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
Online
Deadline
November 1, 2025 (Spring Application)
Duration
PMHNP Certificate
20 Months (5 Semesters)


DNP-PMH Program

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

Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate,
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