[2025 Updated] Best Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Vanderbilt University's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) program is ranked #2 nationally, providing a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience for advanced nursing professionals. The comprehensive curriculum covers psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy across all life stages, integrating 560 clinical practice hours. Students engage in evidence-based learning through online platforms and intensive on-campus sessions, preparing for diverse mental health roles. The program offers multiple entry options, follows the latest AACN standards, and provides full-time and part-time pathways for nurses seeking specialized psychiatric care expertise.

• Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
• 560 Clinical Practice Hours
• 4 Full-Time Semesters
• Lifespan Mental Health Focus
• Evidence-Based Curriculum
• Multiple Program Entry Options

Vanderbilt University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a comprehensive online and hybrid program for experienced RNs seeking advanced specialization. Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexible learning formats with 4-5 full-time or 7-8 part-time semesters. Students benefit from over 500 supervised patient care hours, with a curriculum emphasizing exceptional outcomes and high licensure pass rates. The program boasts a 97% employment rate and is accredited by CCNE, offering 13 clinical and 2 non-clinical nursing specialties. Graduates receive individualized study plans and can explore DNP and Post-Master's Certificate options with robust clinical experiences.

• Online/hybrid format available.
• 4 to 5 full-time semesters.
• 7 to 8 part-time semesters option.
• 500+ supervised patient care hours.
• High licensure pass rates.
• 97% employment rate post-graduation.
• Expert, practicing faculty.
• 13 clinical nursing specialties.
• 2 non-clinical specialties.
• Accredited by CCNE.

Duke University's MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive online and hybrid training for nursing professionals targeting critical mental health needs. This innovative curriculum equips students with advanced psychopharmacological skills and therapeutic interventions through flexible distance learning models. With nationwide clinical partnerships and expert faculty, students gain extensive practical experience across varied healthcare settings. The program highlights include potential annual earnings exceeding $129,480, diverse career opportunities, and preparation for emergency psychiatry and community mental health roles. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners ready to address complex mental health challenges with compassionate, evidence-based approaches.

• #1 Mental Health Nursing Program
• Hybrid Learning Model
• Nationwide Clinical Partnerships
• Distance-Based Education Options
• Comprehensive Mental Health Training
• Expert Faculty with Clinical Experience
• Diverse Career Opportunities
• 38% Job Growth Projection

Duke University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a cutting-edge hybrid online program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health training. The program emphasizes comprehensive care across diverse clinical settings, with over 2,000 nationwide clinical partnerships. Students develop advanced psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic skills through flexible distance learning, balancing synchronous and asynchronous coursework. Graduates are prepared to address the growing mental health crisis with trauma-informed, equitable care approaches. The program boasts a #1 national ranking in mental health nursing and aligns with the field's projected 38% job growth by 2032, positioning students for high-demand, impactful careers in mental healthcare.

• #1 Mental Health Nursing Program
• Hybrid Distance-Based Learning
• Nationwide Clinical Partnerships
• Lifespan Mental Health Focus
• High Job Growth Potential
• Trauma-Informed Academic Environment
• Synchronous and Asynchronous Courses
• Diverse Clinical Practice Settings

UNH's online Master's in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a rigorous 50-credit, 30-month program designed for experienced registered nurses. Requiring a minimum of one year RN experience, the curriculum emphasizes comprehensive mental healthcare across patient lifespans. Students engage in high-fidelity simulations and intensive clinical practicums, developing expert-level competencies. The program offers full and part-time options, preparing graduates for the ANCC board certification exam. With a competency-based curriculum and experienced nursing faculty, students gain advanced clinical skills to effectively assess, diagnose, and manage mental health conditions in diverse healthcare environments.

• Online Master's degree program
• 50 total credit hours
• 30-month program length
• 750 clinical practice hours
• Full and part-time options
• ANCC certification preparation
• Experienced nursing faculty
• Minimum 1 year RN experience required
• Across lifespan patient care focus
• Competency-based curriculum

University of New Hampshire's Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Online Certificate provides a dynamic 29-credit program tailored for advanced practice registered nurses. Delivered entirely online with three on-campus intensives, the curriculum spans 17 months and requires 750 clinical hours. Students explore comprehensive mental health assessment and treatment strategies across patient lifespans. The program prepares nurses for the ANCC certification exam, enabling graduates to pursue diverse career opportunities in private practice, telehealth, and integrated behavioral healthcare settings. Designed for licensed APRNs, the program offers flexible synchronous and asynchronous learning formats.

• Online graduate certificate program
• 29 total credit hours
• 17-month program length
• 750 clinical hours required
• Three on-campus intensives
• Synchronous and asynchronous learning
• For licensed APRNs
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Multiple mental health career paths

The University of New Hampshire's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an 80-credit doctoral program designed for advanced nursing professionals. This comprehensive curriculum combines evidence-based clinical training with leadership development, preparing nurses to transform healthcare delivery. Students complete 750 clinical practice hours while enjoying a customizable program length and small class sizes. The fully online format accommodates working professionals, focusing on advanced mental health expertise. Graduates become eligible for ANCC board certification and emerge as healthcare leaders capable of assessing, diagnosing, and managing complex mental health conditions across patient lifespans.

• 80 total credit hours
• Fully online program
• 750 clinical practice hours
• ANCC certification eligible
• Post-baccalaureate doctoral degree
• Customizable program length
• Small class sizes
• Expert faculty mentorship
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• Advanced practice preparation

The online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN at University of South Carolina delivers comprehensive mental healthcare training for B.S.N. graduates. This dynamic program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills in psychopharmacology, psychiatric evaluation, and population health interventions. Students benefit from extensive practical training through clinical practicums, preparing them for diverse practice environments including psychiatric facilities and community clinics. Emphasizing evidence-based approaches, the curriculum supports national certification preparation and requires a competitive 3.0 GPA. Graduates emerge as highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioners ready to address complex mental health challenges across patient populations.

• B.S.N. entry pathway
• 48-51 total credit hours
• National certification preparation
• Diverse practice settings
• Advanced clinical practicums
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Psychopharmacology focus
• Comprehensive psychiatric training

University of South Carolina's online Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers advanced practice nurses a specialized pathway to enhance mental health expertise. Exclusively designed for post-master's professionals, this program cultivates comprehensive skills in psychiatric care through intense neuroscientific and psychopharmacological training. Students explore diagnostic techniques, treatment strategies, and clinical interventions across diverse healthcare settings like psychiatric facilities and schools. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, the program prepares nurses for national certification and provides flexible online learning that accommodates working professionals seeking career advancement in mental health practice.

• Post-master's certificate program
• 18-32 total credit hours
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• National certification preparation
• Multiple practice settings available
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Holistic mental health approach
• Diverse clinical practicum experiences

University of South Carolina's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practitioner represents a cutting-edge program for ambitious advanced practice nurses. This transformative doctoral curriculum integrates sophisticated neuroscientific principles with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, enabling graduates to address intricate clinical challenges. Students develop expertise in trauma-related care, health policy, and interprofessional collaboration, positioning themselves as innovative mental healthcare leaders. The program prepares candidates for national psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification, offering a comprehensive learning experience that transcends traditional clinical boundaries and empowers nurses to drive meaningful healthcare transformations.

• Top-tier faculty mentorship
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Prepares for national certification
• Interprofessional collaboration focus

Emory University's hybrid Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing offers a transformative educational experience addressing nationwide mental health professional shortages. Through the Blake Scholars Program, nurses receive comprehensive training with a distinguished curriculum emphasizing child and adolescent behavioral health. The 26-credit hour program provides full tuition scholarship and encompasses 720 direct clinical hours, enabling practitioners to develop advanced skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and holistic care. Leveraging synchronous and asynchronous learning models, students gain expertise in evidence-based practices, psychiatric medication management, and autonomous clinical functioning. Clinical training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta ensures hands-on, specialized experience in pediatric mental health settings.

• Full tuition scholarship
• 26 credit hour program
• 720 direct clinical hours
• Child/adolescent mental health focus
• Synchronous/asynchronous learning
• Clinical training at CHOA
• Psychiatric medication management
• Evidence-based practice curriculum
• Advanced practice nursing skills

Emory University's specialized Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing delivers an intensive, concentration-focused curriculum targeting child and adolescent behavioral health. Designed for experienced Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, this 26-credit hour program provides full tuition support and immersive clinical training. Students receive advanced psychotherapy preparation, neurobiologically-informed intervention strategies, and comprehensive medication management skills. The program's 720 direct clinical hours at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta enable practitioners to develop sophisticated interprofessional collaborative care competencies. By emphasizing evidence-based practices and autonomous clinical functioning, graduates become highly skilled mental health professionals prepared to address complex pediatric psychological challenges.

• 26-credit hour post-graduate certificate
• Full tuition scholarship available
• 720 direct clinical hours
• Focus on child/adolescent mental health
• Clinical training at CHOA
• Synchronous/asynchronous learning
• Neurobiologically-informed approach
• Advanced psychotherapy training
• Medication management skills
• Interprofessional collaborative care

George Washington University's online Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a comprehensive 50-credit program preparing registered nurses to deliver advanced mental health care across patient lifespans. Students gain expertise in neuropsychopharmacology, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care through a hybrid learning format. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, active unencumbered RN license, and two recommendation letters. With 600 clinical hours and a focus on interprofessional collaborative practice, graduates become eligible for national certification and can work in diverse healthcare settings, addressing complex mental health challenges with advanced clinical skills.

• 50 credit program
• 600 clinical hours required
• Lifespan psychiatric care focus
• National certification eligibility
• Minimum 3.0 GPA preferred
• Two recommendation letters needed
• Active unencumbered RN license
• Hybrid program format
• Interprofessional collaborative practice

George Washington University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner represents an advanced hybrid program designed for nurses seeking leadership in mental healthcare. Spanning 74 credit hours, the curriculum integrates 1000 practice hours, including 500 direct clinical and 500 indirect practice hours. Students develop transformative skills in comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. The program emphasizes lifespan psychiatric care, evidence-based interventions, and interprofessional collaboration. With a holistic approach integrating neuroscience and behavioral theories, graduates are positioned as innovative mental health practitioners prepared to address complex psychological conditions across diverse patient populations.

• 74 total credit hours required
• 1000 practice hours mandatory
• 500 direct clinical hours
• 500 indirect DNP practice hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA preferred
• Active RN license required
• Lifespan psychiatric curriculum
• Holistic mental health approach
• Interprofessional collaborative focus
• Hybrid program delivery

Florida International University's hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive mental health professional training across 45 total credits. Students gain advanced competencies in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric conditions for individuals and communities. The curriculum strategically prepares practitioners for diverse healthcare environments, including community mental health centers, psychiatric clinics, and crisis intervention facilities. Graduates become highly skilled advanced practice nurses eligible for national certification, equipped to provide nuanced mental health interventions and patient-centered care.

• Hybrid program format
• 45 total program credits
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• Advanced mental health nursing practice
• Qualify for national certification

Florida International University's Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a specialized online and hybrid program targeting MSN degree holders seeking advanced clinical expertise. With 32-35 credits depending on track, the program uniquely prepares nurses for national certification exams in specialized mental health domains. Students benefit from flexible clinical site arrangements and comprehensive training in Adult and Child psychiatric tracks. The program distinctively accommodates diverse learning preferences, emphasizing advanced clinical skill development and professional expansion in mental health nursing specialties.

• 32 credits for Adult and Child tracks.
• 35 credits for Psychiatric track.
• 36 credits for Family track.
• Online and hybrid program options.
• Requires MSN degree for eligibility.
• Prepares for national certification exams.
• Specializations in four clinical areas.
• Flexible clinical site arrangements.
• Admission deadlines vary by track.
• Enhances clinical nursing skills.

Florida International University's Post-BSN to DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive 77-credit hybrid pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Spanning 10 semesters, this innovative program develops sophisticated mental health intervention skills across individual, family, and community contexts. Students receive robust clinical training enabling them to become certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners. The curriculum strategically prepares graduates to diagnose, treat, and manage complex psychiatric conditions while providing flexible, patient-centered mental health care in diverse clinical settings.

• Hybrid program format
• 10 total semesters
• 77 total program credits
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• National certification eligible

University of Virginia's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers a comprehensive hybrid learning experience targeting advanced practice nurses addressing complex mental health challenges. Spanning two to three years, the program offers flexible scheduling for working professionals. Students engage in over 500 clinical hours, developing expertise in preventing, detecting, and treating acute and chronic mental health conditions. With competitive admission standards requiring a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and one year of nursing experience, graduates become ANCC certification-eligible. The curriculum emphasizes advanced assessment skills and serving underserved populations, preparing nurses for impactful mental health practice with annual tuition ranging from $24,962 to $39,130.

• Hybrid learning format
• 500+ clinical practice hours
• Two or three year program
• ANCC certification eligible
• Focus on underserved populations
• Minimum 1 year RN experience
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Advanced assessment and management skills

University of Virginia's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a robust hybrid program designed for working advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. Accommodating professionals through part-time options, the program spans six specialty tracks with comprehensive training. Students complete 500-600 clinical hours, preparing for specialty certification exams without GRE score requirements. The curriculum provides advanced theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, with tuition ranging from $888-$1,450 per credit. Admission requires an accredited master's degree, active APRN licensure, and prerequisite advanced courses. The program leverages UVA Health collaboration and boasts a national ranking, making it an exceptional pathway for nurses advancing their mental health specialization.

• Six specialty post-master's certificate tracks
• Hybrid learning format
• Part-time options for working nurses
• Preparation for specialty certification exams
• 500-600 clinical hours per track
• No GRE score requirement
• Guaranteed admission for UVA alumni
• National program ranking (#7 public MSN)
• Unencumbered RN license required

Tennessee Tech's online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills to deliver holistic mental healthcare across patient lifespans. Graduates develop sophisticated clinical competencies in assessing, diagnosing, and treating complex mental health conditions through an innovative curriculum. The program prepares students for national certification and empowers them to work effectively in diverse healthcare environments, including primary care settings, hospitals, community clinics, and private practices. Students learn interdisciplinary collaboration techniques and gain advanced practice nursing expertise tailored to psychiatric mental health specialization.

• Online MSN program
• Comprehensive psychiatric care training
• National certification eligible
• Diverse healthcare settings
• Advanced practice nursing focus

Tennessee Tech's Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification offers an innovative online pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. The comprehensive 23-credit hour program enables professionals to strategically enhance their clinical psychiatric skills through targeted coursework and hands-on clinical practicum experiences. With a flexible curriculum designed for working nurses, students can complete the certification in approximately 4 semesters while maintaining professional commitments. The program emphasizes practical training, preparing nurses for advanced practice licensure with an estimated total program cost between $17,000-$21,000.

• Fully online certification program
• 23 credit hour curriculum
• 4 semester completion timeline
• Flexible course load
• Local clinical hour preceptorships
• Master's degree prerequisite
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• $17,000-$21,000 estimated cost
• Graduate nursing faculty instruction
• Advanced practice licensure preparation

Tennessee Tech's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration represents a transformative terminal professional nursing degree. Designed for both BSN and MSN-prepared nurses, the program offers flexible pathways including 80-credit BSN-DNP and 32-credit MSN-DNP tracks. Students develop advanced clinical leadership skills while gaining comprehensive mental healthcare expertise applicable across patient life stages. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification and expanded career opportunities, emphasizing treatment approaches for individuals, families, and groups in diverse healthcare settings through a rigorous, practice-focused educational experience.

• Terminal professional nursing degree
• 80 credit hour BSN-DNP track
• 32 credit hour MSN-DNP track
• Comprehensive mental health focus
• Prepares for national certification
• Joint program with ETSU
• Diverse healthcare settings training
• Advanced practice nurse preparation

Purdue University's Master of Science in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner represents a dynamic hybrid program preparing nurses for comprehensive mental healthcare. Blending online and on-campus learning, the curriculum equips students with advanced skills applicable across all age groups. Graduates are positioned to successfully complete the American Nurses Credentialing Center's national certification exam. The program emphasizes leadership development and practical skills, making it ideal for nurses seeking specialized psychiatric care expertise. With flexible learning options and a focus on industry-responsive training, students gain the competencies needed to excel in complex mental health service environments.

• Hybrid learning format.
• Focuses on psychiatric care.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Leadership and practical skills.
• Serves all age groups.
• Admissions require nursing degree.
• Cost varies by residency.
• Includes online components.
• On-campus learning available.
• Advanced healthcare skills.

Purdue University's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program offers an intensive, specialized pathway for master's-prepared nurses seeking advanced mental health expertise. Structured as a hybrid program, it delivers comprehensive training through 17 credit hours and a rigorous 630-hour clinical practicum. Designed to be completed in three semesters, the curriculum emphasizes advanced psychiatric care techniques and prepares graduates to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations. Military-friendly and focused on practical skills, the program requires admission from an accredited master's program and provides a strategic blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.

• 17 credit hours.
• 630-hour clinical practicum.
• Three semesters completion.
• Master's degree required.
• Focus on mental health.
• Advanced psychiatric care.
• Accredited institution prerequisite.
• Blend of theory and practice.
• Specialized nursing practice.
• Diverse population focus.