Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
- 2026 Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
- Understanding PMHNP Education Pathways in Ohio
- Program Delivery Formats in Ohio
- Clinical Training Across Ohio
- PMHNP Tuition & Costs in Ohio
- PMNHP Certification and Ohio Licensure
- Career Outlook for PMHNPs in Ohio
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Latest Articles & Guides

Ohio faces a critical shortage of mental health providers, with over 80 of the state’s 88 counties designated as Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas. This crisis has created unprecedented demand for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) who can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients across the lifespan. Ohio’s nursing schools have responded by expanding PMHNP programs that combine academic rigor with flexible learning formats, preparing nurses to address mental health needs in communities from Cleveland to Cincinnati, Columbus to rural Appalachian Ohio.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The differences between MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate pathways for PMHNP education in Ohio
- How online, hybrid, and campus-based programs serve Ohio nursing students
- What clinical requirements look like for PMHNP students across Ohio’s healthcare landscape
- Admission standards, program costs, and financial aid opportunities specific to Ohio
- How Ohio’s scope of practice laws position PMHNPs for independent practice
2026 Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
Ursuline College
Pepper Pike, OH - Private 4-year - ursuline.edu
RN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College's MSN Track in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner equips students with essential skills to assess, diagnose, and treat mental illness across all age groups. This hybrid program emphasizes healing interactions, psychotropic medications, and the professional roles of advanced practice nurses. Accredited by the CCNE, it ranks among the top graduate nursing programs nationally. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, Ohio RN license, and one year of nursing experience. Graduates enter a high-demand field, with nurse practitioners ranked among the best healthcare jobs.
- Hybrid program format
- Focus on mental health
- CCNE accredited
- Requires Ohio RN license
- One year RN experience needed
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Top healthcare job field
- Emphasizes healing interactions
- Covers psychotropic medications
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) post-graduate certificate program at Ursuline College equips nurses with advanced skills in assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions across all age groups. This program focuses on therapeutic communication, psychopharmacology, and the professional roles of advanced practice nurses. It requires a national Board certification in a related nursing specialty for admission. Ursuline's nursing programs are recognized for excellence, offering a pathway to enhance your career in mental health care.
- Focus on mental health assessment.
- Diagnosis across all age groups.
- Advanced therapeutic communication skills.
- Comprehensive psychopharmacology education.
- Professional roles of advanced practice nurses.
- Requires national Board certification.
- Nationally recognized nursing programs.
- Pathway to enhance mental health care career.
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ursuline College's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BSN-DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to excel in mental health care. This comprehensive doctoral program develops expert clinicians who can assess and diagnose mental health conditions across child, adolescent, and adult populations. Students gain advanced skills in evidence-based practice, healthcare leadership, and systems transformation. The flexible hybrid format allows working professionals to advance their nursing careers while gaining specialized expertise in psychiatric healthcare delivery.
- Hybrid program delivery
- 75 total credit hours
- 175 hours minimum practicum
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Develops healthcare leadership skills
- Multiple clinical population focus
- Online and face-to-face courses
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Terminal nursing practice degree
- Comprehensive clinical diagnostics training
Walsh University
North Canton, OH - Private 4-year - walsh.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Walsh University's Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) prepares students for high-demand roles in mental health care. This program is designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice skills in psychiatric and mental health settings. With a focus on Ohio's critical need for psychiatrists, the program offers comprehensive training to address mental health challenges. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it ensures a quality education. The program is campus-based, providing hands-on learning experiences. Admission requirements include a BSN degree and RN licensure, with a focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles in mental health nursing.
- Campus-based learning.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Focus on PMHNP roles.
- Prepares for leadership positions.
- Addresses Ohio's psychiatrist shortage.
- Requires BSN and RN licensure.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Comprehensive mental health training.
- For registered nurses seeking advancement.
- Quality education guaranteed.
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Walsh University's Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive mental health care across all life stages. The program equips nurses with critical skills in crisis intervention, substance abuse disorders, and pharmaceutical management. Designed for post-master's nurses and DNP/PhD graduates, it offers rigorous didactic and clinical experiences. Students develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and managing psychiatric care, with a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and an unencumbered RN license. The distance learning format combines online coursework with face-to-face campus experiences in North Canton, Ohio.
- Post-master's PMHNP certificate
- Distance learning methodology
- Lifespan mental health focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Crisis care and substance disorders
- Interprofessional collaboration skills
- Simulation and active learning
- Global learning opportunities
- Faculty with real-world experience
- National certification exam eligible
MSN to DNP - DNP-PMHNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Walsh University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across all life stages. The rigorous program emphasizes evidence-based practice, systems leadership, and healthcare technology. Graduates gain expertise in treating acute, crisis, and chronic mental health conditions, including substance abuse disorders. The hybrid program offers flexible learning with online coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, positioning nurses for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments.
- Hybrid online and clinical program
- Advanced psychiatric nursing practice
- Evidence-based curriculum
- CCNE accredited program
- Inter-professional learning opportunities
- Leadership-focused doctoral education
- Addiction certification potential
- Lifespan mental health focus
Otterbein University
Westerville, OH - Private 4-year - otterbein.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Otterbein University's Associate's Degree to MSN Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a flexible pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. Designed for working professionals, this online program provides comprehensive training in mental health care with part-time options and personalized learning experiences. Students benefit from expert faculty, small class sizes, and community-based clinical experiences. The program prepares nurses to address critical mental health needs, with competitive tuition around $36,144 and multiple financial aid opportunities through national and state scholarship resources.
- Online coursework flexibility
- Community-based clinical experiences
- Part-time study option
- Small class sizes
- Expert nursing faculty
- Graduate-level courses early
- MSN tuition ~$36,144
- Multiple scholarship options
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post-Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Otterbein University's Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate is an innovative online program designed for graduate-prepared nurses seeking to expand their clinical expertise. This comprehensive 42-credit curriculum prepares advanced practice nurses to become certified psychiatric mental health practitioners across the lifespan. Students complete rigorous coursework in psychopharmacology, neurobiology, and clinical management, complemented by extensive clinical internships. The program offers flexibility through online learning and locally arranged clinical experiences, with a competitive tuition of approximately $29,637. Admission requires a nursing graduate degree, current RN licensure, professional experience, and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- 42 total graduate credit hours
- Fully online program
- Prepares for ANCC certification
- Clinical experiences in community
- Minimum 1-year nursing experience required
- 3.0 GPA minimum threshold
- Advanced practice core courses
- Multiple clinical internship courses
- Comprehensive mental health curriculum
- Across lifespan psychiatric focus
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - franklin.edu
BSN to MSN - M.S. in Nursing-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for working nurses, Franklin University's M.S. in Nursing-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PMHNP) prepares healthcare professionals to address critical mental health needs across patient lifespans. The 42-credit, 28-month online program equips students to diagnose and treat mental health disorders through comprehensive, holistic approaches including medication and psychotherapy. With an affordable per-credit tuition of $670 and no GRE/GMAT requirements, students can complete built-in clinical hours while gaining advanced practice skills. Graduates become eligible to sit for national certification, positioning themselves in a field projected to grow 44% by 2033.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 42 Semester Credit Hours
- 28-Month Program Length
- $670 Per Credit Hour
- 600 Clinical Practice Hours
- CCNE Accredited Program
- No GMAT/GRE Required
- Transfer Up to 12 Credits
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides a comprehensive pathway for experienced nurses to specialize in mental healthcare. Designed for working professionals, this 32-credit, 24-month online program prepares nurses to diagnose and treat mental health conditions across all age groups. With a competitive tuition of $670 per credit hour and built-in clinical hours, students can earn their certification while balancing work and life commitments. The program culminates in a clinical residency and prepares graduates to take the ANCC certification examination, addressing the critical nationwide shortage of mental health providers.
- 32 Credit Hours
- 24 Month Completion
- 100% Online Coursework
- No GMAT/GRE Required
- CCNE Accredited
- $670 Per Credit Hour
- Built-in Clinical Hours
- Transfer Credits Available
- Eligible for ANCC Certification
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) track provides advanced clinical training for nurses seeking to specialize in mental healthcare. This comprehensive online program prepares practitioners to diagnose and treat mental health conditions across patient lifespans, utilizing a holistic approach that integrates medication, psychotherapy, and evidence-based interventions. Students can complete the program in as few as 3 years, with 54 credit hours and 1,100 total practicum and clinical hours. Tuition is competitively priced at $748 per credit hour, with an automatic $2,000 scholarship available. Admission requires an active nursing license and a bachelor's or master's degree in nursing, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 54 Credit Hour Program
- Finish in 3 Years
- $748 Per Credit Hour
- CCNE Accredited
- 1,100 Total Practicum Hours
- No Dissertation Required
- Automatic $2,000 Scholarship
- Built-in Clinical Experiences
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate program equips experienced nurses to provide advanced mental health care. In just 16 months, students can develop comprehensive skills to diagnose, treat, and manage complex psychiatric conditions across patient populations. The fully online program boasts an impressive 96% certification pass rate and prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices. With a median annual wage of $140,592, this program offers a lucrative pathway for nurses seeking to specialize in psychiatric care.
- Fully online program
- Completed in 16 months
- 96% certification pass rate
- Taught by doctorally prepared faculty
- Three annual start dates
- Virtual two-day program intensive
- Career opportunities nationwide
- Prescribing and psychotherapy skills
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- CCNE accredited program
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips advanced practice nurses to address complex mental health challenges. This fully online program prepares students to provide comprehensive patient care through asynchronous coursework, blending academic rigor with practical expertise. Graduates are positioned to pursue diverse clinical settings, from outpatient clinics to private practices, and are eligible to sit for national certification exams. The program emphasizes advanced assessment skills, therapeutic interventions, and medication management, creating versatile healthcare professionals who can meet evolving mental health needs.
- 100% online asynchronous program
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
- Nationally recognized certification eligibility
- Versatile clinical practice settings
- Faculty with active clinical experience
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips nurses with the skills to address complex psychiatric and physical health needs. This program stands out for its 100% online, asynchronous coursework, allowing flexibility for working professionals. With faculty who are active practitioners, students gain insights from real-world experiences. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current healthcare demands. Admission requires at least one year of RN experience, with part-time options available for those needing to meet this criterion. Graduates are prepared for certification exams and diverse roles in healthcare settings, from acute care to private practice.
- 100% online coursework
- Asynchronous learning
- Practicing faculty
- Updated curriculum
- Clinical planning support
- 20,000+ alumni network
- 1 year RN experience required
- Part-time option available
- Prepares for certification exams
- Diverse career settings
Ohio University
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. This 40-credit CCNE-accredited program develops specialized skills in mental health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and psychopharmacology. Students complete 750 clinical practicum hours and are eligible to sit for the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification upon graduation. The part-time curriculum spans six semesters, designed for working healthcare professionals seeking career advancement in mental health nursing.
- 40 total credit program
- 750 clinical practicum hours
- Online part-time format
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for ANCC certification
- Six semester completion
- Advanced mental health focus
Graduate Certificate - Online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's Online Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides advanced training for registered nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. The 20-credit program equips healthcare professionals with comprehensive skills to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with complex mental health needs. Students develop expertise in psychotherapy, emergency psychiatric care, and evidence-based treatment strategies. Graduates can qualify for over 300,000 open roles with potential earnings exceeding $120,000 annually. The curriculum emphasizes advanced psychopharmacology, culturally sensitive care, and critical clinical decision-making across diverse healthcare settings.
- 20-credit post-masters certificate
- Online program format
- Advanced psychotherapy training
- Emergency psychiatric care skills
- Over 300,000 job opportunities
- Average salary over $120,000
- Primary care focus
- Diverse clinical settings
- Comprehensive mental health expertise
BSN to DNP - BSN-DNP (Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's BSN-DNP Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This cutting-edge 70-credit online program prepares professionals to provide comprehensive mental health care with a focus on leadership and evidence-based practice. Designed for working nurses, the program features flexible part-time scheduling, no GRE requirements, and competitive tuition of $608 per credit for Ohio residents. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, gaining specialized skills in mental health assessment, treatment, and patient-centered care. Graduates can expect lucrative career opportunities, with psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners earning around $125,000 annually.
- 100% Online with Intensives
- 70 Total Program Credits
- 1,000 Clinical Hours
- $608 Per Credit (Residents)
- No GRE Required
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 12 Semester Completion
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Psychiatric Specialization Option
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive mental health services across all age groups. Students gain expertise in mental health promotion, behavioral healthcare, and addiction services through evidence-based coursework and intensive clinical experiences. The program meets national certification guidelines and offers flexible part-time and full-time options, with 600 clinical hours providing hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings. Graduates are equipped to provide mental health care in primary care, schools, community centers, and other professional environments.
- 600 clinical training hours
- Meets national certification standards
- Flexible part-time options
- Care across all age ranges
- Multiple degree pathways
- Interdisciplinary healthcare collaboration
- Evidence-based mental health curriculum
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Ohio State University prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health services across diverse settings. Students develop expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions, addiction disorders, and comorbid mental health challenges. The hybrid program allows flexible learning with synchronous distance education, enabling working professionals to advance their clinical skills. Graduates emerge as highly skilled mental health practitioners equipped to provide care in primary care, schools, community, and business environments, addressing critical gaps in mental healthcare delivery.
- Three to four year program
- Distance learning options
- Advanced practice certification
- Synchronous online classes
- Multiple campus visits
- Comprehensive mental health focus
- Multiple practice setting preparation
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program equips registered nurses to address complex mental health needs across all age groups. The comprehensive 46-credit curriculum prepares advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioners to work in diverse settings like community clinics, hospitals, private practices, and treatment facilities. Students develop expertise in prevention, health promotion, assessment, and culturally appropriate interventions through rigorous theoretical and clinical training. The program requires 720 clinical hours and can be completed in four semesters, with flexible part-time and full-time options.
- 46 total credit hours
- 720 clinical practice hours
- Flexible part-time/full-time formats
- Comprehensive psychiatric mental health training
- Practice across diverse healthcare settings
BSN to MSN - Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to address complex mental health needs across diverse populations. This rigorous hybrid program offers comprehensive training in psychopathology, advanced assessment, and family systems interventions. Graduates develop expertise in treating individuals and families impacted by addiction, chronic illness, and systemic challenges. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical clinical experiences across healthcare settings, enabling students to become highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioners. Ranked 8th nationally, the program provides robust clinical partnerships with leading healthcare institutions.
- Top 10 NIH-funded nursing school
- Hybrid learning format
- Four consecutive semesters
- Diverse clinical placement options
- Advanced practice psychiatric focus
- Multiple healthcare setting preparation
- Comprehensive mental health curriculum
- Part-time schedule available
- Nationally recognized program
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - Public 4-Year - utoledo.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Toledo's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides advanced nursing professionals with comprehensive training to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health needs. Students learn to deliver therapy, prescribe medications, and conduct psychosocial assessments. This nationally ranked program offers flexible online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, preparing graduates for diverse mental health settings. The curriculum builds on existing nursing knowledge and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, with most graduates securing employment within 12 months of completion.
- Online courses, in-person clinical
- Full-time and part-time options
- Accredited by CCNE
- 75% employment rate within 12 months
BSN to DNP - Post Baccalaureate (B.S.N.) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Toledo offers an online Post Baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) program with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This program is designed for B.S.N. prepared nurses aiming for the highest level of clinical practice. It's 100% online, offering flexibility with full or part-time completion options. The curriculum blends theoretical and clinical courses to prepare students for advanced practice roles, focusing on evidence-based practice, leadership, and quality improvement in healthcare. Accredited by the CCNE, it requires 72-74 credits. Admissions requirements include a B.S.N. degree. The program emphasizes mental health, preparing graduates to address contemporary healthcare needs.
- 72-74 Credits
- 100% Online
- Flexible completion options
- CCNE accredited
- Focus on mental health
- Evidence-based practice
- Leadership training
- Quality improvement focus
- B.S.N. degree required
- Psychiatric Mental Health concentration
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) master's program addresses a critical healthcare need by training advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental health services. Students develop expertise in mental health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, medication management, and therapeutic interventions across patient lifespans. The 100% online program prepares graduates to work in diverse settings like community centers, private practices, primary care, and hospitals, helping bridge significant mental healthcare access gaps in the United States.
- 100% Online Program
- Full and Part-time Options
- CCNE Accredited
- Nationally Certified Faculty
- Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
- Multiple Career Settings Available
- Expert Nurse Instructors
- Flexible Start Dates
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate offers advanced nursing professionals a targeted pathway to specialized mental health care expertise. Designed for registered nurses with graduate degrees, this fully online program prepares practitioners to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders across diverse settings. Applicants need a master's or doctoral nursing degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license. The comprehensive 25-credit curriculum costs approximately $14,900 for Ohio residents, with flexible part-time and full-time options. Graduates are positioned to meet growing mental health professional demands and qualify for national certification examinations.
- 100% Online Program
- 25 Total Credit Hours
- CCNE Accredited
- Prepares for National Certification
- Ohio Resident Tuition ~$14,900
- Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
- Multiple Practicum Experiences
- Master's Degree Required
- Minimum 3.0 Graduate GPA
Understanding PMHNP Education Pathways in Ohio
Ohio offers multiple routes to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, each designed for nurses at different stages of their careers.
MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing with a PMHNP concentration is the entry-level graduate degree for registered nurses with a BSN. Ohio’s MSN programs typically require 42-52 credit hours and can be completed in 2-3 years of part-time study or 18-24 months full-time.
MSN graduates are eligible to sit for national PMHNP certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and can practice as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Ohio upon licensure.
DNP in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
The Doctor of Nursing Practice represents the terminal clinical degree in nursing. BSN to DNP programs in Ohio typically require 72-85 credits over 3-4 years, combining advanced practice coursework with doctoral-level content in healthcare policy and systems leadership.
Post-Master’s DNP programs require 30-36 additional credits and focus on scholarly project development and advanced leadership competencies. These programs can often be completed in 1-2 years and are ideal for practicing PMHNPs seeking career advancement.
Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificates
Post-master’s certificates allow practicing NPs to add psychiatric-mental health certification without completing a second master’s degree. PMHNP post-master’s certificate programs typically require 36-45 credits and 500-600 clinical hours, ideal for family nurse practitioners who frequently encounter patients with mental health concerns in Ohio primary care settings.
Learn more about nurse practitioner schools in Ohio.
Program Delivery Formats in Ohio
Campus-Based Programs
Traditional on-campus programs offer immersive learning with direct faculty interaction at Ohio’s nursing schools in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Akron, Toledo, and Dayton. Students benefit from networking with Ohio mental health professionals and employers including OhioHealth, Cleveland Clinic Behavioral Health, and University Hospitals.
Online Programs
Fully online PMHNP programs allow students to complete didactic coursework remotely while maintaining employment. This format serves students across Ohio’s diverse geography, from urban centers to rural Appalachian counties. Clinical practica must still be completed in-person at approved Ohio mental health facilities.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs blend online coursework with periodic on-campus requirements, such as intensive weekend sessions or week-long immersions. This format balances accessibility with hands-on learning experiences.
TIP: Choosing Your Format
Online and hybrid programs offer maximum flexibility for working nurses, but consider your learning style. All formats require the same clinical hours and lead to the same certification eligibility.
Clinical Training Across Ohio
All PMHNP programs require 500-600 hours of clinical experience for MSN programs. Ohio students complete rotations across diverse settings:
Clinical Sites Include:
- Psychiatric units at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
- Standalone psychiatric hospitals including Central Ohio Behavioral Healthcare
- Community mental health centers serving all 88 Ohio counties through ADAMHS boards
- FQHCs integrating behavioral health in Akron, Toledo, and Youngstown
- Veterans Affairs facilities in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Dayton
- Substance use disorder treatment programs addressing Ohio’s opioid crisis
- Correctional facilities and school-based mental health programs
TIP: Clinical Placement Strategy
Start networking early. Join the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses to connect with potential preceptors. Students in rural areas may need to travel to larger cities for certain specialty rotations.
Admission Requirements
| Requirement | Standard Expectation |
| RN License | Current, active Ohio RN license (or compact state license) |
| Undergraduate Degree | BSN from accredited program (for MSN/DNP); MSN for post-master’s |
| GPA | 3.0 minimum, though competitive programs may prefer 3.2+ |
| Nursing Experience | 1-2 years of RN experience; psychiatric experience helpful but not required |
| GRE | Increasingly waived by Ohio programs |
| Recommendations | 2-3 professional references |
| Personal Statement | Essay articulating interest in psychiatric-mental health nursing |
PMHNP Tuition & Costs in Ohio
Tuition varies significantly based on institution type and residency status.
Estimated total program costs:
- Public university MSN (Ohio residents): $18,000-$32,000
- Public university MSN (non-residents): $35,000-$55,000
- Private university MSN: $40,000-$70,000
- Public university DNP (Ohio residents): $30,000-$50,000
- Private university DNP: $60,000-$90,000
- Post-master’s certificates: $20,000-$45,000
Ohio residents benefit from reduced tuition at public universities. Large hospital systems like OhioHealth, University Hospitals, and Mercy Health offer tuition reimbursement programs.
TIP: Funding Your Education
Explore the Ohio Nurses Foundation scholarships, Ohio Board of Nursing loan repayment program, and the NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program. Many Ohio hospitals offer loan forgiveness for post-graduation employment commitments.
PMNHP Certification and Ohio Licensure
Upon completing your PMHNP program, you’ll take the PMHNP-BC certification exam through ANCC. Ohio requires national certification for APRN licensure.
Ohio licensure process:
- Pass the PMHNP-BC national certification exam
- Apply for APRN license through the Ohio Board of Nursing
- Establish a Standard Care Arrangement with a collaborating physician
Ohio grants PMHNPs full practice authority, including the ability to prescribe controlled substances independently. This positions Ohio PMHNPs for autonomous practice in settings ranging from private practice to hospital consultation services.
Career Outlook for PMHNPs in Ohio
Demand for psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners in Ohio is exceptionally strong, particularly in rural Appalachian counties, urban underserved neighborhoods, and communities impacted by substance use disorders.
Employment settings include:
- Private psychiatric practices in major cities
- Integrated behavioral health in primary care
- Psychiatric consultation-liaison services in hospital systems
- Telepsychiatry services expanding access to rural Ohio
- Substance use disorder treatment programs
- Community mental health centers
- University counseling centers
PMHNPs in Ohio earn $100,000-$130,000 annually, with higher compensation in underserved areas and specialized settings. The combination of high demand, competitive compensation, and full practice authority makes Ohio an attractive state for PMHNP practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ohio require PMHNPs to have a collaborating physician?
A: Ohio requires a Standard Care Arrangement with a collaborating physician, but this is consultative rather than supervisory. PMHNPs maintain full prescriptive authority including controlled substances.
Q: How long does it take to complete a PMHNP program in Ohio while working full-time?
A: Most part-time MSN students finish in 2.5-3 years. Accelerated full-time tracks can be completed in 18-20 months. Clinical requirements may necessitate schedule flexibility.
Q: Will my Ohio PMHNP license allow me to practice in other states?
A: Ohio does not participate in the APRN Compact, so you’ll need separate licensure for each state. However, your ANCC certification is nationally recognized, simplifying applications.
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