Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
According to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration, 37% of Americans live in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), you’ll be in demand as you deliver patient-centered, holistic care to patients with psychiatric disorders. Through this online PMHNP program, you’ll further develop the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver mental health care to patients across the life span, making a positive impact on the health of your patients and the health of your communities.
Prepare for a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Flexible online classes with 24/7 access
- 15-week psychiatric nursing courses
- 95% passage rate for all nursing programs on national certification exams
- Become eligible to sit for the Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner ANCC Certification Exam
Please visit our state authorizations page to see whether this program is available in your area.
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The master's degree and post-graduate APRN certificate programs in nursing at Husson University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (//www.ccneaccreditation.org).
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is in charge of assessing patients' mental health statuses by reviewing their pertinent medical history, conducting complete psychiatric examinations, and identifying risk factors that may impair mental health. They also can interpret tests ordered by psychologists or psychiatrists.
These nurse practitioners provide support to families of patients and the mental health community, too. Often mental illness affects more than just the patient. Mental health professionals such as a PMNHP can offer therapy and treatment to the family as a group.
They may also work with patients that have behavioral problems, including substance abuse. Mental health care is an intricate part of substance abuse recovery.
PMHNPs can have their own private practices, but many work in psychiatric hospitals or dedicated mental health units. They treat patients of all ages, but can specialize in pediatric or geriatric care, for example.
What does a psychiatric nurse practitioner do?
They specialize in caring for patients with mental health issues by assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with mental health conditions. A PMNHP carries out physical and psychosocial examinations, prescribes medications and treatment, leads therapy sessions, and monitors patients with mental health concerns.
Why become a mental health nurse practitioner?
The demand for qualified mental health professionals is increasing due to a number of factors, including rising awareness of mental health issues. Being a psychiatric nurse practitioner allows you to work with patients and the community in an underserved area of healthcare. It also is a career path that will offer job security and good pay.
Why are psychiatric nurse practitioners in demand?
There are several factors at play, including the passing of the Affordable Care Act, which makes mental health an essential service. In addition, mainstream media is raising awareness and helping to eradicate the stigma atta, ched to mental health problems, so more people are seeking this important health care.
How to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner
First, you must become a registered nurse with either a two or four-year degree. Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam and gain some experience, you can apply to a graduate nursing program. To meet the requirements for certification, you will need to complete clinical hours in that field and additional training in mental health.
Core Curriculum
NU 700 Theories & Roles for Advanced Nursing Practice (3)
NU 702 Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics (3)
NU 704 Advanced Health Assessment (3)
NU 706 Advanced Pathophysiology (3)
NU 708 Socio-Cultural Perception of Addiction & Population Health (3)
NU 709 Diagnosis and Pharmacologic Management of Psychiatric Illness (3)
NU 710 Advanced Evidence-Based Practice (3)
NU 740 Public Health Policy Issues and Challenges (3)
NU 821 Strategy & Analysis of Organizational Process (3)
NU 801 Family Psychiatric Nursing I – Advanced Mental Health Assessment Across the Lifespan (3)
- NL 801 Family Psychiatric Nursing I – Advanced Mental Health Assessment Across the Lifespan (3)
NU 810 Family Psychiatric Nursing II (3)
- NL 810 Family Psychiatric Nursing II (3)
NU 812 Family Psychiatric Nursing III (3)
- NL 812 Family Psychiatric Nursing III (3)
NU 836 Healthcare Informatics and Technology (3)
NU 840 Graduate Nursing Capstone (3)
*Potential for 24-month accelerated track **Rate effective May 1, 2022. All rates subject to change. Please see Cost and Aid for more information.
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