
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Make a Lasting Impact and Advance Your Career
At Samuel Merritt University, we understand that mental health is at the forefront of global healthcare needs. Our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program is designed to empower nursing professionals like you to become leaders in this critical field. Whether you’re looking to expand your current expertise or pivot into mental health care, our two program track options offer the flexibility and comprehensive curriculum you need to succeed.
Format
Deadline
Duration
20 Months (5 Semesters)
3 Years (9 Semesters)
Specialized Tracks

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

This certificate program is for nurses with a non-clinical master’s degree or a different specialty who want to advance in mental health care. Designed to fit students’ schedules, it allows for study while working. Graduates are eligible for the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner exam.
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Psychiatric Mental Health

Our Doctor of Nursing Practice – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program empowers BSN or MSN-prepared RNs to lead in mental health care. As a DNP student, you’ll gain advanced skills to advocate for policy changes, implement evidence-based practices, and lead teams across diverse settings—like hospitals, clinics, private practices, and even in teaching roles—driving systemic improvements in mental health.

Master's Program coming in Fall 2025

Why Select SMU's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program?

Flexible Online Format

Designed for working nurses, complete your program online ensuring you can balance work and study.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The program offers a robust curriculum that covers both simple and complex psychiatric medical issues, ensuring you are well-prepared for a career in mental health care.

Expert Faculty

Learn from experienced professionals who are leaders in psychiatric mental health nursing, bringing real-world insights into the virtual classroom.
Prerequisites

PMHNP CERTIFICATE | DNP-PMH |
---|---|
MSN degree from a CCNE-accredited program | BSN or MSN degree from a CCNE-accredited program |
Active, unencumbered California RN license | BSN degree GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale |
One year of full-time RN experience | Active, unencumbered California RN license |
Psychiatric nursing experience preferred but not required | One year of full-time RN experience |
Two letters of reference, including one from a supervisor or instructor | Psychiatric nursing experience preferred but not required |
Two letters of reference, including one from a supervisor or instructor |
Quick Facts

Format
Online
Accreditations
WSCUC, CCNE
Duration
PMHNP Certificate Program 20 Months (5 Semesters)
DNP-PMH Program 3 Years (9 Semesters)

Need More Information?

Schedule your one-on-one session for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practitioner program. We will answer all your questions and provide information about the curriculum and future career opportunities.
Our Campuses

doctoral, and nursing certificate programs at three
campuses in Northern California and online.
Oakland
3100 Telegraph Ave.
Oakland, California 94609
800.607.6377
Sacramento
2710 N. Gateway Oaks Dr.
Suite 360
Sacramento, California 95833
800.607.6377
Fresno
1791 E. Fir Ave.
Fresno, California 93720
800.607.6377
San Francisco Peninsula
1720 South Amphlett Blvd.
Suite 300
San Mateo, California 94402
800.607.6377