Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing provides a hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Graduate Certificate Program. Students complete 26 credit hours over three semesters, blending online coursework, onsite or virtual intensives, and 720 precepted clinical hours. The curriculum centers on child and adolescent behavioral and mental health, with training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Admission requires baccalaureate and master's degrees from accredited nursing schools, an unencumbered Georgia APRN license, and at least one year of full-time pediatric APRN experience. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, preparing advanced practice nurses for psychiatric nurse practitioner careers. This certificate does not require a standardized entrance exam.

• 26 credit hour program.
• Three semester duration.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• 720 precepted clinical hours.
• Focus on child and adolescent mental health.
• Requires baccalaureate and master's degrees.
• APRN license in Georgia required.
• One year pediatric APRN experience preferred.
• Includes onsite or virtual intensives.
• Clinical training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Emory University offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Child and Adolescent Behavioral and Mental Health concentration, delivered in a hybrid format. The 26-credit, three-semester program integrates synchronous and asynchronous online classes, onsite or virtual intensives, and 720 clinical hours. A neurobiological approach anchors the evidence-based curriculum, which addresses psychiatric disorders across pediatric populations. Tuition support is available through the Blake Scholars Program, and a fellowship opportunity may be available. Applicants need a master's degree in nursing, an unencumbered APRN license, and pediatric experience. The program prepares nurses for autonomous practice in diverse settings and is accredited by multiple organizations. No GRE requirement exists.

• 26 credit hour program.
• Three semester duration.
• 720 clinical hours.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• Child and adolescent concentration.
• Tuition support available.
• Master's degree required.
• APRN license needed.
• Pediatric experience preferred.
• Synchronous and asynchronous classes.

The University of San Francisco offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate for master's or doctoral-prepared nurses. This hybrid program blends online distance learning with in-person teaching weekends, providing flexibility for working professionals. Students can complete the certificate in one year with year-round classes, accumulating 500 clinical hours for certification eligibility. Admission does not require an entrance exam; instead, applicants need a DNP or MSN degree, a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, a professional resume, a goal statement, and one recommendation letter. The program is accredited by CCNE and approved by the California BRN, preparing graduates for PMHNP certification and state licensure. Tuition rates are detailed on the university's schedule.

• One-year completion time.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• 500 clinical hours required.
• Year-round class offerings.
• DNP or MSN degree required.
• 3.0 GPA recommended.
• RN license needed.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• California BRN approved.
• Transfer credit up to 12 hours.

Vanderbilt University’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) offers a hybrid online/on-campus pathway for RNs seeking advanced mental health expertise across the lifespan. This CCNE-accredited post-graduate certificate requires an MSN and RN licensure, with no standardized entrance exam mentioned in admissions. The program integrates over 500 supervised clinical hours, preparing graduates for national certification and advanced practice. Students enjoy flexible part-time or full-time plans, expert faculty, and individualized study. Graduates achieve high certification pass rates and 97% employment. The curriculum meets AACN and NONPF standards, and the certificate is posted on official transcripts. An optional DNP combination is available for further advancement.

• Hybrid online/on-campus format.
• 4-5 full-time semesters.
• 500+ supervised clinical hours.
• Requires MSN and RN licensure.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• High certification pass rates.
• 97% employment after graduation.
• Individualized program of study.
• Expert practicing faculty.
• DNP combination option.

Maryville University of Saint Louis offers an online Post-Master's NP Certificate with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration for MSN-prepared nurses. This 100% online, CCNE-accredited program requires no campus visits and allows students to complete clinicals locally. Featuring flexible scheduling with multiple start dates per year, the program is designed for working professionals seeking specialization in mental health care. The curriculum includes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and evidence-based lifespan psychiatric management, preparing graduates for prescriptive authority and careers in hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Tuition ranges from $18,123 to $69,223, with program duration from 12 to 40 months. No GMAT, GRE, or statistics entrance exam is required, and transfer credits are accepted.

• Online Post-Master's NP Certificate.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• 100% online, no campus visits.
• Total tuition $18,123-$69,223.
• Duration 12-40 months.
• No GMAT/GRE required.
• Complete clinicals locally.
• CCNE accredited.
• Multiple start dates yearly.
• Flexible scheduling.

The University of New Hampshire's online Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is a 29-credit graduate program designed for experienced APRNs seeking specialty training in mental health across the lifespan. Delivered via a competency-based online format, the program includes 750 clinical hours, three on-campus/virtual intensives, and high-fidelity simulation. Full-time students complete in 17 months, with part-time options available. Applicants need an unencumbered RN license, a master's in nursing, and at least one year of APN experience; no entrance exam is listed. The program is CCNE-accredited and graduates are eligible for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam.

• Online graduate certificate program.
• Post-Master's PMHNP certificate.
• 29 credit hours required.
• 750 clinical hours total.
• Full-time: 17 months.
• Part-time options available.
• Online learning format.
• Three on-campus/virtual intensives.
• Fall or spring start terms.
• Requires RN license.

The University of Southern Indiana offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for nurses holding an MSN. The 26-credit curriculum includes direct clinical hours and focuses on diagnosing, providing therapy, managing medications, and health promotion across the lifespan. Students also study family consultation and legal/ethical considerations. Up to nine transfer credits may be accepted. Admissions require an MSN, a $40 fee, three references, official transcripts, and a resume or CV; no standardized entrance exam is specified. This CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for high-employment roles in varied healthcare settings. Tuition details are available on the school's website.

• Online program delivery.
• 26 credit hours required.
• Additional direct clinical hours.
• For MSN holders only.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• $40 application fee.
• Three references needed.
• Official transcripts required.
• Transfer up to 9 credits.
• Focus on lifespan care.

The University of South Carolina-Columbia delivers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate for post-master's nurses. This flexible program prepares nurses for national certification, emphasizing holistic mental health care across the lifespan. Coursework covers psychopharmacology, psychiatric evaluation, neuroscientific principles, and trauma-related care. The certificate requires 18-32 credit hours, with practicum hours and some on-campus immersion. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing and a 3.00 GPA in graduate coursework. The program offers two entry points, serving both APRNs and non-APRNs, and uses a gap analysis to determine your plan of study. No GRE or other entrance exam is listed as a requirement. It accommodates working professionals aiming for advanced practice roles in clinics, schools, and other settings.

• Post-master's certificate program.
• Online delivery format.
• 18-32 credit hours.
• Requires master's in nursing.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Focuses on holistic mental health care.
• Includes psychopharmacology proficiency.
• Covers psychiatric evaluation competency.
• Two entry points for students.
• GPA requirement of 3.00.

Duke University offers a hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate, combining online coursework with on-campus intensives for working professionals. The distance-based curriculum uses synchronous and asynchronous strategies, integrating telemental health training and a strong focus on psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Graduates are prepared for independent practice across diverse settings, including emergency psychiatry and outpatient care. With over 2,000 clinical partnerships and a nationwide network, students benefit from experiential learning in a trauma-informed environment. Ranked #1, the program emphasizes health equity and holistic admissions, with financial aid and merit scholarships available. Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited program.

• Hybrid education model.
• Post-graduate certificate option.
• Nationwide clinical network.
• Distance-based learning.
• Synchronous and asynchronous strategies.
• On-campus intensives included.
• Over 2,000 clinical partnerships.
• Prepares for independent practice.
• Focus on psychopharmacological skills.
• Focus on psychotherapeutic skills.

New Mexico State University's online post-master's certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) prepares certified nurse practitioners to specialize in mental health care across the lifespan. Delivered through NMSU Global Campus, the program comprises 18 credit hours with 576 clinical hours, covering assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and medication management. Graduates are eligible to sit for the PMHNP certification exam. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible online format allows for balance with practice. Applicants should contact the School of Nursing for admission details, including state eligibility under SARA. An optional elective is available to tailor the curriculum. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based care, preparing nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric and mental health settings.

• Online program format.
• 18 credit hours total.
• 500+ clinical hours required.
• Prepares for PMHNP certification.
• For certified nurse practitioners.
• Focuses on mental health lifespan.
• Includes psychopharmacology course.
• Covers assessment and diagnosis.
• Includes psychotherapy training.
• Medication management competencies.

Tennessee Technological University offers a fully online Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification for registered nurses with an MSN. This 23-credit hour program leads to Advanced Practice licensure as a PMHNP. Curriculum includes Advanced Family Psychiatric Nursing I and II, each with 140 clinical hours, plus practicum and preceptorship. Most students finish in four semesters, taking two courses per term, with clinical arranged locally. Total tuition ranges from $17,000 to $21,000. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, transcripts, letter of intent, resume, and three references. No entrance exam is specified.

• Fully online program
• 23 credit hours
• 4 semesters completion
• 2 courses per semester
• Flexible course loads
• Local clinical preceptors
• In-state tuition $730
• Out-of-state tuition $870
• Total cost $17,000-21,000
• RN license required

The University of Missouri-Kansas City’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a post-master’s hybrid program designed for nurses with an MSN or DNP. Students complete 18 credit hours over two to three years, with online coursework and required on-campus sessions. The curriculum includes a clinical practicum and prepares graduates for national certification and psychiatric care in diverse settings. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, current RN licensure, and prerequisite coursework; no entrance exam is specified. Total estimated cost is $16,609.50. The program is CCNE-accredited and is open to nondegree-seeking students, though state authorization restrictions may apply.

• Graduate Certificate program.
• Post-Master's Certificate option.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner focus.
• Hybrid delivery mode.
• Most coursework online.
• On-campus visits required.
• 18 standard credit hours.
• 2-3 year typical length.
• $16,609.50 estimated cost.
• MSN or DNP required for admission.

The University of Virginia School of Nursing delivers a hybrid Post-Professional PMHNP certificate for advanced practice nurses seeking psychiatric-mental health specialization. This flexible program features monthly on-campus sessions combined with online coursework, designed for working nurses. Students complete over 500 clinical hours while focusing on mental health promotion and treatment for underserved and rural populations. Graduates qualify for the PMHNP certification exam. Admission requires an active APRN license, a graduate nursing degree, and specific coursework. Notably, no GRE scores are required for application. Tuition is per credit with additional fees, and financial aid is limited. Clinical labs and faculty-facilitated practica are integral. The application deadline is January 5, and interviews may be requested.

• Hybrid format for flexibility.
• Classes once a month.
• Over 500 clinical hours.
• Eligible for PMHNP certification.
• Active APRN license required.
• Graduate nursing degree needed.
• Specific coursework prerequisites.
• No GRE scores required.
• Limited financial aid available.
• Tuition per credit basis.

Texas Christian University’s Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is designed for nurses already holding a DNP. This fully online program comprises 25 credit hours completed over four semesters, with a fall start. Clinical practicums are arranged near students’ homes, offering flexibility. Graduates are eligible for ANCC national certification, positioning them for advanced psychiatric nursing roles. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary care, leadership, and advanced practice preparation. It welcomes students from multiple states, including Texas. Notably, no entrance exam is required for admission, and the program is taught by expert faculty. This post-graduate certificate is an efficient pathway for DNP-prepared nurses to specialize in mental health care.

• 100% online program
• 25 credit hours required
• Four semesters completion time
• Fall term start
• Clinicals near home
• ANCC certification eligible
• For DNP-prepared nurses
• Psychiatric Mental Health focus
• Post-graduate certificate level
• Multiple state eligibility

This fully online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from UMass Amherst is a 28- to 30-credit program for nurses holding a master's degree. It prepares graduates to treat mental health and substance use disorders across diverse populations, with clinical experiences in behavioral health settings. Applicants with psychiatric nursing experience receive preference. The curriculum supports eligibility for ANCC or AANP certification and meets licensure requirements in most states, excluding Alabama, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program does not list an entrance exam requirement; however, specific admissions testing policies are not provided. Tuition costs vary.

• 28- to 30-credit online program.
• 100% online delivery format.
• For nurses with master's degrees.
• Focuses on psychiatric mental health care.
• Clinical experience in behavioral health.
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification.
• Admissions prefer psychiatric experience.
• Meets licensure in many states.
• Not for Alabama, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Washington.
• Accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

The University of Texas at Tyler offers an online Post-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner graduate certificate for advanced practice nurses seeking to specialize in mental health. The program requires 24 to 34 semester credit hours, depending on prior APRN status, and uses web-enhanced courses for flexible learning. It prepares nurses for national certification and emphasizes leadership and marketable skills. Clinical hours must be completed in Texas, necessitating a valid Texas RN/APRN license. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement, making admission accessible. Admission criteria and deadlines are available from the School of Nursing, with sample degree plans for both APRN and non-APRN tracks.

• Post-MSN certificate program
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Online delivery format
• 24 semester credit hours
• 34 semester credit hours
• Web-enhanced courses
• Flexible schedule
• National certification exam preparation
• Clinical hours in Texas
• Texas license required

East Carolina University’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid online program for RNs seeking advanced practice in mental health. Coursework is delivered online with on-campus intensives twice per semester. Students complete 550 clinical hours across three lifespan practicums, preparing for ANCC certification. The CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes serving North Carolina communities, and no out-of-state applications are accepted. Admission is competitive, requiring professional references and interviews; mental health experience is preferred. No standardized entrance exam is listed among requirements. Applications are due February 1 for summer admission.

• Post-Master's Certificate offered.
• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• 550 clinical supervision hours required.
• Three clinical practicums across lifespan.
• On-campus intensives twice per semester.
• Prepares for ANCC certification exam.
• Focus on North Carolina service.
• Requires professional references.
• Preference for mental health experience.
• Competitive admission with interviews.

University of Rochester's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate, offered through the School of Nursing, prepares RNs with a master's degree for advanced practice across the lifespan. The curriculum emphasizes family psychiatric mental health nursing, including coursework in psychopathology, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology. Students complete practicum hours for hands-on clinical experience, with faculty advisement and student-designed degree plans. The program is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing and RN licensure; no entrance exam is specified. Tuition details and application information are available on the university's website. The program is military-friendly and located on a campus with a hospital.

• Online program format.
• Advanced certificate program.
• Psychiatric mental health focus.
• Clinical specialty courses included.
• Practicum hours required.
• Faculty advisement available.
• Master's degree prerequisite.
• RN licensure required.
• Courses cover psychopathology.
• Courses cover psychotherapy.

The University of Iowa offers a Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate designed for advanced practice in psychiatric-mental health nursing. This hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus learning, accommodating working nurses through flexible 3-year or 4-year plans. With a limited class size of 24 students, it ensures personalized attention and boasts a 100% certification exam pass rate. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, the curriculum emphasizes leadership and clinical skills for diverse psychiatric settings. Admission criteria are specific, with a February 1 deadline. Notably, the program reports a 100% job placement rate. Entrance exam requirements are not disclosed in the program information. The program is military-friendly and offers access to an on-campus hospital.

• Hybrid online and on-campus delivery.
• 3-year or 4-year plan options.
• Class size of 24 students.
• 100% certification exam pass rate.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
• Application deadline February 1.
• 100% job placement rate.
• Prepares for advanced practice roles.
• Focus on psychiatric-mental health environments.

Valdosta State University's Post-Master's Certificate in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP) is a hybrid program combining online coursework with on-campus sessions for flexibility. Designed for nurses who already hold a Master's in Nursing, the curriculum is individualized through a gap analysis with the Graduate Nursing Program Director, building on prior learning. The program offers both fall and spring entry tracks and prepares advanced practice nurses for psychiatric mental health certification. Housed in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the certificate expands career opportunities in mental health care. Valdosta State is a military-friendly institution in Georgia. Prospective students should contact the FPMHNP Track Coordinator for admission details and start dates.

• Post-Master's Certificate program
• Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration
• Hybrid delivery format
• Online and in-person coursework
• For Master's in Nursing holders
• Individualized program of study
• Gap analysis required
• Meet with Graduate Nursing Program Director
• FPMHNP Track Coordinator available
• College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Liberty University’s online Postgraduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is for nurses who already hold a master’s or doctorate. This 18-credit program offers asynchronous coursework with no set login times, allowing flexibility for working professionals. Tuition is $850 per credit for 2025–2026. Admission requires a BSN and MSN/DNP with a 3.0 GPA, active RN and APRN licenses, and professional certification; no entrance exam is required. The program includes practicum experiences and a comprehensive exam. Accredited by CCNE and SACSCOC, it emphasizes a Christian worldview and evidence-based practice. Credits may apply toward doctoral degrees. Military discounts are available.

• Online program format.
• 18 credit hours required.
• $850 per credit tuition.
• No set login times.
• CCNE accreditation.
• SACSCOC accreditation.
• Postgraduate certificate level.
• PMHNP certification preparation.
• Practicum experience included.
• Comprehensive exam required.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers an online hybrid Post-Graduate Psychiatric Nursing Capstone Certificate through its School of Nursing. This 18-month program requires 18 graduate credits, combining online coursework with on-campus and community clinical experiences. Tuition is $670.47 per credit for residents and $1,503.40 for non-residents. Applicants must have bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, an RN license, and advanced practice certification eligibility. The curriculum emphasizes care for underserved populations, including psychopharmacology and clinical leadership. No entrance exam is listed among admission requirements. Featuring small cohorts and board-certified faculty, the program has summer admission only and targets psychiatric mental health specialization.

• 18-month program duration
• Hybrid format delivery
• 18 graduate-level credits
• Resident tuition $670.47/credit
• Nonresident tuition $1,503.40/credit
• Capstone certificate awarded
• Summer admission term only
• Requires bachelor's nursing degree
• Requires master's nursing degree
• RN license required

Florida International University's Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program tailored for MSN graduates. The 35-credit curriculum advances skills in mental health care, incorporating psychopharmacology and clinical practice. It prepares nurses for national certification in psychiatric-mental health. Online coursework is combined with in-person clinical experiences in specific Florida areas. Applicants must hold an MSN from an accredited program; no standardized entrance exam such as the GRE is listed among admission requirements. Financial aid is available, and fall term admission is offered. This certificate is ideal for practicing nurses seeking specialization in psychiatric nursing while maintaining professional commitments.

• Hybrid program format.
• 35 credits for Psychiatric track.
• Requires MSN degree.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Clinicals in specific Florida areas.
• Fall term admission available.
• Psychopharmacology course required.
• Admission requirements specified.
• Program builds on existing MSN.
• Focus on mental health care.

The University of Louisville's Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Practitioner – APRN, with a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, offers a hybrid learning model blending online coursework with clinical experiences. This post-master's certificate readies registered nurses for national certification in psychiatric mental health nursing across the lifespan. The curriculum covers assessment, diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy, with clinical practicums providing extensive hands-on training (up to 672 hours). Admission requires a Master of Science in Nursing or terminal degree, an unencumbered RN license, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, and a goal statement; no GRE or standardized entrance exam is required. A minimum 3.0 GPA is necessary for graduation. The program emphasizes holistic admissions review.

• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
• Post-Graduate Certificate program.
• Hybrid online and campus format.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires Master of Science in Nursing.
• Unencumbered RN license needed.
• Holistic admissions review process.
• Two letters of recommendation required.
• Current resume or CV submission.
• Goal statement for application.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers an online Post-MSN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, catering to advanced practice nurses. This fully online program spans four semesters with 20 credit hours and 510 clinical hours in Louisiana. Tuition is $480 per credit (~$9,600 total). Admission requires an MSN from a CCNE-accredited program, 3.0 GPA, RN and APRN licenses, national certification, $25 fee, resume, statement of purpose, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. The admission requirements do not include an entrance exam. Graduates are eligible for the PMHNP certification exam. Offered via the LHC Group Myers School of Nursing, with spring and fall starts.

• 20 credit hours total.
• Four semesters program length.
• 510 clinical hours required.
• 100% online didactic courses.
• $480 per credit tuition.
• Approximately $9,600 total cost.
• MSN degree required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA needed.
• Current RN license required.
• Current APRN license required.

The University of Kansas offers an online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Graduate Certificate for advanced practice nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. This 24-credit program covers psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacologic interventions for individuals, groups, and families, including advanced psychiatric assessment and youth-focused mental health care. Admission requires completion of an APRN graduate program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, official transcripts, and a criminal background check. No GRE or standardized entrance exam is listed; international applicants may need an English proficiency test. Courses begin every other year, with the next cohort starting Spring 2026; applications are due November 1. The program takes 2–4 years to complete and includes multiple practicum experiences.

• 24 credit hours.
• Online program format.
• Courses offered every other year.
• Spring 2026 next start.
• November 1 application deadline.
• APRN graduate program required.
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
• Current RN licensure needed.
• Official transcripts required.
• Criminal background check required.