Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona
- 2026 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona
- What Makes a Strong PMHNP Program in Arizona?
- PMHNP Pathways Available in Arizona
- What the PMHNP Curriculum Typically Covers in Arizona
- Online vs. Hybrid vs. Campus-Based PMHNP Programs in Arizona
- Common PMHNP Clinical and Practicum Settings in Arizona
- PMHNP Certification and Practice in Arizona
- Common PMHNP Employers in Arizona
- How to Choose the Right Arizona PMHNP Program
- FAQs
- Latest Articles & Guides
Arizona continues to face a critical shortage of mental health providers, particularly in fast-growing metropolitan areas such as Phoenix and Tucson, as well as in rural, tribal, and underserved regions across the state. As awareness of mental health needs increases and access to care expands through outpatient services and telehealth, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are playing an increasingly vital role in Arizona's healthcare workforce. PMHNP programs in Arizona are designed to prepare advanced practice nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan in a wide range of clinical settings. Whether you are pursuing an MSN, a DNP, or a post-master's PMHNP certificate, Arizona offers flexible program formats and diverse clinical opportunities to support different career goals and geographic needs.
In this article, you'll learn:
- How MSN, DNP, and post-master's PMHNP programs differ in Arizona
- What to expect from online, hybrid, and campus-based PMHNP options
- Common clinical and practicum settings for PMHNP students in Arizona
- Key considerations for PMHNP certification and practice in the state
2026 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate for registered nurses with an MSN degree. This part-time, four-semester online program requires 25 credits at $1,053 per credit and includes 765 clinical practica hours. It focuses on advanced psychiatric nursing across patient life spans, covering health assessment, prevention, and illness management. Graduates become eligible for national board certification. As a graduate-level program, it requires an MSN but no specific entrance exam is mentioned in the provided data.
- 30 total credits required
- Cost per credit: $1,053
- Part-time program structure
- Requires MSN degree
- 765 clinical practica hours
- Four-semester certificate
- Campus and online learning
- Advanced psychiatric nursing focus
- National certification eligible
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arizona's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program blending online coursework with on-campus intensives. This practice-focused doctoral program requires 67 credits at $1,053 per credit and prepares registered nurses to diagnose and treat mental health disorders using evidence-based approaches. It includes prescribing medication training, telehealth instruction, and clinical experience. Recognized as a top DNP program, it offers both full-time and part-time options. As a doctoral-level program, it requires an entrance exam, though no specific exam is mentioned in the provided data.
- 67 total credits required
- Hybrid program format
- Cost per credit: $1,053
- Top 19 DNP Program
- Prescribing medication training
- Full-time and part-time options
- Mental health assessment skills
- Clinical experience included
- Telehealth and treatment planning
- Registered nurse prerequisite
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu
BSN to MSN - Nursing—Advanced Practice, Master of Science
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Arizona University's Master of Science in Nursing - Advanced Practice offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration that prepares registered nurses for advanced roles in rural healthcare settings. This 48-51 unit hybrid program provides specialized training leading to national certification, with admission requiring a 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and specific prerequisites. The curriculum focuses on developing clinical expertise for mental health care delivery across diverse populations. No entrance exam is specified for this master's-level program.
- 48-51 total graduate units
- Hybrid online/campus delivery
- Rural healthcare focus
- Two specialized practice tracks
- National certification preparation
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Current RN license needed
- CCNE accredited program
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Arizona University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate equips experienced nurses with advanced skills to address mental health needs, particularly in underserved rural communities. This 23-36 unit hybrid program prepares graduates for certification across all age groups, requiring a master's degree in nursing or healthcare, an active professional license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The curriculum emphasizes cultural competency, evidence-based practice, and holistic care through comprehensive clinical training. No entrance exam is specified for this graduate-level certificate program.
- Minimum GPA requirement: 3.0
- 23-36 total credit units
- Rural population focus
- Online and in-person courses
- Across lifespan certification
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Active healthcare license needed
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires clinical fieldwork
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate is a hybrid program for board-certified advanced practice nurses seeking mental health specialization. This 28-credit hour program includes 585 clinical hours and focuses on evidence-based assessment, diagnosis, and management of mental health disorders across all age groups. Students develop skills in pharmacological interventions and therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy. The program requires a minimum 3.00 GPA, a master's nursing degree, and board certification in another APRN specialty. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this graduate certificate program.
- 28 credit hours total
- 585 clinical practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Requires master's nursing degree
- Board certification in another APRN specialty
- Focuses on mental health across lifespan
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Minimum 3.00 GPA required
- Professional recommendation letters needed
- Unencumbered RN license required
MSN to DNP - Advanced Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid doctoral program that prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. This rigorous program requires 85 credit hours and 1,125 practicum hours, focusing on psychopharmacology, therapeutic interventions, and leadership skills. Students gain expertise through online learning combined with campus immersions in Downtown Phoenix. The program requires a minimum 3.00 GPA and an RN license, with clinical experience preferred. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this DNP program.
- Hybrid learning format
- 85 total credit hours
- 1,125 practicum hours
- DNP degree offered
- Requires 3.00 GPA minimum
- RN license required
- Clinical experience preferred
- Multidisciplinary training
- Campus in Downtown Phoenix
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - gcu.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Grand Canyon University's online MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares experienced nurses for advanced mental health roles through a 53-credit curriculum requiring 750 clinical hours. This program integrates Christian principles while focusing on evidence-based practice, diagnostic reasoning, and integrative management of psychiatric disorders across diverse populations. The curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, health assessment, and population health management. No entrance exam is required for admission, which mandates a BSN and RN licensure. Tuition is $750 per credit, and the program is accredited by HLC.
- Online program format.
- 53 total credits required.
- 750 clinical hours included.
- Tuition: $750 per credit.
- Admission requires BSN and RN license.
- Advanced pharmacology courses.
- Advanced health assessment training.
- Psychiatric mental health foundations.
- Integrative management of disorders.
- Christian perspective integrated.
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - phoenix.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Phoenix-Arizona's online Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs for advanced practice through comprehensive neuropsychiatric training. This 52-credit curriculum emphasizes assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders across all age groups, covering psychotherapeutic interventions, pharmacological management, and addiction services. The program includes a five-day on-campus residency and requires an active RN license and bachelor's degree for admission, with bridge options available. Graduates become eligible for ANCC PMHNP certification. Notably, no GMAT or essay is required for application, and the CCNE-accredited program offers flexible scheduling with tuition at $540 per credit plus various savings opportunities.
- Online program format.
- 52 credits required.
- ANCC certification eligible.
- Active RN license needed.
- Five-day campus residency.
- $540 per credit cost.
- Bridge program available.
- 12 core courses.
- Neuropsychiatric disorder focus.
- Psychopharmacology training.
Arizona State University Online
Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for comprehensive mental health care. This hybrid-online program blends multimedia learning with intensive clinical experiences, developing advanced clinical decision-making skills. Students access state-of-the-art simulation resources and flexible learning formats that accommodate working professionals while ensuring robust clinical training. The program requires an entrance exam for admission. With an 18,000 sq. ft. simulation facility and interprofessional learning experiences, graduates become eligible for national certification.
- Hybrid-online program format
- Advanced clinical simulation resources
- Flexible clinical placement options
- National certification eligibility
- Interprofessional learning experiences
- 18,000 sq. ft. simulation facility
- Multimedia learning approach
- Concentrated campus immersion sessions
What Makes a Strong PMHNP Program in Arizona?
Since PMHNP education is highly specialized, the "best" program often depends on alignment with your professional goals, location, and learning preferences. When comparing Arizona-based PMHNP programs, prospective students commonly evaluate:
Key Factors to Consider:
- Population focus: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) preparation
- Program format: Fully online coursework with required in-person components, hybrid models, or campus-based options
- Clinical placement support: Level of assistance securing Arizona-based preceptors
- Faculty expertise: Experience in psychiatric care, substance use treatment, and integrated behavioral health
- Certification readiness: Alignment with national PMHNP certification requirements
Check out other nurse practitioner schools in Arizona.
PMHNP Pathways Available in Arizona
Arizona PMHNP programs are generally offered through three academic pathways:
MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs
MSN-level PMHNP programs are well suited for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical preparation and eligibility for PMHNP certification. These programs typically emphasize direct patient care and may be completed more quickly than doctoral options.
DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs
DNP PMHNP programs build upon advanced clinical training while incorporating leadership, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. Many DNP pathways in Arizona are designed for working nurses and use hybrid formats with limited on-campus intensives.
Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate Programs
Post-master's certificates are intended for nurses who already hold a graduate nursing degree and want to add PMHNP preparation. These programs focus on specialty coursework and clinical hours needed for PMHNP certification without requiring a second full degree.
What the PMHNP Curriculum Typically Covers in Arizona
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs in Arizona are designed to prepare nurses for psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across the lifespan. While course titles and sequencing vary by program and degree level, PMHNP curricula generally combine advanced nursing theory with intensive clinical training.
Common PMHNP Coursework Includes:
- Advanced health assessment and psychiatric evaluation
- Psychopharmacology and medication management
- Diagnosis and management of mental health disorders across the lifespan
- Psychotherapy modalities and therapeutic communication
- Substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions
- Crisis intervention and acute psychiatric care
- Ethical, legal, and professional issues in psychiatric practice
At the doctoral level, DNP PMHNP programs typically add coursework in leadership, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and population mental health, along with a practice-focused scholarly project.
Tip: When comparing Arizona PMHNP programs, look for curriculum coverage in child/adolescent mental health, substance use treatment, and serious mental illness, as these areas are commonly encountered in the state's clinical and community settings.
Online vs. Hybrid vs. Campus-Based PMHNP Programs in Arizona
While many PMHNP programs advertise online delivery, most Arizona options include in-person requirements. Some of these programs are billed as “hybrid” programs, blending a mix of online and in-person coursework. Strictly online programs may still require limited campus visits. Always inquire with your school of choice on what their format offerings entail.
Common Format Characteristics:
- Online coursework: Didactic classes delivered asynchronously or through live virtual sessions
- In-person intensives: Skills labs, simulations, or assessments completed on campus or at designated sites
- Clinical rotations: In-person practicums completed in Arizona healthcare settings
Tip: When evaluating online PMHNP programs, confirm how often on-campus visits are required and where they take place. Travel expectations can significantly affect cost and scheduling.
Common PMHNP Clinical and Practicum Settings in Arizona
Clinical training is a core component of PMHNP education, and Arizona offers diverse practicum opportunities across urban, suburban, rural, and underserved communities. Depending on the program and availability of preceptors, PMHNP students may complete required clinical hours in settings that reflect the state's behavioral health needs.
Inpatient and Hospital-Based Psychiatry
Some students complete clinical rotations in inpatient psychiatric units or hospital-affiliated behavioral health services, where they gain experience with acute mental illness, crisis stabilization, and interdisciplinary care. Examples in Arizona include behavioral health units within large hospital systems such as Banner Health and Valleywise Health.
Outpatient Mental Health and Community Clinics
Outpatient settings are among the most common PMHNP practicum environments in Arizona and allow students to build skills in assessment, medication management, and longitudinal care. Examples include community mental health clinics operated by organizations such as Terros Health and Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (SB&H).
Integrated Primary Care and FQHC Settings
Integrated care clinics provide exposure to collaborative behavioral health models, particularly in underserved areas. Arizona-based examples include El Rio Health in Southern Arizona and Mountain Park Health Center in the Phoenix metro area.
Substance Use Disorder and Dual-Diagnosis Programs
Many PMHNP students seek practicum experiences in addiction and co-occurring disorder treatment settings. Examples include outpatient medication-assisted treatment programs such as Community Medical Services (CMS) and residential treatment facilities like Calvary Healing Center.
Telepsychiatry and Rural Mental Health Services
Telehealth placements are increasingly used to serve rural and frontier regions of Arizona and may be approved by some programs for clinical hours. Students may gain experience through telepsychiatry services connected to hospital systems or community providers serving northern and tribal Arizona communities.
Tip: Clinical placements that span more than one setting, such as inpatient, outpatient, and substance use treatment, can strengthen preparation for certification exams and expand employment options after graduation.
PMHNP Certification and Practice in Arizona
Graduates of PMHNP programs must meet both state and national requirements to practice.
General Requirements Include:
- An active RN license
- Completion of a graduate-level PMHNP program
- Eligibility for national PMHNP certification
Most graduates pursue national certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through a recognized certifying body. Program curricula are typically structured to meet these certification standards, but students should always confirm eligibility details before enrolling.
Common PMHNP Employers in Arizona
| Employment Area | Example Arizona Employers |
| Hospital Systems & Inpatient Behavioral Health | Banner Health • Valleywise Health • HonorHealth |
| Community Mental Health & Nonprofit Providers | Terros Health • Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (SB&H) • La Frontera Arizona |
| Federally Qualified Health Centers & Integrated Care | El Rio Health • Mountain Park Health Center • North Country HealthCare |
| Substance Use Disorder & Dual-Diagnosis Treatment | Community Medical Services (CMS) • Calvary Healing Center • The Meadows |
| Telepsychiatry & Remote Mental Health Services | Hospital-affiliated telebehavioral health programs • Community provider telepsychiatry services • Regional telehealth psychiatry groups |
How to Choose the Right Arizona PMHNP Program
The best PMHNP program is one that fits your personal, professional, and geographic needs.
Questions to Ask Before Applying:
- Does the program support clinical placements in my area of Arizona?
- How often are on-campus intensives required?
- Is coursework primarily synchronous or asynchronous?
- What level of support is offered for certification preparation?
FAQs
Q: What Is the Average Salary for PMHNPs in Arizona?
A: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners in Arizona typically earn competitive salaries compared with other advanced practice roles, with averages reflecting local demand and cost of living. According to recent job data, the typical salary range in Arizona is approximately $108,800 to $196,000 per year, with an average of around $146,000 annually.
Q: Are There Rural and Underserved Practice Opportunities for PMHNPs in Arizona?
A: Yes. Arizona offers strong rural and underserved practice opportunities for PMHNPs, particularly in northern Arizona, tribal communities, and smaller towns outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas. PMHNPs may work in rural hospitals, community mental health clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and telepsychiatry programs that serve patients across large geographic regions. Some PMHNP programs also support rural clinical placements or allow telehealth-based clinical hours, which can help prepare graduates for practice in areas with limited access to psychiatric providers.
Q: Does Completing a PMHNP Program in Arizona Qualify Me for National Certification?
A: Graduates of PMHNP programs are typically educated to meet national certification standards, but students should verify that their program aligns with current certification requirements.
Latest Articles & Guides
One of the keys to success as a registered nurse is embracing lifelong learning. Our articles and guides address hot topics and current events in nursing, from education to career mobility and beyond. No matter where you are on your nursing journey, there’s an article to help you build your knowledge base.
Browse our latest articles, curated specifically for modern nurses.
