Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Missouri

Saint Louis University's MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, offered through the Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing, prepares registered nurses to care for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with acute or complex mental health conditions. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy in advanced practice nursing, and clinical management across psychiatric settings. Students build skills in medication management, the nursing process, and evidence-based, culturally sensitive, recovery-oriented care. The fully online program — requiring one campus visit — fits working RNs through individualized full- or part-time plans. At 38 credits, the concentration includes 750+ clinical hours. Graduates are eligible for national certification through the ANCC, and with NPs earning a median salary of $129,210, the career outlook is strong.

• CCNE accredited
• 5 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• $1,450 per credit
• 38 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• $129,210 median earnings

Saint Louis University's Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide holistic, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. The hybrid format combines online coursework with minimal on-campus requirements. Students engage in clinical rotations with faculty support. Admission requires a master's in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, and relevant coursework. Tuition is $1,400 per credit. Graduates qualify for national certification exams, with strong career prospects in a growing field.

• Post-Master's Certificate program.
• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• One on-campus visit required.
• Minimum 15 credits for completion.
• Tuition $1,400 per credit.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires master's in nursing.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• Clinical hours included.
• Prepares for national certification.

Saint Louis University's DNP with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares you to provide advanced mental health care across the lifespan. The curriculum blends core DNP coursework with specialized studies in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and clinical management of psychiatric conditions. You'll complete 1,000 clinical hours in diverse settings, working with children, adolescents, and adults facing acute or complex mental health needs. The program emphasizes evidence-based, culturally sensitive, recovery-oriented care. Graduates are eligible for national certification and pursue careers as psychiatric nurse practitioners in hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practice. With full-time and part-time options, you can balance your education with professional commitments. The program features individually assigned faculty advisors, two required campus immersions, and access to online resources. SLU's Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing is consistently ranked among the top graduate nursing programs, offering a supportive, rigorous learning environment.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4 concentration options
• $1,450 per credit
• 4-Year program
• 68 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours

Maryville University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across all ages. It features 100% online coursework with no campus visits required, allowing flexibility for working professionals. Students can complete the MSN in as few as 32 months, with three entry points per year. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, psychopharmacology, and mental health diagnosis. Total tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223. Admission does not require GMAT, GRE, or statistics. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education for aspiring PMHNPs.

• 100% online format.
• No campus visits required.
• No GMAT or GRE needed.
• Complete clinicals locally.
• No waiting list after acceptance.
• Program length 32 months.
• Three entry points yearly.
• Total tuition $18,123-$69,223.
• CCNE accredited program.
• Flexible 24/7 learning model.

Maryville University offers an online Post-Master's NP Certificate with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration for MSN-prepared nurses seeking specialization. This 100% online program requires no campus visits, allowing you to complete clinicals locally. It features flexible scheduling with multiple start dates per year. Total tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223. Admission does not require GMAT, GRE, or statistics. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It prepares you to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders across the lifespan. You'll gain skills in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. The curriculum focuses on adult, older adult, and lifespan psychiatric care. Graduates can pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and other settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and professional autonomy. It supports career advancement in a high-demand field with strong earning potential.

• 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 Missouri's Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses for advanced mental health care across all ages. This hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical experiences, focusing on evidence-based practice, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification and learn to serve diverse populations, including rural communities. The curriculum covers core nursing sciences and specialized mental health topics, requiring a 3.0 GPA for graduation. Admissions follow Graduate School and program-specific requirements, with application deadlines varying by emphasis area.

• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for ANCC certification.
• Serves all age groups.
• Focus on rural populations.
• Core master's coursework included.
• Specialty clinical courses.
• 3.0 GPA required.
• Graduate School admissions.
• Program-specific application criteria.
• State authorization restrictions apply.

The University of Missouri offers a Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized training in mental health care. This campus-based program equips students with skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. It prepares graduates for certification and practice in diverse clinical settings. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing and relevant licensure. Costs vary based on residency status, with financial aid options available. The program focuses on evidence-based practices and holistic patient care, supporting career advancement in this high-demand field.

• Graduate Certificate program.
• Campus-based learning.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner focus.
• Part of University of Missouri Graduate School.
• Located in Columbia, MO.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Prepares for certification.
• Focuses on mental health care.
• Advanced practice nursing training.
• Evidence-based practices included.

This DNP program prepares registered nurses to become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) across the lifespan. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based advanced primary mental health care, with training in psychotropic medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. Students learn to deliver care to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and families. Graduates are prepared for careers as mental health care providers, coordinators, consultants, and clinical instructors. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and leads to eligibility for the ANCC PMHNP board certification. Through a blend of online coursework and on-campus experiences, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri provides a supportive learning environment focused on advancing psychiatric nursing practice.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• Prepares for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) board certification
• Manages psychotropic medications
• Delivers psychotherapeutic interventions
• Evidence-based primary mental health care
• Cares for all ages including children

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for nurses with an MSN or DNP. This post-master's certificate prepares you to provide comprehensive psychiatric services. The hybrid program combines online coursework with required on-campus visits. It typically takes 2-3 years to complete 18 credit hours. Estimated cost is $16,609.50. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, current RN licensure, and specific prerequisite coursework. Graduates can sit for national certification. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

• 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.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) designed for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus intensives, allowing flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and psychotherapeutic treatment modalities, preparing graduates for comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. Students gain clinical experience in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis settings under the guidance of preceptors. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification and pursue careers in outpatient clinics, psychiatric emergency services, private practice, or hospitals. Distinctive features include in-state tuition regardless of residency, synchronous and asynchronous learning via Canvas, and a supportive faculty committed to personal attention. With 74 credit hours and full-time completion in approximately 4 years, this program equips nurse practitioners to diagnose, treat, and prescribe for patients with psychiatric disorders.

• 4-Year program
• 74 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Prepares for ANCC
• On-campus intensives once per semester
• In-state tuition for all students
• Canvas online learning platform
• Clinical training with preceptors in varied settings
• Onsite orientation required

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate for nurses with an MSN or DNP. This program prepares graduates for board certification exams in psychiatric mental health nursing. It requires at least one year of inpatient or outpatient psychiatric or emergency room nursing experience. Students complete a minimum of 12 credit hours, including 8 credit hours of practicum with clinical hours. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and specialized psychiatric courses. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current professional licensure, and a completed Nursing CAS application. The program is tailored to individual student backgrounds and goals.

• Post-graduate certificate program.
• Tailored to individual students.
• Eligible for board certification.
• Minimum 12 credit hours.
• 8 credit hours practicum.
• Clinical practice hours required.
• MSN or DNP required.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Current licensure needed.
• One year psychiatric experience.

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) emphasis in the BSN to DNP program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis prepares registered nurses to become clinical experts in mental health care. The curriculum integrates foundational concepts like healthcare systems and evidence-based practice with advanced clinical skills in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning. Specialty courses focus on psychiatric mental health diagnosis and management across the lifespan. Students complete a capstone clinical scholarship project and gain hands-on experience through practicum courses. The program uses a holistic admission review and is ideal for nurses seeking to address the growing demand for mental health providers. With 70 credit hours, the hybrid format offers flexibility for working professionals.

• 70 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Holistic admission review process
• Direct admit option for UMSL graduates
• One of seven NP emphasis areas
• Requires current professional licensure
• Limited enrollment with guaranteed applicants
• Statistics prerequisite required

Missouri State University offers a BSN to DNP pathway with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner option, delivered in a hybrid format blending online and on-campus learning. The four-year full-time program prepares nurses for advanced roles in mental health care. Curriculum covers psychiatric conditions, treatment planning, and leadership in mental health systems. Graduates are equipped for clinical, administrative, educational, or research positions, addressing the growing demand for mental health professionals. The program emphasizes ethical practice and a culture of caring. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4-Year program
• Complete in Four-year (full-time)
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Hybrid format: online and seated classes
• Careers in clinical, admin, education, research
• Culture of caring and ethics

Missouri State University's BSN to DNP program with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner option prepares nurses to address the growing demand for mental health professionals. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, administration, and ethical care, equipping graduates for clinical, educational, or research roles. Students benefit from a hybrid format combining online and seated courses, offering flexibility. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and includes a four-year full-time plan. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students. Graduates emerge ready to influence policy, improve mental health services, and find personal fulfillment in a high-impact career.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• Full-time enrollment
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Hybrid online and seated classes
• Leadership and administration focus
• In-demand mental health skills
• Academic advisement provided
• Transfer credit accepted
• Student involvement opportunities

Rockhurst University offers an online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate for nurses seeking specialization in psychiatric mental health. This CCNE-accredited program requires 22 credit hours minimum and can be completed in four semesters. Students complete 750 clinical hours with free placement services included. The program prepares graduates for ANCC PMHNP-BC certification with a 92% first-time pass rate. Competitive tuition is $780 per credit hour plus $1,750 per practicum course. Admission requires an MSN or higher degree with nurse practitioner focus, active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and residence in approved states including Missouri.

• Online coursework delivery
• Four semester completion time
• 22 credit hours minimum
• 750 clinical hours required
• Free clinical placement services
• ANCC PMHNP-BC exam preparation
• CCNE-accredited program
• $780 per credit hour tuition
• $1,750 per practicum course
• MSN or higher degree required

Missouri Baptist University offers a Post-MSN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. It is delivered online, providing flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum includes courses like psychopathology, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy. Students complete clinical practicums to gain hands-on experience. The program focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders across the lifespan. It requires 24 to 34 credit hours, depending on prior coursework. Admissions typically need a master's degree in nursing and a valid RN license. Costs vary, and financial aid options are available. This certificate helps nurses advance their careers in psychiatric care.

• Post-MSN Certificate program.
• Online delivery format.
• 24 to 34 credit hours.
• Includes clinical practicums.
• Courses in psychopathology and psychopharmacology.
• Focus on lifespan mental health care.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Valid RN license needed.
• Flexible for working professionals.
• Part of School of Nursing.