Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Missouri

Saint Louis University's online MSN with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares RNs to treat children, adolescents, and adults with acute or complex mental health conditions. The 38-credit curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and clinical management, with over 750 clinical hours. Fully online except for one campus visit, the program offers full- and part-time plans with rolling admissions. Notably, no entrance exam is required. Prerequisites and a 3.0 GPA are needed. Graduates qualify for ANCC certification and enter a field with a median NP salary of $129,210 and 35% projected job growth by 2034. CCNE-accredited, the program provides individual faculty advisors and emphasizes evidence-based, recovery-oriented care.

• 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 Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, designed for APRNs seeking specialized mental health training. This hybrid program blends online coursework with a single on-campus visit, requiring a minimum of 15 credits. The curriculum emphasizes holistic, evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and recovery-oriented care across the lifespan. Admission requires a master's in nursing, RN license, 3.0 GPA, and relevant advanced practice experience. Clinical hours are integrated, with faculty mentorship and placement assistance. Tuition is $1,400 per credit. The CCNE-accredited certificate prepares graduates for national certification. Rolling admissions and financial aid options are available.

• 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 Post-BSN DNP with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration equips nurses for advanced practice across the lifespan. This 68-credit, four-year hybrid program includes 1,000 clinical hours and two campus immersions. Coursework blends DNP core content with psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and clinical management, emphasizing culturally sensitive, evidence-based, recovery-oriented care. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA and prerequisites. Graduates are eligible for PMHNP national certification through ANCC or AANP, with career opportunities in hospitals, community centers, and private practice. The CCNE-accredited program features individual faculty advisors, rolling admissions, and full- or part-time scheduling. Tuition is $1,450 per credit, with financial aid and scholarships available.

• 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 of Saint Louis delivers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing registered nurses to diagnose and treat mental health disorders across all ages. The 100% online format eliminates campus visits, and students can finish in as few as 32 months with three entry points per year. Core coursework includes advanced health assessment, psychopharmacology, and mental health diagnosis, all within a holistic, evidence-based framework. The program is CCNE accredited and does not require GMAT, GRE, or statistics for admission. Tuition totals between $18,123 and $69,223. With flexible 24/7 learning, expert faculty, and local clinical placements, this MSN equips graduates to excel in diverse psychiatric settings, addressing a growing demand for 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 of Saint Louis offers an online Post-Master's NP Certificate specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) for nurses who already hold an MSN and seek advanced clinical training. This 100% online program requires no campus visits, allowing students to complete clinical hours in their local communities. The curriculum emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and evidence-based care across the lifespan, with a focus on adult, older adult, and lifespan psychiatric management. Admission is streamlined with no GMAT, GRE, or statistics requirement. The program is accredited by the CCNE and offers flexible scheduling with multiple annual start dates. Total tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223, with program duration from 12 to 40 months, making it a versatile option for working professionals seeking prescriptive authority and career advancement in mental health care.

• 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 MS in Nursing with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner equips nurses with advanced skills for mental health care across the lifespan. This hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, covering evidence-based practice, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, advanced health assessment, and substance abuse disorder treatment. The curriculum is designed to serve diverse populations, including rural communities, and prepares graduates for ANCC certification. Admission requires meeting Graduate School and program-specific criteria, with a 3.0 GPA needed for graduation. State authorization restrictions may apply, so prospective students should verify eligibility. This master's degree opens doors to specialized psychiatric nursing practice.

• 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.

This Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Missouri is designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health training. The campus-based curriculum covers psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, integrating evidence-based practices and holistic patient care. Applicants must hold a master's degree in nursing and appropriate licensure. The program prepares graduates for certification and clinical practice in diverse settings, addressing the growing demand for mental health providers. Cost varies by residency status, and financial aid is available. Located in Columbia, Missouri, this certificate offers a pathway for nurses to expand their scope of practice in a 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 Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Missouri prepares registered nurses to become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners across the lifespan. The hybrid curriculum focuses on evidence-based primary mental health care, including psychotropic medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program leads to eligibility for the ANCC PMHNP board certification. Graduates are prepared for roles as mental health providers, coordinators, consultants, and clinical instructors. The Sinclair School of Nursing offers a supportive environment that combines online learning with on-campus experiences, advancing psychiatric nursing practice at the highest level.

• 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, a post-master's program designed for nurses holding an MSN or DNP. This hybrid certificate blends online coursework with periodic on-campus visits, making it accessible for working professionals. The 18-credit curriculum can be completed in 2-3 years, with an estimated cost of $16,609.50. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, current RN licensure, and specific prerequisite coursework; a personal interview is required, and two years of RN experience is preferred. No entrance exam is noted. The program is accredited by the CCNE, and graduates are eligible to sit for national certification, preparing them for diverse psychiatric settings.

• 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's BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Combining online coursework with on-campus intensives held once per semester, the curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and psychotherapeutic modalities. Students complete 74 credit hours, typically finishing in four years of full-time study, with part-time options available. Clinical training occurs in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis settings under preceptor guidance. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification and pursue careers in clinics, hospitals, or private practice. The program offers in-state tuition to all students, uses the Canvas learning platform with synchronous and asynchronous classes, and is available in 48 states via SARA. An onsite orientation is required, and no entrance exam is mentioned.

• 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 post-graduate certificate for nurses holding an MSN or DNP seeking Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) preparation. This online program requires at least one year of inpatient or outpatient psychiatric or emergency room nursing experience and is tailored to individual student backgrounds. The curriculum includes a minimum of 12 credit hours, with eight credit hours of practicum involving clinical hours, covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and specialized psychiatric courses. Graduates are eligible for board certification in psychiatric mental health nursing. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current professional licensure, and a Nursing CAS application. The program emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care, ethical and legal standards, and health equity for diverse populations.

• 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 BSN to DNP program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) emphasis prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical expertise in mental health. This hybrid, 70-credit-hour program integrates healthcare systems and evidence-based practice with advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning. Specialty coursework focuses on psychiatric mental health diagnosis and management across the lifespan, supplemented by hands-on practicum and a capstone clinical scholarship project. Admission requires a BSN from a nationally accredited program, current professional licensure, a 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite courses including statistics. The program features holistic admission review, a direct-admit option for UMSL graduates, and limited enrollment with guaranteed applicants. It is one of seven NP emphasis areas designed to meet the growing demand for mental health providers.

• 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-Springfield's BSN to DNP pathway with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) option is a hybrid, four-year full-time program blending online and on-campus coursework. The curriculum delves into psychiatric conditions, treatment planning, and leadership within mental health systems, preparing graduates for clinical, administrative, educational, or research roles. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes ethical practice and a culture of caring, addressing the growing demand for mental health professionals. Financial aid and scholarships are available. The program does not explicitly list an entrance exam requirement for admission.

• 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

The BSN to DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Missouri State University-Springfield focuses on preparing advanced nurses to meet the rising need for mental health services. Through a hybrid format combining online and seated classes, students engage in leadership, administration, and ethical care principles, while benefiting from academic advisement, transfer credit options, and student involvement opportunities. This CCNE-accredited, four-year full-time program equips graduates for clinical, educational, or research careers, with a strong emphasis on influencing policy and improving mental health systems. Financial aid and scholarships support student success. No entrance exam is noted in the program details.

• 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's online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate, delivered through Saint Luke's College, offers CCNE-accredited psychiatric-mental health training for nurses holding an MSN or higher with an NP focus. The 22-credit curriculum spans four semesters and includes 750 clinical hours with free placement assistance. Highlights include a 92% first-time ANCC PMHNP-BC pass rate, two immersions (one campus, one virtual), and three annual intakes. The curriculum emphasizes lifespan psychiatric assessment and evidence-based practice, grounded in Jesuit values. Tuition is $780 per credit plus $1,750 per practicum course. Applicants need an active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and residency in approved states including Missouri. No GRE/GMAT is required.

• 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 delivers a Post-MSN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner entirely online, designed for working nurses. The 24 to 34 credit curriculum integrates psychopathology, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy, supplemented by clinical practicums to build diagnostic and treatment skills across the lifespan. Admission requires an MSN and active RN license; no entrance exam such as the GRE is noted in requirements. This Baptist-affiliated, military-friendly program offers financial aid and flexible scheduling. Graduates gain advanced competencies in psychiatric care, ready to address mental health disorders in diverse populations.

• 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.