Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is designed for registered nurses aiming to specialize in the comprehensive care of adolescents, adults, and older populations. This 15-month full-time program equips students with advanced clinical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and the ability to manage chronic and acute health conditions in primary care settings. Emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, the curriculum bridges theoretical understanding with practical clinical training, preparing students to become essential providers in an evolving healthcare system. With small class sizes and individualized faculty mentorship, learners benefit from hands-on experience and collaborative learning in diverse care environments.
Through a combination of classroom instruction, lab simulation, and supervised clinical placements, students develop expertise in evidence-based practice, health assessment, pharmacology, and care coordination. The program emphasizes the growing need for nurse practitioners who can address the complex health issues of aging populations while ensuring continuity of care across a variety of healthcare settings. Graduates emerge with the qualifications needed to sit for national certification exams and to assume advanced roles in community health centers, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and more. This intensive yet supportive program fosters professional autonomy and ethical leadership in advanced nursing practice.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 15 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Nursing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Primary Care of Adults I
Semester 2 – Clinical Expertise and Decision-Making
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Diagnostics and Procedures in Primary Care
- Primary Care of Adults II
- Clinical Practicum I
Semester 3 – Integration and Transition to Practice
- Geriatric Care and Chronic Disease Management
- Leadership and Ethics in Advanced Nursing
- Clinical Practicum II
- Capstone Seminar in Adult-Gerontology Care
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the AGPCNP program are prepared to serve in primary care clinics, long-term care facilities, home healthcare organizations, and community health settings, where their advanced training enables them to diagnose, treat, and manage adult and elderly patients with chronic and acute conditions. They often work as nurse practitioners, clinical coordinators, or patient care managers, delivering compassionate care that emphasizes prevention, education, and long-term wellness. Many go on to shape policy or contribute to research in geriatric and adult health, while others serve as faculty in nursing education. Their advanced clinical skills and strong patient communication abilities make them indispensable contributors to a high-functioning and sustainable healthcare system that responds effectively to the needs of aging populations.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a focused, fast-track path to becoming an expert in adult-gerontology primary care nursing. With its rigorous curriculum, clinical integration, and faculty guidance, it empowers students to confidently manage complex care needs in real-world environments. The university’s strong clinical partnerships and commitment to interdisciplinary training ensure that students are not only well-prepared academically, but also deeply connected to the community they serve. For those who wish to make a meaningful difference in the health and dignity of aging populations, this program offers the knowledge, mentorship, and opportunity to thrive both professionally and personally in the rapidly expanding field of advanced nursing practice.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
