Post-Master’s Certificate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

Emory University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Graduate Certificate Program offers a robust educational pathway for nurse practitioners seeking advanced mental health expertise. The Blake Scholars Program provides a comprehensive 26-credit curriculum with 720 direct clinical hours, strategically designed to address mental health professional shortages. Participants receive full tuition support and engage in synchronous and asynchronous learning environments. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices, autonomous clinical functioning, and holistic patient care across individual, family, and group settings. With a unique commitment to advanced practice nursing skills, graduates gain specialized training in psychiatric medication management and comprehensive behavioral health assessment.

• 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 online Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing focuses exclusively on child and adolescent behavioral and mental health. This innovative 26-credit program targets experienced APRNs interested in pediatric mental health intervention. Participants receive full tuition support and complete 720 precepted direct clinical hours at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. The curriculum integrates a neurobiologically-informed approach with advanced psychotherapy training, emphasizing interprofessional collaborative care. Students develop comprehensive skills in medication management, evidence-based practice, and autonomous clinical functioning, preparing them to address complex mental health challenges in vulnerable pediatric populations.

• 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

Vanderbilt University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a comprehensive online and hybrid learning pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced specialization. The program accommodates working professionals through flexible scheduling, with options for full-time (4-5 semesters) and part-time (7-8 semesters) tracks. Students gain extensive clinical experience, completing over 500 supervised patient care hours across the lifespan. CCNE-accredited and designed by expert practicing faculty, the program boasts exceptional outcomes including a 97% post-graduation employment rate and high licensure pass rates. While no specific entrance exam is mentioned, the program provides an individualized study approach with potential DNP and scholarship opportunities.

• 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 online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate offers a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. The program distinguishes itself through comprehensive training across lifespan mental health domains, leveraging nationwide clinical partnerships and flexible distance-based learning. Students develop advanced psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic skills through synchronous and asynchronous coursework. With a projected 38% job growth in mental health fields, graduates are strategically positioned to address critical mental healthcare needs. The program emphasizes trauma-informed care, equitable practice, and prepares nurses to provide compassionate interventions across diverse clinical settings from community mental health to emergency psychiatry.

• #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

Johns Hopkins University offers a hybrid Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that delivers comprehensive advanced mental health training. The rigorous 17-credit program includes 500 clinical hours, preparing nurses to provide holistic care across patient lifespans. Emphasizing evidence-based integrated care, students develop advanced skills for evaluating and treating mental health and substance use conditions. Graduates are equipped to practice in diverse healthcare settings like behavioral health centers and primary care, with curriculum designed to support professional certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The program's flexible hybrid format allows working professionals to advance their specialized mental health expertise.

• 17-credit post-master's certificate
• 500 total clinical hours
• Covers lifespan mental health care
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Focuses on integrated care approach
• Evidence-based curriculum design
• Practice across multiple healthcare settings

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers a fully online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Master's Certificate. This 28-30 credit program is designed for experienced nurses seeking to advance their careers. It prepares graduates for professional board certification and to provide comprehensive mental health care across diverse populations and settings. The curriculum covers psychiatric and substance use disorders, offering specialized clinical practice in various behavioral health environments, such as inpatient facilities and community mental health clinics. Information on entrance exam requirements was not found. This program meets licensure requirements nationwide.

• 28-30 credit online program
• Post-master's certificate option
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Clinical practice in multiple settings
• Designed for experienced nurses
• Covers psychiatric and substance disorders
• Meets licensure requirements nationwide

Texas Christian University's fully online Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate provides a specialized pathway for advanced practice nurses with a doctorate seeking mental health expertise. Meticulously designed over four semesters, the program enables students to complete clinical practicums conveniently near their residence. With 25 hours of comprehensive coursework, students develop advanced nursing skills and leadership capabilities essential for interdisciplinary mental healthcare settings. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), positioning them strategically in the evolving psychiatric nursing landscape. Ideal for DNP-prepared nurses, this program emphasizes practical skills, professional development, and specialized mental health interventions.

• 100% online program
• 25 hours coursework
• Four semesters duration
• Starts in fall term
• Clinical practicum near home
• Eligible for ANCC certification
• For nurses with DNP
• Focus on PMHNP specialization
• Enhances leadership skills
• Prepares for interdisciplinary care

The University of South Carolina's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate equips advanced practice nurses with specialized mental health expertise. Tailored for registered nurses holding a master's degree, this program prepares professionals to deliver comprehensive psychiatric care across diverse clinical environments. Students engage in advanced coursework covering neuroscientific principles, psychopharmacology, and evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions. The curriculum emphasizes holistic mental health treatment, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical clinical training. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, the program positions graduates for national certification and expanded career opportunities in psychiatric nursing. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, students can complete the 18-32 credit hour program with flexibility and depth of professional development.

• 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

The University of Rochester's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate delivers a comprehensive, specialized training program for experienced nurses seeking advanced mental health credentials. Spanning across all life stages, the curriculum integrates sophisticated clinical skills in psychotherapy, diagnostic assessment, and pharmacological interventions. With 616 total clinical practicum hours and 11 specialized mental health courses, students develop expertise in individual and family therapy techniques. The program uniquely prepares healthcare professionals to provide nuanced, evidence-based mental health care through an immersive online learning environment. Clinical training emphasizes comprehensive patient management and advanced psychiatric nursing interventions.

• Online professional curriculum
• Across the lifespan program
• Comprehensive clinical practicums
• 11 specialized mental health courses
• 616 total clinical training hours
• Advanced psychiatric nursing focus
• Multiple psychotherapy course options

Purdue University offers a comprehensive Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate designed for experienced nurses seeking advanced mental health specialization. The hybrid program provides flexible learning with rigorous academic preparation, requiring 17 credit hours and an extensive 630-hour clinical practicum. Students complete the program across three semesters, gaining in-depth understanding of complex psychiatric care delivery. The curriculum emphasizes advanced assessment, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for diverse patient populations. With a strong focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, graduates are well-positioned to provide specialized mental health services. Military-friendly and committed to comprehensive training, this program ensures nurses develop sophisticated competencies in psychiatric nursing practice.

• 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.

Villanova University's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate delivers a comprehensive advanced practice nursing experience. Spanning 1.5 to 5 years, the hybrid program integrates 25-35 credits with extensive 750-hour clinical training, enabling working professionals to enhance psychiatric care skills across patient lifespans. Designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized behavioral health expertise, the curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical assessment, intervention strategies, and comprehensive patient management. Accommodating professional schedules, the program offers flexible on-campus and online course formats, supporting seamless career advancement in mental health nursing practice.

• 25-35 total credits
• 750 clinical hours required
• 1.5-5 year completion window
• On-campus and online courses
• Supports career advancement
• Lifespan psychiatric care focus
• Advanced clinical training

The University of Virginia's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate provides advanced practice nurses a comprehensive pathway to specialized mental health expertise. This hybrid program uniquely offers six specialty tracks with flexible part-time scheduling designed for working professionals. Students benefit from rigorous theoretical training and extensive clinical preparation, completing 500-600 clinical hours across their chosen track. Notably, the program eliminates GRE score requirements, simplifying admission for qualified nurses. Graduates receive advanced preparation for specialty certification exams and leverage collaboration with prestigious UVA Health. With tuition ranging from $888-$1,450 per credit, the program accommodates both Virginia and non-Virginia residents, ensuring accessibility for nurses seeking advanced mental health practice credentials.

• 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

The University of New Hampshire's online Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate program is designed for licensed APRNs seeking to advance their careers. This 29-credit program, delivered through a flexible online format, can be completed in 17 months. It includes 750 clinical hours and three on-campus intensive sessions. Coursework blends synchronous and asynchronous learning, preparing graduates for the ANCC certification exam and diverse career paths in mental health, including private practice, telehealth, and integrated behavioral healthcare. Information on entrance exam requirements was not found.

• 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 Wisconsin-Madison's Post-Graduate Psychiatric Nursing Capstone Certificate offers a comprehensive 18-month hybrid program designed to elevate advanced practice nurses' psychiatric mental health expertise. Targeting experienced RNs seeking specialized training, this rigorous online and on-campus program fills critical mental health service gaps. Requiring 18 graduate-level credits, the curriculum prepares professionals to address complex psychiatric care needs, particularly in underserved populations. With competitive resident tuition at $670.47 per credit and taught by board-certified faculty, the program ensures high-quality advanced practice nursing education. Applicants must possess a master's in nursing, maintain an active RN license, and meet advanced practice certification requirements.

• 18-month hybrid program
• 18 graduate-level credits
• Resident tuition $670.47/credit
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Mental health service preparation
• Campus and online learning
• Taught by board-certified faculty
• Small cohort learning environment
• STEM opt not eligible
• Summer term enrollment

The University of Missouri-St. Louis's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is designed for nurses with an MSN or DNP and at least one year of experience in psychiatric or emergency room nursing. This 12-credit-hour program includes 8 credit hours of clinical residency, providing flexible practicum options. Coursework covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and diagnostic reasoning. Graduates are prepared for board certification and advanced practice in mental healthcare. An entrance exam may be required.

• 12 total credit hours required
• Minimum 1 year nursing experience
• 8 credit hours clinical residency
• Board certification eligible
• Advanced nursing preparation
• Flexible practicum options
• MSN/DNP prerequisite
• Comprehensive diagnostic training

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a hybrid post-master's Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). This 18-credit-hour program blends online learning with on-campus requirements, allowing registered nurses to advance their careers in 2-3 years. Focusing on comprehensive mental health services, students learn to diagnose, conduct therapy, and manage medications for psychiatric patients. With a competitive estimated cost of $15,851.70 and a minimum 3.2 GPA requirement, graduates are eligible for national certification. An entrance exam requirement wasn't explicitly stated. The program prepares graduates for diverse healthcare settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private practices.

• Blended online/campus program
• 18 total credit hours
• 2-3 year completion time
• Estimated $15,851.70 total cost
• Minimum 3.2 GPA required
• Requires current RN license
• National certification eligible
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• Advanced mental health focus
• Accredited nursing program

New Mexico State University's online Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides an accelerated 18-credit pathway for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. The comprehensive program covers comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy techniques, and medication management across all life stages. With a minimum of 500 clinical hours, students develop advanced competencies in healthcare systems and evidence-based research. Tailored for current certified nurse practitioners, the curriculum prepares graduates to successfully challenge the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam, expanding professional opportunities in mental health care delivery. The fully online format offers flexibility for working healthcare professionals seeking specialized advanced practice credentials.

• 18 total credit hours
• Minimum 500 clinical hours
• Prepares for certification exam
• Four core PMHNP competencies
• Online post-graduate certificate
• Covers lifespan mental health
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Recommended for current APRNs

Maryville University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Master's Certificate delivers a comprehensive advanced nursing education tailored for mental healthcare professionals. Through a fully online curriculum, students can complete the program without campus visits, focusing exclusively on psychiatric care across patient lifespans. The program uniquely offers multiple degree pathways and requires no GMAT or GRE for admission. Students complete local clinical rotations while benefiting from flexible 32-40 month completion options. CCNE accredited with a remarkable 100% pass rate, the program stands 9% above the ANCC 2022 average. Tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223, making it an accessible and high-quality option for nurses seeking specialized psychiatric mental health credentials.

• 100% online program
• No GMAT/GRE required
• Multiple degree paths
• Complete clinicals locally
• 100% program pass rate
• Tuition $18,123 - $69,223
• 32-40 month completion
• CCNE accredited
• No campus visits required

The University of San Francisco's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides an accelerated pathway for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. Tailored for nurses holding a doctoral degree, this hybrid program delivers comprehensive training in psychiatric and substance abuse disorder diagnosis, treatment, and medication prescription. Learners benefit from a flexible weekend intensive format, completing the certificate in approximately one year while accumulating a minimum of 500 clinical hours. The program strategically prepares students for national board certification and advanced practice licensure, emphasizing practical skills and specialized mental health intervention strategies.

• Certificate for DNP holders
• Minimum 500 clinical hours
• Hybrid learning format
• National certification preparation
• One-year completion option
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Weekend intensive classes
• Advanced practice specialization

Nova Southeastern University's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate offers a specialized pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. Tailored for nurses holding a master's degree, this comprehensive program provides intensive training in psychiatric mental health nursing. Students benefit from flexible online learning formats with comprehensive coursework preparing them for national certification. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and 12 months of prior clinical practice. With multiple Florida campus locations and a military-friendly approach, nurses can enhance their professional capabilities while maintaining current career trajectories. The curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical skills, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based mental health interventions.

• 3 APRN Certificate Specializations
• 24-27 Total Program Credits
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Active RN Licensure Required
• Online and On-site Options
• Multiple Florida Campus Locations
• Prepares for National Certification
• 12 Months Clinical Practice Needed
• Requires Prior M.S.N. Degree
• Comprehensive Graduate-Level Courses

University of California-Irvine's Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers a dynamic 12-month hybrid program targeting advanced practice nurses. The innovative multicampus initiative blends comprehensive online coursework with immersive regional clinical training, strategically designed to address California's critical mental health professional shortage. Graduates gain comprehensive preparation for board certification, developing advanced psychiatric care skills across diverse community settings. With full-time enrollment requiring 16-24 hours of weekly clinical training, the program uniquely positions nurses to expand mental health service access in regions where over 50% of individuals lack psychiatric care. The UC collaboration ensures cutting-edge curriculum and robust professional development.

• 12-month postgraduate certificate
• Online with immersion sessions
• Targets advanced practice nurses
• Addresses mental health shortage
• Board certification preparation
• Full-time enrollment required
• Multicampus UC collaboration
• 16-24 hours weekly clinical training
• Serves diverse nursing professionals

The University of North Florida's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) post-master's certificate program is designed for licensed APRNs seeking to specialize in mental health. This 36-credit-hour program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive mental healthcare across the lifespan. Applicants must hold an MSN with a minimum 3.50 GPA, current national nurse practitioner certification, and 2,000 hours of clinical practice. The curriculum aligns with national standards and prepares graduates for the ANCC certification exam. This program is offered entirely online, making it accessible for working professionals. Note that no financial aid is available for this certificate program.

• Post-MSN online certificate
• 36 total credit hours
• Across lifespan mental health focus
• Minimum 3.50 graduate GPA
• 2,000 clinical practice hours required
• ANCC certification preparation
• Active NP certification needed
• No financial aid available

The University of Iowa's Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate offers a robust hybrid online and on-campus program tailored for nurses seeking advanced psychiatric-mental health expertise. Spanning three to four years, the program limits class sizes to 24 students, ensuring personalized learning. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, students benefit from comprehensive didactic and clinical experiences designed to prepare exceptional clinicians. The program boasts a remarkable 100% certification exam pass rate and job placement, emphasizing leadership development in psychiatric healthcare environments. Designed for flexibility, it accommodates students at various life stages while maintaining high academic standards and clinical preparation.

• Hybrid online & on-campus delivery.
• 3-Year/4-Year Plan of Study.
• Class size limited to 24 students.
• 100% certification exam pass rate.
• 100% job placement rate.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
• Focus on leadership in healthcare.
• Comprehensive didactic & clinical experiences.
• Prepares for advanced psychiatric practice.

Saint Louis University offers a comprehensive online Post-Master's Certificate in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner designed to elevate advanced practice nursing skills. This hybrid program uniquely prepares nurses to provide mental health care across the lifespan, targeting children, adolescents, and adults with complex psychiatric needs. Students receive advanced clinical training focused on evidence-based, culturally sensitive interventions. The program requires a minimum of 15 graduate credits and includes one mandatory campus visit. Graduates are positioned to pursue national certification with exceptional job market potential, reflecting the Bureau of Labor Statistics' projection of 38% employment growth. CCNE-accredited, the program offers holistic admission processes and competitive tuition at $1,370 per credit with financial aid opportunities.

• Online program with one campus visit
• Minimum 15 graduate credits
• Prepares for national certification
• Median NP salary $125,900
• 38% projected job growth
• Accredited by CCNE
• Specializes in mental health care
• Holistic admission process
• Advanced clinical training
• State-specific licensure requirements

Drexel University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner provides advanced practice nurses with comprehensive training for mental health service delivery across patient lifespans. The program uniquely blends 52 quarter credits with 640 clinical hours, ensuring deep professional preparation. Students benefit from mandatory on-campus intensives featuring hands-on clinical simulations and direct faculty mentorship. Fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program prepares graduates to successfully challenge the ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Certification Examination. Designed with working professionals in mind, the curriculum offers exceptional flexibility through online learning combined with strategic campus experiences.

• Online PMHNP Master's Degree
• 52 quarter credits total
• 640 clinical practice hours
• Accredited nursing program
• Mandatory on-campus intensives
• Lifespan mental health focus
• Advanced practice preparation
• State-of-art simulation lab
• ANCC certification eligible

Florida International University's Post-Graduate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers an advanced online and hybrid program tailored for MSN-prepared nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. Uniquely structured with 35 credit hours, the program prepares nurses for comprehensive psychiatric care across diverse patient populations. Designed for flexibility, students can complete coursework online while arranging clinical placements in their local communities. The curriculum focuses intensively on advanced psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and evidence-based intervention strategies. Graduates are strategically positioned to sit for national certification exams, expanding their professional opportunities in mental health nursing. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, with admission primarily based on holding an accredited MSN degree.

• 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.