21 Best Online MSN-AGNP Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Are you a registered nurse with a passion for caring for adults and the elderly? Have you dreamed of taking your career to the next level by earning a graduate nursing degree? Perhaps having increased autonomy or opening an independent practice sounds like something you would enjoy. If so, an MSN-AGNP program can help you accomplish those goals.
If you are considering becoming an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, you may wonder, "What are the best online MSN-AGNP programs?” I will answer that question in this article by sharing with you the 21 best online MSN-AGNP programs for 2024. In addition to finding detailed program information, you will also learn about the advantages and disadvantages of becoming an AGNP, possible jobs, earning potential, and career outlook. When you have finished reading this article, you should have enough information to determine if pursuing your degree through MSN-AGNP online programs is the right path for you.
What Exactly is the Goal of an Online MSN-AGNP Program?
The goal of online MSN-AGNP programs is to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills needed to provide comprehensive, culturally sensitive care to adults and geriatric patients with common, acute, episodic, and chronic health conditions. These programs prepare students to assume the responsibility of promoting, restoring, and maintaining the health of adults who are acutely, critically, or chronically ill.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN-AGNP Program
When you earn your degree through one of the best online MSN-AGNP programs, you will develop a broad range of skills and abilities. The knowledge and clinical experience you gain in these programs will enable you to step into a career as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner capable of providing effective, quality care to adults and older adults with diverse health conditions and needs. The following are five of the important skills and abilities you will gain when you pursue your degree through MSN-AGNP online programs.
1. You will learn to assess, diagnose, and treat diverse adult-gerontology health conditions:
One of the most essential skills for Adult-Gerontology NPs is the ability to assess and diagnose patients in need of healthcare services. The ability to identify health concerns and determine an appropriate care plan is essential and a skill that you will develop in online MSN-AGNP programs.
2. You will learn to apply cultural competence in the delivery of care to older populations:
The ability and willingness to deliver culturally competent care is an essential skill for anyone working in the healthcare industry. In MSN-AGNP online programs, you will learn to recognize and appreciate the values and beliefs of older generations and how these things impact your clients’ decisions about healthcare. When you demonstrate
cultural competence in care, it strengthens patient/provider relationships, which improves overall patient outcomes.
3. You will gain an understanding of evidence-based practice and how to implement it in adult-geriatric care:
Understanding and implementing evidence-based practice into patient care is essential for all healthcare providers. As an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, your implementation of evidence-based practice can help ensure high-quality patient care, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs. In MSN-AGNP online programs, you will learn to use evidence-based practice to provide patient care supported by scientific evidence. Evidence-based practice is a crucial part of making informed decisions about patient care and promoting positive outcomes.
4. You will develop strong leadership skills:
One of the awesome things about earning your degree as an Adult-Gerontology NP is that you will gain important leadership skills and abilities. Whether you work in a hospital, nursing home, independent practice, or another healthcare facility, your knowledge, skills, and decision-making abilities will be instrumental in leading effective healthcare teams.
5. You will gain an extensive knowledge of adult-geriatric health issues:
According to the
National Council on Aging, older adults are affected by chronic illnesses on a disproportionate level compared to other age groups. The NCOA reports that 95% of older adults are affected by at least one chronic health condition, and approximately 80% have two or more chronic health diagnoses. In online MSN-AGNP programs, you will develop an in-depth knowledge of health issues impacting this age group and learn ways to treat them.
5 Main Advantages of Online MSN-AGNP Programs
There are many advantages to earning your degree through one of the best online MSN-AGNP programs. With endless learning possibilities, opportunities for career advancement, and good income potential, accomplishing this degree can have a profound impact on your personal and professional life. The following are five of the main advantages of these specialized programs.
1. You can use your knowledge and skills to impact the healthcare outcomes of adult-geriatric populations:
As an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, you will have the knowledge and clinical skills needed to assess, diagnose, and plan care for adults and geriatric patients. Your experience can be instrumental in promoting positive patient outcomes.
2. The long-term job outlook for AGNPs is excellent!
An aging generation with diverse healthcare needs and the fact that more Americans have access to healthcare insurance are driving forces behind the demand for health practitioners who specialize in their care. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects there will be a greater than 45% increase in jobs in this industry through at least 2031.
3. You can influence healthcare policy related to adult gerontology care:
Graduates of online MSN-AGNP programs are excellent sources of information backed by clinical experience. You can leverage your credentials, knowledge, and experience to advocate for policy changes that improve healthcare delivery and access to services for adult gerontology patients.
4. You can become a nursing instructor:
With a graduate degree in nursing and your specialization in adult-gerontology healthcare, you will be an excellent candidate to teach future nurses! Whether you pursue a full-time nurse educator position, work as a clinical preceptor, or take on an adjunct position, your knowledge and firsthand experience in adult-gerontology care can help shape the minds of future generations of nurses and impact the type of care patients receive for years to come.
5. The income potential for AGNPs is excellent!
The average annual income for graduates of online MSN-AGNP programs is $103,002. While this pay is great, you can earn even higher wages. Whether you open an independent practice, work for a large healthcare organization, or supplement your income with freelance writing jobs, your knowledge and expertise can go a long way in helping you generate an excellent income.
2 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN-AGNP Programs
Choosing to pursue your degree through MSN-AGNP online programs comes with its advantages. However, there are also disadvantages to consider before committing to a program. The following are the two main disadvantages of these programs.
1. Online MSN-AGNP can be expensive:
The cost of MSN Adult-Gerontology NP programs varies, with some costing $100,000 or more. If you do not qualify for scholarships or grants, you may face paying for your degree out-of-pocket. Student loans can add up quickly, which could leave you feeling stressed or overwhelmed. I suggest talking with a financial advisor as early as possible in your application process to help identify resources to help pay for your program.
2. You may not be able to work:
While some students in MSN-AGNP online programs continue to work while in school, others do not. If you choose to pursue your degree full-time, you may need to consider cutting back on your work hours or taking some time off. For some prospective students, this is a huge disadvantage because they rely on their incomes to care for families and maintain households.
Who Accredits MSN-AGNP Online Programs?
A key factor to consider when choosing a school or program is whether it is accredited. When a program is accredited, you can feel confident that the education you receive meets high-quality standards, which means you will be prepared for practice after graduating. The
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredit the best online MSN-AGNP programs.
When Do MSN-AGNP Online Programs Start?
Each school that offers online MSN-AGNP programs determines the frequency and dates for starting the programs. Some schools begin classes once each year, while others offer several options for beginning their programs throughout the year. As you research different programs, it is crucial that you pay close attention to the deadlines for applying and get your application in on time.
• Vanderbilt University offers Acute and Primary Care online MSN-AGNP programs. Both programs begin in the
fall semester annually.
• At
Emory University, classes begin in the
summer semester of each academic year.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center admits students to its Adult-Gerontology ACNP program in the
fall and spring semesters.
• At
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, admission to the MSN-AGNP online program is offered once yearly in the
fall semester.
• The
University of Texas Arlington gives students the opportunity to begin classes
six times yearly. The school offers three fall start dates and three spring dates annually.
How Many Credits are There in MSN-AGNP Online Programs?
MSN-AGNP online programs feature rich curriculum plans. The programs include a mixture of MSN core and specialty courses as well as clinical practicum experiences. The number of required credits varies among programs, typically ranging between 40 and 60 credits. However, you may need more or fewer credits, depending on your previous academic accomplishments and the number of transferrable credits you have.
• Duke University’s online MSN-AGNP programs are designed in a full-time format. The acute care AGNP pathway is a
48-credit-hour program that includes 728 clinical hours. The primary care AGNP pathway requires you to complete
42 credits and 560 clinical hours.
• The program at
Florida Atlantic University requires you to complete a total of
49 credit hours.
• At the
University of Alabama at Birmingham, both the Acute Care and Primary Care MSN-AGNP programs online feature
45-credit hour curriculum plans.
• At
Seton Hall University, students complete
48 credits in the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers an Acute Care AGNP pathway that features a 48-credit curriculum.
How Long are MSN-AGNP Online Programs?
On average, it takes two to three years to complete MSN-AGNP online programs. Some students take longer, while others may graduate in less time. Whether you enroll as a full-time student or part-time student and the number of credits you need to accomplish will determine the time it takes you to graduate.
• Most students complete the online MSN-AGNP programs at
Duke University in
two and a half years. If you choose part-time study, the time it takes you to graduate may be longer.
• The Acute Care Adult Gerontology NP program at the
University of South Carolina is designed to be completed in
eight semesters.
• At
Seton Hall University, you can
complete the AGNP program in three years if you enroll full-time or four years of part-time study.
• You can complete the program offered at the
University of Texas Arlington in as little as
29 to 33 months.
• The online AG-ACNP program at
Indiana University-Purdue University is available in
part-time and full-time formats. You can complete the program in three years part-time and two years full-time.
How Much Do MSN-AGNP Online Programs Cost?
Online MSN-AGNP programs vary in cost. Some programs cost as little as $26,000, and others cost $100,000 or more. Some schools charge different tuition rates for students based on where they live. At those schools, in-state students typically pay lower rates than out-of-state students. The following are examples of the cost of some of the nation’s top online MSN-AGNP programs. Unless stated otherwise, the cost mentioned is for tuition only and does not include fees, supplies, uniforms, and other expenses.
• At
Duke University, tuition is based on a per-credit rate of $2,075. You will complete between 45 and 48 credits, depending on whether you choose the primary or acute pathway. Therefore, tuition ranges from
$93,375 to $99,600.
• The
University of South Carolina charges tuition based on whether you live in the state or are an out-of-state student. Students who are state residents pay $770.25 per credit hour. Non-resident students pay $1,438 per credit hour. The program features a 46-credit curriculum, which means tuition costs
between $35,431.50 and $66,148.
• The online MSN-AGNP program at
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center costs $994.50 per semester credit for in-state students and $1,414.50 for out-of-state students. This cost includes tuition, associated fees, and student malpractice insurance. The program requires the completion of 48 credits, which students pay
between $47,736 and $67,896, depending on residency status.
• Both the
Acute Care and
Primary Care online MSN-AGNP programs at the
University of Texas Arlington cost approximately $26,814.
• Tuition at
George Washington University costs $1,450, regardless of where you live. The acute and primary pathways each require students to complete 48 credits, which makes tuition cost an
average of $69,600.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online MSN-AGNP Programs?
One of the first criteria admission teams evaluate is a candidate’s previous academic performance. Applicants must meet minimum grade point average requirements to be eligible for online MSN-AGNP programs. Although the average required GPA is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, you may find some variation from one school to the next.
For example, at
Seton Hall University,
candidates seeking admission to the Acute Care AGNP program must have a cumulative college GPA of 3.2 or higher. Applicants for the Primary Care AGNP pathway must have a
minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0. At the
University of Texas Arlington, prospective students with a GPA between 2.8 and 2.99 may be offered probationary admission if they have satisfactory GRE scores. Applicants with a college GPA of 3.0 or higher are not required to submit GRE scores.
What are the Admission Requirements For Online MSN-AGNP Programs?
Admission to MSN-AGNP online programs is often competitive. In addition to having a minimum GPA, you must meet other criteria. For example, you need a valid RN license with no restrictions or encumbrances and typically one year of clinical nursing experience. Some programs require experience in an acute care setting, such as intensive care or emergency nursing. You will also be asked to provide supplemental documents, including college transcripts, letters of reference, and admission essays. The following are examples of the admission requirements at five of the programs featured in this article.
• Duke University uses a holistic approach to its
admissions process. This approach takes into account your unique experiences as well as academic achievements. To be considered for admission to the university's MSN-AGNP online programs, you must have earned either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited school or an associate degree in nursing and a non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited post-secondary institution and have an active, unrestricted RN license in the state where clinicals will be completed.
All candidates must complete a General Statistics or Introductory Statistics course with a grade of "C" or higher. Additionally, you must provide all post-secondary transcripts from all colleges or universities where you earned credit, a personal statement, a resume or CV, and three letters of professional recommendation. Preferential consideration is given to candidates with a minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• At the
University of Cincinnati, you need an active, unencumbered Registered Nurse license and at least one year of experience working as an RN at the time of application. Candidates must have a BSN earned at a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited nursing school. Additionally, you must have an overall undergraduate nursing GPA of 3.0 or higher and a Science GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must complete a Statistics course with an average of at least 2.0. Candidates must complete an
online application and submit a curriculum vitae or resume, a copy of their state RN license, a personal statement, contact information for three references, and official transcripts from any college or university they attended.
• Admission criteria for the online Acute Care MSN-AGNP program at the
University of Alabama at Huntsville include the following. You must possess a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program and have an overall GPA of 30 or higher for all baccalaureate coursework or the last 60 credit hours of baccalaureate coursework. You must submit official college transcripts, RN license verification, a resume or curriculum vitae, a two-page personal statement, and three evaluation forms for recommendation. Finally, applicants must have at least one year of emergency or intensive care nursing experience.
• Admission to the online MSN-ACNP programs offered at
Drexel University is contingent upon meeting the
following requirements. Candidates must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an NLN- or ACEN-accredited program, a nursing GPA of 3.0 or higher, and a current, unencumbered RN license. Admission to the acute care ACNP pathway requires
two years of bedside acute care nursing experience. Candidates seeking admission to the primary care pathway who have at least
one year of adult nursing experience are preferred, but it is not required. In addition to your online application, you must provide two letters of professional recommendation, a personal statement, a professional resume, official post-secondary transcripts, and a copy of your RN license.
• Prospective students at the
University of Texas Medical Branch must have a BSN from an accredited college or university and a valid, unrestricted RN license in the state where clinicals will occur. Candidates applying for the
primary care program need at least one year of recent work experience as a registered nurse. Applicants for the
acute care program must have a minimum of one year of RN work experience in emergency care, intensive care, or acute care. You must provide copies of transcripts reflecting a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and a minimum 3.0 for all upper-division nursing courses. Additional documentation needed includes a professional resume, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. One letter must come from each of the following sources: a professional recommendation, a clinical manager, and an academic reference.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online MSN-AGNP Programs?
The curriculum for the nation’s best online MSN-AGNP programs features a broad range of courses. In these programs, you will complete core nursing courses, specialty core courses, and clinical courses relevant to your specialty of Acute or Primary Care. As you research different schools and programs, you may find that course names vary. However, accredited programs cover most of the same content. The following are examples of the courses you may take if you pursue one of the programs featured in this article.
• The
curriculum plan for the Acute Care AGNP program at the
University of Mississippi Medical Center is a 45-credit pathway. In this program, you will take classes, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Assessment, Management & Evaluation, Informatics & Healthcare Technology, Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics, Advanced Health Assessment, and Application & Interpretation of Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Diagnostic Modalities.
• Students at the
University of North Carolina pursuing the AG-ACNP program
study courses such as Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice, Evidence-Based Practice & Research, Advanced Concepts in the Clinical Care of Older Adults, Care of Adults with Complex Health Problems, and Populational Health: Interprofessional Management in a Changing Healthcare System.
• The
University of Michigan offers a Primary Care AGNP program that features
classes such as Advanced Practice Specialty Procedures & Skills for Primary Care, Advanced Primary Care Nursing of Adults & Families with Complex Systems, Applied Biostatistics for Clinical Practice, and Models & Theories to Inform Advanced Nursing Practice with Individuals, Communities, & Complex Systems.
• At
Stony Brook University, the
rich curriculum for the Acute Care AGNP-MSN program features classes, including Clinical Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, Advanced Skills, Technologies, & Clinical Decision-Making in Acute Care, Organizational Leadership & Role Transformation, Healthcare Policy & Advocacy, and Advanced Health Assessment.
• The online MSN-ACNP Primary Care program at the
University of Connecticut includes
courses such as Evidence-Based Practice for Health Promotion, Prevention, & Common Health Problems, Evidence-Based Practice for Complex & Comorbid Health Problems, Health Policy & Populations-Based Advocacy for the Scholarship of Application, and Advanced Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice Primary Care.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online MSN-AGNP Programs?
MSN-AGNP online programs include a practical training component. You complete clinicals in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, acute care facilities, emergency departments, and critical care. Most programs require students to complete between 500 and 750 clinical hours of practical training.
• At the
George Washington School of Nursing, the online MSN-AGNP program includes
625 hours of clinical practicum experience. Although you are encouraged to find your own preceptor, the university offers clinical placement advisors to help you locate clinical sites and preceptors if needed. Clinical hours are divided into practicum experiences in internal medicine, family practice, primary care, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. A minimum of 120 of the 625 clinical hours must be completed in long-term care facilities or nursing homes.
• Florida Atlantic University requires that students complete at least
600 clinical hours. Clinical rotations are completed in local health departments, private physicians’ offices, home health agencies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The university has a Clinical Placement Team that helps find qualified preceptors and clinical sites to ensure you have diverse experiences.
• At
Seton Hall University, students in the acute and primary AGNP tracks complete
675 and 600 clinical hours, respectively. Each pathway has five clinical practicum experiences. Clinical arrangements are a collaboration between you and clinical faculty and occur at places close to your home region whenever possible.
• The Acute Care AGNP program at
Vanderbilt University requires
630 clinical hours. The university also offers a Primary Care AGNP program that includes
560 clinical hours. Clinical experiences are arranged in your local region at various healthcare settings. You will work with experienced preceptors who specialize in adult gerontology acute and primary care. Some settings include cardiology, critical care, oncology, trauma, rehabilitation, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes.
• At
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, students in the MSN-AGNP Acute Care pathway complete
600 clinical hours. Although students are encouraged to identify clinical sites and preceptors, the university offers assistance to students in need. Your clinical hours will be completed in various settings, including primary care clinics, intensive care, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.
What are the Best Online MSN-AGNP Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our
ranking methodology, the following are the 21 Best Online MSN-AGNP Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)
1.Duke University - Durham, NC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology
- Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
2. University of South Carolina - Columbia, SC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
3. The George Washington University - Washington, DC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
7.Seton Hall University - Nutley, NJ
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
8. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
10. University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology
Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
12. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
13. University of Connecticut - Storrs, CT
Specialties Offered:
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
15. Stony Brook University - Stony Brook, NY
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
16. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston - Houston, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
17. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Chapel Hill, NC
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
20. University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston, TX
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
21.Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA
Specialties Offered:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY
Where Do Graduates of Online MSN-AGNP Programs Mostly Work?
Graduates of online MSN-AGNP programs work in a variety of settings. Whether you specialize in primary or acute care and the schedule you prefer will likely be two of the deciding factors when you choose where to work as an AGNP. The following are a few examples of some of the most common places Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners work.
1. Hospitals:
Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner graduates often work in hospitals. In this setting, you will provide care to patients with acute or emergent healthcare needs. You may work in the hospital's intensive care or cardiac care unit or work on the medical-surgical floor.
2. Independent Practice or Private Physicians’ Offices:
When you become a Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, you may work in a physician’s office with other healthcare providers or choose to open an independent practice. The
practice authority authorized in your state will determine whether you can open a practice on your own or if you need to work in collaboration with a licensed physician.
3. Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities:
Other popular settings where Adult-Gerontology NPs work are nursing homes and long-term care facilities. In this setting, you may be the lead healthcare provider for the facility.
3 Best Jobs For Graduates of Online MSN-AGNP Programs
After graduating from MSN-AGNP online programs, you can choose from several jobs. Whether you want to find a job in one facility and make a long-term career out of it, or if you prefer to work in diverse settings worldwide, the opportunities for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners are excellent!
1. Travel Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner:
If you enjoy traveling and meeting new people but still want to work and provide care to patients, you could consider becoming a travel A-G nurse practitioner.
Travel NPs work short-term or per diem contracts in facilities that are short-staffed. This job offers excellent opportunities to travel nationally or internationally while still enjoying your career and earning a great income.
2. Veterans’ Care A-G Nurse Practitioner:
Many Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners work in facilities dedicated to providing care to military veterans. You could work in a veterans’ home or work for the veterans’ administration, acting as an advocate for veterans’ healthcare rights.
3. Home Health or Hospice Administrator:
If you aspire to work in healthcare leadership or administration, you could use your degree and certification to secure a job as a home health or hospice administrator. Working as a home health or hospice administrator, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the home health or hospice agency, including managing employees and budgets. Although this job is more administrative than clinical, some administrators may make home visits to clients as needed.
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
Graduates of MSN-AGNP online programs earn entry-level wages of $33.34 per hour, which equates to $1,334 per week or $5,780 per month. This pay is equal to $69,350 annually.
Hourly | $33.34 |
Weekly | $1,334 |
Monthly | $5,780 |
Annual | $69,350 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN-AGNP Online Programs Expect?
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for graduates of online MSN-AGNP programs is $103,002. This salary breaks down to $49.52 per hour, $1,981 per week, or $8,580 per month.
Hourly | $49.52 |
Weekly | $1,981 |
Monthly | $8,580 |
Annual | $103,002 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of MSN-AGNP Online Programs
The ten-year job outlook for graduates of MSN-AGNP online programs is outstanding. According to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners will see a 45.68% increase in jobs between 2021 and 2031.
2021-31 |
+45.68% |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Is the Cost of an Online MSN-AGNP Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
Online MSN-AGNP programs can cost as little as $26,000 to more than $100,000. If you take advantage of
scholarships and grant opportunities, you may pay less to earn your degree. Graduates of these programs earn entry-level salaries of approximately $69,350. With experience, the average income for NPs in this specialty is $103,002. However, depending on where you work, you could earn even higher wages. When you compare the cost of MSN-AGNP online programs to the earning potential, the return on your investment is worth the cost of earning the degree.
Bonus! 5 Expert Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Accepted Into the Best Online MSN-AGNP Programs
Admission to MSN-AGNP online programs can be competitive. However, if you know what schools look for in candidates, you can take steps to become a more viable candidate. The following five expert tips could improve your chances of getting accepted into some of the nation’s best programs.
1. Earn an RN Specialty Certification.
Although your MSN-AGNP online program will give you the option of specializing in primary or acute care, you can become certified as an adult-gerontology nurse before applying to NP school. Becoming
certified in adult gerontology care demonstrates to admission faculty that you are dedicated to this career path, which makes you an appealing candidate for admission.
2. Make Personal Connections with Other Adult-Gerontology NPs and Nurse Educators.
When you make an effort to connect with other professionals, it can benefit you in several ways. For instance, when you get to know and develop professional relationships with A-G Nurse Practitioners or nurse educators, you could ask them for a letter of recommendation. Most nurse practitioner programs require applicants to submit at least two references and having them from people who are already in this field can give you the edge over other candidates.
3. Decide if You Want to Pursue Acute or Primary Care.
Online MSN-AGNP programs may require you to choose whether you want to specialize in acute or primary care. Other programs may offer the opportunity to pursue a dual specialization. Think about the type of adult-gerontology care you hope to provide and be prepared to explain the reason in your admission essay, personal statement, or
admissions interview.
4. Get Relevant Work Experience.
MSN-AGNP online programs typically require prospective students to have at least one year of work experience as a registered nurse. If you plan to pursue the acute care path, you may need experience in an acute care setting such as emergency or intensive care. As you gain work experience, build relationships with managers and administrators, as these people are also excellent sources for letters of recommendation.
5. Make the Most of Your Personal Statement.
When you submit your applications to online MSN-AGNP programs, you will be asked to submit an admissions essay, personal statement, or statement of intent. This statement is your opportunity to let admissions faculty see what drives you to become an Adult-Gerontology NP and why. Be careful to take time and personalize your statement. If you have a personal story of something that inspired you to pursue this career path, this is the time to share it and inspire the reader.
My Final Thoughts
If you are a registered nurse who loves caring for adults and elderly patients, you may have considered specializing in adult gerontology care. Perhaps when you found this article, you were thinking of becoming an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner but wondered, "What are the best online MSN-AGNP programs?”
In this article, I shared the 21 best online MSN-AGNP programs for 2024 and offered some insight into what it means to become an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With a good job outlook and excellent earning potential, if you want to become an A-G NP, there really is no better time. I encourage you to research your options and find a program that aligns with your goals and values and start today!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best Online MSN-AGNP Program In The Nation?
The best online MSN-AGNP program in the nation is offered by Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
Duke University - Durham, NC |
2. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MSN-AGNP Online Programs?
Most online MSN-AGNP programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Because the criteria for admission vary from one program to the next, you should verify the minimum GPA needed at each school that interests you.
3. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MSN-AGNP Online Programs?
The cost per credit for MSN-AGNP online programs varies, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,500.
4. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?
Many students work part-time and complete online MSN-AGNP programs.
5. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?
Some students continue to work full-time while enrolled in MSN-AGNP online programs. Carefully consider your current responsibilities and how much time you can dedicate to school while working full-time to determine whether going to school part-time or full-time is more feasible for your success.
6. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?
New graduates of MSN-AGNP online programs earn approximately $69,350 per year.
7. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?
The average hourly pay for graduates of online MSN-AGNP programs is $49.50.
8. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?
Graduates of online MSN Adult-Gerontology programs earn approximately 48,580 per month.
9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN-AGNP Online Programs Make Per Year?
The average annual salary for graduates of MSN-AGNP online programs is $103,002.
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).