Post-Master’s Certificate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Graduate Certificate Program in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with onsite or virtual intensives. This 26-credit, three-semester program includes 720 precepted clinical hours with a focus on child and adolescent mental health. Clinical training happens at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Admission requires a baccalaureate and master's degree in nursing, an unencumbered APRN license in Georgia, and one year of full-time APRN experience with pediatric care. The program prepares psychiatric nurse practitioners via evidence-based, interprofessional care. Accredited by multiple organizations and military-friendly, it does not state a standardized entrance exam requirement.

• 26 credit hour program.
• Three semester duration.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• 720 precepted clinical hours.
• Focus on child and adolescent mental health.
• Requires baccalaureate and master's degrees.
• APRN license in Georgia required.
• One year pediatric APRN experience preferred.
• Includes onsite or virtual intensives.
• Clinical training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Child and Adolescent Behavioral and Mental Health concentration. This hybrid, 26-credit, three-semester program includes 720 clinical hours with a neurobiological focus. Synchronous and asynchronous online classes, onsite or virtual intensives, and local clinical practica are part of the curriculum. The Blake Scholars Program provides tuition support, and a fellowship is available. Applicants need a master's degree in nursing, an unencumbered APRN license, and preferred pediatric experience. Graduates prepare for autonomous practice in diverse settings. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement. It is accredited and includes clinical training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

• 26 credit hour program.
• Three semester duration.
• 720 clinical hours.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• Child and adolescent concentration.
• Tuition support available.
• Master's degree required.
• APRN license needed.
• Pediatric experience preferred.
• Synchronous and asynchronous classes.

Vanderbilt University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) is a hybrid online program designed for RNs who already hold an MSN. The curriculum blends distance education with brief on-campus sessions, making it ideal for working professionals. Students complete 500+ supervised clinical hours and can finish in 4-5 full-time semesters, with part-time options available. The program prepares graduates for national certification, evidenced by high pass rates and a 97% employment rate. Accredited by CCNE, it includes gap analysis for prior coursework, expert faculty, and individualized study plans. A DNP combination option is available, and the certificate appears on official transcripts.

• Hybrid online/on-campus format.
• 4-5 full-time semesters.
• 500+ supervised clinical hours.
• Requires MSN and RN licensure.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• High certification pass rates.
• 97% employment after graduation.
• Individualized program of study.
• Expert practicing faculty.
• DNP combination option.

Maryville University offers an online post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health nursing, designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking specialization as a PMHNP. The 100% online format eliminates campus visits, and clinical rotations can be completed locally. Flexible scheduling and multiple yearly start dates support part-time study. The curriculum emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and assessment/diagnosis of mental health disorders across the lifespan, with a focus on evidence-based practice. Total tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223, with program length from 12 to 40 months. This CCNE-accredited program does not require the GMAT, GRE, or statistics for admission. Graduates are prepared for prescriptive authority and roles in hospitals, clinics, and private practice.

• Online Post-Master's NP Certificate.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• 100% online, no campus visits.
• Total tuition $18,123-$69,223.
• Duration 12-40 months.
• No GMAT/GRE required.
• Complete clinicals locally.
• CCNE accredited.
• Multiple start dates yearly.
• Flexible scheduling.

The University of Southern Indiana's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares MSN-prepared nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. This CCNE-accredited program consists of 26 credit hours plus direct clinical hours, covering diagnosis, individual and family therapies, medication management, health promotion, and legal/ethical issues. Students may transfer up to nine credits. Admissions require an MSN degree, a $40 application fee, three references, official transcripts, and a resume or CV. The program emphasizes practical skills for high-demand settings, with international applicant options available. Graduates are equipped for roles in diverse healthcare environments, addressing mental health needs from children to older adults.

• Online program delivery.
• 26 credit hours required.
• Additional direct clinical hours.
• For MSN holders only.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• $40 application fee.
• Three references needed.
• Official transcripts required.
• Transfer up to 9 credits.
• Focus on lifespan care.

The University of New Hampshire's online Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to expand into mental health care. This CCNE-accredited program requires 29 credit hours and 750 clinical hours, completable in 17 months of full-time study or with part-time flexibility. Students engage in online coursework complemented by three on-campus/virtual intensives, with fall or spring admission. Applicants must hold an unencumbered RN license, a master's in nursing, and at least one year of APN experience, along with recommendations, a personal statement, and a resume. Graduates are eligible for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam, and the program emphasizes lifespan care and evidence-based practice. Military-friendly.

• Online graduate certificate program.
• Post-Master's PMHNP certificate.
• 29 credit hours required.
• 750 clinical hours total.
• Full-time: 17 months.
• Part-time options available.
• Online learning format.
• Three on-campus/virtual intensives.
• Fall or spring start terms.
• Requires RN license.

Duke University's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate is a hybrid program blending distance-based online learning with on-campus intensives, ideal for working professionals. This post-master's certificate builds on existing advanced practice expertise, focusing on psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic skills to prepare graduates for independent practice in diverse settings like emergency psychiatry and outpatient care. Students access a nationwide clinical network of over 2,000 partnerships, experienced faculty clinicians, and a trauma-informed academic environment. The program also integrates telemental health training and emphasizes health equity. Admission requires a master's degree and CCNE or ACEN accreditation; no entrance exam is specified. Financial aid, merit scholarships, and federal loans are available. Duke is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is military-friendly.

• Hybrid education model.
• Post-graduate certificate option.
• Nationwide clinical network.
• Distance-based learning.
• Synchronous and asynchronous strategies.
• On-campus intensives included.
• Over 2,000 clinical partnerships.
• Prepares for independent practice.
• Focus on psychopharmacological skills.
• Focus on psychotherapeutic skills.

The University of San Francisco offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate for master's or doctoral-prepared nurses. This hybrid program combines distance learning with in-person teaching weekends, enabling students to complete the certificate in one year of year-round study. The curriculum includes 500 clinical hours, qualifying graduates for PMHNP certification and California state licensure. Admission requires a DNP or MSN degree, a 3.0 GPA, an unencumbered RN license, and submission of professional documents. The program is accredited by the CCNE and approved by the California BRN. With its flexible hybrid format and accelerated timeline, this certificate is ideal for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized psychiatric mental health training.

• One-year completion time.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• 500 clinical hours required.
• Year-round class offerings.
• DNP or MSN degree required.
• 3.0 GPA recommended.
• RN license needed.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• California BRN approved.
• Transfer credit up to 12 hours.

The University of South Carolina-Columbia offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate for post-master's nurses. This program prepares graduates for national certification and advanced practice in holistic mental health care across the lifespan. Coursework emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychiatric evaluation, neuroscientific principles, and trauma-related care. The 18–32 credit hour curriculum includes practicum hours and two entry points: one for APRNs and one for non-APRNs, with a GAP analysis determining the individualized plan. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing and a 3.0 graduate GPA; no entrance exam requirement is specified. The online format, complemented by some on-campus immersions, is designed for working professionals seeking roles in clinics, schools, and other diverse settings.

• Post-master's certificate program.
• Online delivery format.
• 18-32 credit hours.
• Requires master's in nursing.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Focuses on holistic mental health care.
• Includes psychopharmacology proficiency.
• Covers psychiatric evaluation competency.
• Two entry points for students.
• GPA requirement of 3.00.

East Carolina University delivers a hybrid Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, blending online coursework with on-campus intensives held twice per semester. This CCNE-accredited program is designed for nurses seeking advanced practice in mental health across the lifespan, featuring three clinical practicums and 550 hours of supervised clinical experience. Prioritizing service to North Carolina communities, the certificate prepares graduates for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam. Admissions are selective, requiring professional references, relevant experience, and an interview, with preference for mental health backgrounds. Applications are due February 1 for summer start, and the program does not accept out-of-state applicants. No entrance exam requirement is specified in the admissions process.

• Post-Master's Certificate offered.
• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• 550 clinical supervision hours required.
• Three clinical practicums across lifespan.
• On-campus intensives twice per semester.
• Prepares for ANCC certification exam.
• Focus on North Carolina service.
• Requires professional references.
• Preference for mental health experience.
• Competitive admission with interviews.

The University of Virginia's School of Nursing offers a hybrid Post-Professional Certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, designed for working nurses with classes held once a month. This online-friendly program prepares advanced practice nurses to promote mental health and treat acute and chronic mental illness, with a focus on underserved populations and rural mental health needs. Students complete over 500 clinical hours and are eligible for the PMHNP certification exam. Admission requires an active APRN license, a graduate nursing degree, and specific coursework. No GRE is required for this post-master's certificate. Tuition is per credit with additional fees, and costs vary by residency. Financial aid is limited to degree programs.

• Hybrid format for flexibility.
• Classes once a month.
• Over 500 clinical hours.
• Eligible for PMHNP certification.
• Active APRN license required.
• Graduate nursing degree needed.
• Specific coursework prerequisites.
• No GRE scores required.
• Limited financial aid available.
• Tuition per credit basis.

The University of Texas at Tyler offers an online Post-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) graduate certificate designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialization in mental health care. The program requires 24 to 34 semester credit hours depending on whether the applicant already holds APRN certification, with web-enhanced courses providing scheduling flexibility. Clinical experiences must be completed within Texas, and a valid Texas RN license is required. The curriculum prepares nurses to sit for national PMHNP certification and can serve as a foundation for doctoral study. No specific entrance exam is mentioned in the program description; applicants should verify current admission requirements with the School of Nursing.

• Post-MSN certificate program
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Online delivery format
• 24 semester credit hours
• 34 semester credit hours
• Web-enhanced courses
• Flexible schedule
• National certification exam preparation
• Clinical hours in Texas
• Texas license required

New Mexico State University offers an online post-master's certificate for Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. This program, part of NMSU Global Campus, prepares certified nurse practitioners to specialize in mental health across the lifespan. The curriculum comprises 18 credit hours, including courses in assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and medication management, alongside over 500 clinical hours (576 noted). Graduates are eligible to sit for the PMHNP certification exam. The program is designed for working professionals with a flexible online format. Admission details, including entrance exam requirements, are not specified; prospective students should contact the School of Nursing for current information.

• Online program format.
• 18 credit hours total.
• 500+ clinical hours required.
• Prepares for PMHNP certification.
• For certified nurse practitioners.
• Focuses on mental health lifespan.
• Includes psychopharmacology course.
• Covers assessment and diagnosis.
• Includes psychotherapy training.
• Medication management competencies.

Texas Christian University offers a 100% online Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, tailored for DNP-prepared nurses seeking PMHNP specialization. The 25-credit curriculum spans four semesters, with a fall start and clinical practicums arranged near students' homes. Graduates become eligible for ANCC national certification. The program accepts applicants from multiple states, including Texas, and is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Recognized as military-friendly, TCU emphasizes leadership and interdisciplinary care, preparing advanced practice nurses for psychiatric-mental health roles. No entrance exam is required for admission.

• 100% online program
• 25 credit hours required
• Four semesters completion time
• Fall term start
• Clinicals near home
• ANCC certification eligible
• For DNP-prepared nurses
• Psychiatric Mental Health focus
• Post-graduate certificate level
• Multiple state eligibility

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a post-master's Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for MSN or DNP-prepared nurses. This hybrid program blends online coursework with required on-campus visits, typically taking 2-3 years to complete 18 credit hours. The estimated cost is $16,609.50. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, current RN licensure, and specific prerequisites; two years of RN experience and a personal interview are preferred. No entrance exam is required. Accredited by the CCNE, the program includes a clinical practicum and prepares graduates for national certification and diverse psychiatric settings. State authorization restrictions apply.

• Graduate Certificate program.
• Post-Master's Certificate option.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner focus.
• Hybrid delivery mode.
• Most coursework online.
• On-campus visits required.
• 18 standard credit hours.
• 2-3 year typical length.
• $16,609.50 estimated cost.
• MSN or DNP required for admission.

Tennessee Technological University's online Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is a 23-credit program for RNs holding a Master of Science in Nursing. The curriculum emphasizes advanced family psychiatric care, including two clinical courses with 140 hours each, plus practicum and preceptorship. Designed for completion in four semesters with two courses per term, it offers flexible pacing. Clinical placements are arranged locally. Total tuition ranges from $17,000 to $21,000, with in-state tuition at $730 per credit and out-of-state at $870. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, transcripts, a letter of intent, resume, and three references, with a 3.0 GPA and prerequisites. Provisional admission is available. Fall admission deadline is July 1.

• Fully online program
• 23 credit hours
• 4 semesters completion
• 2 courses per semester
• Flexible course loads
• Local clinical preceptors
• In-state tuition $730
• Out-of-state tuition $870
• Total cost $17,000-21,000
• RN license required

The University of Rochester School of Nursing delivers its Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate entirely online. This post-master's program prepares nurses to provide family psychiatric mental health care across the lifespan. Core clinical courses cover psychopathology, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology, alongside an advanced health assessment course. Students complete required practicum hours to gain hands-on clinical experience. Admission is open to nurses holding a master's degree in nursing and active RN licensure. The curriculum is built for working professionals, offering student-designed degree plans, faculty advisement, and flexible online learning. Tuition and fees, along with admissions requirements, are listed on the school's website. This certificate supports career advancement in psychiatric nursing.

• Online program format.
• Advanced certificate program.
• Psychiatric mental health focus.
• Clinical specialty courses included.
• Practicum hours required.
• Faculty advisement available.
• Master's degree prerequisite.
• RN licensure required.
• Courses cover psychopathology.
• Courses cover psychotherapy.

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst delivers a 100% online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) designed for nurses with a master's degree. The 28-to-30-credit program focuses on treating mental health and substance use disorders across diverse populations, with clinical experiences in behavioral health settings. Admission favors applicants with psychiatric nursing experience; no entrance exam is specified. CCNE-accredited, the curriculum prepares graduates for ANCC or AANP certification and meets licensure requirements in most states, though not in Alabama, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, or Washington. This military-friendly program offers a flexible path for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized psychiatric training.

• 28- to 30-credit online program.
• 100% online delivery format.
• For nurses with master's degrees.
• Focuses on psychiatric mental health care.
• Clinical experience in behavioral health.
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification.
• Admissions prefer psychiatric experience.
• Meets licensure in many states.
• Not for Alabama, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Washington.
• Accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

The University of Iowa offers a Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate delivered in a hybrid format, blending online coursework with on-campus sessions. This post-master's program prepares nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric-mental health across diverse clinical settings. Students can choose a flexible 3- or 4-year study plan, with a tight-knit cohort of 24. The doctorate-level curriculum emphasizes leadership and clinical excellence, leading to a 100% certification exam pass rate and 100% job placement. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, the program is ideal for career advancement in mental health care. Application deadline is February 1. Entrance exam requirements are not specified.

• Hybrid online and on-campus delivery.
• 3-year or 4-year plan options.
• Class size of 24 students.
• 100% certification exam pass rate.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
• Application deadline February 1.
• 100% job placement rate.
• Prepares for advanced practice roles.
• Focus on psychiatric-mental health environments.

Valdosta State University offers a post-master's certificate in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP) through a hybrid format that combines online coursework with in-person learning. Designed for nurses already holding a Master of Science in Nursing, the program uses a gap analysis with the Graduate Nursing Program Director to create an individualized plan of study. The curriculum prepares advanced practice nurses for specialized mental health care roles, with fall and spring admission tracks. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences provides support, and the program is accessible from a distance, though state regulations are considered. Prospective students can contact the FPMHNP Track Coordinator for more details. This certificate enhances career opportunities in psychiatric nursing.

• Post-Master's Certificate program
• Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration
• Hybrid delivery format
• Online and in-person coursework
• For Master's in Nursing holders
• Individualized program of study
• Gap analysis required
• Meet with Graduate Nursing Program Director
• FPMHNP Track Coordinator available
• College of Nursing and Health Sciences

University of Wisconsin–Madison offers an 18-month hybrid Post-Graduate Psychiatric Nursing Capstone Certificate for advanced practice nurses. The program blends online coursework with on-campus and community clinical experiences, totaling 18 graduate credits. Tuition costs $670.47 per credit for residents and $1,503.40 for non-residents. Applicants must hold bachelor's and master's nursing degrees, an RN license, and advanced practice certification eligibility; no entrance exam is required. The curriculum focuses on underserved populations, psychopharmacology, and clinical leadership, taught by board-certified faculty in small cohorts. Admission is for summer only.

• 18-month program duration
• Hybrid format delivery
• 18 graduate-level credits
• Resident tuition $670.47/credit
• Nonresident tuition $1,503.40/credit
• Capstone certificate awarded
• Summer admission term only
• Requires bachelor's nursing degree
• Requires master's nursing degree
• RN license required

Liberty University offers an online Postgraduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) for nurses with an MSN or DNP. This 18-credit program includes asynchronous courses with no set login times, making it flexible for working professionals. Admission requires a BSN and MSN/DNP, a 3.0 GPA, current RN and APRN licenses, and professional certification; no entrance exam is required. Coursework covers evidence-based practice, holistic care, and a Christian worldview, with practicum experiences and a comprehensive exam. Tuition is $850 per credit for 2025-2026. The program is CCNE and SACSCOC accredited, with credits applicable to doctoral study. Military discounts are available.

• Online program format.
• 18 credit hours required.
• $850 per credit tuition.
• No set login times.
• CCNE accreditation.
• SACSCOC accreditation.
• Postgraduate certificate level.
• PMHNP certification preparation.
• Practicum experience included.
• Comprehensive exam required.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers an online Post-MSN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner designed for advanced practice nurses. This graduate certificate requires 20 credit hours completed over four semesters, including 510 clinical hours within Louisiana. Didactic coursework is delivered 100% online. Tuition costs $480 per credit, totaling roughly $9,600. Applicants must hold an MSN from a CCNE-accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, current RN and APRN licenses, and national certification. Additional requirements include a $25 application fee, resume, statement of purpose, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national PMHNP certification exam. Enrollment opens for spring and fall terms.

• 20 credit hours total.
• Four semesters program length.
• 510 clinical hours required.
• 100% online didactic courses.
• $480 per credit tuition.
• Approximately $9,600 total cost.
• MSN degree required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA needed.
• Current RN license required.
• Current APRN license required.

Augusta University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program designed for certified NPs seeking to specialize in mental healthcare. Combining online coursework with clinical training, the 22-credit curriculum includes 504 clinical hours and can be completed in one year of part-time study. Applicants need a master's or doctoral degree and NP certification. The program is CCNE-accredited and prepares graduates for national board certification. Coursework emphasizes advanced psychopharmacology, lifespan development, and individual and family care. No standardized entrance exam is required for admission; selection is based on prior academic and clinical credentials. The university is military-friendly and has an on-campus hospital, offering additional clinical resources.

• One-year program length.
• Hybrid online and campus format.
• 22 credit hours required.
• 504 clinical hours included.
• Part-time study schedule.
• CCNE-accredited program.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires NP certification.
• Master's or doctoral degree prerequisite.
• Web-based with over 50% online.

At Johns Hopkins University, the Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner uniquely combines online coursework with in-person learning. This 17-credit program incorporates 500 clinical hours and covers lifespan mental health, substance use, and co-morbid conditions. Core subjects include neurobiology, clinical psychopharmacology, differential diagnosis, and psychotherapeutic modalities. Graduates are prepared for ANCC and AANP certification, with competencies in integrated care, advocacy, and evidence-based practice. Clinical experiences span adult/gero and pediatric/family settings, suitable for behavioral health or primary care environments. Applicants need a master's in nursing and an active RN license. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement.

• 17 credit program.
• 500 clinical hours.
• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for ANCC certification.
• Focuses on lifespan care.
• Includes neurobiology coursework.
• Covers clinical psychopharmacology.
• Teaches differential diagnosis.
• Includes psychotherapeutic modalities.
• Adult/gero clinical practicum.

Purdue University's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program is a hybrid post-master's offering designed for master's-prepared nurses seeking specialized training in mental health care. The curriculum comprises 17 credit hours and 630 clinical practicum hours, completed over three semesters. This advanced practice program builds on existing nursing expertise to prepare graduates for PMHNP roles. Applicants must hold a master's degree in nursing from an accredited institution. The hybrid format combines online coursework with on-campus or clinical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. The program emphasizes comprehensive psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across the lifespan, equipping nurses to deliver high-quality mental health services.

• 17 credit hours required.
• 630 clinical practicum hours.
• Three-semester completion time.
• Hybrid program format.
• For master's-prepared nurses.
• Accredited institution prerequisite.
• Advanced practice nursing focus.
• Psychiatric mental health specialization.
• Curriculum builds on existing expertise.
• Prepares for nurse practitioner roles.