Best AGNP Programs in Colorado | 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 Colorado - Online & On-Campus

Learn More About Colorado's Top AGNP Programs

The Centennial State, known for its picturesque landscapes and progressive healthcare policies, offers an excellent environment for aspiring Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners. Colorado boasts renowned hospitals, community health centers, and healthcare initiatives aimed at improving rural and urban health outcomes. With its focus on integrated healthcare and patient-centered care, Colorado provides diverse clinical training opportunities to prepare AGNPs for a variety of practice settings.

This section highlights Colorado's top acute and primary care AGNP programs, detailing 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 Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (CU Anschutz)

CU Anschutz College of Nursing offers innovative, patient-centered programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in acute and primary care settings. Pathways include BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate option

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Leader in Nursing Education: CU Anschutz's College of Nursing is recognized as a trailblazer in the field and the birthplace of the nurse practitioner program .
• Duration: Programs take one to four years to complete.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's what these specialized tracks involve:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
  • AGACNP MSN: 56 credit hours and 720 clinical hours
  • AGACNP BSN-DNP: 75 credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours 
  • AGACNP Post-Master's Certificate: 16 credit hours and 360 clinical hours 
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
  • AGPCNP MSN: 45 credit hours and 540 clinical hours 
  • AGPCNP BSN-DNP: 74 credit hours and 1,080 clinical hours 
  • AGPCNP Post-Master's Certificate: 25 credit hours and 540 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — To apply, applicants need:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• A CV or resume
• An essay
• Three letters of reference (one academic)
• A Research and Statistics course (MSN track)

Application Deadlines — CU Anschutz encourages early application submission to NursingCAS (six to eight weights prior to the deadlines). Plan around these key dates:

• Fall Admission: Apply by January 15 (priority), with extended deadlines for Direct and Indirect Care through April and July
• Spring Admission: Priority deadline July 1; final extended deadline November 1
• Summer Admission: Apply by May 12

Financial Aid — CU Anschutz awarded over $500,000 in scholarships this year alone. They also offer emergency loan funds, veteran services, and reduced tuition options to make your education accessible. However, keep in mind that Post-Master's students are not eligible for scholarships. 

2. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS)

Celebrated for its student-centered approach and community impact, UCCS prepares nurses to step confidently into advanced practice and leadership roles through its AGPCNP BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate programs.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Pathways: UCCS's programs are completely online and tailored for both full-time and part-time students.
• Expert Faculty and Support: The Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences is home to distinguished faculty.
• Duration: Most tracks are completed in less than three years.

Success Metrics — 100% of AGNP grads pass their certification exams. 

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's what each track entails: 

• BSN-MSN: 47 credit hours and 630 clinical hours
• BSN-DNP: 70 credit hours and 1,170 clinical hours
• MSN-DNP: 33 credit hours and 540 clinical hours
• Post-Master's Certificate: 25 credit hours and 630 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — You'll need these materials to apply to UCCS:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• A CV or resume 
• Responses to essay questions

Application Deadlines — UCCS accepts applications year-round with three start dates each year. Some programs only offer Spring starts:

• Spring semester priority deadline: January 5
• Summer semester priority deadline: May 5
• Fall semester priority deadline: August 5

Financial Aid — UCCS offers various financial aid options to support your educational journey, including scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans.

3. University of Northern Colorado (UNC)

The UNC School of Nursing offers a single path to becoming an AGACNP through its DNP program, emphasizing holistic, participative care and empowering students to make a meaningful impact in healthcare practice.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Commitment to Excellence: UNC's School of Nursing is made of experts dedicated to producing top practitioners who are ready to lead in dynamic healthcare environments.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The AGACNP DNP track is a rigorous program totaling 94 credits and over 1,000 clinical hours.

Admissions Requirements — To qualify for the AGACNP program at UNC, applicants need:

• A BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• At least one year of clinical experience as an RN in an acute care setting
• Three letters of reference from faculty, supervisors, or colleagues
• A sample of professional writing (up to 10 pages)
• A resume or CV 
• A personal statement
• An interview may be required for final consideration

Application Deadlines — The application deadline is February 1 each year. 

Financial Aid — Approximately 70% of UNC students receive some form of financial aid, and UNC is committed to making education accessible. Graduate students have options for assistantships and scholarships as well.

4. Colorado Mesa University (CMU)

CMU's MSN program prepares AGPCNPs to provide comprehensive care in diverse settings, from urban centers to rural communities, emphasizing adaptability and patient-centered practice.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Format: Delivered in an online format, CMU's MSN program lets you study from your home community, with occasional travel required for clinical rotations or intensive focus sessions.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Complete a 46-credit MSN with at least 750 clinical hours.

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

• A BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• A Statement of Goals
• A current resume or CV
• Two recommendations attesting to your academic and professional potential

Application Deadlines — The application deadline for fall admission is July 1 each year.

Financial Aid — CMU is dedicated to supporting its students financially through an array of self-help options, scholarships, and grants. File your FAFSA early to explore available financial aid and find the best path to achieve your educational dreams!

5. Colorado State University-Pueblo (CSU Pueblo)

CSU Pueblo provides multiple pathways to becoming an AGACNP, including BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate programs, each designed to support advanced practice and career growth.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Hybrid Learning: Engage with a blend of online coursework and hands-on clinical hours 

Success Metrics — 80% of graduates will pass the national certification exam on the first try and be employed in role-related professional practice within six months of graduation! 

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here are the study plans for each AGACNP program:

• BSN-MSN: 53-59 credit hours with at least 900 clinical hours
• BSN-DNP: 83 credit hours with 1,320 clinical hours
• Post-Master's Certificate: 24-26 credit hours with 585 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — To be considered for admission to these programs, students must have:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Successful completion of prerequisites like Statistics, Microbiology, and Chemistry, with grades of C or better
• Three letters of recommendation (professional, academic, and clinical)
• A letter of intent 
• A current CV 
• Special preference is given to Post-Master's Certificate applicants that:
• Have at least 2,000 hours (1 year full-time) as a registered nurse
• Reside in Southern Colorado or those who are CSU Pueblo alumni

Financial Aid — CSU Pueblo offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help ease the cost of 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 Colorado

The costs of AGNP programs in Colorado 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 Colorado

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 Colorado

Attending an accredited AGNP program in Colorado 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.