The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

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Updated August 16, 2023

Earning an MSN in gerontology offers higher wages and job security. Learn how to find and apply to the best online MSN in gerontology programs.
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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

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Do you want to grow in your nursing practice and gain skills to help older adults? Earning a master of science in nursing degree (MSN) with a specialty in gerontology prepares registered nurses (RNs) to treat and care for the unique needs of adults, especially the "silent" generation and baby boomers who often have more diverse healthcare needs.

An MSN in gerontology provides job security and a salary higher than the average RN. It also prepares nurses to work with at-risk patients in acute or primary care settings.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online MSN in gerontology programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Keep reading to learn more about online MSN in gerontology programs, or go straight to our list of the best online MSN in gerontology programs.

How do Online MSN in Gerontology Programs Work?

Online programs let working nurses continue working while earning an MSN in gerontology. Programs vary by course offerings and format. Generally, online courses function asynchronously, with some synchronous requirements. However, every program requires in-person practicum experiences. Some nursing schools may allow students to earn practicum hours at their job or find local placements.

Coursework explores advanced pharmacology, healthcare policy, and advanced diagnostics. Students also complete practicums working in hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices. Many online MSN gerontology degrees offer tracks in acute or primary care. Courses take 8-16 weeks to complete, with exact start and end dates varying by semester.

Graduates who hold an accredited MSN gerontology degree have the training to pass certification tests, such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.

Featured Online MSN Programs

Applying to an Online MSN in Gerontology Program

MSN in gerontology programs usually admit RNs with work experience and an educational background in nursing. Additionally, nursing schools include other admission requirements, such as GPA minimums and screenings for clinical work. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, letters of reference, and essays.

  1. 1

    Admission Materials

    Applicants to online MSN in gerontology programs need nursing experience and an RN license. A core element of an MSN degree includes clinical hours. To qualify to work in a clinical setting, students must pass a background check and drug screening.

  2. 2

    GPA Requirement

    Nursing schools often require applicants to online MSN in gerontology degrees to have a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA. Sometimes, schools overlook GPAs that do not meet criteria if students score high in prerequisite courses.

  3. 3

    Other Requirement

    Candidates need at least a bachelor's in nursing degree to enter a MSN in gerontology program. Online RN-to-MSN programs may admit students with an associate in nursing degree, diploma in nursing, or a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing major.

Why is Online MSN in Gerontology Program Accreditation Important?

Programmatic accreditation helps secure your future as a nurse. Licensing and certification agencies may require that nurses graduate from an accredited online MSN in gerontology program. To pursue advanced credentials or another graduate degree in nursing, such as a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree, you also need a master's degree from an accredited nursing program.

Additionally, hiring managers recruit from accredited nursing programs because the candidates have completed coursework and clinical work that meets certain academic standards.

This ranking guide only includes MSN in gerontology programs that have received accreditation from agencies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

#1 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

University of Utah

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Comprising 33-34 credit hours, the University of Utah's interdisciplinary master of science in nursing (MSN) in gerontology can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Full-time learners may take 9-12 credit hours each semester, while working professionals who want to study part time may take six credits every term.

Candidates may complete a master's thesis worth 2-6 credits and a total of 34 credit hours, or  select the master’s project track, which requires just 33 hours. All students complete a 150-clock hour in-person practicum at a geriatric care center, government agency, or nonprofit organization. The practicum can be service- or research-based. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Salt Lake City, Utah
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditations: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $3,341.04 per credit for Utah residents; $6,586.36 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program; minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants with a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or higher do not need to provide GRE scores. 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months for full-time students; 24 months for part-time students
  • On-Campus Requirements: In-person clinical practicum 
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.6% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $85,070 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,412
Out-of-state
$26,017
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,211
Out-of-state
$25,455
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
32,852
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#2 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UC's 44-credit online MSN in gerontology qualifies graduates to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center nurse practitioner certification exam and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners' certification exam. 

Candidates can earn their online MSN in gerontology in six semesters by taking 10 credit hours each semester. The program includes 504 hours of in-person clinical experience. Students who live outside of Ohio should check with their local licensing board to ensure that the program is compatible with their state's regulations. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner
  • Campus: Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $746 per credit for Ohio residents; $761 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Unencumbered registered nurse license; bachelor of science in nursing degree from a regionally and ACEN or CCNE accredited institution; at least one year of RN experience; minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months for full-time students
  • On-Campus Requirements: Clinical practicum
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $94,013 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,476
Out-of-state
$24,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,790
Out-of-state
$24,532
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
39,263
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  • Greensboro, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UNCG offers one of the few fully online master of science in gerontology programs in the state. The 30-credit curriculum includes case studies, projects, and an integrated capstone experience. Combining fieldwork and gerontology research, the capstone course explores a variety of concepts addressed throughout the program. 

Learners interested in a specialty may personalize their coursework with elective classes. Candidates may also pursue an accelerated bachelor's-to-master’s in gerontology track. 

  • Program: Master of science in gerontology
  • Campus: Greensboro, North Carolina
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $336 per credit for North Carolina residents; $626 per credit for online learners living outside of North Carolina; $1,098 per credit for online students residing in North Carolina who are not legal state residents
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months (full time)
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.0% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $139,500 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,422
Out-of-state
$19,581
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,219
Out-of-state
$18,937
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
20,196
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master of science in nursing adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (MSN AGPCNP) program at Maryville University explores concepts in disease prevention, counseling, and health and wellness. Candidates may complete the program in only 28 months and choose from six start dates throughout the year.

The 100% online MSN in gerontology does not include any on-campus components, although students must complete a clinical practicum. Distance learners may schedule their clinical rotations at local facilities. ‌

  • Program: Master of science in nursing adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner
  • Campus: Saint Louis, Missouri
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $813 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with a 3.0 GPA from a regionally accredited, CCNE accredited institution; one year of registered nurse (RN) experience; unencumbered RN license 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 32 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.0% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $93,724 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,070
Out-of-state
$26,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
10,013
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Duquesne University

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Pittsburgh-based Duquesne offers an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) master of science in nursing (MSN) that is available mostly online. Distance learners must attend three on-campus sessions and complete a 750-clock hour clinical practicum.

The online MSN in gerontology curriculum introduces the advanced nursing skills needed to provide elderly patients with acute care. Coursework emphasizes preventative care and treating patients with chronic illnesses and disorders.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner
  • Campus: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $1,635 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with a 3.0 GPA or higher from an accredited institution; active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license; and at least one year of full-time RN experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment:  36 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,992
Out-of-state
$39,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,580
Out-of-state
$23,580
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
9,197
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Seton Hall University

  • South Orange, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Seton Hall's 48-credit online master of science in nursing (MSN) adult-gerontology nurse practitioner program features primary care and acute care specialty tracks. Learners complete nine credit hours of core coursework and 39 credits from their chosen track. The primary care specialty includes four clinical practicums that comprise 600 clock hours, while candidates who select the acute care option complete four practicums totaling 675 clock hours.

Graduates quality to sit for either the ANCC and AANPCB adult-gerontology acute care or primary care nurse practitioner certification examinations, depending on their specialty area. Students who complete the acute care track can also seek certification from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.

Distance learners must attend three on-campus immersion experiences: an orientation, a second-year practicum, and a hands-on experience or guest lecture.

  • Program: MSN adult-gerontology nurse practitioner 
  • Campus: South Orange, New Jersey
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition:  $1,383 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree with a major in nursing from an accredited program; active registered nurse (RN) license; minimum TOEFL scores 22 in reading, 26 in speaking and 24 in writing for foreign students. Acute care program requires a GPA of 3.2 or higher and three years of RN experience; primary care track requires 3.0 or higher GPA and one year of RN experience. 
  • Minimum Time Commitment:  36-48 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.7% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,539 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,460
Out-of-state
$41,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,580
Out-of-state
$23,580
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
10,219
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Purdue Global lets working professionals earn an online MSN in gerontology by studying part time. The adult-gerontology nurse practitioner program comprises 60-90 credit hours and requires a 15-hour weekly time investment. 

Once students complete their core coursework they may pursue an adult-gerontology acute care track or an adult-gerontology primary care track. Both tracks qualify graduates to sit for certification examinations in their respective specialties. 

Active duty military members receive a generous 55% tuition reduction. Veterans enjoy a 38% tuition reduction. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing adult-gerontology nurse practitioner
  • Campus: West Lafayette, Indiana
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $420 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited college or university; criminal background check
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: N/A
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.4% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $98,638 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,791
Out-of-state
$9,768
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,138
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Nova Southeastern University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

NSU offers a hybrid adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner master of science in nursing (MSN). Students complete some coursework online and fulfill certain program requirements at the university's Palm Beach Regional Campus.

The 51-credit curriculum includes courses in advanced pathophysiology, behavioral health, and health promotion and disease prevention. Working alongside experienced nurse practitioners, students examine case studies and explore advanced nursing concepts. Once admitted, each student is assigned a faculty advisor who supports them through graduation.

  • Program: MSN - adult gerontology nurse practitioner
  • Campus: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $788 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing with a GPA of 3.0, or a bachelor's degree in another field with a 3.0 GPA in nursing prerequisites; unencumbered registered nurse license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24-30 months for full-time students
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.7% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $87,235 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,150
Out-of-state
$31,150
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,665
Out-of-state
$19,665
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
20,576
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Ohio University-Main Campus

  • Athens, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

This 38-credit adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner master of science in nursing (MSN) program focuses on advanced nursing skills like clinical decision-making. Students learn to select, plan, and implement nursing interventions in real-world settings during a 500-hour clinical practicum. 

Graduates are qualified to pursue adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner certification.  

  • Program: Adult gerontology-acute care nurse practitioner MSN
  • Campus: Athens, Ohio
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $583 per credit for Ohio residents; $1,079 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with a 3.0 GPA from a regionally accredited institution; unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license and at least 2 years of RN experience 
  • Minimum Time Commitment:  30 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: N/A
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $97,959 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,612
Out-of-state
$22,406
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,444
Out-of-state
$17,436
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
27,367
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 The Best Online MSN in Gerontology Programs

Regis College

  • Weston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Working nurses can earn an online MSN in gerontology through Regis College's flexible adult gerontology-primary care nurse practitioner program. The 46-61 credit program's clinical component comprises 664-724 clock hours, which students may spread out across two to four semesters.

The online MSN in gerontology curriculum focuses on caring for patients across the lifespan, from teenagers to seniors, with an emphasis on the aging process and mature individuals.

Graduates are qualified to sit for nurse practitioner certification exams.

  • Program: MSN adult gerontology-primary care nurse practitioner
  • Campus: Weston, Massachusetts 
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)  and Accreditation Council for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
  • Tuition: $990 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA;  statistics prerequisite coursework; unencumbered registered nurse license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 28-36 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: N/A 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,926 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,650
Out-of-state
$42,650
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,280
Out-of-state
$38,280
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
3,194
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSN in Gerontology Programs


How much do MSN in gerontology graduates make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners (NPs) make a median annual wage of $111,680. Exact earnings vary by setting. The top two highest-paying environments for NPs (including those who specialize in gerontology) are hospitals and outpatient care centers, which report median annual salaries of $111,400-$124,660.

What courses do gerontology students take?

MSN students complete 30-60 credits in core and specialization courses. Each nursing program features a different curriculum. Generally, gerontology students learn policy and advocacy in healthcare, the fundamentals of evidence-based nursing practice, advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology, and health assessments.

How long does it take to complete an online MSN in gerontology program?

How long it takes to graduate from an MSN in gerontology program depends on the degree format. Self-paced courses may allow nursing students to take their time, which delays graduation. Other nursing programs offer shortened class terms that let students graduate quickly. MSN in gerontology degrees take 18-24 months to complete.

What are some scholarships for MSN in gerontology students?

Scholarships come from state agencies, private companies, individuals and families, or directly from schools. The National Gerontological Nurses Association offers the Mary Opal Wolanin Undergraduate Scholarship of $500 to its members. Many scholarships also only apply to specific schools, such as the Lucille and Bruce Lambert Foundation Scholarship for nursing students at Marymount University.

Page last reviewed: 4/30/2022


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