Best Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate?

Online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner programs are typically an intensive post-master’s program designed for licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who want to specialize in mental health care. Although the program is delivered online, it requires a serious time commitment, as students complete comprehensive coursework alongside supervised clinical hours in real-world psychiatric settings. 

The online portion usually includes advanced content in psychopharmacology, psychiatric assessment, and evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care, delivered through interactive modules and virtual simulations. Students are responsible for securing local clinical placements to fulfill the required practicum hours. 

After graduation, they are eligible to sit for the PMHNP certification exam, qualifying them to independently diagnose mental health conditions, provide therapy, and prescribe medication across the lifespan.

Where can I work with an Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate?

Advanced practice nurses can work in a wide variety of mental health settings where their expertise is in high demand. These include inpatient psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, correctional facilities, and telehealth or telepsychiatry platforms. 

PMHNPs are also employed in primary care clinics that integrate behavioral health, especially in underserved or rural areas. This certificate allows nurses to provide a full range of psychiatric services, including evaluation, diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management.

Additionally, many pursue leadership, policy-making, or educational roles, contributing to the development of mental health programs and future nurse practitioners.

How much can I make with an Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate?

According to ZipRecruiter (2025), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner salaries range from as low as $118,500 to as high as $211,500, with the majority falling between the 25th percentile at $126,000 and the 75th percentile at $135,000. Specialized roles may earn toward the higher end of the scale. 

Some of the factors influencing salary include years of experience, practice setting, the presence of specialized skills like trauma-informed or substance-use interventions, and demand within specific markets or regional shortages.

Location is also one of the most significant factors in determining compensation. The cities with the highest annual wages are: 

• Nome, AK: $173,032
• Cupertino, CA: $172,090
• Redwood City, CA: $170,780
• Lonaconing, MD: $170,339
• Berkeley, CA: $170,047
• San Carlos, CA: $168,428
• Sitka, AK: $168,036
• South San Francisco, CA: $167,618
• Sunnyvale, CA: $165,948
• Cazadero, CA: $165,304

Top Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025

1. New Mexico State University (NMSU Global Campus)

New Mexico State University Global Campus offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate, a fully online program designed for nurses who already hold an advanced practice degree. The program prepares graduates to diagnose and manage mental health conditions across the lifespan. Students complete 500 clinical hours and gain eligibility to sit for the PMHNP certification. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based practice and culturally competent care.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $411
• Required Credits to Graduate: 18
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC)

University of Missouri–Kansas City prepares advanced practice nurses to provide mental health care through its Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program combines online coursework with a few on-campus visits and emphasizes pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions. Clinical practicums are required and may be completed in the student’s home community. Graduates are eligible to take the ANCC certification exam.

• Program Length: 2–3 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $922 (in-state), $1,293 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 18
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. UMass Dartmouth

UMass Dartmouth offers a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner designed for MSN-prepared nurses. The program is delivered fully online and includes 500 clinical hours focused on mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Courses prepare students for national PMHNP certification. The curriculum emphasizes integrated behavioral health care and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Program Length: Varies (typically 1–2 years)
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $679
• Required Credits to Graduate: 18
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a fully online Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with required clinical components. The certificate prepares APRNs to care for patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. Students complete 29 credit hours and over 500 hours of supervised clinical experience. The curriculum includes advanced psychopharmacology, diagnosis, and therapy techniques.

• Program Length: 5 semesters
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $480
• Required Credits to Graduate: 29
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

5. Washburn University

Washburn University’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate program is fully online and supports students in arranging clinical placements locally. The curriculum is designed for working nurses and prepares them to treat patients with psychiatric disorders in diverse settings. Washburn boasts a 94% three-year certification pass rate for PMHNP graduates. The program is accredited and competitively priced.

• Program Length: 4 semesters
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $534
• Required Credits to Graduate: 22
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

6. University of North Dakota (UND)

The University of North Dakota’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate is a fully online program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking PMHNP certification. The program focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. Clinical experiences are completed in the student’s geographic area, and the curriculum includes telehealth and rural mental health components. UND offers flexible pacing for working professionals.

• Program Length: 6 semesters
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $571
• Required Credits to Graduate: 26
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

7. Rowan University

Rowan University’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a flexible, fully online program for MSN-prepared nurses. The curriculum prepares students for ANCC PMHNP certification and emphasizes holistic, person-centered mental health care. Students develop advanced skills in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, and clinical hours are completed locally with approved preceptors.

• Program Length: 2.5 years (30 months)
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $720
• Required Credits to Graduate: 31
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

8. University of Memphis Global (Loewenberg College of Nursing)

The University of Memphis’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is a fully online program designed to prepare APRNs for mental health care across the lifespan. The program includes four clinical practicum courses and allows students to work with preceptors in their local area. It meets eligibility requirements for the ANCC certification exam and is ideal for working professionals.

• Program Length: 4 semesters
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $623
• Required Credits to Graduate: 24
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

9. Davenport University

Davenport University offers a fully online Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ideal for MSN-prepared nurses aiming to expand into mental health care. The curriculum combines advanced theory with clinical practicum experiences in the student’s home region. The program offers dedicated faculty support and flexible scheduling and prepares students to sit for the ANCC PMHNP-BC exam.

• Program Length: 1–1.5 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health
• Cost per Credit: $977
• Required Credits to Graduate: 37
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

How long does it take to complete an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

Like the fastest online women's health nurse practitioner graduate certificate programs, PMHNP Graduate Certificate Programs typically take 12 to 24 months or 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on the university and whether the student is enrolled part-time or full-time. 

The curriculum generally includes 15 to 36 credit hours and requires the completion of 500–600 clinical practicum hours under the supervision of a qualified mental health provider. While coursework is delivered online, clinical hours must be arranged and completed in person, usually in the student’s local community. Some programs also include synchronous virtual sessions or intensives, which require active participation at set times.

How does an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate compare to an on-campus program?

Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate programs offer the same academic rigor and clinical requirements as their on-campus counterparts but with greater flexibility, making them ideal for working APRNs. While both formats require supervised clinical hours and lead to eligibility for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification through the ANCC, online programs allow students to complete didactic courses from home using virtual lectures, discussion boards, and digital case studies. 

On-campus programs may provide more face-to-face interaction and faculty access, which some students find beneficial. However, many online programs include optional or required live sessions and virtual office hours to support student engagement. Ultimately, both pathways lead to the same licensure and career opportunities, with the choice depending on personal learning style and schedule.  If you are interested in a career helping individuals, families, and communities, you might consider exploring some of the best online social work degree programs.

What is the average cost of an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

The cost of an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Graduate Certificate Program varies depending on factors such as the total number of credits, the tuition rate per credit, and whether the student receives in-state tuition rates.

On average, tuition for in-state students is about $35,800, with programs typically ranging from approximately $15,200 to $72,700 in total. Per-credit tuition generally falls between $348 and $1,004, with most programs requiring 20 to 30 credits. 

In most programs, including the fastest online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner programs, tuition includes access to online learning platforms, academic advising, and some virtual library resources.

However, it usually does not cover costs such as textbooks, specialized software, background checks, liability insurance, immunizations, or travel expenses for on-site clinical rotations. Prospective students should review each program’s breakdown of tuition and fees to understand the full financial commitment.

While tuition costs are high, the salary can be rewarding for those completing an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program.

The chart below shows that Psychiatric NPs rank 3rd among the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties, with a national average annual salary of $120,958. This is slightly higher than adult gerontology nurse practitioners and women’s health nurse practitioners, both earning $120,621, and well above family NPs ($115,549) and pediatric NPs ($115,485).

Only a few specialties surpass psychiatric NPs in pay, making mental health practice one of the most financially competitive and in-demand NP roles. 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

Students pursuing online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner programs can take advantage of multiple financial aid opportunities to reduce tuition and related costs. Their options include: 

• Federal Financial Aid Programs. Students may apply for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can help cover tuition and living expenses.

• State and Regional Funding. The Virginia Health Care Foundation offers loan repayment assistance to mental health providers serving in underserved communities in Virginia.

• Employer-Based Tuition Support. Healthcare systems like UC Davis Health provide tuition reimbursement or loan repayment for employees who enroll in graduate-level psychiatric nursing programs.

• Professional Organization Scholarships. The American Psychiatric Nurses Association and similar groups offer scholarships, stipends, or grants to support PMHNP students committed to advancing mental health care.

Similar to affordable online pediatric nurse practitioner graduate certificate programs, students can also look for affordable PMHNP graduate certificate programs. This may lessen the need for significant loans or repayment obligations while still providing quality education and training.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

Before applying to an online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) graduate certificate program, students must meet specific academic, licensure, and professional requirements. These prerequisites ensure that enrollees have the foundation needed to succeed in advanced psychiatric nursing coursework:

• Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure. Applicants must hold an active and unencumbered Registered Nurse license in the state where they plan to complete their clinical hours.
• Graduate-Level Nursing Education. Most programs require a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from an accredited institution. Those who have completed the fastest nurse midwifery MSN degree online and want to add a specialty can apply to this graduate certificate.
• Clinical Nursing Experience. Many schools expect at least one to two years of recent professional nursing experience, preferably in psychiatric, mental health, or behavioral health settings.
• Academic Records. Applicants should provide official transcripts showing a strong academic record, typically with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in graduate coursework.
• Additional Documentation. Requirements may also include letters of recommendation, a professional resume, and a statement of purpose outlining career goals in psychiatric mental health.

Meeting these prerequisites ensures that students are prepared for the program’s rigorous curriculum and the clinical demands of psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner practice.

What courses are typically in an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

An online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) graduate certificate program includes a blend of advanced nursing theory and specialized psychiatric training. Students can expect to take both didactic courses delivered through interactive online platforms and supervised clinical practicums in mental health settings: 

• Advanced Psychopharmacology. This course focuses on the safe prescribing and management of psychiatric medications across the lifespan, including drug interactions and patient education.
• Psychiatric Assessment and Diagnosis. NPs will conduct comprehensive mental health evaluations, utilizing diagnostic criteria while implementing culturally sensitive approaches during patient interviews.
• Therapeutic Interventions in Mental Health. This course explores evidence-based psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and crisis intervention strategies.
• Neurobiology and Pathophysiology of Mental Disorders. In this course, NPs will examine the biological and physiological mechanisms underlying psychiatric and behavioral conditions.
• PMHNP Role and Scope of Practice. The course addresses legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities, including state-specific practice regulations, ensuring that practitioners are well-informed about the guidelines they must follow in their respective fields.
• Clinical Practicum in Psychiatric-Mental Health. NPs will have hands-on experience in inpatient, outpatient, or community mental health settings under the supervision of a licensed preceptor. To learn about another great career path, check out what is the best major for occupational therapy.

Upon completing the program, graduates should prepare for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification exam, a critical step for those seeking to practice as licensed PMHNPs.

The data below highlights a strong and growing interest in the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role. A total of 9,633 candidates sat for the certification exam, and 8,015 passed, resulting in a solid 83% pass rate. This relatively high pass rate suggests that most NP programs provide sufficient preparation for graduates to meet certification standards. 

What types of specializations are available in the Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

An Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Graduate Certificate is itself already a post-master’s specialization for nurse practitioners, so it typically does not have further “specializations” the way a general MSN or DNP program might.

Some programs, however, may allow students to choose electives that align with their professional interests, such as:

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Also offered in the fastest online pediatric nurse practitioner graduate certificate, this course focuses on developmental psychopathology, psychiatric disorders, and treatment modalities for individuals from early childhood through late adolescence.

• Geriatric Psychiatry. This track focuses on the unique mental health needs of older adults, including dementia care, late-life depression, and medication management in the context of comorbid physical conditions. Clinical training may occur in nursing homes, geriatric psychiatry units, or community-based elder care programs.

• Substance Use and Addiction Treatment. Students in this specialization learn advanced assessment, intervention, and recovery support strategies for individuals with substance use disorders, often incorporating both pharmacological and behavioral approaches. Practicum sites may include rehabilitation facilities, outpatient clinics, or integrated primary care settings.

• Forensic Psychiatry. This area explores the intersection of mental health and the legal system, preparing practitioners to work with individuals in correctional settings, court-mandated treatment programs, or forensic psychiatric hospitals.

While these electives do not form separate specializations, they allow NPs to deepen their expertise in specific patient populations or mental health challenges. According to the Salary Survey 2023, 16.6% of NPs work in internal medicine, family medicine, or primary care, while only 9.1% work in psychiatry, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth in psychiatric care. Choosing to specialize in psychiatric or family care not only addresses workforce needs but can also open the door to rewarding and in-demand career paths.  For those with an interest in spirituality and helping others, exploring religious studies jobs can also lead to a fulfilling career.

How to choose the best Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

Selecting the right Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program requires balancing accreditation, curriculum quality, flexibility, and financial considerations. The following factors can help you narrow down the best fit for your career goals and lifestyle:

• Accreditation and State Authorization. Choose programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to ensure quality standards and eligibility for certification. Also, verify that the program is authorized to enroll students in your state.
• Curriculum and Clinical Requirements. Review course offerings to confirm they include advanced psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapy modalities, along with the required clinical practicum hours.
• Flexibility and Learning Format. Look for programs that offer asynchronous coursework, part-time study options, and multiple start dates, so you can progress at your own pace without stepping back from your current role.
• Faculty Expertise and Support. Programs with experienced PMHNP faculty and strong academic support services can provide better mentorship and guidance throughout your studies.
• Cost, Financial Aid, and Employer Assistance. Compare tuition rates and check for scholarships, loan repayment options, and employer tuition reimbursement programs. 

If you are a registered nurse with a BSN or a non-PMHNP master’s degree looking to enter psychiatric care, you can also consider the fastest online MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs. These are ideal for nurses who have not yet completed a master’s degree and want a direct pathway to advanced psychiatric nursing practice.

What career paths are available for graduates of Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Programs?

Graduates of an Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Graduate Certificate Program are prepared to provide advanced mental health care across diverse patient populations and settings. With specialized training in psychiatric assessment, therapy, and psychopharmacology, they can pursue a range of roles that address the growing demand for mental health services in both clinical and community-based environments. 

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Outpatient Clinics. In this role, NPs provide ongoing therapy, medication management, and mental health education to patients in community mental health centers, private practices, or telehealth settings.
• Inpatient Psychiatric NP. Working in hospitals or psychiatric facilities, these practitioners manage acute mental health crises, stabilize patients, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive care.
• Integrated Care NP in Primary Care or Specialty Clinics. Many PMHNPs work alongside primary care providers to address both physical and mental health needs, improving holistic patient outcomes.
• Correctional Facility Psychiatric NP. These NPs deliver psychiatric care to incarcerated individuals, addressing unique mental health challenges within secure environments.
• Consultation-Liaison NP. This role involves collaborating with other healthcare professionals in general hospital settings to address mental health concerns that arise in patients with complex medical conditions.

By earning this certificate, NPs can expand their scope of practice, open new career opportunities, and position themselves to meet the urgent need for psychiatric services nationwide.  If you are interested in a career focused on understanding human behavior and social influence, you may consider a social psychology online degree.

The chart below shows that Rural Health Clinics (1,669) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (1,357) have the highest shortages of mental health professionals. Indian Health Service and Tribal facilities (904) also face significant shortages. Correctional facilities (545) further reflect the urgent need for psychiatric care in incarcerated settings, underscoring a nationwide shortage across public and community health facilities.

What is the job market for graduates with an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

The job market for graduates of an Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Graduate Certificate Program is strong and rapidly expanding. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow by 46% from 2023 to 2033, with 427,900 NPs expected to be employed by the end of that period. 

The need for mental health providers is especially urgent, as approximately 124 million Americans live in 6,457 areas with mental health provider shortages, according to the HRSA Data Warehouse (2025). To meet current demand, an estimated 6,299 additional practitioners are required nationwide. 

This shortage, combined with increasing awareness of mental health needs, makes PMHNPs highly sought after in hospitals, outpatient clinics, primary care practices, and underserved communities.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

What is the return on investment for an Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program?

Evaluating ROI involves comparing tuition expenses, time commitment, and the anticipated boost in earning potential. Graduates benefit from an accelerated path to advanced practice roles, with average salaries starting around $120K and upward, which can offset program costs relatively quickly. Prospective students should consider factors such as program duration, associated expenses (excluding clinical placement and ancillary costs), and local market demand to gauge long-term financial benefits. Additionally, this certificate may serve as a stepping stone toward further advancement opportunities in advanced nursing, much like transitioning from an online accelerated BSN program to specialized practice.

Other Things You Need to Know About the Online PMHNP Graduate Certificate Program

Is PMHNP a valid credential?

Yes. PMHNP, which stands for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, is a nationally recognized credential awarded to nurse practitioners who have completed specialized psychiatric training and passed a certification exam such as the ANCC PMHNP-BC. It validates their expertise in providing comprehensive mental health care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Can a mental health nurse diagnose?

Registered mental health nurses typically cannot make independent medical diagnoses; however, psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) can. With advanced training and certification, PMHNPs have the authority to diagnose mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications in most states.

Are PMHNP-BC doctors?

No. PMHNP-BCs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with a specialty in psychiatric mental health, not medical doctors. While they hold graduate-level nursing degrees and can provide many of the same services as psychiatrists, they do not attend medical school but instead follow the nursing education pathway.

How to choose between the MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health and the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate?

MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health is best for Registered Nurses who need full preparation to become an APRN in psychiatric mental health. Meanwhile, PMHNP graduate certificates are for APRNs or Nurse Practitioners (e.g., Family Nurse Practitioners) who want to add psychiatric mental health as a specialty. It is a more time-efficient and cost-effective way to specialize in mental health care.