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

Learn More About Massachusetts' Top AGNP Programs

The Bay State provides an excellent foundation for aspiring Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners, with its world-renowned hospitals, community health centers, and initiatives aimed at advancing healthcare across urban and suburban areas. Massachusetts emphasizes innovative, patient-centered care and offers diverse clinical training opportunities to prepare AGNPs for various practice environments.

This section highlights Massachusetts' leading acute and primary care AGNP programs, detailing key features, admission requirements, and financial aid options to support your advanced nursing journey.

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

1. University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School

Starting off strong, the Tan Chiongfen Graduate School of Nursing at UMass Chan delivers unparalleled opportunities for nursing professionals ready to advance their expertise. Whether you're aiming for a BSN to DNP or a Post-Graduate Certificate in the AGACNP or AGPCNP, UMass Chan sets the gold standard for nursing education.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Learning Options: In-person clinical practicums combined with online coursework tailored to your schedule.
• World-Class Resources: Access to a state-of-the-art simulation center and the prestigious UMass Memorial Medical Center, Massachusetts' only public academic health sciences center.
• Concentration Options: NP students can further specialize in sub-specialties such as critical care, palliative care, cancer care, and women's health, adding depth to their expertise.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The BSN-DNP tracks both involve 67 credit hours and more than 1,000 clinical hours, whereas the Post-Master's Certificates involve 18 credit hours. Students' placements are arranged for them across Massachusetts.

Admissions Requirements — Here's what you need to apply:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• A statistics course with a B- or higher (DNP track)
• Two professional or academic letters of recommendation
• A personal statement
• A video Essay
• Current resume or CV
• Prerequisite courses in Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Health Assessment (Post-Graduate Certificate track)

Application Deadlines — UMass is competitive! Apply by the priority deadline for maximum consideration:

• Priority Admission (Scholarship Consideration): February 2nd
• Final Deadline: April 6th

Financial Aid — UMass Chan provides access to federal and institutional loans, scholarships, and need-based aid. Priority applicants are considered for the Chancellor and Nightingale Scholarships, making your dream of advanced nursing education more affordable.

2. Boston College (BC)

BC's Connell School of Nursing AGPCNP DNP program is your gateway to becoming a leader in nursing, whether you're a post-baccalaureate RN looking to elevate your practice or a master's-prepared nurse ready to reach your full potential! 

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Unmatched Support: With a small faculty-to-student ratio, you'll receive individualized mentorship and guidance.
• Mission-Driven Focus: Rooted in BC's Jesuit values, the program emphasizes service to others and the translation of research into practical solutions.

Clinical & Credit Hours —  You'll rotate through three to six clinical sites, including top hospitals and community-based clinics, for a well-rounded, immersive experience. Here's the breakdown of both programs:

• BSN-DNP: 71 credits and 1,000 clinical hours
• MSN-DNP: 33 credits and 1,000 clinical hours 

Admissions Requirements — Here's what you need to apply to BC's prestigious programs:

• A BSN or MSN with a GPA of B or higher
• A completed course in statistics 
• A resume
• A goal statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• GRE preferred but not required

Application Deadlines — BC offers an early application and regular application cycle:

• Early Application Deadline: October 1
• Regular Application Deadline: December 1

Financial Aid — BC is committed to making graduate education accessible. With 72% of Master's and DNP students receiving financial aid, funding options include scholarships, fellowships, grants, tuition remission, and assistantships. 

3. Salem State University

Salem State offers a flexible part-time AGPCNP MSN program designed to accommodate working professionals.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Evening Flexibility: The program offers evening classes for more balance.
• Duration: Complete the program in three to three-and-a-half years.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The program includes 45 credit hours.

Admissions Requirements — To apply, you'll need:

• A BSN with strong academic performance
• Three professional references
• Satisfactory GRE scores
• A 500- to 1,000-word statement of purpose

Application Deadlines — With year-round application cycles, you can start in Spring, Summer, or fall. Once your application is complete, expect an admission decision within three to four weeks. Students are accepted on a rolling basis. 

Financial Aid — Salem State participates in federal financial aid programs. Complete your FAFSA to explore all of your funding options.

4. Northeastern University

Consider Northeastern's Bouve College of Health Sciences for your next step in nursing. Their AGACNP and AGPCNP MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate programs are tailored to help you advance your expertise in adult-gerontology care.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Learning Options: Full-time or part-time study to accommodate your schedule.
• Hybrid Format: Online coursework with local in-person clinicals and three on-campus intensives.
• Duration: Complete your program in one to four years.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Northeastern has over 40 years of clinical partnerships with over 100 sites across Greater Boston and New England. You'll consult with your faculty advisors to choose the best clinical setting for you! Here's how the programs are structured, with both tracks having the same requirements:

• MSN: 43 semester hours
• Post-Graduate Certificate: 24 semester hours

Admissions Requirements - Candidates must have the following to apply:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Two years of acute care nursing experience
• A Statistics course (within last 5 years)
• Three letters of recommendation
• A resume or CV
• A letter of intent
• An interview (if required)

Application Deadlines — Both concentrations have different deadlines:

• AGACNP Deadline: August 1
• AGPCNP Deadline: June 1 (fall); November 15 (Spring)

Financial Aid — Northeastern provides extensive financial assistance, including scholarships, assistantships, and loans.

5. Elms College

Whether you're advancing from a BSN or expanding on an MSN, the Elms School of Nursing's AGACNP DNP track is designed for nurses dedicated to critical care and patient-centered practice.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Faculty Expertise: Learn from dedicated NPs who continue to practice in the field, ensuring the curriculum is rooted in the latest clinical standards.
• Duration: Programs typically take three to four years to complete.

Clinical & Credit Hours — You'll receive personalized assistance in securing clinical placements, giving you access to high-quality, hands-on learning experiences. The two entry options involve:

• BSN-DNP: 80 credit hours and 1,000 hours of clinical practicum
• MSN-DNP: 70 credit hours and 1,000 hours of clinical practicum 

Admissions Requirements — Want to join Elms? Here's what you'll need:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Two professional recommendations
• A personal statement 
• A resume or CV
• A phone or Zoom interview with the Program Director and/or Track Coordinator

Application Deadlines — Applications are reviewed continuously on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. 

Financial Aid — Elms College offers a range of financial aid options, including federal aid, loans, and scholarships. 

6. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

UMass Dartmouth College of Nursing and Health Sciences is another excellent option for aspiring nurse practitioners, offering comprehensive AGPCNP DNP and Post-Master's Certificate programs.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: The program is primarily online, with only one on-campus day per semester. 
• Small Class Sizes: Enjoy individualized attention due to the program's limited class sizes.
• Military Friendly: UMass Dartmouth supports military students with specialized recruitment and retention practices.

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

• BSN-DNP: 64 credit hours and 1,008 practicum hours
• MSN-DNP: 28 credit hours and 504 practicum hours
• Post-Graduate Certificate: 24 credit hours and 500 clinical hours 

Admissions Requirements — Applicants must:

• Hold a BSN or MSN with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Submit two letters of recommendation, one from a DNP-certified nurse and one from a nurse educator
• Submit a personal statement 

Application Deadlines — UMass Dartmouth has rolling admissions.

Financial Aid — UMass Dartmouth offers financial aid options, including scholarships and loan programs, with special opportunities for online students.

7. Regis College

Regis College offers diverse pathways for nurses seeking to advance their careers in acute and primary care, including online AGNP BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate programs.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• 100% Online, Flexible Learning: All programs are available entirely online.
• Pioneer Program: The first DNP program in  the Boston area.
• Duration: Complete your program in 28-36 months.
• A Legacy of Excellence and Faith: Founded in 1927, Regis is a Catholic university with a history of preparing nurses for leadership and excellence.

Success Metrics — At 93%, Regis' NP exam pass rates exceed national average.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Regis' curriculums are designed to meet the growing demand for skilled AGNPs. Both concentrations involve:

• BSN-MSN: 46 credits and 664 clinical hours
• BSN-DNP: 73 credits and 664 clinical hours
• Post-Graduate Certificate: 31-37 credits and 664 clinical hours

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

• A BSN, MSN, or DNP with a 3.0 GPA 
• One year of critical care experience for the AGACNP track (MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate)
• Completion of a college-level statistics course with a grade of 2.0 or better (MSN and DNP track)
• A resume
• A statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation

Application Deadlines — Make sure you submit your application by March 1st for the fall semester! Some programs also offer a Spring semester, with applications due by October 1st. After this, you'll be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Financial Aid — Regis University offers various ways to reduce tuition costs, including 10-15% discounts for employees of partner organizations, alumni, active military, veterans, and federal employees. Graduate assistantships are also available. 

8. University of Massachusetts Lowell

With a focus on leadership and evidence-based practice, UMass Lowell's Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences offers MSN and DNP programs in the AGPCNP track.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: Enjoy the convenience of a 100% online format with just four half-days of on-campus attendance
• Duration: Complete the program in as little as two years to as many as five 

Success Metrics — UMass Lowell has an impressive 92.3% pass rate for national nurse practitioner certification exams.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's how each program is structured:

• MSN: 45 credits and 750 clinical hours
• BSN-DNP: 75 credits and 1,000 clinical hours
• MSN-DNP: 33 credit hours and 750 clinical hours

UMass also offers a fast-track option for UMass Lowell Solomont School of Nursing BSN grads with a 3.5 or higher GPA.

Admissions Requirements — Prospective students need:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• An Introductory Statistics course (grade of B or better)
• Two letters of recommendation
• A resume
• A statement of purpose 

Application Deadlines — Stay on track with these deadlines:

• Summer Admission: March 1st
• Spring Admission: November 1st

Applications after the deadline are considered on a case-by-case basis if openings remain.

Financial Aid — UMass Lowell has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. They also offer numerous financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loan programs to make tuition affordable. 

9. MGH Institute of Health Professions

At the MGH Institute, nurses are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and hands-on experience to lead and innovate in the healthcare field. You can choose from an MSN in the AGACNP track or a dual track concentration in WHNP and AGPCNP.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Dynamic Learning Environment: Engage in a combination of online coursework and immersive, in-person clinical experiences.
• Pioneering Excellence: MGH Institute has a legacy of shaping top-tier nurse practitioners who impact patient care and leadership across the globe.
• Location: Situated in Boston, one of the world's most vibrant healthcare hubs.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The AGACNP program requires 48 credit hours, and the dual AGPCNP/WHNP is a 61-credit track with more than 600 clinical hours for both. Students have access to over 600 clinical placement sites across an extensive network. 

Admissions Requirements — To apply, you'll need:

• A BSN with a 3.0 GPA
• An undergraduate Statistics course with a C or higher
• Two letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

Application Deadlines — The deadline for the fall cohort is March 1st. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the class is filled.

Financial Aid — MGH Institute offers multiple options to help finance your education, including institutional scholarships, payment plans, and federal financial aid.

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 Massachusetts

The costs of AGNP programs in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts

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 Massachusetts

Attending an accredited AGNP program in Massachusetts 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.