Top 10 RN to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

12 Min Read Published July 30, 2024
Best RN to PMHNP programs 2023 | Nurse.org

If you are a registered nurse who wants to advance your career with advanced-level learning, work with psychiatric patients, and earn more money, an RN to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program may be an excellent pathway for you!

Most RN-to-PMHNP programs require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to enroll. However, some mental health nurse practitioner programs also have a track for Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN)- trained nurses.

To help you decide on the right program for you, we've ranked the top RN-to-PMHNP programs for 2024. 

Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Sponsored
Walden University
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and the School of Nursing teaching faculty all hold doctorates. With three degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Purdue Global

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Wilkes University

The R.N. to M.S.N program is for registered nurses with associate degrees who want to become nurse practitioners. It focuses on advanced clinical skills, professionalism and evidence-based practice. Our integrated exam preparation courses provide dedicated study resources, leading to impressive passing rates consistently above the national average and graduate success.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

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Top 10 RN to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Choosing a nurse practitioner program is a huge decision that requires careful consideration. Fortunately, we compiled the best RN to psychiatric NP programs, including hybrid or online PMHNP program options.

Our ranking system considers essential factors, such as accreditation, graduation rates, and student-faculty ratios.

1. Duke University, Durham, NC

Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report, the program at Duke University is unparalleled to none. The program focuses on delivering psychiatric mental health and advanced practice nursing to all ages, especially those in underserved and rural areas. The program can be completed in roughly 2.5 years. Duke has partnerships with over 2,000 clinical sites across the country, allowing students to complete the program from anywhere. 

  • Application Deadline:
    • Fall priority: December 1st
    • Spring priority: May 1st
    • Post-priority deadline applications reviewed on a space-available basis
  • Tuition: $2,166 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Contact Phone Number: (877) 415-3853
  • Email Information:  SONAdmissions@dm.duke.edu
  • Online Options Available:  Hybrid

2. Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN

According to U.S. News and World Report, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is ranked as the #2 psychiatric-mental health program in the country. The university is also home to one of the country’s first psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specialties.

Vanderbilt’s psychiatric NP program graduates earn a doctorate in nursing (DNP). Students have low faculty-to-student ratios, mentoring, and personalized attention during their program. Graduates score well above the national average on certification exams. 

  • Application Deadline: October 15th
  • Tuition: $1,997 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (615) 322-3800
  • Email Information: VUSN-Admissions@vanderbilt.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid

>> Show Me Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs


3. University of California, San Fransisco, CA

The University of California, San Francisco's program offers BSN-trained nurses an opportunity to earn an MSN and practice as a PMHNP. In addition, the university provides PMHNP pathways for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, an MSN without an NP foundation, and other advanced-practice RNs who wish to earn state certification in psychiatric mental health.

The university also recently partnered with UC Davis and UCLA School of Nursing to launch new remote-access training to help prepare 300 psychiatric mental health NPs over five years. 

  • Application Deadline: February 1st
  • Tuition: $40,068 per academic year
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: 415-476-1381
  • Email Information: michele.keating@ucsf.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid online with in-person components

4. University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania's psychiatric-mental health NP program aims to provide RNs with an advanced practice nursing degree to provide mental health treatment to a wide spectrum of patients across the lifespan.

This MSN program is flexible; full-time students can typically complete coursework in 14 months. Part-time students may take from two to five years, depending on how quickly they complete their studies. The program is held in person; however, to accommodate the busy schedules of our students some courses will be offered in an online or hybrid format. 

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Full-time: November 4th
    • Part-time: 
      • Spring: October 15th
      • Summer: April 1st 
  • Tuition:
    • Full-time: $56,262 per academic year
    • Part-time: $6,392 per course unit
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (215) 898-4271
  • Email Information: admissions@nursing.upenn.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid

Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Sponsored
Walden University

Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Purdue Global

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Wilkes University

The R.N. to M.S.N program is for registered nurses with associate degrees who want to become nurse practitioners. It focuses on advanced clinical skills, professionalism and evidence-based practice. Our integrated exam preparation courses provide dedicated study resources, leading to impressive passing rates consistently above the national average and graduate success.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

5. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC

The University of North Carolina offers a BSN-DNP for nurses who want to become PMHNPs. The program takes about three years to complete if attending full-time. The university encourages students to complete clinical hours in their communities depending on their learning objectives and interests.

  • Application Deadline: November 15th
  • Tuition:$1,019 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (919) 966-4260
  • Email Information: nursing@unc.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid

6. New York University, New York City, NY

New York University’s psychiatric-mental health NP program graduates earn an MSN degree.  All practicums are arranged by faculty, and licensed clinicians supervise students at various diverse practicum sites. Practicum sites include premier teaching hospitals such as New York-Presbyterian, Four Winds Hospital, Montefiore Medical Center and Behavioral Health Centers, and the VA Medical System.

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Fall: June 15th
    • Spring: December 1st
    • Summer: February 15th
  • Tuition: $2,400 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (212) 998-5317
  • Email Information: nursing.admissions@nyu.edu
  • Online Options Available: No

7. University of Washington, Seattle, WA

The RN to PMHNP program at the University of Washington specializes in ongoing psychiatric and mental health care across the lifespan. Graduates earn a DNP. This three-year program offers a hybrid learning format in year one and clinical placements in years two and three.

The priority deadline is January 15th, and applicants are accepted on a space-available basis. 

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Priority: January 15th
    • Final: May 1st
  • Tuition:
    • In-state: $10,826 per quarter
    • Out-of-state: $15,440 per quarter
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (206) 543-8736
  • Email Information: asknursing@uw.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid

>> Show Me Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs


6. The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

The Ohio State University offers two RN-to-PMHNP programs for BSN-trained nurses to earn an MSN or a DNP.

  • Traditional Master of Science
  • BSN to DNP 

The university also offers distance learning and on-campus program options.

  • Application Deadline: October 31st
  • Tuition: 
    • In-state: $972.50 per credit hour
    • Out-of-state: $2,705.63 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (614) 292-4041
  • Email Information: nursing@osu.edu
  • Online Options Available: Yes

9. University of Cincinnati, OH

The University of Cincinnati offers an online DNP track for students who want to become PMHNPs.  It is one of a few fully online PMHNP programs available. It’s important to note that despite all of the didactic coursework being online, students will still need to complete in-person clinical rotations at an approved site. 

Before starting, applicants must have at least one year of working as an RN and excellent assessment skills. The university also offers a part-time option for nurses who want to continue developing their skills and working during their program.

  • Application Deadline: June 1st
  • Tuition:
    • Part-time: 
      • In-state: $836 per credit hour
      • Out-of-state: $851 per credit hour
    • Full-time:
      • In-state: $8,359 per semester
      • Out-of-state: $8,509 per semester
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (513) 558-3600
  • Email Information:  nursingbearcats@uc.edu
  • Online Options Available: Yes

10. University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD

The University of Maryland School of Nursing’s psychiatric nursing program began in 1955.  The PMHNP program is blended with face-to-face and online coursework and offers flexible scheduling with 3-, 4-, and 5-year study plans. Graduates earn a DNP.

  • Application Deadline: December 1st
  • Tuition:
    • In-state: $873 per credit hour
    • Out-of-state: $1,549 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Contact Phone Number: (410) 706-0501
  • Email Information: admissions.nursing@umaryland.edu
  • Online Options Available: Hybrid

Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

Sponsored
Walden University
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and the School of Nursing teaching faculty all hold doctorates. With three degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Purdue Global

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Wilkes University

The R.N. to M.S.N program is for registered nurses with associate degrees who want to become nurse practitioners. It focuses on advanced clinical skills, professionalism and evidence-based practice. Our integrated exam preparation courses provide dedicated study resources, leading to impressive passing rates consistently above the national average and graduate success.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

What to Expect in an RN to PMHNP Program

RN to PMHNP programs can be difficult. In an RN program, you learn about diseases and how to care for patients, while in an NP program, you will learn how to diagnose and treat illnesses. It requires advanced critical thinking and reasoning. 

Programs that grant a DNP upon completion require even more time and commitment since you will be earning a terminal degree and a dissertation is required. 

The first semester of all nursing programs will cover the core courses. Some programs will start clinical rotations in the second or third semester while others wait until the second or third year. Each PMHNP program is structured slightly differently based on the coursework but students can expect to complete similar coursework as their counterparts in other programs. 

Admission Requirements 

Specific requirements will vary based on the program, but you can anticipate the following basic requirements for all PMHNP programs. These include, 

  • An ADN or BSN from an accredited nursing program
  • An unencumbered nursing license
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 
  • Resume/CV
  • Completion of prerequisite courses 
  • At least 1-2 years of clinical experience
  • Letter(s) of recommendation
  • A letter of intent
  • GRE (if applicable)
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal interview

Classes and Coursework

PMHNP students will take core courses similar to those of other NP specialties; however, clinicals are tailored specifically to psychiatric and mental health nursing. All programs will require multiple in-person clinicals throughout the program that must be completed at an approved clinical site with a licensed preceptor. Course may include, 

  • Advanced health assessment
  • Advanced pharmacology
  • Advanced pathophysiology
  • Research
  • Ethics
  • Neuroscience
  • Psychopharmacology
  • Human Diversity and Social Policy
  • Telemedicine
  • Basic Counseling Theories & Techniques

FAQs

  • What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

    • A psychiatric nurse practitioner is a specific type of nurse practitioner who works with patients across the lifespan to diagnose and treat patients with psychiatric and mental health issues. Nurses who want to practice as nurse practitioners must return to school and earn an MSN or DNP.
  • Is becoming a psychiatric NP worth it?

    • If you want to advance your nursing practice, work autonomously in the mental health field, and earn significantly more money than you do as a registered nurse, then becoming a psych NP is worth it. 
  • Who makes more money, FNP or PMHNP?

    • PMHNPs are one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties. According to ZipRecruiter, the average psychiatric nurse practitioner earns $141,112 annually. FNPs earn around $127,976 each year. However, your actual income will differ based on years of experience, location, and the type of facility you work for.  
  • Where do PMHNPs get paid the most?

    • According to ZipRecruiter, Wisconsin is the highest-paying state for psych NPs, where they earn a median annual income of $191,430.
  • Is the PMHNP market oversaturated?

    • Psych NP oversaturation occurs in some areas, as do shortages in other places. Whether the PMHNP market is oversaturated depends on where you live and the type of healthcare facilities there. If your local market is oversaturated, you may have better chances of employment if you're willing to move or commute for a PMHNP job. 

Learn More About Becoming a PMHNP

Sarah Jividen
RN, BSN
Sarah Jividen
Nurse.org Contributor

Sarah Jividen, RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions, LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

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