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

Learn More About Texas' Top Adult-Gerontology NP Programs  

The Lone Star State offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners, with its expansive healthcare systems and focus on serving diverse communities. Texas provides AGNP students with access to clinical experiences across a range of settings, from metropolitan medical centers to rural health clinics, addressing the state's unique healthcare needs.

This section highlights Texas' leading AGNP programs in acute and primary care, outlining their distinctive features, admission requirements, and financial aid options to help guide your path in advanced nursing practice.

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

1. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio)

Leading our list of top AGNP programs in Texas, UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing offers a comprehensive Post-Graduate Certificate and DNP program specializing in AGACNP, providing advanced training for acute care practice.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Hybrid Learning: A perfect blend of online coursework and on-campus sessions, with in-person attendance just one to three days a week, depending on your schedule (full-time or part-time).

Clinical & Credit Hours — The tracks follow these study plans:

• Post-Graduate Certificate: 16 credit hours and 660 clinical hours
• DNP: 76 credit hours, 360 DNP project hours, and 720 advanced practice clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — Here's what it takes to be considered for admission to these top programs:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• Grades of B or better in advanced Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology (Post-Graduate Certificate)
• Three professional references
• A current resume or CV (DNP)
• An essay (DNP)
• An admissions interview (DNP)
• One year of acute care, ICU, or ER nursing experience (DNP)

Application Deadlines — Applications for the Spring term are due by August 1st.

Financial Aid — With over 40 scholarships up for grabs, you can focus less on funding and more on your future!

2. Baylor University

Baylor University's DNP program offers a focused and comprehensive approach to preparing nurses for advanced practice in adult-gerontology acute care.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: Complete most coursework online, complemented by on-campus immersions.
• Highly-Ranked: Ranked higher than 98% of nursing schools in Texas and 83% higher than DNP programs nationwide.
• Duration: Complete your NP degree in just over three years.

Clinical & Credit Hours — This DNP track involves 75 credit hours and 1,125 practicum hours. You'll receive clinical placement support to find the perfect site to hone your skills!

Admissions Requirements — Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a BSN with a 3.0 GPA
• Have one year of full-time nursing experience by the first day of class
• Submit a personal statement
• Submit three letters of recommendation (one from a supervisor, one from a peer nurse, and one from a master's or doctoral-prepared nurse)

Application Deadlines — Applications open on February 1st and close on August 1st annually.

Financial Aid — Baylor supports your goals with a variety of financial aid options.

3. University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)

UTMB at Galveston stands out as a pioneer in nursing education, offering innovative MSN, DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate programs that cater to the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Dual Track Excellence: UTMB is the first and only nurse practitioner program in Texas to offer a dual FNP and AGACNP track.
• Flexible Learning: A dynamic online format with a classroom feel and small classes for personalized learning.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's the breakdown of these tracks:

• Dual FNP-AGACNP DNP: 87 credit hours
• Post-Graduate AGACNP Certificate: 15-17 credit hours 
• AGACNP & AGPCNP MSN: 49 credit hours

Admissions Requirements — Hoping to get into UTMB? Here's what you'll need:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA 
• At least one year of recent RN experience at the time of application
• A resume
• A personal statement 
• Three references (one professional, one academic, and one clinical manager/authority)
• A personal interview with faculty

Application Deadlines — Each program begins in the fall, with these deadlines:

• MSN Program Deadline: March 15th
• DNP Program Deadline: June 1st
• Post-Graduate Certificates: June 1st

Financial Aid — UTMB's Financial Aid Office provides exceptional support, guiding students through financial aid processes, budgeting strategies, and debt management.

4. Texas Woman's University (TWU)

With its rich history and commitment to innovation, the College of Nurisng at TWU is known for breaking barriers and empowering leaders in nursing, education, healthcare, and beyond. This school offers MSN and Post-Grad Certificate programs in both the AGACNP and AGPCNP specialties. 

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Focused Learning: The program emphasizes exposure to the full spectrum of high-acuity patient needs, ensuring graduates are ready to excel in acute care environments.
• Exclusive to Texas Residents: While online learning is remote, clinical hours must be completed in Texas, making the AGACNP MSN program only available to residents.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Both specialties have the same curriculum requirements: 

• MSN: 45 semester credit hours 
• Post-Master's Certificate: 27 semester credit hours

Admissions Requirements — Dreaming of joining TWU? Here's a checklist:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA (may be considered with a lower GPA)
• At least one year of experience in an acute care environment (AGACNP track)
• Completion of graduate-level Physical Assessment, Pharmacology, and Pathophysiology courses with a grade of B or higher (Post-Grad)

Application Deadlines — You can join the fall or Spring cohort:

• Fall Admission Deadline: February 15th
• Spring Admission Deadline: September 15th

Financial Aid — TWU makes higher education accessible with robust financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, employment, loans, and more.

5. University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

UTA stands out as a distinguished institution, providing MSN and Post-Master's Certificate programs in both AGACNP and AGPCNP specialties.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Formats: Programs are available in campus-based or accelerated online formats.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Both AGACNP and AGPCNP programs require:

• MSN: 41 semester credit hours and 720 clinical hours
• Post-Master's Certificate: Individually customized based on a gap analysis of the applicant's MSN transcript and experience

Admissions Requirements — Considering applying to UTA? Here's what you'll need for unconditional admission:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• Two years as an RN in an acute care setting (AGACNP track)
• Undergraduate-level Statistics with a minimum grade of C 
• Students may be admitted with lower GPAs, but it won't be unconditional. Additionally, you'll need GRE scores.

Application Deadlines — With rolling admissions and multiple start dates, UTA's flexible schedule accommodates all students.

Financial Aid — UTA awards over $500 million annually in financial aid, ensuring affordability and support for its students. From scholarships and grants to work-study programs and loans, the financial aid staff is dedicated to guiding students through the entire process.

6. Texas Christian University (TSU)

TSU's AGACNP DNP is designed to develop exceptional practitioners who excel in providing advanced care for critically, acutely, and chronically ill patients across the lifespan.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• 100% Online Learning: Enjoy the convenience of a fully online program. 
• Flexible Pace: Choose between three- or four-year tracks.
• Clinical & Research Opportunities: Engage in impactful clinical practice and research with 20 distinct areas of interest.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The program requires 70 credit hours and a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. Practicum placements are coordinated near you for convenience.

Admissions Requirements — Thinking of applying to TSU? Here's what you'll need to get started:

• A BSN from an accredited institution with a preferred GPA of 3.0
• At least one year of full-time RN experience in an acute care setting 
• A professional resume or CV 
• A two-page personal statement
• Three professional references from supervisors, faculty, or other nursing professionals
• An interview

Application Deadlines — Apply in Spring or fall:

• Spring Admission: Apply by October 30th 
• Fall Admission: Apply by June 1st

Financial Aid — TSU is committed to making education accessible, with a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options.

7. University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)

Finishing our top 7 list in Texas, UTEP provides MSN and Post-Master's Certificate programs tailored for future AGACNPs.

Key AGNP Program Highlights

• Blended Flexibility: Enjoy a mix of online coursework and immersive in-person classes.
• Tailored Learning: Benefit from innovative simulation labs that replicate real-life scenarios.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The programs involve:

• MSN: 49 credit hours and 720 clinical hours
• Post-Graduate Certificate: 29 credits and 675 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — UTEP's AGACNP program is competitive yet accessible. Here's what you'll need:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Two to three years of critical care in ICU/CCU settings 

Application Deadlines — UTEP has two application deadlines:

• Spring Start: Apply by November 8th
• Fall Start: Apply by July 11th

Financial Aid — UTEP's financial aid team will work with you to create a financial package that makes your education more accessible!

Note: The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston AGNP program has been on hold since 2023.

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 Texas

The costs of AGNP programs in Texas 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 Texas

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 are:

• 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 are:

• 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 Texas

Attending an accredited AGNP program in Texas 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

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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.