Online DNP Adult-Gerontology NP Programs – What’s the Best Program for You?

Those who want to obtain the most prestigious roles as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) often gravitate to a doctorate. As the highest degree, a nurse practitioner can attain — besides a Ph.D. — the Doctor of Nursing (DNP) pathway provides nurses with extensive experience with the education they need to attain leadership roles of all kinds. Most programs insist that you have already attained your master’s degree before they will admit you, though some BSN-DNP AGNP programs are also available. All AGNP-DNP programs will require an active nursing license and at least a year of experience in the AGNP field.

Compare the 2025 Top Ranked Online AGNP DNP Programs

For nurses who wish to enter the most advanced nursing careers working with adult and elderly  patients, the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner DNP degree is a great program to consider. As schools continue to expand online educational offerings, prospective students may find that they have many wonderful distance-learning options to choose from. That's why we have ranked the best online AGNP DNP programs across the nation. Start your search with these exceptional schools and programs below, and to find out more about our rankings process visit our Methodology page.

1.

Bradley University

Peoria, IL

Overview:

Bradley University offers a renowned Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program through its esteemed Department of Nursing. With a focus on evidence-based practice and holistic patient care, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive healthcare for the aging population. The program boasts high employment rates and a strong alumni network.

DNP Programs

• DNP-AGACNP TRACK Online
• DNP-AGPCNP TRACK Online

2.

Augusta University

Augusta, GA

Overview:

Augusta University offers an advanced  Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP-AGACNP) program. Tailored for experienced nurses seeking to elevate their practice, this program may be offered in a hybrid format, blending online coursework with on-campus intensives. Augusta University prepares nurses for leadership roles in advanced practice nursing.

DNP Programs

• DNP- Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP Online

3.

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

Overview:

University of Iowa's DNP, which can be completed online, prepares nurses to lead both in clinical settings and in larger, healthcare policy development. More than providing advanced clinical care, DNP students study patient advocacy, preventive care, health interventions, and how to improve patient outcomes.

DNP Programs

• Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care Hybrid
• Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care Hybrid

Why Get a DNP Adult-Gerontology NP Degree?

There are a number of reasons why a DNP degree is an attractive option for a dedicated nurse practitioner. Because it involves a significant commitment of time, money, and effort, earning this degree demonstrates your dedication to the industry.

With the knowledge you’ve learned and the clinical hours you’ll have to complete in order to be awarded a DNP, you’ll have access to nearly any job within the industry. This could mean a leadership role at a private practice, at a research facility, or at a hospital. Before deciding on this degree pathway, students should consider the following:

Pros

• Access to the highest level positions as an AGNP are reserved for those who hold a DNP
• DNPs command high salaries
• Leadership, administrative/managerial, and research roles are all options for AGNPs with a DNP

Cons

• Those with an MSN may decide that the shorter, cheaper post-master’s certificate in the AGNP specialty fulfills their needs
• Those with a BSN may find they can meet their professional goals by pursuing an MSN rather than a DNP
• The DNP pathway can be very challenging, lengthy, and expensive

How to Choose an Online DNP Adult-Gerontology NP Program

In order to meet the needs of busy nurse practitioners, many programs’ educational facilities offer their AGNP-DNP programs as a part-time option, or they provide an accelerated format. Depending on your personal work schedule and life responsibilities, it might be best to choose a program that offers all classes online.

Students entering this pathway are encouraged to choose a properly accredited AGNP-DNP program. In addition to this, nurses should know whether they wish to pursue a DNP program in the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialty, or the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty. Many schools offer both options.

DNP AGNP Curriculum

The DNP curriculum is diverse and far-ranging. It provides students with extensive knowledge of patient aspects of the industry as well as policy, research, prevention, and more. Common AGNP courses in the DNP program include:

• Interprofessional Collaboration with Professionals and Patients
• Advanced Nursing Practice and Clinical Scholarship
• Improving Patient and Population Health Outcomes
• Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based Practice

Over 1,000 clinical hours are typically required for doctorate adult-gerontology nurse practitioner programs. Most schools have a clinical coordinator or advisor to help students arrange preceptors for these requirements. For those already working in the field, clinical hours can often be completed in your place of employment.

List of Online DNP Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs

Finding an online/hybrid DNP Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program near you is a snap with our listings. Browse the programs below to get started.