Walden is the No. 1 educator among MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP programs in the U.S.
Guide your patients throughout their healthcare journey with Walden’s MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) online program—and see why we’re the No. 1 choice for MSN AGPCNP programs in the U.S.
In this specialization, you’ll learn from practicing NPs as you gain the advanced training to oversee the health and well-being of people ages 13 and older. Build the skills and confidence needed to deliver quality primary care and make a life-changing impact for the patients and communities you serve.
We support you beyond graduation. Build on the skills and knowledge from your Walden MSN program with no-cost test prep. Prepare for the ANCC and AANP AGPCNP board exams through practice tests, expert Q&As, and more.
SUPPORT FOR YOUR PRACTICUM
Our Practicum Pledge® provides a collaborative, dedicated process to help you find a well-suited and timely practicum match.
REAL WORLD READY
Build practical skills and the confidence to use them through immersive, interactive technology and AI training.
SKILLS FOR CLINICAL SUCCESS
Prepare for your practicum with our virtual skills lab, featuring engaging videos, virtual labs, assessments, and faculty support.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Choose the BSN-MSN track if you hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Featured BSN to MSN AGPCNP Courses
Advanced practice nurses must be equipped with an in-depth understanding of pathophysiological disease processes across the lifespan. In this course, students focus on understanding the bio-physiological processes, the deviations from these processes, and an in-depth examination of the scientific concepts related to the biology of disease processes. Advanced practice nursing students build on their knowledge of normal organ systems functioning to help organ systems return to optimal homeostasis. Through knowledge of pathophysiological disease processes, students synthesize the information needed to develop appropriate treatment plans for patients across the life span. Students explore a variety of topics regarding organ system diseases.
In this didactic course, graduate nurse practitioner students develop advanced knowledge and skills to perform comprehensive and focused health assessments across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on integrating cultural, ethical, and developmental considerations into patient evaluation and applying clinical decision-making to determine the appropriate scope of assessment. Students use diagnostic reasoning to analyze health histories, physical examination findings, and diagnostic data to formulate differential diagnoses and patient-centered treatment plans. Learning experiences include simulation and case-based activities that emphasize prevention, risk assessment, and clinical competence.
In this didactic course, students develop advanced knowledge and clinical reasoning skills for the evidence-based management of adult populations across the lifespan in primary care settings. Emphasis is placed on the pathophysiology, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of common acute and chronic health conditions. Students apply current clinical practice guidelines, differential diagnosis frameworks, and health promotion strategies to deliver safe, person-centered care. Through case studies, virtual simulations, and evidence-based analysis, learners refine clinical decision-making, diagnostic reasoning, and the integration of social determinants of health into care planning. The course also highlights interprofessional collaboration, cultural humility, and the use of informatics to enhance quality, safety, and equity in advanced clinical practice.
In this didactic course, students develop advanced knowledge and clinical judgment to manage the complex healthcare needs of older adults across the lifespan in acute and primary care settings. Emphasis is placed on planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic regimens that address the physical, cognitive, and functional changes associated with aging. Students apply evidence-based principles to conduct comprehensive assessments, identify age-related vulnerabilities, and promote healthy aging. The course also examines end-of-life care, caregiver support, and the influence of implicit bias on equitable care delivery. Learners engage in self-reflection and critical analysis to strengthen inclusive, person-centered practice and improve the quality of life for older adult populations.
Role Transition for Advanced Practice: In this final didactic course, students synthesize advanced professional knowledge to support the transition from registered nurse to advanced practice nurse. Emphasis is placed on professional identity formation, leadership development, ethical and legal decision-making, and regulatory preparation for certification and licensure. Students explore practice management, interprofessional collaboration, and strategies for delivering safe, high-quality, and equitable care. Learning activities foster self-assessment, reflective practice, and the development of individualized career and professional transition plans. The course prepares learners for successful entry into advanced clinical practice and lifelong professional growth as nurse practitioners.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Choose the RN-MSN track if you are a registered nurses (RN) who holds a hospital diploma, associate degree in nursing, or bachelor’s degree other than BSN.
Featured RN to MSN AGPCNP Courses
This course addresses the baccalaureate prepared nurse’s role in advancing population health. Students will focus on strategies to reduce health inequities, identify social determinants of health, improve health promotion, and disease prevention for culturally diverse, vulnerable populations; thereby improving the health of local, national, and global communities. Students consider the role of nursing in strengthening population health through effective collaboration across healthcare settings.
This course will explore established and emerging principles of safety and quality improvement science. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how quality is measured, tracked, and improved in healthcare. The objective of this course is to empower the nursing professional to use knowledge and skills in the science of quality improvement and improve clinical outcomes for patients and their families.
Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings
In this didactic course, students develop advanced knowledge and clinical reasoning skills for the evidence-based management of adult populations across the lifespan in primary care settings. Emphasis is placed on the pathophysiology, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of common acute and chronic health conditions. Students apply current clinical practice guidelines, differential diagnosis frameworks, and health promotion strategies to deliver safe, person-centered care. Through case studies, virtual simulations, and evidence-based analysis, learners refine clinical decision-making, diagnostic reasoning, and the integration of social determinants of health into care planning. The course also highlights interprofessional collaboration, cultural humility, and the use of informatics to enhance quality, safety, and equity in advanced clinical practice.
In this didactic course, students develop advanced knowledge and clinical judgment to manage the complex healthcare needs of older adults across the lifespan in acute and primary care settings. Emphasis is placed on planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic regimens that address the physical, cognitive, and functional changes associated with aging. Students apply evidence-based principles to conduct comprehensive assessments, identify age-related vulnerabilities, and promote healthy aging. The course also examines end-of-life care, caregiver support, and the influence of implicit bias on equitable care delivery. Learners engage in self-reflection and critical analysis to strengthen inclusive, person-centered practice and improve the quality of life for older adult populations
BSN to DNP/PhD in Nursing
If you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your bachelor’s in nursing degree, you can use these tracks to get started on your doctoral nursing degree.
Admissions
You’ll work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from finding the right program to funding your education.
Requirements
Elevate your nursing expertise with an MSN AGPCNP online. Our efficient admissions process makes it simple to take the first step toward positioning yourself for new opportunities.
Get started with:
No application fee
Easy credit transfer
No essay or SAT/ACT requirement
Program Admission Considerations (RN-MSN): Registered nurses who hold a hospital diploma, associate degree in nursing, or bachelor’s degree other than BSN
Program Admission Considerations (BSN-MSN): A bachelor's degree or higher
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts
- The Technical Standards Policy Form, a statement of understanding of the MSN NP practicum requirements.
- Additional Walden admission criteria required. Contact an Enrollment Specialist for more details.
More information for international applicants.
Tuition and Scholarships
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are here to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.
Tuition Breakdown
You’re ready to be a front-line advocate for your patients. We’re ready to help you make your education more attainable through student-specific savings.
Tuition Savings
Transfer Credit
Scholarships
Stay Inspired. Stay on Track. Save Money.
Discover progress-based savings that inspire you to stay on track to graduation.
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | AMOUNT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 58 quarter credits | $785 per quarter credit | $45,530 |
| Program Fee | Per quarter | $185 | $1,295 |
| Clinical Course Fee | 4 courses (PRAC) | $160 | $640 |
$47,465* | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,280 | ||
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 25 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,800 to $2,500; this includes a mandatory clinical skills resource required during NURS/DNRS 6512 at a cost of $299. Students may also incur additional costs related to practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
†*Represents BSN-MSN track, minimum time to completion, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 26 RN Foundational quarter credits | $435 per quarter credit | $11,310 |
| 58 MSN quarter credits | $785 per quarter credit | $45,530 | |
| Program Fee | Per quarter | $185 | $1,850 |
| Clinical Course Fee | 4 courses (PRAC) | $160 | $640 |
$59,330* | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,280 | ||
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 40 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,800 to $2,500; this includes a mandatory clinical skills resource required during NURS/DNRS 6512 at a cost of $299. Students may also incur additional costs related to practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
†*Represents RN-MSN track, minimum time to completion, and Believe and Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary.
Personalized Practicum Support
After you register for the Walden University Practicum Pledge® (along with other requirements), if you can’t identify a site and preceptor, our dedicated Field Placement Team partners with you to secure your site and preceptor to help you find a match. This enhanced support gives you added confidence as you start your online MSN program.
Career Opportunities
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners provide primary or specialty care, working independently or as part of a healthcare team.
Expected growth: 46%1
Estimated annual wage: $94,530–$140,6101
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the (include applicable program) program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th - 75th percentile.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing this specialization, graduates will be prepared to:
Synthesize organizational/systems leadership for cost-effective specialist nursing practice that contributes to high-quality healthcare delivery, advancement of the nursing profession, and social change.
Critique evidence-based literature drawing from diverse theoretical perspectives and pertinent research to guide decision making that demonstrates best practices for specialist nursing practice in a global society.
Integratively assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate cost-effective healthcare strategies that reduce health disparities by patient/population advocacy for access to specialist nursing care.
Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate using audience-specific oral, written, and information technology for professional delivery of specialist nursing care.
Evaluate health needs of diverse populations for necessary teaching/coaching functions based on specialist nursing knowledge to restore/promote health and prevent illness/injury.
Exhibit ongoing commitment to professional development and value of nursing theories/ethical principles (altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice) in accordance with ethically responsible, legally accountable, specialist nursing practice.
Implement specialist nursing roles to promote quality improvement of patient-centered care in accordance with professional practice standards that transform health outcomes for diverse populations.
Meet Your Academic Team
Experience unwavering support from our faculty of nurse practitioners, who are passionate about fostering your growth and achievement.
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MSN AGPCNP FAQ
In general, primary care refers to clinic-based medical care where you might see a patient multiple times over many years and perform care in a multitude of areas such as health promotion and maintenance, disease prevention, counseling and education, and the diagnosis and treatment of both acute and chronic illnesses.
Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners (AGPCNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who effectively manage disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care in patients ages 13 years and older. Depending on state regulations, AGPCNPs may practice independently or collaboratively.. AGPCNPs provide holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based care.
AGPCNPs assess, diagnose, treat, and manage a variety of health issues. They can effectively implement and facilitate disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care interventions. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to determine the most comprehensive line of care for their patients. AGPCNPs provide age-appropriate wellness promotion and disease prevention services, weighing the costs, risks, and benefits to individuals. They are licensed to provide care for patients from adolescence across their lifespan.
Our MSN AGPCNP online program is designed for working nurses. Program features include:
- Accessible Learning Environment
Walden’s MSN AGPCNP online classrooms feature current learning technologies, media, and support materials. With interactive simulations, engaging case studies, a robust online library, and NP exam prep tests, you will have a well-rounded educational experience. - Comprehensive Student Support
Walden offers a robust support staff—including Student Success Advisors and practicum coordinators—to assist students. - Preparation for National Certification
Students in Walden’s MSN AGPCNP online program will be academically prepared to sit for the national certification exam for adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner upon graduation. Qualifications to sit for certification exams are determined by the certifying body.
After you successfully complete your Master of Scie nce in Nursing (MSN) program with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialization, you will need to pursue licensure and certification. AGPCNP licensure requirements are set at the state level, meaning each state’s nursing board has the authority to determine the requirements for licensure. It’s best for individuals to check with their state board of nursing for licensure and certification requirements; however, the vast majority of states require individuals to be certified by a national certification board.
Each national certification exam is a competency-based examination that tests clinical knowledge in specific focus areas. Each autonomous national nursing certification board assesses entry-level nurse practitioner knowledge and practice competencies required to provide safe and quality healthcare. There are two primary national certification boards that offer the exams necessary for credentialing AGPCNPs: the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
An AGPCNP who is certified has fulfilled the requirements of a national certification board. Certification boards do not license individuals as AGPCNPs. In order for an individual to be licensed as an AGPCNP, individuals must meet the requirements set forth by their state nursing board.
Yes. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
CCNE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency. In 2020, the MSN program at Walden University received a 10-year accreditation reaffirmation through Dec. 31, 2030.
Walden is the No. 1 educator among MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP programs in the U.S. Didactic coursework in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program is online, making it possible to earn your degree while you continue to work. Walden students can attend on a part-time or full-time basis. In addition, students are taught by 100% doctorally prepared faculty in their didactic courses.
Walden offers unparalleled support services that include a robust online library, Student Success Advisors, practicum support staff, career planning and development, and more.
A nursing practicum gives you valuable practical experience by allowing you to apply your new knowledge and skills in real-life situations and settings. Although you’re responsible for initiating your search for a field site based on your location preferences, for the nurse practitioner (NP) specializations in our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, Walden offers Practicum Pledge®.
You will benefit from our large network of field sites and preceptors as well as a dedicated Field Placement Team that partners with you to identify a site and preceptor. If you’re unable to identify your own nursing practicum site and preceptor after several attempts (along with additional requirements), we’ll assist in finding you a suitable match.
With flexible full-time or part-time study, all courses are available each quarter to allow timely program completion. The online format is convenient for working nursing professionals. The Walden University Practicum Pledge® helps students with placements in clinical settings.
AGPCNPs provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to adults of all ages. Their services include disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care for adolescents and adults. They are licensed to offer age-appropriate wellness promotion and disease prevention services for patients ages 13 and older. Additionally, AGPCNPs assess, diagnose, treat, and manage various health issues, and work with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans.
The primary difference between an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) and an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) lies in their focus of care and work environments.
An AGPCNP provides comprehensive, preventive, and continuous healthcare to patients aged 13 and older in clinic-based settings. Their responsibilities include managing chronic health issues, promoting healthy lifestyles, and referring patients to specialists when needed. They typically work in private clinics, ambulatory care centers, school settings, and long-term care facilities.
In contrast, an AGACNP specializes in diagnosing and treating seriously ill patients from adolescence to older adults in high-acuity environments. Their role involves rapid intervention for acute illnesses or exacerbations of chronic conditions, managing patients throughout their hospital stay, and collaborating with specialists and physicians. AGACNPs commonly work in inpatient hospitals, emergency departments, intensive care units, and acute-care/minor-emergency centers.
Both specializations require a Master of Science in Nursing and similar certification processes, including 640 supervised clinical hours in their chosen specialization.
A primary care nurse practitioner (NP) focuses on continuous, preventive healthcare, managing occasional and chronic illnesses, and promoting healthy living for patients from adolescence across their lifespan in a clinical setting. They oversee their own panel of patients, conducting wellness visits and developing individualized treatment plans. This includes assessing risk factors, treating illnesses, and educating patients on health promotion.
An acute care NP, in contrast, treats patients with critical or life-threatening conditions, often in high-acuity environments like hospitals or ICUs, and focuses on short-term care requiring rapid intervention. Acute care clinics also handle non-life-threatening injuries and non-chronic illnesses that need urgent attention but not hospitalization.