Walden’s DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program empowers you to support your patients’ mental health wellness across the life span. Learn from practicing PMHNPs as you gain the expertise and hands-on training to meet a critical need in today’s society. As a graduate of this CCNE-accredited program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner certification exam.
After you register for Practicum Pledge® (along with other requirements1), if you can’t identify a site and preceptor, our Field Placement Team partners with you to help you find a match. This gives you added confidence as you start your DNP journey.
MANAGE MENTAL HEALTH
Experience the challenges and rewards of managing the complex mental health needs of your own patients.
WORK WITH CHILDREN AND ADULTS
Learn how to assess, diagnose, counsel, and prescribe medications for patients of all ages.
START WITH YOUR BSN
Many of our DNP specializations offer a BSN entry point if you’re ready to take the next step—but don’t have your MSN.
Choose the BSN to DNP track in our DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your bachelor’s in nursing degree.
Advanced practice nurses must be equipped with an in-depth understanding of pathophysiological disease processes across the life span. In this course, students focus on understanding the bio-physiological processes, the deviations from these processes, and an in-depth examination of the scientific concepts related to the biology of disease processes. Advanced practice nursing students build on their knowledge of normal organ systems functioning to help organ systems return to optimal homeostasis. Through knowledge of pathophysiological disease processes, students synthesize the information needed to develop appropriate treatment plans for patients across the life span. Students explore a variety of topics regarding organ system diseases.
A solid foundation in the concepts and principles of drug therapy across the life span is essential to the work of advanced practice nurses. This course applies the advanced principles of pharmacology, including pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, by analysis of common drug classes prescribed by advanced practice nurses across the life span. Factors influencing successful therapy, such as effectiveness, safety, acceptability, cost, genetic/environmental influences, complementary regimens, and patient behaviors are considered. Through this course, students prepare to examine complex decisions in the management and treatment of selected acute and chronic diseases across the life span through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic agents. Advanced practice nursing students will have a more in-depth understanding of drug legislation and regulation for prescribing drugs.
The focus of this course is to integrate and extend the Doctor of Nursing Practice student's skills and knowledge of research methods to read, interpret and evaluate research studies. Essential topics will include overview of research concepts and the research process; quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research methods and designs, including data collection, data analysis and interpretation techniques; ethical issues in research; and utilizing research findings to guide practice. Basic statistics will be reviewed, including the appropriate use of various statistics, underlying assumptions of the procedures, and the interpretation of results generated from statistical software. An analysis of how research designs and methods support the research process for the translation of evidence into clinical practice will also be examined.
The physical and emotional well-being of patients and families can be complex and multifaceted. Advanced practice nurses need to have the knowledge and ability to provide safe, competent, and comprehensive physical health assessments. Students in this course focus on concepts and skills to assess patients across the life span. They learn to use diagnostic reasoning, advanced communication, and physical assessment skills to identify changes in health patterns. Students also will explore preventative health through risk evaluation of healthy individuals as a central theme of clinical practice in addition to the assessment of patients with acute and chronic health problems. The advanced skills of suturing, reading 12 Lead EKGs, and interpreting X-rays will be covered. Course assignments emphasize risk assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based assessment across the life span.
At times, psychotherapy is not enough to alleviate the emotional difficulties that some patients face. To that end, psychopharmacologic approaches are needed. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) must have a strong basis in psychopharmacology, extending from a prior education in pharmacology, to make appropriate medication choices for their patients. Learners in this course consider psychopharmacologic approaches to major behavioral health disorders including but not limited to major depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, as well as psychotic disorders. Learners explore key considerations associated with medication selection, monitoring efficacy, and long-term management.
Choose the MSN to DNP track in our DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your master’s in nursing degree.
Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) need to have the knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive mental health evaluations in a safe and competent manner. In this course, students can learn how to use knowledge of psychopathology and diagnostic reasoning for health promotion and psychiatric assessment, and to develop differential diagnosis for patients with psychiatric and substance use disorders across the life span.
Psychotherapy involves giving more than good advice. For the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) to be effective, deliberate approaches to therapy must be consistent with evidence-based practices. Learners in this course examine a variety of therapeutic techniques that can be used during psychotherapy sessions with individuals, families, and groups across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based applications of various therapeutic approaches for a wide range of psychiatric issues.
Working from a lifespan approach, this course brings together diagnosis and treatment planning in psychiatry. Topics include psychiatric assessment, application of diagnostic criteria, diagnostic formulation, differential diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and appropriate labs and diagnostics. The learner will select a combination of psychotherapeutic modalities coupled with psychopharmacologic approaches to treat common psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan. Legal and ethical considerations for working with clients across the lifespan will be addressed. Students build confidence as they continue to transition from the role of registered nurse to that of advanced practice nurse.
Continuing from the lifespan approach, students in this final course for the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) focus on clinical competence in mental health settings by building on content and skills from previous courses. Selection of assessment approaches for patients across the lifespan, as well as differential diagnosis, application of diagnostic criteria, appropriate diagnostic testing, and diagnostic case formulation will be undertaken. The learner will use both psychotherapeutic approaches coupled with psychopharmacologic approaches to treat common psychiatric mental health conditions. Classroom activities and case studies enable students to explore the salient nurse practitioner practice issues involved in the delivery of safe, competent, high-quality, and cost-effective care of patients in a dynamic healthcare system. The application of knowledge in the management of clients and collaboration among the advanced practice nurse and the patient, family, and interprofessional healthcare team are emphasized. This course is designed for nurse practitioner (NP) students to synthesize their knowledge and clinical skills to provide care to patients with complex health conditions.
In this course, students focus on the integration of scientific, philosophical, and theoretical concepts as the basis for the highest level of nursing practice. They examine the scientific underpinnings for nursing practice, including middle range nursing and interdisciplinary theories and they explore the interrelationship among knowledge, research, and practice. Students also explore clinical inquiry, models of evidence-based practice, implementation science, and translation of evidence for practice change and quality improvement. Students develop their own philosophy of nursing practice.
Connect with an Enrollment Specialist who will guide you through every step—from choosing a nursing program to paying for your education.
Enrolling in a DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program online is a major step. To simplify the admissions process, Walden offers:
No application fee
No essay or SAT/ACT/GRE requirement
Easy credit transfer
Program Admission Considerations (BSN-DNP track): You must have a current, active RN license, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or equivalent from an accredited school and meet the general admission requirements.
Program Admission Considerations (MSN-DNP track): You must have a current, active RN license, a Master of Science in Nursing or equivalent from an accredited school and meet the general admission requirements.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts.
The Technical Standards Policy Form, a statement of understanding of the DNP NP practicum requirements.
Additional Walden admission criteria required. Contact an Enrollment Specialist for more details.
More information for international applicants.
Doctoral Experience
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
Earning a DNP is no easy feat—it takes drive, dedication, and perseverance. Knowing what to expect can help you decide if it’s right for you.
DOCTORAL DEGREE COACH™
The Walden Doctoral Degree Coach™ helps you find valuable support when you need it and stay on track throughout your DNP-PMHNP journey.
WALDEN GRAND ROUNDS
Meet virtually with faculty and classmates to review patient scenarios focused on assessing, differentiating, and treating pathological conditions.
Higher education should be accessible to all. That’s why Walden offers many ways to reduce your DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program costs, such as:
Experience-based credits
Special tuition savings
Grants
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 30 quarter credits | $905 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $27,150^ |
| Tuition – Essential coursework | 10 quarter credits | $495 per quarter credit | $4,950^ |
| Tuition – NP Specialization coursework | 40 quarter credits | $765 per quarter credit | $30,600^ |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 15† quarter credits | $905 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $13,575^ |
| Clinical course fee | 4 courses (PRCM) | $160 per course | $640 |
| Program Fee | $175 per quarter | $2,275^* | |
| $79,190+ | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,120 $73,070†* | ||
Effective February 24, 2025
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 30 quarter credits | $925 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $27,750^ |
| Tuition – Essential coursework | 10 quarter credits | $500 per quarter credit | $5,000^ |
| Tuition – NP Specialization coursework | 40 quarter credits | $775 per quarter credit | $31,000^ |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 15† quarter credits | $925 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $13,875^ |
| Clinical course fee | 4 courses (PRCM) | $160 per course | $640 |
| Program Fee | $180 per quarter | $2,340^* | |
$80,605+ | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,200 | ||
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,500-$2,500. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary, or for practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt and reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.
+Tuition and time to complete vary by student and may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 20 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
†*Represents minimum time to completion and Believe and Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe and Achieve Scholarship based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 30 quarter credits | $905 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $27,150^ |
| Tuition – NP Specialization coursework | 40 quarter credits | $765 per quarter hour | $30,600^ |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 15† quarter credits | $905 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $13,575^ |
| Clinical course fee | 4 courses (PRCM) | $160 per course | $640 |
| Program Fee | $175 per quarter | $2,100^ | |
| $74,065+ | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,120 $67,945†* | ||
Effective February 24, 2025
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 30 quarter credits | $925 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $27,750^ |
| Tuition – NP Specialization coursework | 40 quarter credits | $775 per quarter hour | $31,000^ |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 15† quarter credits | $925 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $13,875^ |
| Clinical course fee | 4 courses (PRCM) | $160 per course | $640 |
| Program Fee | $180 per quarter | $2,160^ | |
$75,425+ | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$6,200 | ||
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,500-$2,500. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary, or for practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt and reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.
+Tuition and time to complete vary by student and may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 20 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
†*Represents minimum time to completion and Believe and Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe and Achieve Scholarship based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
MASTER THE BUSINESS OF HEALTHCARE
Do you want to gain in-depth insights into nursing leadership and business management? Discover Walden’s new, streamlined DNP to MBA articulation path.
*Walden Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) graduates can transfer up to four courses into the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a Self-Designed specialization and complete the program in as few as 12 months. Tuition and time to completion may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions.
1 Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
Ofelia O'Donnell | DNP ’22
The DNP-PMHNP specialization can prepare you to provide compassionate mental health care for diverse populations.
Nurse Practitioner
NPs specializing in mental health treat individuals with mental health or substance use disorders.
Expected growth: 45%1
Estimated annual wage: $94,530–$140,6101
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the DNP PMHNP program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries.
Walden’s faculty includes psychology practitioners, researchers, and subject matter experts, all committed to helping you be successful in your program.
A psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is a nurse practitioner specially licensed and trained to deliver psychiatric and mental health care services. PMHNPs must complete at least a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. PMHNPs who also complete a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, like the one offered at Walden, have additional knowledge and skills in quality improvement, organizational leadership, and population health management.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners can diagnose mental illness, prescribe medications, and provide mental and behavioral health therapy. A PMHNP can counsel patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health disorders. In Walden’s DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner online program, you’ll develop the clinical judgment to make mental health assessments and learn how to use research to create, assess, and refine educational materials that resonate with the populations in your community.
Numerous healthcare providers and other types of employers seek psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners. PMHNP provide services in:
Some examples of course topics include:
A practicum gives students valuable practical experience by allowing them to apply their new knowledge and skills in real-life situations and settings. Walden University has a dedicated field office and staff to assist DNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner online program students with finding a practicum site. After you register for Walden Practicum Pledge® (along with other requirements1), if you can’t identify a site and preceptor, our dedicated Field Placement Team partners with you to help you find a match. This enhanced support gives you added confidence as you start your degree journey.
