Best AGNP Programs in California | 2025

With their unique blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) serve as primary and acute care providers, offering a holistic approach to health and wellness for older adults. If you're interested in this rewarding career path, read more about the best programs available in 2025.

Best AGNP Programs in California – Online & On-Campus

Learn More About California's Top AGNP Programs

The Golden State, known for its leading healthcare institutions and diverse medical landscape, provides a prime environment for aspiring Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners. California is home to renowned hospitals, community health centers, and a range of healthcare programs, offering extensive clinical training opportunities across both urban and rural areas. With its advanced healthcare infrastructure, California offers an excellent foundation for future AGNPs to further their education and clinical expertise.

This section highlights California's top acute and primary care AGNP programs, covering key features, admission requirements, financial aid options, and more to support your journey in advanced nursing practice.

^{For more details on AGNP programs and schools, refer to the section and links above.}

1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA offers dynamic, top-tier AGACNP and AGPCNP MSN programs with a strong academic foundation and extensive hands-on experience in the field.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Duration: These programs can be completed in two years.
• Specialty Focus: AGNP students can further specialize through the AGNP Occupational and Environmental Health NP concentration or pursue the dual AGNP CNS program.
• World-Class Faculty: UCLA's School of Nursing faculty are celebrated leaders in nursing education and research, with fifteen members inducted as Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing.
• Top-Ranked Excellence: Consistently rated as one of the nation's leading nursing schools, UCLA is recognized for its academic rigor.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here are the plans of study for both tracks:

• AGACNP: 69-70 credit hours and 840 clinical hours
• AGPCNP: 78-79 credit hours and 870 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — To apply for UCLA's MSN programs, candidates must have:

• A BSN with a 3.0 GPA 
• Prerequiste courses in Statistics, Nursing Research, Human Physiology (within five years), and Physical Assessment 
• Three letters of recommendation

Application Deadlines — Most UCLA grad programs have a December 1st deadline. 

Financial Aid — UCLA offers extensive financial support, including scholarships, fellowships, various loan options, special programs like the Native American Opportunity Plan and Employee Reduced Fee Program, and teaching and research assistantships.

2. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

CSULB offers BSN-DNP AGACNP and AGPCNP programs, providing direct pathways to advanced practice nursing for those looking to take the next step in their careers.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Dive deep into advanced nursing practice, leadership, and evidence-based research.
• Hybrid Learning: Balance your work and personal life with a blend of in-person and online classes.
• Duration: These programs take three years of full-time studies to complete.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Both tracks require 72 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours.

Admissions Requirements — Keep this application checklist in mind:

• A BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• A Statistics course
• Three letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose
• An interview 
• An essay assessment
• One year of RN experience

Application Deadlines — DNP programs start in the fall, with applications due by January 15th. 

Financial Aid — You can explore various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, loans, and scholarships. 

3. University of San Diego (USD)

USD's Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science offers a renowned DNP dual AGNP-FNP program, designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for leadership in advanced nursing practice.

Key AGNP Program Highlights 

• Cutting-Edge Research: Engage in groundbreaking research and contribute to the future of healthcare through USD.
• Flexible Format: The program can be completed part-time or full-time.
• Top-Tier Education: Recognized as one of the best DNP programs in the nation, USD offers a rigorous curriculum that blends theory and practice.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The program requires 81 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours.

Admissions Requirements — Interested applicants should have:

• A BSN with a 3.0 GPA
• One year of RN experience
• A personal statement
• Two letters of recommendation 
• A writing sample
• An interview for qualified applicants

Application Deadlines — The DNP program only starts in the fall. The application deadline is June 30th, with competitive admissions.

Financial Aid — USD offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and loans. You should also complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal and state aid!

4. West Coast University (WCU)

West Coast University offers a BSN-MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate in AGACNP and AGPCNP concentrations, designed for experienced nurses seeking to advance their expertise in these specialized areas.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: Programs take place online with two on-site intensives.
• Simulation Lab: Gain hands-on skills in a state-of-the-art simulation center.
• Duration: Programs take 16-32 months to complete.
• Updated Curriculum: Each program also addresses telehealth, special populations, and upcoming trends in medicine.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Each track involves:

• AGACNP BSN-MSN: 50 credits
• AGACNP Post-Grad Certificate: 29 credits
• AGPCNP BSN-MSN: 49 credits
• AGPCNP Post-Grad Certificate: 28 credits

You will also need to complete at least 500 clinical hours, with placements arranged by the Clinical Placements team.

Admissions Requirements — To apply, you'll need:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• At least one year of intensive care unit (ICU) experience as an RN within the past five years

Application Deadlines — Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis, so apply when it's convenient for you!

Financial Aid — WCU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, such as the Alumni Pathway Grant for up to 20% off tuition, the WCU Health Services Grant for up to 10% off tuition, and the WCU Performance Scholarship for up to 15% off tuition,

5. Cal State University, Los Angeles

The Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing at Cal State University LA offers an ideal environment to gain expert knowledge and hands-on experience. The AGACNP program is tailored for experienced nurses seeking to make an impact in acute and critical care settings.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Top-Tier Institution: A premier public comprehensive university in the heart of Los Angeles.
• Hands-On Simulation Center: The Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing Simulation Center offers state-of-the-art training with realistic patient care scenarios.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The AGACNP MSN track requires 56 units and 900 clinical hours, while the Post-Master's Certificate includes 32 credits and 900 clinical hours.

Admissions Requirements — To apply, applicants must have:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• Recent prerequisites in Physical Assessment, Statistics, and Nursing Research
• Professional references
• A personal essay
• One year's clinical experience with acutely ill adults (Post-Master's Certificate)

Application Deadlines — Applications for fall 2025 are open from October 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025.

Financial Aid — The financial aid team administers federal and state grants alongside other aid forms.

6. Azusa Pacific University (APU)

APU offers multiple AGPCNP pathways to prepare nurses at various stages of their careers for advanced roles in nursing, including BSN-DNP, BSN-MSN, and Post-Master's Certificate tracks

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Faith-Based Learning Environment: APU integrates Christian values into its curriculum.
• Student-Focused Learning: With a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students receive individual attention.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Each track is broken down as follows:

• BSN-DNP: 72-73 credit hours and over 1,000 clinical hours
• BSN-MSN: 48 credit hours
• Post-Master's Certificate: 37 credit hours 

Admissions Requirements — Here's your complete application checklist:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Prerequisites in Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, Nursing Research, Statistics, Nursing Leadership, and Community Health Nursing
• A current resume
• Two professional recommendations 
• A one- to two-page personal statement

Application Deadlines — Keep these dates in mind as you prepare for the upcoming application cycles:

• Fall start: Priority deadline April 1; final deadline June 15
• Spring start: Priority deadline July 15; final deadline September 30

Financial Aid Options — 100% of incoming students receive financial aid, with a range of options available to help make your education more affordable.

7. Loma Linda University (LLU)

At LLU you won't just be learning—you'll be preparing to lead the future of adult care in some of the most advanced medical settings available. You can pursue an AGACNP or AGPCNP BSN-DNP that blends rigorous academics with immersive clinical experience.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Innovative Learning Environment: LLU's state-of-the-art medical simulation center—the largest in the country—ensures you develop the skills needed to excel in even the most complex clinical situations.
• Comprehensive Duration: The full-time, hybrid BSN to DNP program spans three years and nine months.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Students complete a robust 1,000 clinical hours, including both direct patient care and DNP Project work. The AGACNP concentration requires 118 quarter units, and the AGPCNP requires 119.

Admissions Requirements — To apply for LLU's DNP programs, you'll need:

• A BSN with a cumulative and science GPA of 3.0 or higher
• At least one year of full-time RN experience in an adult critical care setting (e.g., ICU, Trauma, Neuro Intensive Care)
• Three letters of recommendation (from clergy, ICU Nurse Manager or Supervisor, and an RN colleague)
• A personal statement

Application Deadlines — LLU offers two start dates:

• Fall start deadline: March 5th
• Winter start deadline: September 15th

Financial Aid — LLU offers various financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, Federal Work Study (FWS), and loans. 

8. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

UCSF offers BSN-DNP pathways in both AGACNP and AGPCNP concentrations, providing advanced training for nurses looking to further their careers in specialized areas of care.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible, Hybrid Learning: The 12-quarter program combines in-person and virtual courses.
• Expert Faculty & Mentorship: Learn from leading professionals in the field who are dedicated to nurturing your growth.

Clinical & Credit Hours — UCSF partners with top hospitals like UCSF Helen Diller Medical Center, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, and Stanford Health Care, giving you access to a wealth of diverse clinical environments. You'll complete over 1,000 clinical hours and around 70 credits in these programs.  

Admissions Requirements — To be considered for admission, you'll need:

• A BSN degree with a 3.0 GPA
• At least one year of RN experience
• A resume or CV
• A goal statement
• A personal statement
• Four letters of recommendation (one academic, three professional)

Application Deadlines — The final deadline to apply for the upcoming start date is January 13, 2025. 

Financial Aid — UCSF offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help you finance your education. 

What Is an AGNP Program?

AGNP programs prepare registered nurses to provide advanced care to adults across their lifespan, from young adulthood to older age, in either primary or acute care specialties. Primary care AGNPs focus on long-term health management, preventive care, and treatment of chronic illnesses in outpatient settings. Acute care AGNPs, on the other hand, are trained to manage and treat severe, sudden health issues, often working in hospitals, emergency rooms, or intensive care units. Both specializations aim to enhance patient outcomes through advanced clinical skills, comprehensive assessments, and evidence-based interventions tailored to the adult and geriatric populations.

AGNP Coursework

AGNP coursework typically includes:

• Advanced Health Assessment
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Clinical Decision Making
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Health Care Policy and Ethics
• Geriatric Syndromes and Care

AGNP Clinical Training

AGNP clinical training typically includes:

• Primary Care Clinical Practicum
• Acute Care Clinical Practicum
• Geriatric Care Clinical Practicum
• Specialty Clinical Rotations (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology, oncology)
• Clinical Simulation Labs
• Interprofessional Collaboration Exercises
• Community Health Practicum
• Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Labs
• Advanced Practice Nursing Preceptorship
• Capstone Project or Clinical Residency

AGNP Program Admission Requirements

Prospective students looking to become AGNPs must meet specific prerequisites and requirements to enroll in an AGNP program.

AGNP Prerequisites

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Typically required from an accredited nursing school.
• RN License: A current and unencumbered RN license.
• Clinical Experience: Relevant experience in adult gerontology or related settings.
• Undergraduate Coursework: Health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology courses.
• Minimum GPA: Usually around 3.0 or higher.

Additionally, prospective students will likely need to complete a criminal background check, health exam, immunizations if not up to date, and a drug test. 

AGNP Program Requirements

• Coursework Completion: Successful completion of all designated coursework, including advanced practice nursing and gerontological nursing theory.
• Clinical Practicum Hours: A specified number of supervised hours in adult-gerontological settings.
• Scholarly Project: Some programs may require a capstone or thesis project.
• Ongoing RN Licensure: Maintenance of an active RN license throughout the program.

AGNP Program Costs in California

The costs of AGNP programs in California can vary widely depending on several factors. Here's a general breakdown:

Tuition Fee Insights

• Resident vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Public universities often charge lower rates for state residents.
• Online Programs: Generally more cost-effective but still require clinical hours.
• Cost Per Credit Hour: DNP courses may be more expensive than MSN courses.

Additional Cost Considerations

• Books and Supplies: Textbook and supply costs can add up quickly.
• Technology Fees: Common in online or hybrid programs for digital resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Charged for courses requiring specific materials or equipment.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Include application, graduation, and administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Relevant for students who relocate or reduce work hours.
• Certification & Licensing Fees: Necessary for NP practice credentials.
• Opportunity Costs: Potential financial impact of reduced work hours.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or maintaining employment may affect program choice.

It's advised that students research financial aid opportunities, grants, and bursaries to help offset the costs of their education, and to further offset costs consider exploring the Most Affordable Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Programs 2025.

AGNP Salary Expectations in California

The earnings of an AGNP can differ significantly, influenced by factors such as the location, work experience, the type of industry one is in, education attained, and certifications earned.

Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NPs earn a mean annual wage of $124,680 or $59.94 hourly.

Top-Paying States for NPs

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

While the BLS doesn't provide a detailed breakdown for each NP specialty, ZipRecruiter fills this gap by reporting that the national annual salary for AGNPs stands at $242,952, equivalent to $117 per hour.

Top-Paying States for AGNPs

• New Jersey: $269,226
• Wisconsin: $262,923
• Alaska: $256,416
• Massachusetts: $256,069
• Oregon: $255,244

AGNP Career Outlook 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Nurse Practitioner profession is rapidly expanding, with an expected growth of 38% between 2022 and 2032, significantly outpacing the average for other occupations. This surge is attributed to the increasing number of older adults and a healthcare industry trend that favors NPs in primary care roles.

In focusing on AGNPs, the growth becomes even more pronounced. The aging baby boomer generation, coupled with a looming healthcare provider shortfall, is set to intensify demand. As the boomer generation transitions into retirement, the strain on healthcare resources will grow, compounded by the heightened care requirements of an aging population. This demographic shift underscores the critical role AGNPs will play in addressing the complex healthcare needs of an expanding elderly cohort.

Importance of Picking an Accredited AGNP Program in California

Attending an accredited AGNP program in California is crucial for several reasons, which are essential for both the immediate and long-term success of your nursing career.

• Education Standards: Adherence to rigorous criteria for curriculum, faculty, resources, and clinical training.
• Compliance with Regulations: Guaranteed to meet important federal and state educational standards.
• Clinical Training: Ensures required clinical hours and high-quality clinical experiences.
• APRN Licensure: Typically required for state APRN licensing.
• Certification Exams: Accredited programs offer thorough preparation for FNP certification exams.
• Credit Transfers: Credits from accredited programs transfer more easily to other institutions.
• Professional Credibility: Graduation from an accredited program boosts your professional reputation.
• Employment Prospects: Employers prefer candidates from accredited programs.
• Financial Aid: Many financial aid options and scholarships are available only to students in accredited programs.

For these reasons, students should ensure their programs of interest are accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

AGNP Programs Near Me

Discover AGNP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the differences between the primary care and acute care AGNP tracks?

Primary Care AGNP: This track focuses on long-term, comprehensive healthcare for adults and the elderly, often in outpatient settings like clinics, private practices, or long-term care facilities. Primary care AGNPs are trained to manage chronic conditions, provide preventive care, and promote healthy aging. They often build ongoing relationships with patients and may coordinate care across various specialties.

Acute Care AGNP: This track prepares nurse practitioners to work in fast-paced, high-intensity environments such as hospitals, emergency rooms, or intensive care units. Acute care AGNPs are trained to manage sudden, severe health issues, including complex and critical conditions. Their role is more episodic, focusing on stabilization, immediate treatment, and managing acute symptoms or injuries.

Choosing Between Tracks: The decision between primary care and acute care often depends on your career goals and preferred work environment. If you enjoy developing long-term relationships with patients and prefer a steady, outpatient setting, primary care may be for you. On the other hand, if you thrive in high-pressure situations and enjoy the challenge of treating critical conditions, acute care might be a better fit.

What types of clinical experiences are included in AGNP programs?

AGNP programs typically include a variety of clinical rotations to expose students to different patient populations and healthcare settings. For primary care AGNPs, clinical experiences may involve working in outpatient clinics, community health centers, and long-term care facilities. For acute care AGNPs, clinical rotations might take place in hospitals, emergency departments, and specialty units like cardiology or intensive care. These experiences are designed to build competency in diagnosing and managing the specific health concerns of adult and elderly patients in both routine and complex scenarios.

What certification exams are required after completing an AGNP program?

After completing an AGNP program, graduates must pass a certification exam to become licensed and practice as an AGNP. For primary care AGNPs, the most common exams are offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). For acute care AGNPs, certification is typically through the ANCC or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). Each exam assesses the candidate's knowledge and skills specific to their chosen track, ensuring they are prepared to provide high-quality care to their patients.