Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program | WGU
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:11
Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program | WGU
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Master of Science
Nursing –Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN)
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OVERVIEW
Help Fill the Critical Need for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse qualified to diagnose and treat patients experiencing mental health challenges. The PMHNP program at WGU is an MSN program specifically designed to prepare BSN-holding nurses to become mental health practitioners. To qualify for this competitive program certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), you must have a BSN degree from an accredited university and meet additional admission requirements. Those wishing to pursue this degree should have at least one year of clinical experience and be actively working.
NOTE: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the PMHNP is currently NOT open to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, New York, North Dakota, and Washington.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more
state-specific information related to nursing licensure
. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More
about compact licenses
.
Is the PMHNP program not the right fit?
Compare our health leadership degrees
as well as
our MSN programs
, or explore these programs:
M.S. Nursing–Leadership and Management (BSN-to-MSN)
M.S. Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN)
, and
compare these two degrees
Graduates will earn this degree in
2½ years*
It takes two-and-a-half years to complete the coursework and clinical components of this degree program. As a result, the MSN FNP program may not be completed in fewer than 2 years.
*WGU Internal Data
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$6,955
This includes tuition and all associated program fee costs. Tuition and fees are charged per six-month term!
Cost & Time
This is a highly competitive program.
Currently, WGU's psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree program is accepting applications from a limited number of students. The program includes consolidated internships, making it a highly hands-on and demanding program of study.
Admissions
Next Start Date
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COURSES
Psychiatric Mental Health Courses
Program consists of 17 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
The WGU MSN PMHNP curriculum is evidence-based, designed to help you become a compassionate, effective, and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Credentialing from the ANCC helps ensure that the program is rigorous and will prepare students for real-world situations as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Courses in this program prepare students to assess individuals across the lifespan for mental health conditions, provide mental health care plans for individuals, families, and populations with mental health conditions, and to safely prescribe psychiatric medications. Graduates of the PMHNP program are qualified to provide mental health care in the role of a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, to lead mental health and other healthcare organizations, and to serve on organizational boards in a leadership and advisory role.
WHAT ABOUT TRANSFER CREDIT?
This program consists of the following courses, which you will typically complete one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on.
You will complete your MSN PMHNP degree mostly online. Your program will consist of six online core courses that are part of all WGU MSN programs. We call this our “MSN Core”.
The curriculum includes nurse practitioner core and psychiatric nurse practitioner specialty online courses. Finally, your program will culminate with the clinical internship courses involving 650 direct patient care clinical hours in your home community, as available.
Notice: Students in the state of Kansas who intend to seek licensure in Kansas who started on or after March 1st, 2025 will be required to complete 750 direct patient care hours.
MSN Core
Professional Presence and Influence
Professional Presence and Influence is a masters-level course designed to guide students towards an enhanced state of presence, where therapeutic relationships are built between nurse and patient. Students will learn techniques for self-care practices that result in enhanced mental and physical wellbeing and that ensure ethically-generated patient care. Presence is an intrapersonal and interpersonal quality that allows the nurse to relate to others and to be aware of the world around them. The characteristics of presence, which include holism, intimacy, sensitivity and adaptability, create a heightened sense of awareness that fosters therapeutic relationships between the nurse and patient. Developing a mindful, authentic presence is central to health and spiritual practices in several cultures and a major element of leadership. Students will intentionally develop a focused mindfulness practice that will influence patient outcomes and lead to conditions that create joy in the workplace.
Essentials of Advanced Nursing Roles and Interprofessional Practice
Essentials of Advanced Nursing Roles and Interprofessional Practice explores essential characteristics of the advanced professional nurse in the role of leader, educator, practitioner, or informatics specialist. In this course, students will apply evidence-based strategies to facilitate interprofessional collaboration on teams. Students will explore the role of nurses in advocating for change at the bedside, as well as leading teams to advocate for health policy reform. Students will gather and analyze data to identify patients and populations at risk and recommend policy change to improve health outcomes in the community.
Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care
Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care incorporates current standards of quality and safety within the context of value-based care. In a value-based healthcare system, the benefits are derived from measuring health outcomes against the cost of delivering the outcomes. These benefits are then extended to patients, providers, payers, suppliers, and society as a whole. This course introduces new healthcare delivery models, which stress a team-oriented approach to patient care and sharing of patient data so that care is coordinated, and outcomes can be measured easily. Emphasis is placed on performance and quality improvement methods that underlie value-based nursing care. The nurse in advanced practice today must exemplify the standards of quality and safety and be prepared to lead the delivery of value-based patient-centered care.
Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care
Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care integrates nursing science with multiple information and analytical sciences to identify, define, manage, and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice. Students will acquire knowledge and skills to apply informatics concepts, communications, and data that are critical to facilitating interprofessional data-driven decision-making. It is designed to build competence in the use of patient- and population-based applications that inform and support the transformation of nursing care delivery toward a future of value-based quality nursing care that improves health outcomes. This course aligns theoretical concepts with practical applications of informatics and is consistent with the functional areas and responsibilities of informatics nurses as defined by the American Nurses Association Scope and Standards for nursing informatics.
Leadership and Management in Complex Healthcare Systems
Leadership and Management in Complex Healthcare Systems prepares graduate nurses to be thoughtful strategists and informed decision-makers who serve as strong leaders in high-performing healthcare systems. Students develop competencies for managing diverse teams in complex systems, monitoring and measuring organizational performance, allocating financial and human resources, and leading change towards a transformed healthcare system. Additionally, students acquire the knowledge and skills to become full partners with other healthcare professionals by demonstrating nurse contributions toward high-quality care to patients and populations, while working collaboratively with interprofessional teams. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Advancing Evidence-Based Innovation in Nursing Practice
Advancing Evidence-Based Innovation in Nursing Practice introduces students to the dynamic union of healthcare innovation and evidence. Core competencies and behaviors required to be a nurse innovator are discussed. Strategies for measuring innovation at various system levels are presented, as well as techniques for synthesizing and disseminating evidence to advance innovation in healthcare. The skills needed to appraise the quality of diverse sources of evidence are presented within the framework of evidence-based practice. This course focuses on identifying new and emerging sources of evidence that can inform, translate, and scale the complexity of leading innovation in healthcare organizations. Students will experience building communities of practice for collaboratively developing innovative practices and policies designed to improve the health of populations and enhance the patient experience of care.
Nurse Practitioner Core
Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse prepares the graduate nursing student for the role of an advanced practice nurse with the competencies and skills needed to recognize disease states, identify disease progression, and assess and evaluate symptoms for patients across the lifespan. This course will help the graduate nursing student gain a deeper understanding of pathophysiology from the cellular to the systems level and will provide graduate nursing students with the knowledge and skills to determine the etiology, underlying physiological changes, and the human affective responses to alterations in health. This course will also prepare the graduate nursing student to communicate the pathophysiology of disease processes to providers and patients.
Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse prepares the graduate nursing student for the role of an advanced practice nurse with the competencies and skills for prescribing and monitoring medication safely and effectively. This course will prepare the graduate nursing student to apply pharmacotherapeutics in primary care settings by utilizing the pivotal basis of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This course will also prepare the graduate nursing student to select the correct medication, describe the rationale for that selection to the patient, family, and other providers, and to effectively monitor the patient to promote positive drug outcomes.
Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Health Assessment prepares the graduate nursing student to perform the role of an advanced practice nurse with the essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations. Students will develop the skills needed for systematically collecting and analyzing subjective and objective patient data. Through simulation and clinical experiences, students will use data to determine current and ongoing patient health status, predict health risks, and identify health-promoting activities for patients across the lifespan. Advanced Health Assessment will prepare the nursing graduate with the critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and advanced diagnostic skills required for advanced practice nursing. Upon completion of Advanced Health Assessment, the graduate will be able to synthesize individual and systems level subjective and objective data to facilitate the differential diagnosis processes. Also, the graduate will be able to clearly describe to patients and providers the pertinent health assessment findings and rationale supporting the diagnostic process.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Children and Adolescents Across Care Settings
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Children and Adolescents across Care Settings prepares students to provide evidence-based mental healthcare for children, adolescents, and families. This course guides students through the application of age and developmentally appropriate advanced practice health assessment knowledge and diagnostic reasoning skills for children, adolescents, and families experiencing complex mental health issues. This course helps students develop treatment plans to manage specific mental health disorders through the use of psychotherapeutic treatment modalities, psychopharmacology, and community resources. This course also covers the influences of family dynamics and societal norms on mental health progression and recovery. The following are prerequisites for this course: all MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Foundations of Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice
Foundations of Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice guides students through the process of learning about mental health and mental illness. This course presents the history of psychiatric care, along with cultural components that influence individual attitudes and behaviors. This course introduces conceptual models and theories related to practice that provide the basis for understanding the development of psychopathology to apply appropriate therapeutic strategies. This course includes clinical practice guidelines using the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) as a basis for diagnostic consistency across the lifespan. This course also includes relevant advanced practice issues, legal and ethical components, and barriers to practice that a mental health psychiatric nurse practitioner may encounter. Various psychological responses to stress are also discussed. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
The Assessment and Diagnostic Process of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Practice
The Assessment and Diagnostic Processes for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice guides students when examining determinants to the role of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This course guides students in building a therapeutic relationship with patients through interviewing skills, conducting a structured assessment, milieu, types of therapy, and various care strategies, including technology usage. This course guides students through exploring their leadership role in collaborating with the interprofessional community as a mental health nurse practitioner. Pathways of quality improvement, practice evaluation, and healthcare reform are also considered. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychopharmacology for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice
Psychopharmacology for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice explains the knowledge of advanced pharmacotherapeutics and why it is important to safely and appropriately prescribe agents to manage common chronic and acute mental health problems of diverse populations. This includes differences between experimental and clinical psychopharmacology. This course covers the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in administration, along with patient education. This course discusses factors of addiction and substance use, including prevalence, clinical manifestations, and treatment of various disorders. Collaborative clinical services, such as group counseling, therapeutic communities, and medication support, are explored. The foundational information in psychopharmacology in this course guides students in planning individualized mental health drug management for individuals across the life span based on setting, context, and professional ethics. The following courses are prerequisites: all MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship III
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Adults and Older Adults Across Care Settings
Advanced Psychiatric Care of Adults and Older Adults Across Care Settings prepares students to provide evidence-based mental healthcare for adults, older adults, and families. This course guides students through the application of age and developmentally appropriate advanced practice health assessment knowledge and diagnostic reasoning skills for adults, older adults, and families experiencing complex mental health issues. This course helps students develop treatment plans using psychotherapeutic treatment modalities, psychopharmacology, and community resources to manage specific mental health disorders for adults, older adults, and families. This course also includes the influences of family dynamics and societal norms on mental health progression and recovery. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship I
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop the competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship II
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
17 Courses
Program consists of 17 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
Field Experiences
Special requirements for this program
While most of your coursework will be completed online, your nurse practitioner program includes some requirements—including clinical internships—that must be completed in a facility near you, and the university will work with you through the approval process.
Request Info
Skills For Your Résumé
As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for.
Care Coordination:
Successfully verified the rules of medication administration, including right patient, medication, dose, route, time, and documentation, ensuring patient safety and adherence to established protocols.
Clinical Reasoning:
Expertly analyzed patient cues as expected or unexpected with the application of altered health knowledge and identified patient care tasks using appropriate rationale, enabling accurate and timely interventions.
Mental Health:
Effectively promoted well-being through the assessment and mitigation of mental illness, substance use, and other addictions, contributing to improved mental health outcomes and patient recovery.
Mental Health Diagnoses:
Proficiently diagnosed mental health disorders using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), facilitating precise and evidence-based treatment plans.
Mental Status Examination:
Conducted structured assessments of patients' behavioral and cognitive functioning, providing valuable insights for comprehensive patient care and treatment.
Treatment Planning:
Collaboratively worked with patients to create individualized plans of care that were defined by the patient's condition and goals, fostering patient engagement and empowerment in the healthcare decision-making process.
“Our partnership with WGU enables our employees to advance their education affordably without interrupting their careers.”
—John Steele, Senior Vice President of Human Resources
HCA Healthcare
WGU vs. Traditional Universities
Compare the Difference
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
TUITION STRUCTURE
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
SUPPORT
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
EXAMS
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
SCHEDULE
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
TIME TO FINISH
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Why WGU?
Valued
Top accreditations mean that your FNP degree is respected by employers and peers. You will get a quality education that is valuable in the industry.
PAYING FOR SCHOOL
Flexible
You can continue working at your full-time job or maintaining your responsibilities while pursing your FNP degree. You don't have to log-in to classes and there aren't due dates. You are in charge of your degree.
A FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Strong Alumni Network
When you enroll in this nursing master's program at WGU, you join an impressive network of healthcare professionals.
CAREER OUTLOOK
Accredited,
Respected,
Recognized™
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at WGU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (
http://www.ccneaccreditation.org
).
COST & TIME
An Affordable Nurse Practitioner Program
Low tuition makes WGU a more affordable option for your master's degree than most other schools. When you compare us with other nurse practitioner programs, WGU’s MSN-PMHNP program offers rigorous curriculum with competitive post-graduation results,
but at as little as half the cost
.
Note: The MSN PMHNP program may not be completed in fewer than 2 years.
Apply FREE
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Pay less by completing your program faster
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Cost Breakdown
Tuition
$
6,955
E-Books and Resources Fee
+
$
200
TOTAL (per 6-month term)
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$
6-month terms
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=
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The MSN FNP program may not be completed
in fewer than 2 years.
A Nursing Master's Degree Is Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
An Online Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Degree Program Built for a Busy Nurse’s Schedule
Our unique education model puts working nurses in the driver’s seat of their education. As a busy nurse, you need a degree program that's more than simply online—you need a nursing program that truly reflects the realities of your work life and experience. At WGU, your progress is driven by your ability to prove what you’ve learned. And how quickly you do that is largely up to you.
Once you’ve mastered the material, you prove what you know through tests, papers, projects, or other assessments. Demonstrating mastery is how you pass a course, so learning what it takes to be outstanding in your career as an effective nurse practitioner is at the heart of WGU’s M.S. Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner curriculum. Other universities' online M.S. programs may give you the convenience of distance learning; WGU's online programs take that flexibility further—many steps further!
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"I learned a lot about doing research, which has helped me tremendously in my new position. You learn so much with this degree."
—Jennifer Granger Brown
M.S. Nursing
The program will take 2.5 years to complete. Students who successfully complete the standard 5-term pace are committing an average of 30 hours per week to their studies. You can choose to complete the clinical hours part time, finishing the program in 6 terms or a total of 3 years.
Students must complete 650 direct patient care clinical hours. The standard pace of the program is to spend 3 to 4 days a week in clinical hours, until you total 650 hours. If you choose to complete the clinical hours on a part-time basis, then you will spend 1 to 2 days a week in clinicals, until you total 650 hours.
CAREER OUTLOOK
A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner MSN Prepares You to Treat Mental Health Conditions and Promote Healing and Improvement
Once you’ve completed the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner MSN degree program, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to be an outstanding mental health nurse practitioner in an in-demand field. According to the
Health Resources and Services Administration
, nearly 120 million Americans live in areas where there are mental health care provider shortages. More than 6,500 mental health providers are needed to meet the current demand as distressing world events and a global pandemic have caused many to turn to mental health professionals for aid.
Working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner is a rewarding career focused on helping others. Through our PMHNP program, you'll be prepared to take your extensive nursing experience and transform it into patient care as a psychiatric health care provider. You’ll work with patients experiencing mental illness, substance abuse, and other mental health challenges. You’ll give care by conducting mental health assessments, by providing diagnoses, and by prescribing medication or psychotherapy. Graduates of this program will be qualified to practice in a wide variety of care settings as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.
MORE ABOUT CAREERS
Return on Your Investment
Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation
Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source:
2024 Harris Poll
of 1,655 WGU graduates.
Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.
40%
Projections indicate that employment of nurse practitioners will grow 40% by 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
WGU's MSN–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Grads Can Expect Rewarding Careers
When you become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you can work in a variety of settings helping individuals and families. This program can prepare you to sit on organizational boards or serve as a PMHNP in settings including:
Private mental health practices
Behavioral health and recovery facilities
Community clinics
Substance abuse and rehabilitation centers
Prisons and correctional facilities
WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers
Hospitals and clinics around the country know the benefit of a degree from WGU, so your healthcare degree is valuable.
More About Career Growth
ADMISSIONS
Admission Requirements Unique to our M.S. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Degree Program
To be considered for this program, you must:
Possess a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN) from an accredited institution. NOTE: Students that hold an MSN will not be eligible to apply for the BSN-PMHNP pathway.
Possess a current, active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license from AND a permanent residence in an approved state. Students must complete the internships in their state of residence/license and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state.
Compact licenses
must be endorsed by your state of residence. (The PMHNP is currently not available for students in California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, New York, North Dakota, and Washington.)
Submit a
criminal background check
through DISA Healthcare Technology
. Additional fees may apply.
Submit a
professional resume or CV
outlining your academic, professional, and service history.
Submit an
application essay
. You must submit a response to the application essay questions detailing your experience in nursing and explaining why you want to become an NP. This essay helps us understand your unique situation and personal goals.
Provide
three letters of recommendation
from:
1. A supervisor or manager who directly supervised you in a clinical setting.
2. A professor, faculty member, or academic advisor who can provide meaningful input regarding your academic record.
3. A Board Certified practicing healthcare provider (APRN, NP, PA, MD, DO) who has served as a mentor or whom you have shadowed, preferably in the specialty to which you are applying. Note: A registered nurse cannot serve as the practicing provider for this recommendation source.
Have earned a
3.0 cumulative grade point average
(on a 4.0 scale) in the following 5 courses OR hold a BSNU degree from WGU:
- Anatomy / Physiology I w/lab (equivalent to 4 semester hours)
- Anatomy / Physiology II w/lab (equivalent to 4 semester hours)
- Statistics (equivalent to 3 semester hours)
- Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan (equivalent to 3 semester hours)
- Pharmacology (equivalent to 2 semester hours)
Note:
All courses must be awarded a C- or above to meet this requirement. At this time, WGU is not accepting transfer credit for the Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program.
Have one year of clinical experience and be actively working as an RN at the time of application.
*This requirement is strongly preferred, as these will be competitive factors in the admission decision-making process.
MORE ABOUT PMHNP ADMISSIONS
Transfer Credits
TRANSFER INFORMATION
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
VIEW CHECKLIST
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT COUNSELOR
Safety Notice
WGU and the Leavitt School of Health are committed to the health, safety, and well-being of all patients, community members, and key stakeholders that interact with WGU students at various clinical/host sites. Interactions will include direct patient interaction, observation experiences, and in-person FNP SageSkills Workshop. Interactions may include project development or conducting research. Standard compliance verification for students in applicable LSH programs is required to protect the public, meet LSH program expectations, reasonably assure compliance with state regulatory board requirements, meet WGU’s contractual and legal obligations with clinical partners, and support WGU’s mission to prepare students who will be qualified to enter their desired field. Compliance items may include, but are not limited to, background checks, immunizations, and drug screens as needed.
More About the Mental Health Practitioner Program
General Program Questions
Financial Aid Questions
Apply Now
Most often, to apply for a psychiatric nursing program, you must be a registered nurse and hold a BSN degree. Those wishing to apply to the WGU PMHNP program must hold a BSN, reside in an eligible state, preferably have at least one year of clinical experience, and be actively working in the nursing field.
A psychiatric nurse practitioner’s duties may include:
Holding appointments with those experiencing mental health challenges
Keeping a detailed record of a patient’s mental health history and journey
Administering mental health assessments
Diagnosing mental illnesses
Providing therapy
Prescribing medications
Yes. Much like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe medications.
Generally, to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you must:
Be a licensed registered nurse
Hold a BSN degree
Complete an accredited PMHNP program
Fulfill the necessary clinical hours requirement
Pass the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner exam
Apply for and gain state-specific certification
The roles of psychiatrists and PMHNPs are similar in many ways, though the qualifications and pay scales are very different. While both can typically practice independently (with there being some exceptions and nuances for PMHNPs, varying by state), diagnose mental illnesses, provide therapy, and prescribe medications, the level of required schooling and expertise differs dramatically. Psychiatrists must have an M.D. or D.O. degree in addition to four years of psychiatric residency, while PMHNPs must hold the appropriate master’s degree and complete clinical hours and certifications. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for
psychiatrists
in 2020 was $217,100, compared to $117,670 for
nurse practitioners
. A PMHNP degree is a great option for those who wish to work with mental health patients but don’t want to earn an M.D. degree and complete many years of residency. While the pay reflects the experience level and is, therefore, lower than that of a psychiatrist, many enjoy a fulfilling career as a PMHNP.
A PMHNP is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specifically trained and authorized to help patients facing mental health challenges. An FNP is a family nurse practitioner trained to attend to the basic health needs of individuals and families. What differentiates PMHNPs is that they’re authorized to provide formal mental health diagnoses and administer psychotherapy.
No. While a psychology degree may be beneficial to your overall education and understanding of mental health conditions, the degree does not qualify you to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. To become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you must be a certified PMHNP. This typically requires first gaining RN licensure and earning a BSN degree. Then you must complete a master’s-level PMHNP degree program, finish clinical hours, and gain your PMHNP certification.
WGU is approved to offer
federal student aid
. You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.
Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.
This video shows more
about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:
How to apply
Eligibility requirements
Examples of scholarships
What happens after you apply
FAQs
Other financial aid options
WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools.
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Master of Science
Nursing –Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN)
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OVERVIEW
Help Fill the Critical Need for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse qualified to diagnose and treat patients experiencing mental health challenges. The PMHNP program at WGU is an MSN program specifically designed to prepare BSN-holding nurses to become mental health practitioners. To qualify for this competitive program certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), you must have a BSN degree from an accredited university and meet additional admission requirements. Those wishing to pursue this degree should have at least one year of clinical experience and be actively working.
NOTE: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the PMHNP is currently NOT open to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, New York, North Dakota, and Washington.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more
state-specific information related to nursing licensure
. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More
about compact licenses
.
Is the PMHNP program not the right fit?
Compare our health leadership degrees
as well as
our MSN programs
, or explore these programs:
M.S. Nursing–Leadership and Management (BSN-to-MSN)
M.S. Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN)
, and
compare these two degrees
Graduates will earn this degree in
2½ years*
It takes two-and-a-half years to complete the coursework and clinical components of this degree program. As a result, the MSN FNP program may not be completed in fewer than 2 years.
*WGU Internal Data
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$6,955
This includes tuition and all associated program fee costs. Tuition and fees are charged per six-month term!
Cost & Time
This is a highly competitive program.
Currently, WGU's psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree program is accepting applications from a limited number of students. The program includes consolidated internships, making it a highly hands-on and demanding program of study.
Admissions
Next Start Date
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COURSES
Psychiatric Mental Health Courses
Program consists of 17 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
The WGU MSN PMHNP curriculum is evidence-based, designed to help you become a compassionate, effective, and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Credentialing from the ANCC helps ensure that the program is rigorous and will prepare students for real-world situations as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Courses in this program prepare students to assess individuals across the lifespan for mental health conditions, provide mental health care plans for individuals, families, and populations with mental health conditions, and to safely prescribe psychiatric medications. Graduates of the PMHNP program are qualified to provide mental health care in the role of a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, to lead mental health and other healthcare organizations, and to serve on organizational boards in a leadership and advisory role.
WHAT ABOUT TRANSFER CREDIT?
This program consists of the following courses, which you will typically complete one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on.
You will complete your MSN PMHNP degree mostly online. Your program will consist of six online core courses that are part of all WGU MSN programs. We call this our “MSN Core”.
The curriculum includes nurse practitioner core and psychiatric nurse practitioner specialty online courses. Finally, your program will culminate with the clinical internship courses involving 650 direct patient care clinical hours in your home community, as available.
Notice: Students in the state of Kansas who intend to seek licensure in Kansas who started on or after March 1st, 2025 will be required to complete 750 direct patient care hours.
MSN Core
Professional Presence and Influence
Professional Presence and Influence is a masters-level course designed to guide students towards an enhanced state of presence, where therapeutic relationships are built between nurse and patient. Students will learn techniques for self-care practices that result in enhanced mental and physical wellbeing and that ensure ethically-generated patient care. Presence is an intrapersonal and interpersonal quality that allows the nurse to relate to others and to be aware of the world around them. The characteristics of presence, which include holism, intimacy, sensitivity and adaptability, create a heightened sense of awareness that fosters therapeutic relationships between the nurse and patient. Developing a mindful, authentic presence is central to health and spiritual practices in several cultures and a major element of leadership. Students will intentionally develop a focused mindfulness practice that will influence patient outcomes and lead to conditions that create joy in the workplace.
Essentials of Advanced Nursing Roles and Interprofessional Practice
Essentials of Advanced Nursing Roles and Interprofessional Practice explores essential characteristics of the advanced professional nurse in the role of leader, educator, practitioner, or informatics specialist. In this course, students will apply evidence-based strategies to facilitate interprofessional collaboration on teams. Students will explore the role of nurses in advocating for change at the bedside, as well as leading teams to advocate for health policy reform. Students will gather and analyze data to identify patients and populations at risk and recommend policy change to improve health outcomes in the community.
Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care
Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care incorporates current standards of quality and safety within the context of value-based care. In a value-based healthcare system, the benefits are derived from measuring health outcomes against the cost of delivering the outcomes. These benefits are then extended to patients, providers, payers, suppliers, and society as a whole. This course introduces new healthcare delivery models, which stress a team-oriented approach to patient care and sharing of patient data so that care is coordinated, and outcomes can be measured easily. Emphasis is placed on performance and quality improvement methods that underlie value-based nursing care. The nurse in advanced practice today must exemplify the standards of quality and safety and be prepared to lead the delivery of value-based patient-centered care.
Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care
Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care integrates nursing science with multiple information and analytical sciences to identify, define, manage, and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice. Students will acquire knowledge and skills to apply informatics concepts, communications, and data that are critical to facilitating interprofessional data-driven decision-making. It is designed to build competence in the use of patient- and population-based applications that inform and support the transformation of nursing care delivery toward a future of value-based quality nursing care that improves health outcomes. This course aligns theoretical concepts with practical applications of informatics and is consistent with the functional areas and responsibilities of informatics nurses as defined by the American Nurses Association Scope and Standards for nursing informatics.
Leadership and Management in Complex Healthcare Systems
Leadership and Management in Complex Healthcare Systems prepares graduate nurses to be thoughtful strategists and informed decision-makers who serve as strong leaders in high-performing healthcare systems. Students develop competencies for managing diverse teams in complex systems, monitoring and measuring organizational performance, allocating financial and human resources, and leading change towards a transformed healthcare system. Additionally, students acquire the knowledge and skills to become full partners with other healthcare professionals by demonstrating nurse contributions toward high-quality care to patients and populations, while working collaboratively with interprofessional teams. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Advancing Evidence-Based Innovation in Nursing Practice
Advancing Evidence-Based Innovation in Nursing Practice introduces students to the dynamic union of healthcare innovation and evidence. Core competencies and behaviors required to be a nurse innovator are discussed. Strategies for measuring innovation at various system levels are presented, as well as techniques for synthesizing and disseminating evidence to advance innovation in healthcare. The skills needed to appraise the quality of diverse sources of evidence are presented within the framework of evidence-based practice. This course focuses on identifying new and emerging sources of evidence that can inform, translate, and scale the complexity of leading innovation in healthcare organizations. Students will experience building communities of practice for collaboratively developing innovative practices and policies designed to improve the health of populations and enhance the patient experience of care.
Nurse Practitioner Core
Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse prepares the graduate nursing student for the role of an advanced practice nurse with the competencies and skills needed to recognize disease states, identify disease progression, and assess and evaluate symptoms for patients across the lifespan. This course will help the graduate nursing student gain a deeper understanding of pathophysiology from the cellular to the systems level and will provide graduate nursing students with the knowledge and skills to determine the etiology, underlying physiological changes, and the human affective responses to alterations in health. This course will also prepare the graduate nursing student to communicate the pathophysiology of disease processes to providers and patients.
Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse prepares the graduate nursing student for the role of an advanced practice nurse with the competencies and skills for prescribing and monitoring medication safely and effectively. This course will prepare the graduate nursing student to apply pharmacotherapeutics in primary care settings by utilizing the pivotal basis of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This course will also prepare the graduate nursing student to select the correct medication, describe the rationale for that selection to the patient, family, and other providers, and to effectively monitor the patient to promote positive drug outcomes.
Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse
Advanced Health Assessment prepares the graduate nursing student to perform the role of an advanced practice nurse with the essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations. Students will develop the skills needed for systematically collecting and analyzing subjective and objective patient data. Through simulation and clinical experiences, students will use data to determine current and ongoing patient health status, predict health risks, and identify health-promoting activities for patients across the lifespan. Advanced Health Assessment will prepare the nursing graduate with the critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and advanced diagnostic skills required for advanced practice nursing. Upon completion of Advanced Health Assessment, the graduate will be able to synthesize individual and systems level subjective and objective data to facilitate the differential diagnosis processes. Also, the graduate will be able to clearly describe to patients and providers the pertinent health assessment findings and rationale supporting the diagnostic process.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Children and Adolescents Across Care Settings
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Children and Adolescents across Care Settings prepares students to provide evidence-based mental healthcare for children, adolescents, and families. This course guides students through the application of age and developmentally appropriate advanced practice health assessment knowledge and diagnostic reasoning skills for children, adolescents, and families experiencing complex mental health issues. This course helps students develop treatment plans to manage specific mental health disorders through the use of psychotherapeutic treatment modalities, psychopharmacology, and community resources. This course also covers the influences of family dynamics and societal norms on mental health progression and recovery. The following are prerequisites for this course: all MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Foundations of Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice
Foundations of Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice guides students through the process of learning about mental health and mental illness. This course presents the history of psychiatric care, along with cultural components that influence individual attitudes and behaviors. This course introduces conceptual models and theories related to practice that provide the basis for understanding the development of psychopathology to apply appropriate therapeutic strategies. This course includes clinical practice guidelines using the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) as a basis for diagnostic consistency across the lifespan. This course also includes relevant advanced practice issues, legal and ethical components, and barriers to practice that a mental health psychiatric nurse practitioner may encounter. Various psychological responses to stress are also discussed. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
The Assessment and Diagnostic Process of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Practice
The Assessment and Diagnostic Processes for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice guides students when examining determinants to the role of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This course guides students in building a therapeutic relationship with patients through interviewing skills, conducting a structured assessment, milieu, types of therapy, and various care strategies, including technology usage. This course guides students through exploring their leadership role in collaborating with the interprofessional community as a mental health nurse practitioner. Pathways of quality improvement, practice evaluation, and healthcare reform are also considered. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychopharmacology for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice
Psychopharmacology for Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Practice explains the knowledge of advanced pharmacotherapeutics and why it is important to safely and appropriately prescribe agents to manage common chronic and acute mental health problems of diverse populations. This includes differences between experimental and clinical psychopharmacology. This course covers the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in administration, along with patient education. This course discusses factors of addiction and substance use, including prevalence, clinical manifestations, and treatment of various disorders. Collaborative clinical services, such as group counseling, therapeutic communities, and medication support, are explored. The foundational information in psychopharmacology in this course guides students in planning individualized mental health drug management for individuals across the life span based on setting, context, and professional ethics. The following courses are prerequisites: all MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship III
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Adults and Older Adults Across Care Settings
Advanced Psychiatric Care of Adults and Older Adults Across Care Settings prepares students to provide evidence-based mental healthcare for adults, older adults, and families. This course guides students through the application of age and developmentally appropriate advanced practice health assessment knowledge and diagnostic reasoning skills for adults, older adults, and families experiencing complex mental health issues. This course helps students develop treatment plans using psychotherapeutic treatment modalities, psychopharmacology, and community resources to manage specific mental health disorders for adults, older adults, and families. This course also includes the influences of family dynamics and societal norms on mental health progression and recovery. The following courses are prerequisites: All MSN Core courses, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Health Assessment for the Advanced Practice Nurse.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship I
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop the competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Clinical Internship II
Through precepted clinical experiences, the learner will develop competencies needed to provide comprehensive and holistic mental health care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. In the precepted clinical setting, the learner will combine competencies developed in preparatory advanced practice coursework to deliver consumer-centered mental health care. Therefore, the learner will conduct advanced mental health assessments and utilize the competencies of advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and health promotion for individuals and populations across the life span to build self-efficacy in individuals and groups, to determine correct diagnoses, and to establish mental health plans of care that include consumer and population preferences. All MSN Core Courses, NP Core courses, and PMHNP Specialty courses must be completed before taking this course.
17 Courses
Program consists of 17 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
Field Experiences
Special requirements for this program
While most of your coursework will be completed online, your nurse practitioner program includes some requirements—including clinical internships—that must be completed in a facility near you, and the university will work with you through the approval process.
Request Info
Skills For Your Résumé
As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for.
Care Coordination:
Successfully verified the rules of medication administration, including right patient, medication, dose, route, time, and documentation, ensuring patient safety and adherence to established protocols.
Clinical Reasoning:
Expertly analyzed patient cues as expected or unexpected with the application of altered health knowledge and identified patient care tasks using appropriate rationale, enabling accurate and timely interventions.
Mental Health:
Effectively promoted well-being through the assessment and mitigation of mental illness, substance use, and other addictions, contributing to improved mental health outcomes and patient recovery.
Mental Health Diagnoses:
Proficiently diagnosed mental health disorders using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), facilitating precise and evidence-based treatment plans.
Mental Status Examination:
Conducted structured assessments of patients' behavioral and cognitive functioning, providing valuable insights for comprehensive patient care and treatment.
Treatment Planning:
Collaboratively worked with patients to create individualized plans of care that were defined by the patient's condition and goals, fostering patient engagement and empowerment in the healthcare decision-making process.
“Our partnership with WGU enables our employees to advance their education affordably without interrupting their careers.”
—John Steele, Senior Vice President of Human Resources
HCA Healthcare
WGU vs. Traditional Universities
Compare the Difference
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
TUITION STRUCTURE
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
SUPPORT
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
EXAMS
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
SCHEDULE
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
TIME TO FINISH
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Why WGU?
Valued
Top accreditations mean that your FNP degree is respected by employers and peers. You will get a quality education that is valuable in the industry.
PAYING FOR SCHOOL
Flexible
You can continue working at your full-time job or maintaining your responsibilities while pursing your FNP degree. You don't have to log-in to classes and there aren't due dates. You are in charge of your degree.
A FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Strong Alumni Network
When you enroll in this nursing master's program at WGU, you join an impressive network of healthcare professionals.
CAREER OUTLOOK
Accredited,
Respected,
Recognized™
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at WGU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (
http://www.ccneaccreditation.org
).
COST & TIME
An Affordable Nurse Practitioner Program
Low tuition makes WGU a more affordable option for your master's degree than most other schools. When you compare us with other nurse practitioner programs, WGU’s MSN-PMHNP program offers rigorous curriculum with competitive post-graduation results,
but at as little as half the cost
.
Note: The MSN PMHNP program may not be completed in fewer than 2 years.
Apply FREE
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Pay less by completing your program faster
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Cost Breakdown
Tuition
$
6,955
E-Books and Resources Fee
+
$
200
TOTAL (per 6-month term)
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$
6-month terms
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The MSN FNP program may not be completed
in fewer than 2 years.
A Nursing Master's Degree Is Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
An Online Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Degree Program Built for a Busy Nurse’s Schedule
Our unique education model puts working nurses in the driver’s seat of their education. As a busy nurse, you need a degree program that's more than simply online—you need a nursing program that truly reflects the realities of your work life and experience. At WGU, your progress is driven by your ability to prove what you’ve learned. And how quickly you do that is largely up to you.
Once you’ve mastered the material, you prove what you know through tests, papers, projects, or other assessments. Demonstrating mastery is how you pass a course, so learning what it takes to be outstanding in your career as an effective nurse practitioner is at the heart of WGU’s M.S. Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner curriculum. Other universities' online M.S. programs may give you the convenience of distance learning; WGU's online programs take that flexibility further—many steps further!
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"I learned a lot about doing research, which has helped me tremendously in my new position. You learn so much with this degree."
—Jennifer Granger Brown
M.S. Nursing
The program will take 2.5 years to complete. Students who successfully complete the standard 5-term pace are committing an average of 30 hours per week to their studies. You can choose to complete the clinical hours part time, finishing the program in 6 terms or a total of 3 years.
Students must complete 650 direct patient care clinical hours. The standard pace of the program is to spend 3 to 4 days a week in clinical hours, until you total 650 hours. If you choose to complete the clinical hours on a part-time basis, then you will spend 1 to 2 days a week in clinicals, until you total 650 hours.
CAREER OUTLOOK
A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner MSN Prepares You to Treat Mental Health Conditions and Promote Healing and Improvement
Once you’ve completed the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner MSN degree program, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to be an outstanding mental health nurse practitioner in an in-demand field. According to the
Health Resources and Services Administration
, nearly 120 million Americans live in areas where there are mental health care provider shortages. More than 6,500 mental health providers are needed to meet the current demand as distressing world events and a global pandemic have caused many to turn to mental health professionals for aid.
Working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner is a rewarding career focused on helping others. Through our PMHNP program, you'll be prepared to take your extensive nursing experience and transform it into patient care as a psychiatric health care provider. You’ll work with patients experiencing mental illness, substance abuse, and other mental health challenges. You’ll give care by conducting mental health assessments, by providing diagnoses, and by prescribing medication or psychotherapy. Graduates of this program will be qualified to practice in a wide variety of care settings as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.
MORE ABOUT CAREERS
Return on Your Investment
Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation
Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source:
2024 Harris Poll
of 1,655 WGU graduates.
Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.
40%
Projections indicate that employment of nurse practitioners will grow 40% by 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
WGU's MSN–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Grads Can Expect Rewarding Careers
When you become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you can work in a variety of settings helping individuals and families. This program can prepare you to sit on organizational boards or serve as a PMHNP in settings including:
Private mental health practices
Behavioral health and recovery facilities
Community clinics
Substance abuse and rehabilitation centers
Prisons and correctional facilities
WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers
Hospitals and clinics around the country know the benefit of a degree from WGU, so your healthcare degree is valuable.
More About Career Growth
ADMISSIONS
Admission Requirements Unique to our M.S. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Degree Program
To be considered for this program, you must:
Possess a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN) from an accredited institution. NOTE: Students that hold an MSN will not be eligible to apply for the BSN-PMHNP pathway.
Possess a current, active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license from AND a permanent residence in an approved state. Students must complete the internships in their state of residence/license and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state.
Compact licenses
must be endorsed by your state of residence. (The PMHNP is currently not available for students in California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, New York, North Dakota, and Washington.)
Submit a
criminal background check
through DISA Healthcare Technology
. Additional fees may apply.
Submit a
professional resume or CV
outlining your academic, professional, and service history.
Submit an
application essay
. You must submit a response to the application essay questions detailing your experience in nursing and explaining why you want to become an NP. This essay helps us understand your unique situation and personal goals.
Provide
three letters of recommendation
from:
1. A supervisor or manager who directly supervised you in a clinical setting.
2. A professor, faculty member, or academic advisor who can provide meaningful input regarding your academic record.
3. A Board Certified practicing healthcare provider (APRN, NP, PA, MD, DO) who has served as a mentor or whom you have shadowed, preferably in the specialty to which you are applying. Note: A registered nurse cannot serve as the practicing provider for this recommendation source.
Have earned a
3.0 cumulative grade point average
(on a 4.0 scale) in the following 5 courses OR hold a BSNU degree from WGU:
- Anatomy / Physiology I w/lab (equivalent to 4 semester hours)
- Anatomy / Physiology II w/lab (equivalent to 4 semester hours)
- Statistics (equivalent to 3 semester hours)
- Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan (equivalent to 3 semester hours)
- Pharmacology (equivalent to 2 semester hours)
Note:
All courses must be awarded a C- or above to meet this requirement. At this time, WGU is not accepting transfer credit for the Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program.
Have one year of clinical experience and be actively working as an RN at the time of application.
*This requirement is strongly preferred, as these will be competitive factors in the admission decision-making process.
MORE ABOUT PMHNP ADMISSIONS
Transfer Credits
TRANSFER INFORMATION
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
VIEW CHECKLIST
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT COUNSELOR
Safety Notice
WGU and the Leavitt School of Health are committed to the health, safety, and well-being of all patients, community members, and key stakeholders that interact with WGU students at various clinical/host sites. Interactions will include direct patient interaction, observation experiences, and in-person FNP SageSkills Workshop. Interactions may include project development or conducting research. Standard compliance verification for students in applicable LSH programs is required to protect the public, meet LSH program expectations, reasonably assure compliance with state regulatory board requirements, meet WGU’s contractual and legal obligations with clinical partners, and support WGU’s mission to prepare students who will be qualified to enter their desired field. Compliance items may include, but are not limited to, background checks, immunizations, and drug screens as needed.
More About the Mental Health Practitioner Program
General Program Questions
Financial Aid Questions
Apply Now
Most often, to apply for a psychiatric nursing program, you must be a registered nurse and hold a BSN degree. Those wishing to apply to the WGU PMHNP program must hold a BSN, reside in an eligible state, preferably have at least one year of clinical experience, and be actively working in the nursing field.
A psychiatric nurse practitioner’s duties may include:
Holding appointments with those experiencing mental health challenges
Keeping a detailed record of a patient’s mental health history and journey
Administering mental health assessments
Diagnosing mental illnesses
Providing therapy
Prescribing medications
Yes. Much like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe medications.
Generally, to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you must:
Be a licensed registered nurse
Hold a BSN degree
Complete an accredited PMHNP program
Fulfill the necessary clinical hours requirement
Pass the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner exam
Apply for and gain state-specific certification
The roles of psychiatrists and PMHNPs are similar in many ways, though the qualifications and pay scales are very different. While both can typically practice independently (with there being some exceptions and nuances for PMHNPs, varying by state), diagnose mental illnesses, provide therapy, and prescribe medications, the level of required schooling and expertise differs dramatically. Psychiatrists must have an M.D. or D.O. degree in addition to four years of psychiatric residency, while PMHNPs must hold the appropriate master’s degree and complete clinical hours and certifications. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for
psychiatrists
in 2020 was $217,100, compared to $117,670 for
nurse practitioners
. A PMHNP degree is a great option for those who wish to work with mental health patients but don’t want to earn an M.D. degree and complete many years of residency. While the pay reflects the experience level and is, therefore, lower than that of a psychiatrist, many enjoy a fulfilling career as a PMHNP.
A PMHNP is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specifically trained and authorized to help patients facing mental health challenges. An FNP is a family nurse practitioner trained to attend to the basic health needs of individuals and families. What differentiates PMHNPs is that they’re authorized to provide formal mental health diagnoses and administer psychotherapy.
No. While a psychology degree may be beneficial to your overall education and understanding of mental health conditions, the degree does not qualify you to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. To become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you must be a certified PMHNP. This typically requires first gaining RN licensure and earning a BSN degree. Then you must complete a master’s-level PMHNP degree program, finish clinical hours, and gain your PMHNP certification.
WGU is approved to offer
federal student aid
. You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.
Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.
This video shows more
about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:
How to apply
Eligibility requirements
Examples of scholarships
What happens after you apply
FAQs
Other financial aid options
WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools.
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