6 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Connecticut (Online & Campus) – 2025


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

Is becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner in Connecticut the right career move for you? If you’re a registered nurse with excellent communication and relationship-building skills who’s passionate about helping to find solutions for the Nutmeg State’s overburdened and understaffed mental health system, it may well be. Graduates of PMHNP programs in Connecticut average earnings of $139,890 a year, and their expertise is in high demand at various practice settings throughout the state, such as hospitals, community mental health centers, and state and federal facilities. Connecticut’s PMHNPs enjoy close collaborative relationships with physicians in providing services to those who need them.

One of the schools on the list below of the 6 best PMHNP programs in Connecticut could be the next phase in your nursing career, so keep reading.


FOLLOWING ARE THE 6 BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025


(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 6 best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Connecticut.)


1. Yale University - West Haven


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

About Yale University: Yale University is one of the leading nursing schools that offers some of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Connecticut. The school produces leaders who go on to transform healthcare practice. Yale offers two PMHNP options, an MSN and a post-master's certificate, so depending on your previous degree, you can choose the path suitable to you.


MSN Program Details: Yale’s MSN-PMHNP is a 52-credit program that spans two years of full-time study. The program comprises core graduate courses and PMHNP-related courses. The rigorous coursework covers topics such as advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, mental health assessment, and promotion of health in the community. The program also includes 774 hours of clinical experience in various settings, including community health, private practice, and mental health centers, to name a few.


MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for Yale’s MSN-PMHNP, applicants must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, an active and unencumbered RN license in your state of practice is required. To submit your application, you must include a current resume, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a copy of your RN license.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Yale’s post-masters certificate is designed to build on your graduate nursing education to equip you with specialized skills in psychiatric mental health nursing. The credit requirements for this psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Connecticut are based on a GAP analysis of your previous transcripts. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.


Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: The PMHNP certificate program’s admission requirements include an online application, a current resume, an active RN license, three letters of recommendation, and two short essays.

Why Choose Yale University PMHNP Program

• Yale University’s PMHNP students come from a diverse academic environment, enriching the PMHNP learning environment. Also, the in-person format allows for meaningful interactions between faculty and students.
• The Yale University School of Nursing has over 100 years of experience in teaching high-quality professional nurses. The PMHNP program leverages this rich experience, offering students a well-rounded PMHNP training.


2. Fairfield University - Fairfield


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

About Fairfield University: Fairfield University, a nationally ranked university is known for excellence in education, innovative research, and community engagement. Also, the school takes pride in being designated as an NLN Center of Excellence in nursing education. The school offers three psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Connecticut, including an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, and an MSN-to-DNP.


MSN Program Details: Fairfield University’s MSN-PMHNP program is a 55-credit coursework that includes three practicum courses. The program prepares graduates for the mental healthcare management of mental healthcare patients across the lifespan. The program covers topics such as healthcare leadership, epidemiology & biostatistics, advanced healthcare policy, research & evidence-based practices, advanced health assessment, and healthcare informatics. Upon graduation, you’ll earn an MSN and be eligible to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.


MSN Admission Requirements: This MSN-PMHNP program is open to BSN-prepared registered nurses who have an active RN license and a GPA of at least 3.0. The admission process also requires applicants to submit a completed application, a professional resume, an admission essay, official transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a copy of their current RN license.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Fairfield University’s BSN-to-DNP program is a 77-credit program that includes 1000 hours of clinical practice. This psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Connecticut is the state’s first and also one of the first in the nation. The coursework includes MSN core, DNP core, PMHNP-related courses, and practicum courses. Students are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health problems and psychiatric disorders in patients of all age groups. This BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program can be completed either part-time or full-time.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: Fairfield University’s BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP admissions are offered on a rolling basis, so it is preferred that you apply early. To qualify for admission, you must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0. To apply, you must be prepared to submit an online application, a professional resume, a personal statement, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation.

MSN-to-DNP Program Details: Fairfield University also offers a master's degree entry for its DNP-PMHNP program. The program builds on your MSN education and prepares you with doctoral knowledge and specialized skills in psychiatric mental health care. Program graduates earn an MSN and are prepared to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.


MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To qualify for the MSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program, applicants must have an MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. Other admission requirements are similar to the BSN-to-DNP program.

Why Choose Fairfield University PMHNP Program

• Fairfield University’s PMHNP programs are offered in small-sized classes under the mentorship of expert faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields of practice.
• Fairfield University’s graduate nursing programs are ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• Fairfield University’s PMHNP programs are grounded in Christian traditions, emphasizing ethical and patient-centered mental health care.


3. Quinnipiac University - Hamden


Programs Offered: MSN

About Quinnipiac University: Quinnipiac University trains highly skilled psychiatric mental health practitioners who are prepared to care for mental health patients in a variety of healthcare settings. Endorsed by the Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation, the school emphasizes holistic care. For aspiring PMHNPs, the school offers an evidence-based masters of nursing program.


MSN Program Details: Quinnipiac University’s MSN-PMHNP program prepares graduates for effective healthcare of mental health patients across their lifespan. The coursework comprises 54 credits covering topics such as biostatistics, epidemiology, health policy, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and health promotion & advocacy. Upon completion of this PMHNP program in Connecticut, students earn an MSN and are prepared to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.


MSN Admission Requirements: Quinnipiac University’s MSN-PMHNP accepts applications twice a year, in fall and spring. To qualify for admission, students must have at least one year of nursing experience. Also, they must have a BSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. An active and unencumbered RN license is also required. A completed application includes official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current resume.

Why Choose Quinnipiac University PMHNP Program

• Quinnipiac University offers one of the sought-after online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Connecticut. The program allows students to complete their PMHNP training through asynchronous online classes, making it rather convenient for working nurses to juggle a study plan with a job.
• Quinnipiac University's PMHNP program, being one of the leading PMHNP programs maintains strong partnerships with premier healthcare systems and hospitals throughout the state. This wide network of clinical affiliates provides PMHNP students with the exposure and resources they need to succeed.
• Quinnipiac University’s PMHNP graduates report finding employment within six months of graduation.


4. University of Saint Joseph - West Hartford


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

About University of Saint Joseph: University of Saint Joseph is a non-profit Catholic university that offers a close-knit learning environment. The school employs an accomplished faculty, the majority of whom hold doctoral degrees. Emphasizing practical skills, the school grooms graduates to work in a variety of interdisciplinary healthcare settings. Here, you have four PMHNP options; MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and post-masters certificate.


MSN Program Details: University of Saint Joseph’s MSN-PMHNP is a patient-centered curriculum that includes core courses and PMHNP-related courses. The core courses comprise 34 credits and cover topics such as advanced physical assessment, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, nursing science & practice, and management & transformational leadership. The core courses also include classes in population & global health, ethics, healthcare disparities & social justice, and research translation.


MSN Admission Requirements: As one of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Connecticut, admission into University of Saint Joseph’s MSN-PMHNP is a competitive process. To qualify, you must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, your RN license must be active and unencumbered. To apply, applicants must be prepared to submit a resume, official transcripts, an essay, and two letters of recommendation.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are driven about patient care and want to play an influential role in healthcare, then this BSN-to-DNP program will prepare you for the highest level of clinical expertise. The program comprises a total of 76 credits, covering doctoral and PMHNP-related courses. Students attend classes in advanced physical assessment, advanced pathophysiology, neuropsychopharmacology, and nursing science & practice. The program also includes courses in quantitative methods & biostatistics and systems thinking & fiscal analysis. You also learn about professional issues & ethics and research translation. This psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Connecticut also requires the completion of a DNP project.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission, you must have a BSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires applicants to have an active RN license. In addition, the program requires the submission of two letters of recommendation, an essay, a copy of a valid RN license, and a resume.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: This post-master’s certificate program builds on your graduate education and prepares you for the specialized care of psychiatric mental health patients. The coursework comprises 17 credits and 500 clinical hours. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to take the PMHNP certification exam.


Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: The University of Saint Joseph’s PMHNP certificate is designed for current psychiatric clinical nurse specialists or current nurse practitioners. Also, applicants must have at least a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. Besides, an active APRN license in your current state of practice is required.

Why Choose University of Saint Joseph PMHNP Program

• University of Saint Joseph nursing school is ranked among the top nursing schools in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• The University of Saint Joseph offers unique learning experiences in developing countries such as the South American nation of Guyana. Through these experiences, PMHNP students gain a broader perspective on mental health care management.


5. Western Connecticut State University - Danbury


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

About Western Connecticut State University: Western Connecticut State University is one of the top PMHNP schools in New England. The school enrolls a diverse student population who come from throughout the nation. With a focus on critical thinking and professionalism, the school equips students with relevant skills to succeed as advanced practice nurses. The school offers two PMHNP programs in Connecticut, including an MSN & a post-master's certificate.


MSN Program Details: Western Connecticut State University’s MSN-PMHNP program comprises core courses and PMHNP courses. The core courses cover topics such as the theoretical basis of advanced nursing practice, evidence-based research, and healthcare policy & healthcare system. The PMHNP-related courses include topics such as advanced pathophysiology, psychopathology, advanced health assessment, and advanced nursing management of psychiatric mental health conditions.


MSN Admission Requirements: Western Connecticut State University’s MSN-PMHNP program requires applicants to submit their official transcripts, a current resume, letters of recommendation, and a copy of their current and active RN license.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: This post-master's certificate opens doors to rewarding positions in psychiatric mental health nursing. Graduation requirements for this PMHNP program in Connecticut are tailored to match your academic needs. Upon completing the program, you’ll be eligible to take the PMHNP certification exam.


Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: To qualify for admission, you must have a masters or doctoral degree in nursing with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Other admission requirements include the submission of documents and having a valid and unencumbered RN license.

Why Choose Western Connecticut State University PMHNP Program

• Western Connecticut State University offers one of the more affordable psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Connecticut.
• Western Connecticut State University’s PMHNP program boasts of an excellent pass rate on the certification exam.
• Western Connecticut State University’s PMHNP program graduates are desired by local employers. Many of them play leadership roles throughout the state and the northeast.


6. Goodwin University - East Hartford


Programs Offered: RN-to-MSN and MSN

About Goodwin University: Whether you have an associate degree or a baccalaureate in nursing, at Goodwin University, you’ll find a PMHNP path that is just right for you. Known for excellent nursing education, Goodwin offers two PMHNP programs, an RN-to-MSN and an MSN. The school offers career-focused training to produce highly skilled practitioners who are sought after by healthcare employees.


RN-to-MSN Program Details: Goodwin’s RN to MSN is designed for registered nurses who have an associate degree in nursing. The program starts with a bridge coursework, after which students enter the graduate portion of the program. The bridge courses build your knowledge in health assessment, nursing research, public & community health, nursing leadership, and biostatistics. Thereafter, you start with the graduate courses that consist of 50 credits. This MSN-PMHNP program in Connecticut covers topics such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, neuropharmacology, policy, politics & organization of healthcare, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. In addition, the PMHNP-related courses prepare you for the mental healthcare of mental health patients of all age groups.


RN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for the RN-to-MSN program, you must have an associate degree with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. The application also includes the submission of transcripts, a professional resume, and a personal statement.

MSN Program Details: If you are a registered nurse who is passionate about psychiatric mental healthcare, then Goodwin’s MSN is a befitting choice. This PMHNP program in Connecticut builds on your undergraduate nursing education and prepares you to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including, hospitals, long-term facilities, acute centers, private clinics, and many more. The program consists of 50 credits and includes core nursing and PMHNP-related courses. Upon graduation, you’ll earn an MSN and be prepared to take the PMHNP certification exam.


MSN Admission Requirements: Applicants for Goodwin’s MSN must have a bachelor's degree in nursing with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also requires you to have an active RN license in your state of practice. Also, applicants must be prepared to submit their official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. Applicants must also have at least two years of direct patient care nursing experience.

Why Choose Goodwin University PMHNP Program

• Goodwin University’s PMHNP program is offered entirely online to accommodate the needs of working nurses. Except for the two on-campus intensives, students take all the classes online. Besides, the clinical experiences can be completed at sites closer to home.
• Goodwin University is a non-profit institution that offers affordable PMHNP education.


VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



HOW MUCH DO PMHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN CONNECTICUT?


WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT EXPECT?


Hourly$48.39
Weekly$1,936
Monthly$8,390
Annual$100,650
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?


Level of Experience Hourly Weekly Monthly Annual
Entry-Level $48.39$1,936$8,390$100,650
1-4 Years of Experience $55.22$2,209$9,570$114,860
5-9 Years of Experience $62.54$2,502$10,840$130,090
10-19 Years of Experience $69.68$2,787$12,080$144,940
20 Years or More Experience $78.80$3,152$13,660$163,900
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT?


Hourly$63.22
Weekly$2,529
Monthly$10,960
Annual$131,490
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


HOW MUCH DO PMHNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF CONNECTICUT?


Metro Hourly Monthly Annual
Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk$63.31$10,970$131,690
Danbury$64.48$11,180$134,110
Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford$64.11$11,110$133,350
New Haven$61.78$10,710$128,500
Norwich-New London-Westerly$61.42$10,650$127,760
Waterbury$62.83$10,890$130,690
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT VS. OTHER SALARIES


PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT VS. PMHNP SALARY IN THE NATION


Average Connecticut
PMHNP Annual Salary
Average National PMHNP
Annual Salary
Difference
Number %
$131,490$124,680+$6,810+5.46%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT VS. PMHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES


State Average
Annual Salary
Difference
Number %
California $158,130 -$26,640 -16.85%
New Jersey $143,250 -$11,760 -8.21%
New York $141,470 -$9,980 -7.05%
Massachusetts $138,700 -$7,210 -5.20%
Oregon $136,250 -$4,760 -3.49%
Nevada $136,230 -$4,740 -3.48%
Washington $135,590 -$4,100 -3.02%
Connecticut $131,490 $0 0.00%
District of Columbia $131,270 +$220 +0.17%
New Mexico $129,560 +$1,930 +1.49%
Hawaii $128,310 +$3,180 +2.48%
Iowa $128,180 +$3,310 +2.58%
Minnesota $128,160 +$3,330 +2.60%
New Hampshire $125,780 +$5,710 +4.54%
Rhode Island $125,250 +$6,240 +4.98%
Texas $124,660 +$6,830 +5.48%
Illinois $122,310 +$9,180 +7.51%
Oklahoma $121,740 +$9,750 +8.01%
Indiana $121,730 +$9,760 +8.02%
Arizona $121,410 +$10,080 +8.30%
Wisconsin $121,210 +$10,280 +8.48%
Delaware $120,570 +$10,920 +9.06%
Pennsylvania $120,550 +$10,940 +9.08%
Montana $119,960 +$11,530 +9.61%
Maryland $119,650 +$11,840 +9.90%
Nebraska $118,970 +$12,520 +10.52%
Maine $118,300 +$13,190 +11.15%
Louisiana $118,210 +$13,280 +11.23%
Idaho $117,720 +$13,770 +11.70%
Ohio $117,440 +$14,050 +11.96%
Mississippi $117,260 +$14,230 +12.14%
Virginia $116,980 +$14,510 +12.40%
Vermont $116,610 +$14,880 +12.76%
Colorado $116,440 +$15,050 +12.93%
Alaska $116,390 +$15,100 +12.97%
South Dakota $115,610 +$15,880 +13.74%
Utah $115,610 +$15,880 +13.74%
Georgia $115,440 +$16,050 +13.90%
Wyoming $115,230 +$16,260 +14.11%
North Carolina $114,450 +$17,040 +14.89%
North Dakota $113,940 +$17,550 +15.40%
Michigan $113,780 +$17,710 +15.57%
Missouri $113,180 +$18,310 +16.18%
Kansas $111,670 +$19,820 +17.75%
Florida $110,310 +$21,180 +19.20%
Kentucky $109,290 +$22,200 +20.31%
South Carolina $109,130 +$22,360 +20.49%
Arkansas $107,110 +$24,380 +22.76%
West Virginia $106,790 +$24,700 +23.13%
Alabama $106,610 +$24,880 +23.34%
Tennessee $99,330 +$32,160 +32.38%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN CONNECTICUT


Type of Nurse Average
Annual Salary
Difference
Number %
Nurse Anesthetist $240,580 -$109,090 -45.34%
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner $131,490 $0 0.00%
Nurse Midwife $112,960 +$18,530 +16.40%
Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary $99,850 +$31,640 +31.69%
Registered Nurse $94,260 +$37,230 +39.50%
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse $62,620 +$68,870 +109.98%
Nursing Assistant $38,280 +$93,210 +243.50%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


PMHNP SALARY IN CONNECTICUT VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN CONNECTICUT


Job Title Average
Annual Salary
Difference
Number %
Physician $276,290 -$144,800 -52.41%
Podiatrist $210,340 -$78,850 -37.49%
Optometrist $144,550 -$13,060 -9.03%
Physician Assistant $143,280 -$11,790 -8.23%
Veterinarian $138,700 -$7,210 -5.20%
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner $131,490 $0 0.00%
Pharmacist $130,910 +$580 +0.44%
Physical Therapist $103,920 +$27,570 +26.53%
Chiropractor $97,620 +$33,870 +34.70%
Occupational Therapist $95,400 +$36,090 +37.83%
Speech-Language Pathologist $94,380 +$37,110 +39.32%
Audiologist $83,340 +$48,150 +57.78%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED


1. WHO ACCREDITS PMHNP PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT?


S.No.Accrediting Agency
1Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
2Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)


2. HOW MANY ACCREDITED PMHNP SCHOOLS ARE THERE IN CONNECTICUT?


6


3. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER HOUR IN CONNECTICUT?


$63.22


4. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER WEEK IN CONNECTICUT?


$2,529


5. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER MONTH IN CONNECTICUT?


$10,960


6. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER YEAR IN CONNECTICUT?


$131,490


7. WHAT IS THE JOB OUTLOOK FOR PMHNPS IN CONNECTICUT?


10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030)
+47.89%
(Source: Careeronestop.org)



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