Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Delaware (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Unsure which APRN specialty to choose in your Delaware MSN or DNP program? If you’re interested in the human mind, consider the psychiatric-mental health NP track. As a PMHNP, you’ll learn to diagnose and treat patients struggling with mental, emotional, and behavioral problems, and you’ll find employment in a variety of practice settings ranging from civilian, military, and veterans’ hospitals to addiction treatment centers and community mental health agencies. Graduates of PMHNP programs in Delaware make a median salary of $144,350 annually, and their employment options within the next decade will soar by 55 percent. Sound like the ideal career path for you? You can learn more by reviewing our list of the best PMHNP programs in Delaware.
FOLLOWING ARE THE BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Delaware.)
1. University of Delaware - Newark
Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Program Details: If you are searching for the best online PMHNP programs in Delaware, I recommend considering the University of Delaware. The school offers three pathways for nurses who want to pursue certification as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. One of the options offered is the Master of Science in Nursing program. The program admits students four times per year and features a flexible schedule that can be completed in three years.
The MSN PMHNP program will prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to provide evidence-based, client-centered psychotherapy and medication management. The program requires completion of 48 credits. The curriculum includes classes such as Advanced Clinical Neuroscience for the Nurse Practitioner, Concepts for Advanced Healthcare Delivery, and Advanced Psychopharmacology.
Students pursuing the MSN pathway to the PMHNP certification complete 816 clinical hours. The University of Delaware SON Clinical Coordinator identifies clinical sites, secures affiliation agreements, and identifies qualified preceptors to ensure you have adequate clinical experiences.
MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the MSN program at the University of Delaware, you must be a currently licensed RN in the United States with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree awarded by an accredited college or university. Applicants are required to provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities ever attended and must have an overall undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The BSN-to-DNP program at the University of Delaware offers an excellent opportunity for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses to earn a terminal degree while pursuing a specialization in psychiatric mental health care. The DNP program admits students annually in the summer/fall semester.
The post-bachelor’s DNP PMHNP program is an 81-credit pathway. The program utilizes a hybrid teaching model combining online learning with on-campus experiential intensives and simulations with healthcare theatre students. In addition to rich coursework, intensives, and simulations, you will complete 1,008 clinical hours.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: Candidates for the BSN-to-DNP program are required to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an ACEN-, CCNE-, or CNEA-accredited School of Nursing and be eligible for RN licensure in Delaware. Applicants must provide a written Goals Statement, three letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae or resume. All candidates participate in an admission interview with the DNP Program Coordinator and members of the DNP Subcommittee. Additionally, you must have one year of full-time work experience as a registered nurse before beginning the first clinical course of the program.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at the University of Delaware prepares students to manage and provide care to patients across the lifespan requiring psychiatric mental health services. The program admits students annually in the summer/fall. The part-time schedule makes this a great option for working professionals, and the program can be completed in as little as 12 months.
The Post-Master’s Certificate program provides the necessary coursework and clinical hours to help you prepare for national certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. A GAP analysis of your master’s nursing degree will be performed to determine an individual plan of study for your program. Post-Master’s Certificate students must complete a minimum of nine credits at the University of Delaware. The program also includes more than 500 precepted clinical practicum hours.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at the University of Delaware is designed for individuals who hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree from an ACEN- or CCNE- accredited nursing program and are certified/licensed as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist. Candidates must be eligible for licensure in Delaware and are required to provide college transcripts reflecting a minimum master’s GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The University of Delaware’s School of Nursing is recognized by the National League for Nursing as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education.• At the University of Delaware, healthcare simulation is an integral part of nursing education. The School of Nursing has state-of-the-art simulation labs that resemble real-life patient care environments where you will have the opportunity to participate in simulation-based learning experiences.
• The University of Delaware is ranked by U.S. News & World Report in two categories: Best Nursing Schools: Master’s and Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice. Finding schools with good rankings from reputable sources is something I recommend, as sources like U.S. News use certain indicators of excellence to rank schools. What this means for you is that you can feel confident that the school/program meets quality standards.
2. Wilmington University - New Castle
Programs Offered: Post-Master’s Certificate
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at Wilmington University prepares graduates to provide mental health services to diverse populations across the lifespan. The program is available online, or you may choose to learn in the traditional classroom setting. The Post-Master’s Certificate program accepts new students in the spring and fall of each year. Students typically complete the program in just three semesters.
This requires a minimum of 27 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Psychopharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse Across the Lifespan, Neurobiology of Psychiatric Disorders, and Therapeutic Modalities & Psychiatric Conditions Across the Lifespan. The program also includes 700 precepted clinical hours. Clinical practicums are arranged in collaboration with program faculty and designed to give you a wide range of experiences providing care to patients in various inpatient, outpatient, and community mental health settings.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: The Post-Master's Certificate program requires prospective students to be board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner prior to acceptance into the program. Candidates must have an MSN degree or higher from a nationally accredited nursing program. Applicants are required to submit a Graduate Application, a resume, a Statement of Goals, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
Transcripts should reflect a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA. However, a 3.0 grade point average is preferred. Additionally, transcripts should show proof of completion of an undergraduate health assessment course with a grade of “B” or better. After review of admission materials, eligible candidates will be invited to interview with program faculty.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Graduates of the Wilmington University PMHNP program in Delaware have outstanding success rates on national certification exams. As a nurse educator, I encourage potential students to ask about important factors like certification exam pass rates, as this indicates how well students are prepared for success in the program.• Wilmington University has a history of nearly 40 years of nursing education. The university introduced its first nursing program in 1986. Since that time, it has grown and evolved to offer additional degrees and certification options, like the Post-Master’s Certificate PMHNP program.
• One of the great things about nursing is that the only limits to what you can learn and do are the limits you place on yourself. At Wilmington University, you don’t have to stop at earning a Post-Master’s Certificate as a PMHNP. The school offers other Post-Graduate Certificate pathways and doctoral nursing pathways, allowing you to continue learning and expanding your professional development.
3. Delaware State University - Dover
Programs Offered: MSN
MSN Program Details: Delaware State University is home to another excellent post-baccalaureate PMHNP program in Delaware. The program admits students twice per year in the spring and fall. The program is designed to be completed in just eight semesters. All coursework is 100%, making this program a great option for students who need flexibility.
To complete the MSN PMHNP degree program, you must earn a total of 47 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Special Populations for the PMHNP, Psychiatric Mental Health Disorders & Therapeutic Modalities, Advanced Psychopharmacology for the PMHNP, and Ethical & Legal Perspectives. 765 hours of clinical practicum are embedded in the curriculum.
MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the MSN program at Delaware State University, begin by applying to the DSU School of Graduate, Adult, & Extended Studies. Candidates must provide official college transcripts reflecting graduation from an accredited baccalaureate nursing program with a 2.5 or better GPA, a copy of their current unencumbered United States RN license, a current resume, and one letter of professional reference.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• At Delaware State University, the PMHNP program faculty are skilled clinicians with years of experience in psychiatric care. They bring firsthand knowledge and insight to enhance your academic success and help you develop the skills you need to become an effective Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.• Delaware State University offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the country, making the path to earning a degree easier for prospective students. In addition to low tuition rates, students in the PMHNP program have access to a wide range of scholarships and other financial assistance opportunities.
• Having worked with many nursing students throughout my career, I have learned that one of the things students value most is knowing they have support when they need it. Something I find appealing about the PMHNP program at Delaware State University is that students have a wide range of support, which is crucial. From academic advisors and counselors to dedicated faculty and preceptors, as a student at DSU, you can rest assured knowing you will receive the guidance and support you need when you need it!
HOW MUCH DO PMHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN DELAWARE?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE EXPECT?
| Hourly | $51.06 |
| Weekly | $2,042 |
| Monthly | $8,850 |
| Annual | $106,200 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $51.06 | $2,042 | $8,850 | $106,200 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $57.77 | $2,311 | $10,010 | $120,160 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $68.19 | $2,728 | $11,820 | $141,840 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $75.95 | $3,038 | $13,160 | $157,970 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $90.75 | $3,630 | $15,730 | $188,770 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE?
| Hourly | $69.40 |
| Weekly | $2,776 |
| Monthly | $12,030 |
| Annual | $144,350 |
HOW MUCH DO PMHNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF DELAWARE?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Dover | $68.72 | $2,749 | $11,910 | $142,930 |
PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. OTHER SALARIES
PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. PMHNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Delaware PMHNP Annual Salary | Average National PMHNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $144,350 | $141,470 | +$2,880 | +2.04% |
PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. PMHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $177,860 | -$33,510 | -18.84% |
| Nevada | $163,690 | -$19,340 | -11.82% |
| Washington | $160,090 | -$15,740 | -9.83% |
| New Jersey | $159,680 | -$15,330 | -9.60% |
| Oregon | $159,590 | -$15,240 | -9.55% |
| Massachusetts | $158,560 | -$14,210 | -8.96% |
| New York | $157,260 | -$12,910 | -8.21% |
| Connecticut | $150,820 | -$6,470 | -4.29% |
| New Mexico | $150,590 | -$6,240 | -4.14% |
| Minnesota | $148,650 | -$4,300 | -2.89% |
| District of Columbia | $148,470 | -$4,120 | -2.77% |
| Rhode Island | $146,940 | -$2,590 | -1.76% |
| Hawaii | $146,010 | -$1,660 | -1.14% |
| Arizona | $145,950 | -$1,600 | -1.10% |
| Delaware | $144,350 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Iowa | $144,040 | +$310 | +0.22% |
| New Hampshire | $143,950 | +$400 | +0.28% |
| Texas | $143,140 | +$1,210 | +0.85% |
| Wisconsin | $141,290 | +$3,060 | +2.17% |
| Maryland | $140,920 | +$3,430 | +2.43% |
| Utah | $140,730 | +$3,620 | +2.57% |
| North Dakota | $140,670 | +$3,680 | +2.62% |
| Pennsylvania | $140,320 | +$4,030 | +2.87% |
| Illinois | $139,720 | +$4,630 | +3.31% |
| Alaska | $138,920 | +$5,430 | +3.91% |
| Vermont | $138,840 | +$5,510 | +3.97% |
| Montana | $137,230 | +$7,120 | +5.19% |
| Idaho | $137,130 | +$7,220 | +5.27% |
| Oklahoma | $136,890 | +$7,460 | +5.45% |
| Wyoming | $136,040 | +$8,310 | +6.11% |
| Indiana | $135,780 | +$8,570 | +6.31% |
| Maine | $135,360 | +$8,990 | +6.64% |
| Ohio | $135,280 | +$9,070 | +6.70% |
| Colorado | $134,310 | +$10,040 | +7.48% |
| Nebraska | $133,970 | +$10,380 | +7.75% |
| North Carolina | $133,870 | +$10,480 | +7.83% |
| Georgia | $133,390 | +$10,960 | +8.22% |
| South Dakota | $133,200 | +$11,150 | +8.37% |
| Virginia | $133,080 | +$11,270 | +8.47% |
| Michigan | $132,870 | +$11,480 | +8.64% |
| Florida | $131,800 | +$12,550 | +9.52% |
| Kansas | $131,320 | +$13,030 | +9.92% |
| Louisiana | $130,660 | +$13,690 | +10.48% |
| Mississippi | $129,360 | +$14,990 | +11.59% |
| South Carolina | $128,750 | +$15,600 | +12.12% |
| Missouri | $128,470 | +$15,880 | +12.36% |
| West Virginia | $124,910 | +$19,440 | +15.56% |
| Arkansas | $124,870 | +$19,480 | +15.60% |
| Kentucky | $121,520 | +$22,830 | +18.79% |
| Alabama | $121,130 | +$23,220 | +19.17% |
| Tennessee | $114,200 | +$30,150 | +26.40% |
PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN DELAWARE
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $207,030 | -$62,680 | -30.28% |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $144,350 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $121,690 | +$22,660 | +18.62% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $97,050 | +$47,300 | +48.74% |
| Registered Nurse | $94,670 | +$49,680 | +52.48% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $63,490 | +$80,860 | +127.36% |
| Nursing Assistant | $38,620 | +$105,730 | +273.77% |
PMHNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN DELAWARE
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Dentist | $227,200 | -$82,850 | -36.47% |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $144,350 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Optometrist | $141,480 | +$2,870 | +2.03% |
| Pharmacist | $137,430 | +$6,920 | +5.04% |
| Physician Assistant | $136,270 | +$8,080 | +5.93% |
| Veterinarian | $123,420 | +$20,930 | +16.96% |
| Radiation Therapist | $115,940 | +$28,410 | +24.50% |
| Physical Therapist | $104,530 | +$39,820 | +38.09% |
| Dental Hygienist | $98,660 | +$45,690 | +46.31% |
| Occupational Therapist | $94,180 | +$50,170 | +53.27% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $92,070 | +$52,280 | +56.78% |
| Audiologist | $88,370 | +$55,980 | +63.35% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits PMHNP Programs In Delaware?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited PMHNP Schools Are There In Delaware?
| 3 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Hour In Delaware?
| $69.40 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Week In Delaware?
| $2,776 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Month In Delaware?
| $12,030 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Year In Delaware?
| $144,350 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For PMHNPs In Delaware?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
| +55.00% |
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
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