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Post Master's PMHNP
Online Psych NP Certificate

Earn a post master's certificate to go from MSN to PMHNP with Herzing in less than 2 years. 100% online didactic classes. We pledge clinical placement.

Program Length

20 Mo.

Format

Online

Accredited by1

CCNE

Cert. Pass Rate2

99%
calendar

NEXT START July 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

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Take your next career step with Herzing

AccreditationCCNE accredited,1 Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Certification Pass RateIn 2025, Herzing PMHNP graduates achieved a 99% pass rate on their board certification exams2
Format100% online classes with onsite clinical hours
Clinicals540 clinical hours—Herzing pledges clinical placement
Immersion Exp.180-hour, 16-week immersion experience to prepare for your first job
QuickPathsEarn dual credit towards a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); transfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

Learn More Today!

Classes start: July 6th
Icon of Three Students Who Earned PMHNP Certification

99%

PMHNP Certification
Pass Rate (2025)

Join a PMHNP program designed to prepare you for certification—and deliver results.2

Overview: Online Post Master's PMHNP Program

The Post Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a 33-credit post-graduate program which prepares you for a career as an PMHNP. The online certificate program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology, counseling and psychotherapy, advanced psychopharmacology and health promotion, and much more.

Women's health nurse practitioner smiling while speaking with female patient

  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Curriculum

Post Master’s PMHNP program classes & curriculum details

The post master’s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program provides students with the academic knowledge, skills and expertise to apply for certification as a PMHNP. Classes include core MSN courses, specialty concentration courses and clinical courses. Upon graduation you’ll be qualified for the Board Certified PMHNP (PMHNP-BC) exam from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Connecting with patients virtually and providing remote care is more important than ever. Our curriculum provides instruction in the principles of telehealth, including the use of appropriate technology, provisions for coding and reimbursement, and the legal and ethical implications of remote patient encounters.

All classes are delivered online with an additional 540 hours of clinicals, including both in-person and virtual/remote experiences; 180 hours of which will be an immersion experience to best prepare you to practice as a PMHNP.

ProgramMonths iSemester Credits
Post Master's Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMCPMHNP)2033

i. Average number of months for students to complete program.

Required Direct Care Courses

All courses, 9.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course is an examination of the process of holistic assessment (physical, psychosocial, and cultural) of individuals across the lifespan. Focus is critical thinking and decision-making related to the role of the advanced practice nurse in a primary care setting.

The course examines scientific concepts of pathophysiology essential to diagnostic reasoning and clinical management of common disease states. The dilemma of cost and need for laboratory and radiographic evidence to support diagnosis is examined.

This course is designed to advance the student's knowledge of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacotherapeutics in the management of health and disease states. Major categories of pharmacological agents are examined in the context of the life span, culture, and health and disease states. State and federal regulation related to purchase, possession, administration and patient education about controlled substances, pharmacologic agents and non-pharmacologic agents used as medications are examined.

Required Specialty Courses

All courses, 24.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course provides advanced scientific knowledge of psychopharmacology and its application in treating psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Students examine neuroscience foundations, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of psychotropic medications, with an emphasis on safe prescribing, monitoring, and evidence-based decision making in psychiatric care. Applications of psychopharmacology in the management of complex mental health conditions are explored, along with the relationship between substance use disorders and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Health promotion, patient education, and interprofessional collaboration are integrated throughout the course to support safe and effective medication management.

This course examines the processes essential to clinical decision making for patients across the lifespan who present with psychiatric disorders. Students apply clinical decision-making models, key psychiatric assessments, and diagnostic reasoning skills through supervised clinical experiences. Under faculty and preceptor guidance, students engage in case-based and real-world clinical activities that support the integration of assessment, diagnosis, and initial management strategies in psychiatric mental health practice.

This course examines the guiding principles, ethics, and foundational techniques of counseling and psychotherapy for mental health patients across the lifespan. Students are introduced to major therapeutic modalities and the elements of an effective therapeutic relationship. The course also continues to develop the PMHNP role in integrating psychotherapy with safe, evidence-based medication management. Under faculty and preceptor guidance, students apply counseling techniques within therapeutic milieus while building core skills essential for advanced psychiatric practice.

This course prepares students to assess, diagnose, and manage mental health needs across the lifespan, with a primary focus on adult psychiatric care. Emphasis is placed on recognizing and treating underlying acute and chronic psychiatric disorders using evidence-based psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacologic approaches. Under the guidance of faculty and preceptors, clinical experiences allow PMHNP students to apply core concepts in primary care, outpatient behavioral health, community mental health, and acute care settings while developing competency in diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning, and holistic care of adults and their families.

This course provides students with advanced study in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric mental health disorders across the lifespan, with an emphasis on child and adolescent populations. Students build upon foundational psychiatric knowledge to apply evidence-based psychiatric mental health care for individuals, families, and groups experiencing acute and chronic mental health disorders. Supervised clinical experiences support the integration of developmental, family, cultural, and psychosocial considerations into patient-centered treatment planning. Clinical opportunities allow students to apply course concepts in a variety of primary and acute care settings, ensuring continuity of psychiatric mental health care across the lifespan.

This course is an immersion experience into a mental health practice and the role of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

This course focuses on proficient multidimensional leadership for healthcare. Leadership theory, managing change in complex environments, mentoring, and creating a workplace environment that promotes social justice and equity, self‐care, personal health, and well‐being, and lifelong learning will be emphasized. Students will examine their personal, professional, and leadership development process, and create a three-dimensional advocacy-based approach to provide leadership in for the healthcare, professional, and community arenas.

Clinical Proficiency Exam and Policy

The following modules are 0.00 semester credit hours associated with the policy outlined above. Students are required to take as co-requisite module along with NU 611, NU 642, NU 664 or NU 671, depending on the program of study. Module Number Module Name  Semester Credit Hours NSG 0600 Clinical Proficiency Module 0.00 NSG 0600R Clinical Proficiency Remediation Module (if needed) 0.00  

Tuition & Cost

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the post master's PMHNP program is $770 per credit.

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement. That’s why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

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  • Scholarships & Financial Aid

    You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants, both through Herzing University and several national scholarship websites.

    Find scholarships and grants  

  • Military/Veteran Discounts

    Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10-20% tuition discount.

    VA/Military benefits  

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Requirements

Post Master’s PMHNP program enrollment requirements

Enrollment in the post master’s certificate nursing program is open to registered nurses who:

  • Hold a graduate degree in nursing from an accredited university or college (such as a master’s or doctoral degree) 
  • Hold a current, active and unrestricted license as a registered nurse in the state in which they live (Note: Holding a multi-state, compact state license and being a resident in a compact license state will be deemed to have met this requirement).

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Clinicals

Every experience counts.

Herzing University integrates an “Every Experience Counts” experiential learning approach in the 540-hour clinical component of our post master's PMHNP program. We believe the best preparation for an advanced practice role is real, prescriptive learning through every day experience.

Earn clinical credit hours for unique nursing experiences—either direct patient care in your community or telemedicine/virtual care. Examples of potentially eligible activities include:

  • Grief counseling for patients and families in hospice
  • Assistance with group therapy in a mental health institution
  • Providing mental health education to inmates in a correctional facility
  • Interviewing patients in a crisis stabilization unit
  • Assessment of psychiatric patients in the emergency room

If you discover an opportunity to further develop your skills as a PMHNP you may apply for credit towards your total clinical hours.

Build your career foundation from a variety of instructive and rewarding nursing experiences. Our certificate program makes it possible.

We Pledge Clinical Placement

Worried about clinical placement? You don't have to be.

At Herzing, clinical placement is built into your experience—because it's essential, and you deserve a program that treats it that way.

There's no guesswork. Just a proven framework backed by a promise. Our promise is your placement.

Clinical Guidance Process and Pledge Details

APRN Clinical placement pledge logo
Careers

Help patients become whole as a holistic healthcare provider

Graduate from Herzing University wearing a cap and gown with a Filipino flag stole, smiling and standing in front of a Herzing University banner. The stole features a PMHNP designation, indicating completion of the MSN-PMHNP program, Class of 2023.” Image
Image

Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are qualified to diagnose and treat common mental illnesses within their scope of practice, including bipolar disorder, substance abuse disorders, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety.

What does a typical PMHNP do?

  • Psychological consulting (psychotherapy)
  • Prescribe medication and monitor its effects
  • Work in community clinics, private practice, hospitals and more
  • Instruct patients on an array of coping skills
  • Perform patient care like a detective, uncovering information to solve complex psychological issues

How can I advance my career? After graduating with a PMHNP certificate, Herzing students can also elect to pursue a post master’s FNP certificate, or a certificate in nursing education to continue expanding their professional emphases.

Job Outlook

The demand for PMHNPs is expected to grow:

Earn the credential you need to join a highly rewarding occupation expected to be in high demand in the recent future.

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Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

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Both of those common types of nurse practitioner specialties are highly rewarding and represent a big step forward for a registered nurse looking to advance their career.

  • Choose Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) if…you want to be a true psychiatric/mental health specialist, and enjoy giving a voice to patients who are too often misunderstood. An excellent pathway for nurses who have gained practical experience behavioral health or worked in a community mental health facility and want to continue in the psychiatric field.
  • Choose Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) if…you want to specialize in the broader field of family practice across the lifespan and prefer a hands-on approach to patient care. You may pursue many different specialties in neonatal (NICU), pediatric or geriatric care. As an FNP you’ll have a strong educational foundation to pursue your unique career path in family practice. Learn more about the Herzing University MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner program.

Learn more about the biggest differences between FNP vs. PMHNP.

A post-master’s certificate is the best way to bridge from FNP to PMHNP as one of the shortest options for a master’s level education.

Our Post Master's PMHNP certificate program can be completed in 20 months, providing current FNPs a fast path to taking the next step in their NP career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners earn an average salary of $132,000 per year ($63.46 per hour).*

NPs specializing in psychiatry/mental health may increase their earning potential by becoming board certified, gaining valuable experience and continuing their education.

Learn more about how much NPs can make, including a state-by-state breakdown and estimates across several unique healthcare facilities.

A PMHNP is a type of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) who holds expertise in behavioral health and wellness. Their role is to assess, diagnose and treat patients exhibiting psychiatric or addictive disorders. A PMHNP’s job description and scope of practice can include:

  • Provide psychological counseling (psychotherapy)
  • Prescribe medication and monitor its effects
  • Collaborate with additional health professionals: doctors/physicians, nurses, administrators and other healthcare staff
  • Conduct research to improve the delivery of mental healthcare
  • Educate and consult nurses and other mental health professionals
  • Order and interpret diagnostic tests

Whole health begins with mental health—including all ages and demographics across the lifespan. As a nurse practitioner within the mental health specialty, you will have the opportunity to continue your education and focus your experience in many different types of care, including pediatric, geriatric/adult, women’s health, public health and much more.

Where do they work? PMHNPs may work in many different healthcare environments, including hospitals, private practices, mental health centers, primary care offices or governmental institutions.

Yes!

The National Center for Health Workforce Analysis estimates the demand for psychiatric nurse practitioners will rise 18% from 2016-2030.

In regard to all nurse practitioners, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% increase in employment from 2024-2034, much faster than the average across all U.S. occupations.*

There is a difference between being licensed and certified. Becoming a certified PMHNP shows employers you are capable of patient care in a psychiatric setting. Licensure determines if you are legally allowed to practice in your state of residence. Employers may require board certification before hiring a PMHNP even if practicing without certification is legally permissible.

Each state has their own requirements for licensure. You will need to find the requirements from your state’s board of nursing.

We strongly recommend getting certified after graduating with your degree. You’ll be in the best position to find a great job and follow your career path in nursing.

There is a significant difference between being a medical/surgical nurse and a psychiatric nurse. General nursing in a medical or surgical role is based primarily on physical illness, while psychiatric nursing is based on mental illness. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, your role will be much more verbal than hands-on.

Daily tasks include new patient evaluations and follow-up appointments, reviewing patient charts and lab results, monitoring and documenting medication, adjusting patient care strategies, responding promptly to patient questions and concerns, and working with additional healthcare staff to deliver the best possible psychiatric care.

The role of a PMHNP can overlap with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other healthcare professionals who routinely perform psychotherapy. However, the total scope of practice for each role is different and varies by state requirements.

Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners hold a master’s degree or doctorate in nursing, while a psychiatrist is a physician who went to medical school and completed a residency program specializing in psychiatry.

PMNHPs can do many things a psychiatrist does, including psychotherapy, prescribing medications, developing and managing treatment plans and educating patients and their families.

Psychiatrists are typically able to treat more complex types of disorders, but PMNHPs may treat many common disorders like anxiety, depression, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Schizophrenia, substance abuse/addiction, and much more.

A post master’s certificate (PMC), also referred to as a “post-graduate” certificate, is designed for nurses who hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree and seek additional certification in a separate field.

Herzing University offers several post master’s certificates for MSN-prepared nurses looking to transition in or out of clinical-based practice:

  • AGACNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (program length: 20 months)
  • AGPCNP - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (program length: 20 months)
  • FNP - Family Nurse Practitioner certificate (program length: 16-20 months)
  • NE - Nursing Education certificate (program length: 8 months)
  • NLA - Nursing Leadership & Administration (program length: 8 months)
  • PMHNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate (program length: 20 months)

A post master’s certificate from Herzing University provides the education, training, and practical experience you need to take the next big step in your nursing career.

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Post Master's Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Degree Programs / Showing 1 program for the Online campus

  • Post Master's Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

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The Student Experience at Herzing

Throughout this experience, I realized I was stronger than I thought I was. Through all the hardships, I persevered and conquered my dreams despite all the obstacles.

Ketha Franklin-Frost
Nursing Student | Online Campus

There are many opportunities in this field, and I am excited to be getting in on the ground floor!

Melinda Burgard
Nursing Student | Online Campus

With discipline, time management and dedication, you can always accomplish your goals -- never forget that!

Althea Brown
Nursing Student | Madison Campus

I’m looking forward to starting work on my new career and applying what I’ve learned!

Ruth Sosa-Jimenez
Nursing Student | Online Campus
Disclosures

Accreditation & Disclosures

1. The post-masters APRN certificate programs at Herzing University Madison are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). Herzing University is approved to offer programs in an online learning modality through association with the main campus in Madison, Wisconsin. ​

2. Pass rates are self-reported by graduates and additionally collected through public information, State Board of Nursing, and appropriate certification agencies. Includes post-baccalaureate (traditional), accelerated (RN to MSN), and post-master's certificate options. Graduates from Herzing’s APRN Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs can choose to take their board certification exam through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). For complete pass rate information, please visit https://www.herzing.edu/consumer-disclosures/pass-rates/nursing.

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

* BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.

Choose your NP pathway

Choose your NP pathway

Considering all of your options for nurse practitioner specialties?

Herzing University offers multiple nurse practitioner programs for current nurses holding an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in nursing.

Our goal is to help you walk your career path no matter where you are, or where you want to go.

Explore Herzing NP programs

Classes Start: July 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

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