Post-Master’s Certificate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

Emory University's Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Graduate Certificate Program is a hybrid program designed to tackle the shortage of mental health professionals. It offers a comprehensive 26-credit hour curriculum with 720 clinical hours, focusing on child and adolescent behavioral health. The program provides full tuition scholarships and specialized clinical experiences at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Participants learn evidence-based practices for psychiatric mental health nursing, including assessment, diagnosis, and holistic care. This program is ideal for nurse practitioners seeking advanced skills in managing complex mental health challenges autonomously. No entrance exam is required for this online and hybrid learning program, which is military-friendly and affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

• 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 offers a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Graduate Certificate Program with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Behavioral and Mental Health. This hybrid program is tailored for experienced APRNs, providing a 26-credit hour curriculum and 720 direct clinical hours. It focuses on neurobiologically-informed approaches, advanced psychotherapy training, and medication management skills. The program includes clinical training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and emphasizes interprofessional collaborative care. Full tuition scholarships are available, making it an excellent opportunity for those looking to specialize in pediatric mental health. No entrance exam is required for this program, which combines synchronous and asynchronous learning methods and is military-friendly.

• 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

Johns Hopkins University offers a hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate, blending online coursework with practical clinical experiences. This 17-credit program requires 500 clinical hours, focusing on evidence-based integrated care for mental health and substance use disorders across all ages. Designed for advanced practice nurses, it prepares graduates for ANCC certification and roles in diverse settings, from behavioral health to primary care. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for eligible candidates. The program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that equips nurses with the skills to provide holistic mental health care.

• 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

Duke University offers a prestigious Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. This hybrid program is designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking to specialize in psychiatric-mental health care without the need for an entrance exam. Emphasizing a lifespan approach, the curriculum covers psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, preparing graduates to meet the mental health needs of diverse populations. With over 2,000 clinical partnerships, students gain hands-on experience in various settings. The program is recognized for its trauma-informed care focus and flexibility, catering to working professionals. Duke's commitment to equitable mental health care and its #1 ranking make it a top choice for advanced practice nurses.

• #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

Vanderbilt University's hybrid Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) is tailored for RNs holding a master's degree in nursing, aiming to specialize in advanced nursing roles. This program stands out for its flexible online/hybrid format, ideal for working professionals, and does not require an entrance exam. Students can complete the program in 4 to 5 full-time or 7 to 8 part-time semesters, including over 500 supervised patient care hours. With a focus on exceptional outcomes, the program boasts high licensure pass rates and a 97% employment rate post-graduation. Accredited by CCNE, it offers a robust clinical experience across 13 clinical nursing specialties, preparing graduates for national certification.

• 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.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Post-Graduate Psychiatric Nursing Capstone Certificate, a hybrid program blending online and campus learning over 18 months. Aimed at advanced practice nurses, it focuses on filling mental health service gaps, especially in underserved areas. The program requires 18 graduate-level credits, with tuition at $670.47 per credit for residents. Applicants need a master's in nursing, an active RN license, and must meet advanced practice certification criteria. Highlights include small cohort sizes, board-certified faculty, and a curriculum designed for mental health service excellence. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. This program is ideal for those seeking to specialize in psychiatric mental health nursing without relocating.

• 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 Massachusetts-Amherst offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Master's Certificate, tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in mental health care. This 28-30 credit program is entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals. It equips students with the skills to treat psychiatric and substance disorders across various settings, from hospitals to community clinics. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to qualified candidates. Graduates are prepared for ANCC certification and meet licensure requirements nationwide. With a focus on experiential learning, the program includes clinical practice in diverse behavioral health environments, enhancing practical expertise.

• 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

Purdue University-Main Campus offers a hybrid Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program tailored for nurses with a master's degree aiming to specialize in mental health care. This program emphasizes advanced psychiatric care across diverse populations, requiring 17 credit hours and a 630-hour clinical practicum, typically completed in three semesters. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree from an accredited institution. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for specialized practice in mental health services. Notably, Purdue is recognized for its military-friendly approach, supporting veterans and active-duty personnel in their educational pursuits. This program stands out for its focus on addressing complex mental health issues through a comprehensive, hands-on learning 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.

The University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate program, designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to specialize. This program stands out for its six specialty tracks, including Psychiatric Mental Health, and does not require a GRE score for admission. It combines online coursework with practical clinical hours, totaling 500-600, to prepare graduates for certification exams. With tuition ranging from $888-$1,450 per credit, it accommodates working professionals through part-time options. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree from an accredited nursing school, active APRN licensure, and completion of specific advanced courses. The program is military-friendly and benefits from collaboration with top-ranked UVA Health.

• 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 South Carolina-Columbia offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate for post-master's nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. This program equips students with the expertise to assess, diagnose, and manage psychiatric disorders across various populations and settings. Emphasizing a blend of neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions, the curriculum is tailored for those aiming to excel in psychiatric nursing. Admission prerequisites include a master's in nursing and a 3.0 GPA, with no entrance exam required. The program's flexibility and focus on practical skills prepare graduates for certification and diverse roles in mental health services.

• 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

Texas Christian University's online Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is tailored for DNP-prepared nurses seeking to specialize in mental health. This fully online program, requiring 25 credit hours over four semesters, offers flexibility with clinical practicums arranged near students' locations. Starting in the fall, it equips graduates with the skills for ANCC certification, focusing on advanced psychiatric care and leadership in interdisciplinary settings. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for professionals aiming to expand their impact in mental health nursing. The program's Christian Church affiliation and military-friendly policies add to its inclusive approach.

• 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 Rochester offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate program, designed for nurses aiming to specialize in mental health care. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that covers psychotherapy, assessment, and psychopharmacology, preparing graduates to serve patients across all life stages. With a total of 616 clinical training hours and 11 specialized courses, students gain hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge. The program is military-friendly and benefits from having a hospital on campus, enhancing practical learning opportunities. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for qualified professionals seeking to advance their careers in psychiatric nursing.

• 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

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a hybrid Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), tailored for advanced nursing professionals seeking to specialize in mental health care. This program, requiring 18 credit hours, blends online coursework with in-person experiences, allowing completion in 2-3 years. It focuses on equipping nurses with the skills to diagnose, provide therapy, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. With an estimated total cost of $15,851.70 and a minimum GPA requirement of 3.2, the program is designed for registered nurses aiming for national certification. Graduates can pursue roles in various settings, including hospitals and private practices, without the need for an entrance exam.

• 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

Villanova University's hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program is tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in mental health care. This program stands out for its comprehensive approach, combining online coursework with on-campus sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It requires 25-35 credits and 750 clinical hours, focusing on lifespan psychiatric care without specifying a concentration. Notably, the program does not mandate an entrance exam, making it accessible for eligible candidates. Designed for completion in 1.5 to 5 years, it supports career advancement through advanced clinical training in psychiatric assessment and patient management. Villanova, a Roman Catholic institution, is recognized for its military-friendly policies.

• 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 California-Irvine offers a hybrid UC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate program, designed to tackle California's acute mental health professional gap. This 12-month program blends online coursework with immersive sessions and regional clinical training, catering to advanced practice nurses. It emphasizes preparing graduates for board certification, equipping them with the skills to provide advanced psychiatric care to diverse populations. Notably, the program addresses the critical need in California, where more than half of those with mental illness lack access to psychiatric services. No entrance exam is required for this online and hybrid format program, making it accessible to a wide range of nursing professionals.

• 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 Iowa offers a hybrid Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate program, blending online and on-campus learning to prepare nurses for advanced psychiatric-mental health practice. This doctorate-level program is designed for flexibility, catering to students at different life stages without sacrificing the depth of clinical and didactic training. With a limited class size of 24, students receive personalized attention, contributing to a 100% certification exam pass rate and job placement. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, the program focuses on leadership in healthcare, preparing graduates for versatile roles in psychiatric-mental health environments. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for qualified applicants.

• 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.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis provides an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate, tailored for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical skills in mental health care. This program requires applicants to have an MSN or DNP with a 3.0 GPA and at least one year of relevant nursing experience. It focuses on advanced studies in pharmacology, health assessment, and diagnostic reasoning, alongside clinical practicums. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, offering flexibility with 12 credit hours, including 8 dedicated to clinical residency. Graduates emerge ready for board certification, equipped to address the complexities of mental health nursing in various settings.

• 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 Arizona offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate tailored for registered nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. This part-time, four-semester program emphasizes psychiatric nursing theories and practices, equipping students with essential skills in health assessment, prevention, and illness management for patients across all life stages. With 25 credits of clinical coursework and 765 practica hours, graduates are prepared for national board certification, opening doors to advanced roles in mental health nursing. Admission requires a Master of Science in Nursing, with no entrance exam specified. The program's flexibility and focus on advanced psychiatric nursing make it a standout choice for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in this critical field.

• 30 total credits required
• Cost per credit: $1,053
• Part-time program structure
• Requires MSN degree
• 765 clinical practica hours
• Four-semester certificate
• Campus and online learning
• Advanced psychiatric nursing focus
• National certification eligible

New Mexico State University-Main Campus offers an online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate program designed for certified nurse practitioners seeking to specialize in mental health care. This 18-credit program focuses on advanced health assessment, diagnosis of mental disorders, psychotherapy, and medication management, preparing graduates for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam. With a requirement of at least 500 clinical hours, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based research, healthcare systems, and quality improvement. Ideal for current APRNs, this program covers mental health care across all life stages without the need for an entrance exam, offering flexibility for working professionals.

• 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

The University of New Hampshire-Main Campus offers an online Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate tailored for advanced practice registered nurses seeking specialization. This 29-credit program, completable in 17 months, combines synchronous and asynchronous online learning with three on-campus intensives and 750 clinical hours. It equips graduates to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across all ages, preparing them for the ANCC certification exam. The program's flexibility and focus on practical skills open diverse career paths in mental health care, including telehealth and private practice. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for licensed APRNs aiming to advance their expertise in psychiatric-mental health nursing.

• 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 San Francisco offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for nurses holding a doctoral degree, aiming to specialize in mental health care. This hybrid program combines online coursework with weekend intensive sessions, allowing completion in as little as one year. It focuses on diagnosing, treating, and prescribing for psychiatric and substance abuse disorders, requiring a minimum of 500 clinical hours. With a 3.0 GPA prerequisite, the program prepares graduates for national board certification and advanced practice licensure. Ideal for those seeking to enhance their clinical expertise in mental health, it emphasizes a comprehensive approach to patient care without the need for an entrance exam.

• 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 offers an online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate, designed for nurses holding a Master's degree seeking specialization without the need for an entrance exam. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with professional commitments. It focuses on equipping nurses with advanced skills in psychiatric-mental health care through comprehensive coursework and clinical practice. With a requirement of a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and 12 months of clinical practice, the program prepares graduates for national certification. The online format provides accessibility, with optional on-site components available at multiple Florida campuses, catering to diverse learning preferences.

• 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

Drexel University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) designed for nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. This program, requiring no entrance exam, spans 52 quarter credits and includes 640 clinical hours, focusing on diagnostic and treatment strategies across patient lifespans. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it prepares graduates for the ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Certification Examination. Unique features include mandatory on-campus intensives for hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art simulation lab, blending online flexibility with essential in-person training. Ideal for working professionals, Drexel's program emphasizes advanced practice preparation in a comprehensive, online format.

• 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

Texas A&M University-College Station provides an online Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) tailored for nurses with a graduate degree aiming to specialize in mental health. This program, delivered asynchronously online, equips students with the skills to diagnose and manage psychiatric conditions across all age groups, culminating in eligibility for PMHNP-BC certification. Admission requires a graduate nursing degree, an active RN license, and completion of specific prerequisites. The curriculum focuses on advanced clinical practices, pharmacology, and ethical care, preparing graduates for leadership roles in mental health services. Notably, the program does not mandate an entrance exam, making it accessible to qualified candidates.

• Online asynchronous course delivery
• Clinical hours required
• Across lifespan certification
• Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
• Graduate nursing degree prerequisite
• Active RN license required
• Advanced pharmacology focus
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Professional leadership emphasis

Florida International University's hybrid Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate program specializes in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, requiring 35 credits for completion. Designed for MSN degree holders, this program offers a blend of online coursework and in-person clinical experiences, providing flexibility for working professionals. It prepares graduates for national certification exams without requiring an entrance exam. The curriculum focuses on advanced clinical skills in psychiatric-mental health care, with flexible clinical site arrangements to accommodate students' schedules. This program is ideal for nurses seeking to specialize in mental health services, offering a pathway to enhance expertise in this critical area of healthcare.

• 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.

The University of California-Los Angeles offers a hybrid online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program designed to tackle California's mental health professional shortage. This 12-month program, a collaborative effort among four UC nursing schools, is tailored for advanced practice nurses aiming to specialize in mental health care. It combines virtual coursework with regional clinical experiences, requiring full-time enrollment and 16-24 hours of weekly clinical training. The program prepares graduates for ANCC board certification, focusing on expanding access to mental health services in underserved areas, particularly rural and inland regions. No entrance exam is required for this online program, which is military-friendly and features a hospital on campus.

• 12-month hybrid online program
• Multicampus UC collaboration
• Addresses mental health workforce shortage
• Prepares for ANCC board certification
• Full-time enrollment required
• 16-24 hours weekly clinical training
• Targets advanced practice nurses
• Virtual course delivery
• Four consecutive quarters
• Regional clinical experiences