Best Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Explore top programs for 2024, curriculum details, and financial aid while taking the first steps towards becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP).
One in five Americans are affected by mental illness each year, which is why we need more mental health professionals, including nurses, to provide treatment. Thankfully, online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs are helping to make this happen with their flexible study format. We know finding the right program is daunting, that’s why we developed a list of accredited online PMHNP programs with the best combination of affordability, quality, and flexibility – so you don’t have to break the bank to reach your goals. Get started on your school search with our ranking of the top online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs for the 2023-2024 school year.
| # | School Name | Type | Tuition | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rocky Mountain University of Health ProfessionsProvo, UT | Private for-profit | $$$ | 2 | At Rocky Mountain University, students can choose from four program options (two master’s programs, and two post-master’s certificate programs) in order to become psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. The MSN-PMHNP track prepares students to enter the workforce with both credentials in just 5 semesters; during this time, students complete more than 540 clinical contact hours. Start dates are available in January, May, and August in order to accommodate students’ busy schedules. Program Highlights: MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio3/1 |
Online Student %100% |
|||
| 2 | Indiana Wesleyan University-National & GlobalMarion, IN | Private not-for-profit | $ | 2 | Indiana Wesleyan University's Online Master of Science in Primary Care Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization prepares students to serve their patients physically and spiritually. Students can complete their coursework primarily online and gain experience through live OSCE psychiatric evaluations with trained actors. Indiana Wesleyan offers financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, veterans benefits, and employer reimbursements. Students can complete their degree program in as few as 28 months. Program Highlights: Online MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %93% |
|||
| 3 | Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterLubbock, TX | Public | $ | 2 |
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio7/1 |
Online Student %64% |
|||
| 4 | University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati, OH | Public | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
Online Student %65% |
||||
| 5 | Purdue University GlobalWest Lafayette, IN | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio27/1 |
Online Student %100% |
||||
| 6 | University of Massachusetts GlobalIrvine, CA | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
Online Student %99% |
||||
| 7 | Maryville University of Saint LouisSaint Louis, MO | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %84% |
||||
| 8 | Graceland University-LamoniLamoni, IA | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %32% |
||||
| 9 | DeSales UniversityCenter Valley, PA | Private not-for-profit | $$$$ | 3 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %45% |
||||
| 10 | University of Southern IndianaEvansville, IN | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
Online Student %63% |
||||
| 11 | Husson UniversityBangor, ME | Private not-for-profit | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
Online Student %69% |
||||
| 12 | Liberty UniversityLynchburg, VA | Private not-for-profit | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %91% |
||||
| 13 | McNeese State UniversityLake Charles, LA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
Online Student %86% |
||||
| 14 | New Mexico State University-Main CampusLas Cruces, NM | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
Online Student %76% |
||||
| 15 | Briar Cliff UniversitySioux City, IA | Private not-for-profit | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
Online Student %39% |
||||
| 16 | Georgia College & State UniversityMilledgeville, GA | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
Online Student %35% |
||||
| 17 | East Carolina UniversityGreenville, NC | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
Online Student %74% |
||||
| 18 | Kent State University at KentKent, OH | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
Online Student %89% |
||||
| 19 | University of St FrancisJoliet, IL | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %83% |
||||
| 20 | Bluefield UniversityBluefield, VA | Private not-for-profit | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
Online Student %71% |
||||
| 21 | Eastern Kentucky UniversityRichmond, KY | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
Online Student %72% |
||||
| 22 | South Dakota State UniversityBrookings, SD | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %50% |
||||
| 23 | Lewis UniversityRomeoville, IL | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %77% |
||||
| 24 | University of ArizonaTucson, AZ | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %56% |
||||
| 25 | Augusta UniversityAugusta, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
Online Student %59% |
||||
| 26 | Georgia Southern UniversityStatesboro, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
Online Student %65% |
||||
| 27 | University of North DakotaGrand Forks, ND | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %70% |
||||
| 28 | Winona State UniversityWinona, MN | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
Online Student %56% |
||||
| 29 | University of IowaIowa City, IA | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
Online Student %54% |
||||
| 30 | Samford UniversityBirmingham, AL | Private not-for-profit | $$$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
Online Student %30% |
||||
| 31 | Mount Marty UniversityYankton, SD | Private not-for-profit | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
Online Student %42% |
||||
| 32 | Western Kentucky UniversityBowling Green, KY | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
Online Student %57% |
||||
| 33 | University of Missouri-Kansas CityKansas City, MO | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
Online Student %44% |
||||
| 34 | Southeastern Louisiana UniversityHammond, LA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
Online Student %38% |
||||
| 35 | The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville, TN | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %46% |
||||
| 36 | Otterbein UniversityWesterville, OH | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
Online Student %26% |
||||
| 37 | George Washington UniversityWashington, DC | Private not-for-profit | $$$$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
Online Student %26% |
||||
| 38 | University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham, NH | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
Online Student %31% |
||||
| 39 | Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh, PA | Private not-for-profit | $$$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
Online Student %42% |
||||
| 40 | University of Massachusetts-AmherstAmherst, MA | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
Online Student %20% |
PMHNP Nursing School Profiles
To complement our rankings above, we’ve profiled two other accredited online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs that are also worth a look in your school search. We’ve laid out all the details, from admissions requirements to curriculum information and program costs.
Vanderbilt University
The psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (lifespan) program at Vanderbilt University allows students at different educational levels the training to provide holistic mental health treatments. Registered nurses with a master’s or bachelor’s degree can enroll in this program, as well as registered nurses with an associate’s degree or diploma, and those who are beginning their nursing education with no prior experience. As a result, students can get an education that is tailored to their previous experience.
No matter where they are educationally when starting the program, Vanderbilt University students take coursework that familiarizes them with the realities of working as a mental health nurse practitioner. The school’s curriculum covers psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, clinical reasoning, and pathophysiology. In addition, students participate in clinical education so they get the advanced hands-on training they need to work in a mental health environment. Students in this phase of the program may be placed in prison systems, inpatient psychiatric units, community mental health centers, or outpatient private practices.
In April 2019, students paid $1,556 per credit for tuition, as well as $1,500 for books, $3,162 for health insurance, $561 for activity fees, and $100 for transcript fees.
University of California, San Francisco
The psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner master’s degree program at the University of California, San Francisco’s School of Nursing trains students to provide mental health services. This includes treating adults or children, providing assessments, diagnosing patients, and helping patients manage their conditions. Students can use this training to go on to work for substance abuse centers, forensics organizations, and primary care clinics.
In order to prepare students for the challenges of working in a mental health setting, they are required to take coursework about symptom management, advanced clinical assessments, psychopharmacology, and lifespan development. In addition, students learn about the therapy that mental health patients may receive in individual, group, and family settings.
Students who already have a master’s degree in nursing may also be able to join the mental health sector by enrolling in the school’s post-master’s study option. Depending on their previous training, students can complete the program in four to six semesters.
In April 2019, the tuition and fees for this program were $28,911 for California residents and $41,156 for out-of-state students. The school offers stipends and scholarships specifically for PMHNP students.
Finding the Online Psychiatric NP Program for You
Nurses who are interested in entering the psychiatric area of the field should examine their professional and educational goals before enrolling in a program. In addition, they should consider what learning environment will work best. For example, students who like to work independently may prefer a program conducted mostly online, while those who prefer to have some classroom interaction with instructors and peers may perform better in a partially online program.
Online Learning Flexibility
- Mostly online
Mostly online programs allow students to finish the majority of their coursework online, but they may still need to complete some parts in person. For instance, some schools enable students to take their classes online classes but then they have to complete the clinical element of their program inperson at a healthcare facility. Other programs also offer online coursework but students have to periodically come to campus to complete practicums.
- Partially online
Students who prefer to spend most of their time in a traditional classroom can enroll in partially online programs, where most of their courses are conducted on campus. In these cases, students may be able to take a few classes online, which can add convenience for those who are juggling their education with a full-time nursing job.
Types of Psychiatric-Mental Health NP Degrees
1. RN to MSN
RN to MSN degree programs are for nurses with a diploma or associate degree, as well as a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. These programs are designed to teach students how to assess and treat patients with mental health issues, communicate effectively with patients and families, and promote mental health in their communities. In addition, students become familiar with the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with providing mental health treatment.
2. RN to DNP
RN to DNP programs allow registered nurses to prepare for leadership roles in a mental health setting. People with these degrees may become consultants, go into private practice, or work as educators. In order to provide this training, the curriculum combines coursework on mental health treatment with classes designed to develop leadership skills. Specific classes may include pharmacology, nursing decision making, health care informatics, epidemiology, and human pathophysiology.
In addition to program level and delivery, prospective PMHNP students should also consider how long the program takes to complete, how much it costs, and the credentials of the faculty members in a department. Also, students may have a preference on the size of the school they would like to attend.
Entrance Criteria & Prerequisites
Every school has its own specific entrance requirements. The following are some of the expectations that schools may have for applicants to psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner programs.
- BSN or higher from an accredited program
- Active RN license
- One or more years of clinical experience
- Clinical training in at least two psychotherapeutic treatment modules
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement describing career goals and interest in psychiatric nursing
- A minimum 3.0 grade point average
- A specific minimum score on the GRE
- A personal interview
- Evidence of immunizations and recent physical examination
Eye on the Curriculum
The curriculum in PMHNP programs is designed to give nurses the high-level clinical skills necessary to provide specialized care to patients. These programs include coursework that teaching students to develop patient care plans, promote mental health and education, and perform psychotherapy, crisis interventions, and consultations. In addition, these programs provide in-depth information about psychiatric nursing models, pharmacotherapies, and neuroscience. The following are examples of some of the classes involved in most programs.
Popular Psychiatric NP Subspecialties
Within the psychiatric realm of the nursing field, there are several subspecialties that professionals can focus on. As a result, students who train for PMHNP jobs should enroll in a program that not only teaches mental health nursing, but caters to their area of interest within the field. The following are common subspecialties that psychiatric nurses may pursue.
- Addiction
Nurses who focus on addiction may work with patients who are dependent on alcohol and drugs, as well as those with internet, gambling, food, or sex addictions. These professionals may work in detoxification centers, rehab clinics, or hospitals. - Forensics
PMHNPs focusing on this subspecialty apply their nursing expertise to legal matters. After evaluating patients, these nurses may give their opinions in criminal, child custody, and juvenile justice cases. They can work for courts, hospitals, or correctional facilities. - Child/adolescent
Professionals in this nursing subspecialty focus on the psychiatric disorders affecting children and adolescents, and how these issues not only affect the patient, but the entire family. Nurses who focus in this area may work with patients who have mood disorders, learning disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. - Geriatric
Psychiatric nurses who want to focus their practice on older generations may pursue the geriatric subspecialty. These professionals work with senior citizens who have depression, dementia, and addiction, as well as those who are struggling with loss and isolation. - Psychosomatic medicine
PMHNPs who specialize in psychosomatic medicine focus on the relationship between mental and physical illnesses.
Paying for Your Online PMHNP Program
The cost of an online PMHNP program depends on the specific school that students attend. Students may be charged per semester or credit hour, and in some cases, are charged a lump sum for their entire program. The price range for the program is around $700 to $1,700 per credit, $3,800 to $16,400 per semester, and $20,000 to $44,600 for an entire program. Information about the cost of certain specific programs can be found in our listings above. And check out EduMed’s list of most affordable online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs to find accredited NP programs that won’t bury you in student debt.
Online PMHNP Courses & Financial Aid
Many students who enroll in PMHNP training schools are concerned about how they will pay for their education. Those who qualify may be able to obtain financial aid to help them pay tuition and fees, and there may be some standards students are expected to adhere to in order to receive these awards. The following are some of these stipulations.
1. Accreditation
Programs are designed to prepare students to get their certification, and in order to ensure that they’re getting the high-quality education they need, they should enroll in accredited programs. As a result, students can only qualify for financial aid for attending accredited schools.
2. Courses for credit
Students cannot apply financial aid awards to non-credit courses.
3. Minimum grade point average
In order to receive certain scholarships and grants, students may be expected to demonstrate academic excellence by maintaining a minimum grade point average.
4. Enrollment status
In some cases, financial aid awards are only available to students who are enrolled in a program on a full-time basis.
For more information about how to pay for a PMHNP education, check out EduMed’s full page on financial aid for medical support.
Other Ways to Pay
Students have several options for financing their education. Take a look at 5 examples PMHNP students have to offset the cost of their studies.
1. Scholarships
This type of aid may be available through professional associations that cater to the needs of health care professionals, and is also typically offered by the school a student is attending as well.
2. Loans
Graduate students can receive loans without demonstrating financial need. However, the amount that students can borrow depends on their education costs and the other aid they may be receiving.
3. Veterans benefits
The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program provides funding for college to students who served in the military after 9/11.
4. Employer tuition assistance
Organizations need highly-skilled workers and in some cases, may have tuition assistance programs available to encourage workers to advance their education.
5. Payment plans
Some schools allow students to enter a plan where they make monthly payments toward their education. The terms of the plan vary from school to school.
Certification: The PMH in PMHNP
After students complete their psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner degree program, the next step is to become nationally certified. In most cases, professionals are not able to obtain a state license unless they receive a PMHNP certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
To earn a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification, or PMHNP-BC, professionals need to pass a rigorous 200-question exam, lasting four hours. Candidates must possess an active nursing license, as well as master’s, doctoral or postgraduate degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing.
10 Valuable Resources for Nursing Students
- APRN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Practice
- ANA Certification Prep
- APNA Awards & Scholarships
- What Do Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurses Do?
- Meeting the Needs of People with Mental Illness: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Salary
- Continuing Education for the APRN-PMH
- Self Care Tip Sheet For Nurses
- A Night in the Life of a Mental Health Nurse
