Master of Science in Nursing in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

NP with elderly man have a conversation
Next Application Deadline:
March 1, 2026
Credit hours: 53
Next Term Start Date:
August 25, 2026

Application Deadline

Good news – the MS in Nursing application deadline will be extended to March 1, giving you extra time to apply for the Autumn 2026 term

Apply now

Overview

The Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner provide direct patient care in various settings, focusing on promoting health and well-being, diagnosing and treating common conditions in adolescents, adults, and older adults. The specialty prepares graduates for advanced practice nursing in diverse clinical settings, meeting nurse practitioner curriculum guidelines.

The NCNP curriculum, which is approved by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties, integrates evidence-based coursework, diagnostic reasoning, and interprofessional collaboration. It includes three clinical practicum experiences (Clinical Practicum I–III) conducted near each student’s home. During these practicums, students work under experienced preceptors to develop the skills necessary for diagnosing, managing, and evaluating both acute and chronic conditions, as well as promoting wellness and disease prevention.

Graduates of the program are eligible for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). The program faculty, led by track director Dr. Courtney Shihabuddin, guide students in mastering advanced practice strategies and preparing for impactful careers in various settings such as primary care clinics, home health, hospitals, businesses, and governmental agencies, while also contributing to education, research, and healthcare policy.

Academic Calendar

We have two application windows for this program for Autumn 2026. The first application window, from August 1 – October 16, 2025, is for all specialties within the program. The second application window, which is open from February 1 – March 1, 2026, will accept applications for certain specialties that will be announced late-January 2026.

Academic Calendar

We have two application windows for this program for Autumn 2026. The first application window, from August 1 – October 16, 2025, is for all specialties within the program. The second application window, which is open from February 1 – March 1, 2026, will accept applications for certain specialties that will be announced late-January 2026.

Admission Criteria

Students must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an ACEN/CCNE/CNEA-accredited institution to be eligible to apply. Applicants must also have an active RN license and a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last degree earned relevant to the program of study.

Who We Are Looking For

Your application will receive a holistic review, meaning all aspects of who you are as an applicant will be considered including your academic preparedness, professional background, formative life experiences, and your unique strengths and attributes. The following list of applicant attributes and experiences is not all encompassing but is meant to help guide you in highlighting your strengths as you prepare your written application materials and recorded online interview.

  • Understanding of the advanced practice nurse role
  • Experience with your chosen population – Leadership, teamwork, and collaboration
  • Community engagement
  • Diversity of thought and experiences
  • Resilience, growth, critical thinking
  • Emotional intelligence, communication skills
  • Personal attributes like humility, professionalism, compassion
  • Commitment to the nursing profession

How to Apply

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The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).

SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.

California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.

The Application Process

Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.

Career Outlook

The Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner at Ohio State positions graduates for a promising career outlook. As the aging population continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can provide comprehensive care to older adults. Graduates are equipped to diagnose, manage, and treat a wide range of health conditions, making them highly sought after in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The advanced training and specialized knowledge gained from the program enhance job prospects, offering opportunities for leadership roles and competitive salaries. Additionally, the program’s strong connections with healthcare organizations and its robust alumni network provide valuable resources and support for career advancement.

Top Occupations by Median Income

National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.

Whether you’re looking to grow in your current career or make a career change altogether, Ohio State’s online programs can help you achieve your goals. Learn what the outlook is for your current or next career move using O*Net’s My Next Move tool.

Curriculum

Below is a curriculum sample for Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Nursing in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program.

Clinical coursework

Below is the clinical coursework for Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Nursing in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program.

Courtney Shihabuddin

Director, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP Specialty Track
NP Professor

Janine Overcash

Clinical Professor Co-Director of the Academy for Teaching Innovation, Excellence and Scholarship
NP Adult Gerontology Professor

Pam Kibbe

Clinical Assistant Professor of Practice
NP Adult Gerontology Professor

Kristel Aoun

Clinical Assistant Professor of Practice
Adult Gerontology professor

Testimonials

Learn how online learning has helped Ohio State students exceed in their personal and professional lives.

Tuition Fee Overview

Tuition Fees Fee Per Credit Hour Part-Time – Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) Full-Time – Total Cost Per Semester
Instructional Fee $972.50 $5,835.00 $7,780.00
General Fee $32.63 $195.78 $261.04
Program Fee $250.00 $1,500.00 $2,000.00
Nursing Distance Learning Fee $228.00 (per semester)
Distance Learning Fee $100.00 (per semester)
Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) $200.00 (per semester)

Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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