Limited-Time Opportunity to Receive Up to $30,000 in Scholarships. Request More Information. |
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs (PMHNP) |
Become a Leader in Mental Health CarePrepare to deliver advanced psychiatric care across the lifespan
Samuel Merritt University’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs prepare registered nurses to address complex mental health conditions through advanced clinical training and compassionate, patient-centered care. Delivered in a flexible online format designed for working professionals, our programs combine evidence-based practice, behavioral health expertise, and real-world clinical application. You’ll graduate prepared to expand access to mental health services and step into high-impact roles across healthcare settings. 
Advanced Mental Health TrainingBuild expertise in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions. 
Flexible for Working NursesOnline coursework designed to fit your professional schedule. 
Care Across the LifespanPrepare to treat patients of all ages in diverse care settings. 
A Respected Path ForwardJoin a university known for preparing highly sought-after nurse practitioners. |
What You’ll Learn and How You’ll Practice
SMU’s PMHNP programs are designed to prepare you for the full scope of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practice. You’ll develop advanced clinical skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning, with a strong foundation in evidence-based therapies and pharmacologic management. Coursework integrates behavioral science, trauma-informed care, and the social determinants of health to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care. Through clinical training and applied learning, you’ll gain experience treating conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, and complex co-occurring conditions. Graduates are prepared to provide care in outpatient clinics, hospitals, community health settings, and beyond, helping close critical gaps in access to mental health services. EXPLORE PROGRAM DETAILS |
Choose the Path That Matches Your ExperienceMSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Full PMHNP Degree PathwayEarn your MSN while preparing for psychiatric nurse practitioner practice.
Comprehensive Clinical TrainingDevelop skills to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions.
Career-Ready Across SettingsPrepare for roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community care. 
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Post-Graduate PMHNP TrainingDesigned for MSN-prepared nurses seeking specialization.
Certification Exam EligibilityPrepare to sit for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam.
Flexible, Career-Advancing FormatAdvance your expertise while continuing to work. |
Financing Your PMHNP Education
Investing in your psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner education is a meaningful step toward expanding your impact, and SMU is here to support you throughout the process. We offer clear, personalized guidance on tuition, financial aid, and payment options so you can plan with confidence. Eligible students may access federal financial aid, loans, and scholarship opportunities, including limited-time funding for qualified applicants. Our financial aid team works with you to build a plan that aligns with your goals, so you can focus on advancing your career in mental health care. REQUEST FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
|
Where Your PMHNP Career Can Take You
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you’ll play a critical role in expanding access to care and improving outcomes for individuals and communities. Graduates are prepared to work in a wide range of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, behavioral health centers, schools, and private practice. With advanced training in psychiatric and mental health nursing, you can pursue roles that combine clinical expertise with leadership, advocacy, and policy influence, helping shape the future of mental healthcare delivery. EXPLORE CAREER OUTCOMES |
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner FAQs
What is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)?A PMHNP is an advanced practice nurse who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health conditions across the lifespan. What programs does SMU offer for PMHNP training?SMU offers an MSN–PMHNP degree and a post-graduate PMHNP certificate program. Can I complete the PMHNP program online?Yes, coursework is delivered online to support working professionals. What are the requirements to apply?Applicants must hold an active RN license. The MSN track requires a BSN, while the certificate requires a master’s degree in nursing. What certification will I be eligible for?Graduates are eligible to sit for the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam. What careers are available after completing a PMHNP program?Graduates work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, behavioral health centers, and private practice settings. How do I apply to the PMHNP program?Start by requesting information to receive guidance from admissions. |
Accreditations
|
Our Campuses
Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and nursing certificate programs at four campuses in Northern California and online. 
 |
Ready to Make an Impact in Mental Health Care?
Take the next step toward becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With flexible learning, expert faculty, and a curriculum built for real-world care, SMU prepares you to meet one of healthcare’s most urgent needs. REQUEST PROGRAM INFORMATION |