept your patient’s decisions as the final say.

5. Self-care is essential!

One of the hardest lessons for me to learn when I became a nurse was that if I wanted to provide excellent care to my patients, I first had to care for myself. Taking time for self-care is crucial if you want to be an effective healthcare professional. Simple things like eating a well-balanced diet, exercising, and getting plenty of rest and sleep are vital. When you take care of yourself, your mind and body work better, which makes you better at your job, benefiting you, your patients, and your healthcare team.



My Final Thoughts


Nursing is a wonderful profession filled with diverse opportunities. If you are a registered nurse considering earning a doctorate and who enjoys caring for adults and geriatric clients, a great option for you could be to become a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing as an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. You may have considered that option but wondered, “What are the best online DNP-AGACNP programs?”

In this article, I addressed that question by sharing the 15 best online DNP-AGACNP programs for 2023. You learned about program options, admission requirements, and curriculum. You also learned about some of the best jobs for graduates and the income you could earn. If, after reading this article, you feel becoming an AG-ACNP is the right path for you, do not hesitate! With excellent earning potential, a positive long-term job outlook, and diverse job opportunities, there is no better time than now to begin pursuing your dream!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. What Is The Best Online DNP-AGACNP Program In The Nation?

The best online DNP-AGACNP program in the nation is offered at Rush University in Chicago, Illinois.

Rush University - Chicago, IL


2. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into DNP-AGACNP Online Programs?

Most DNP-AGACNP online programs require candidates to have a minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale.


3. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For DNP-AGACNP Online Programs?

Online DNP-AGACNP programs typically cost between $800 and $1,900 per credit. A few factors, including whether you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition, may determine your cost.


4. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?

One of the advantages of DNP-AGACNP online programs is they offer flexibility, making it possible for many students to continue working. It is not uncommon for students to continue working part-time while enrolled in this type of program.


5. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?

While working full-time and completing online DNP-AGACNP programs is not impossible, it can be challenging. The programs are rigorous and require significant time for studying and completing clinicals. If you feel you must continue working full-time, you may wish to consider a part-time program option.


6. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?

New graduates of online DNP-AGACNP programs earn an entry-level salary of approximately $76,950.

$76,950


7. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?

The average hourly wage for graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs is $54.95.

$54.95


8. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?

On average, graduates of online DNP-AGACNP programs earn $9,520 per month.

$9,520


9. On An Average, How Much Can Graduates Of DNP-AGACNP Online Programs Make Per Year?

With experience, graduates of DNP-AGACNP online programs earn an average of $114,290 per year.

$114,290


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
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).