Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in North Dakota (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Why is the demand for mental health services in North Dakota expected to rise 48 percent over the next decade? Because North Dakota is grappling with escalating rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, exacerbated by the remoteness of much of its sparsely populated landscape. As a result, many PMHNP programs in North Dakota focus on preparing practitioners to deal with the mental health issues that are common in rural areas. Many of these programs are offered online, allowing you to enroll without sacrificing work or personal commitments. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner in the Peace Garden State, your salary will average $140,670 annually. Learn more by reading this guide to the best PMHNP programs in North Dakota.
FOLLOWING ARE THE BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN NORTH DAKOTA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in North Dakota.)
1. University of North Dakota - Grand Forks
Programs Offered: MSN and BSN-to-DNP
MSN Program Details: Are you a registered nurse with dreams of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner? If so, I’d like to share some information with you about one of the best online PMHNP programs in North Dakota! At the University of North Dakota, bachelor’s-prepared registered nurses can earn a Master of Science in Nursing while specializing in the PMHNP concentration.
The MSN PMHNP program admits students twice each year in the fall and spring. The program is designed in a part-time format that takes seven semesters to complete. Most online classes are delivered asynchronously, which makes this an excellent option for working professionals. However, occasional synchronous online class meetings are scheduled for information sharing and presentations. The faculty, who are experienced in the field of psychiatric nursing, use learning modalities, including streaming video content, lesson modules, posted lectures, discussion boards, polls, chat rooms, and online simulations.
To earn the MSN degree, you must complete 49 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Psychiatric Diagnostic Reasoning, Psychopharmacology, Management of Psychopathology, and Group & Family Therapies. The program includes 200-300 clinical hours per semester, for a total of at least 600 clinical hours. Students in this program are asked to provide three choices of places where they would like to complete clinicals and to make suggestions for clinical preceptors. The Clinical Placement Coordinator will work with you to facilitate appropriate placements and verify preceptor qualifications to ensure you receive adequate training and will try to accommodate your requests, when possible.
MSN Admission Requirements: To be approved for admission to the MSN program, candidates must have a baccalaureate degree or higher from an accredited nursing program and a current, unencumbered United States RN license. Applicants with one year of work experience as an RN are preferred.
In addition to an admission application, you are required to provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended and have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher for the last two years of baccalaureate study. Transcripts should also show the completion of an undergraduate or graduate Statistics course. Candidates must provide three letters of recommendation, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and a Statement of Goals and may be required to interview with program faculty. A criminal background check and drug screen are required once an offer of admission is extended. Additionally, once you receive an admission offer, you must satisfy health and immunization policy requirements to remain in the program.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice and becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is your goal, the BSN-to-DNP program at the University of North Dakota is an excellent option! The program offers part-time and full-time options, allowing you to choose a schedule that fits best with your lifestyle, needs, and academic goals. Part-time students complete the program in 11 semesters, and full-time students take eight semesters. Admission to this program is once each year in the fall semester.
This post-baccalaureate PMHNP program in North Dakota features an 85-credit curriculum. The program includes core nursing, DNP, and PMHNP specialty courses. You will study Population Health, Evidence-Based Research, Individual, Group, & Family Therapies, and Healthcare Economics, Finance, & Leadership. All DNP students complete a DNP Capstone Project and at least 1,000 clinical hours.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the BSN-to-DNP program, candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program. Applicants are required to submit a copy of their current U.S. Registered Nurse license in good standing, official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, a Personal Statement, three letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae or professional resume. Your resume must reflect the completion of a graduate or undergraduate Statistics course and a minimum undergraduate nursing grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale.
A minimum of one year of work experience as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric unit within the United States, its territories, or a United States military hospital outside the U.S. is required. Successful completion of an interview with the program faculty is required. Upon receiving an offer of admission, all applicants must satisfy current health and immunization policies and pass a criminal background check and drug screen.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• In my experience working with nursing students, I found that a topic of major concern is finding clinical placements and preceptors. Because clinical practicum requirements must be met to be eligible for licensure and certification, it is crucial for students to have adequate clinical opportunities. One of the things I like about the University of North Dakota’s PMHNP program is that you will have a full-time Nursing Clinical Placement Coordinator to assist you in finding clinical placements and preceptors. With your Coordinator's dedicated support, you can rest easily knowing you will have appropriate clinical experiences designed to prepare you for practice as a PMHNP.• There are many factors to consider when searching for a PMHNP program. One thing I recommend looking for is a school with a proven record of success. The University of North Dakota College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines has a history of more than 100 years of educating nursing students, and its graduates have a high success rate in the field, which makes it an excellent choice of where to earn your degree.
• If you want to earn a degree but need a program that is flexible, the University of North Dakota is a perfect choice! Both the MSN and BSN-to-DNP PMHNP programs are designed with 100% online coursework. Your only away-from-home requirements will be to complete clinicals, which are scheduled as close to your home region as possible.
• At the University of North Dakota, online learning does not mean you are alone. The College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines has a team of dedicated faculty and staff who are available to help you and promote your success. You will have a personal academic advisor as your go-to for academic and career counseling, free online tutoring, 24/7 technical support, and networking opportunities designed specifically for online learners like you!
HOW MUCH DO PMHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN NORTH DAKOTA?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN NORTH DAKOTA EXPECT?
| Hourly | $49.75 |
| Weekly | $1,990 |
| Monthly | $8,620 |
| Annual | $103,490 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN NORTH DAKOTA EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $49.75 | $1,990 | $8,620 | $103,490 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $56.30 | $2,252 | $9,760 | $117,100 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $66.46 | $2,658 | $11,520 | $138,230 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $74.01 | $2,960 | $12,830 | $153,940 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $88.44 | $3,538 | $15,330 | $183,960 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA?
| Hourly | $67.63 |
| Weekly | $2,705 |
| Monthly | $11,720 |
| Annual | $140,670 |
HOW MUCH DO PMHNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF NORTH DAKOTA?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Bismarck | $67.05 | $2,682 | $11,620 | $139,470 |
| Fargo | $69.41 | $2,777 | $12,030 | $144,380 |
| Grand Forks | $67.50 | $2,700 | $11,700 | $140,410 |
PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA VS. OTHER SALARIES
PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA VS. PMHNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average North Dakota PMHNP Annual Salary | Average National PMHNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $140,670 | $141,470 | -$800 | -0.57% |
PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA VS. PMHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $177,860 | -$37,190 | -20.91% |
| Nevada | $163,690 | -$23,020 | -14.06% |
| Washington | $160,090 | -$19,420 | -12.13% |
| New Jersey | $159,680 | -$19,010 | -11.91% |
| Oregon | $159,590 | -$18,920 | -11.86% |
| Massachusetts | $158,560 | -$17,890 | -11.28% |
| New York | $157,260 | -$16,590 | -10.55% |
| Connecticut | $150,820 | -$10,150 | -6.73% |
| New Mexico | $150,590 | -$9,920 | -6.59% |
| Minnesota | $148,650 | -$7,980 | -5.37% |
| District of Columbia | $148,470 | -$7,800 | -5.25% |
| Rhode Island | $146,940 | -$6,270 | -4.27% |
| Hawaii | $146,010 | -$5,340 | -3.66% |
| Arizona | $145,950 | -$5,280 | -3.62% |
| Delaware | $144,350 | -$3,680 | -2.55% |
| Iowa | $144,040 | -$3,370 | -2.34% |
| New Hampshire | $143,950 | -$3,280 | -2.28% |
| Texas | $143,140 | -$2,470 | -1.73% |
| Wisconsin | $141,290 | -$620 | -0.44% |
| Maryland | $140,920 | -$250 | -0.18% |
| Utah | $140,730 | -$60 | -0.04% |
| North Dakota | $140,670 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Pennsylvania | $140,320 | +$350 | +0.25% |
| Illinois | $139,720 | +$950 | +0.68% |
| Alaska | $138,920 | +$1,750 | +1.26% |
| Vermont | $138,840 | +$1,830 | +1.32% |
| Montana | $137,230 | +$3,440 | +2.51% |
| Idaho | $137,130 | +$3,540 | +2.58% |
| Oklahoma | $136,890 | +$3,780 | +2.76% |
| Wyoming | $136,040 | +$4,630 | +3.40% |
| Indiana | $135,780 | +$4,890 | +3.60% |
| Maine | $135,360 | +$5,310 | +3.92% |
| Ohio | $135,280 | +$5,390 | +3.98% |
| Colorado | $134,310 | +$6,360 | +4.74% |
| Nebraska | $133,970 | +$6,700 | +5.00% |
| North Carolina | $133,870 | +$6,800 | +5.08% |
| Georgia | $133,390 | +$7,280 | +5.46% |
| South Dakota | $133,200 | +$7,470 | +5.61% |
| Virginia | $133,080 | +$7,590 | +5.70% |
| Michigan | $132,870 | +$7,800 | +5.87% |
| Florida | $131,800 | +$8,870 | +6.73% |
| Kansas | $131,320 | +$9,350 | +7.12% |
| Louisiana | $130,660 | +$10,010 | +7.66% |
| Mississippi | $129,360 | +$11,310 | +8.74% |
| South Carolina | $128,750 | +$11,920 | +9.26% |
| Missouri | $128,470 | +$12,200 | +9.50% |
| West Virginia | $124,910 | +$15,760 | +12.62% |
| Arkansas | $124,870 | +$15,800 | +12.65% |
| Kentucky | $121,520 | +$19,150 | +15.76% |
| Alabama | $121,130 | +$19,540 | +16.13% |
| Tennessee | $114,200 | +$26,470 | +23.18% |
PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN NORTH DAKOTA
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $234,950 | -$94,280 | -40.13% |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $140,670 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Post-secondary | $82,580 | +$58,090 | +70.34% |
| Registered Nurse | $79,190 | +$61,480 | +77.64% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $57,530 | +$83,140 | +144.52% |
| Nursing Assistant | $41,020 | +$99,650 | +242.93% |
PMHNP SALARY IN NORTH DAKOTA VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN NORTH DAKOTA
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Dentist | $182,840 | -$42,170 | -23.06% |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $140,670 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Optometrist | $140,620 | +$50 | +0.04% |
| Physician Assistant | $127,350 | +$13,320 | +10.46% |
| Pharmacist | $127,260 | +$13,410 | +10.54% |
| Veterinarian | $107,460 | +$33,210 | +30.90% |
| Physical Therapist | $88,430 | +$52,240 | +59.07% |
| Audiologist | $86,040 | +$54,630 | +63.49% |
| Occupational Therapist | $82,450 | +$58,220 | +70.61% |
| Chiropractor | $80,200 | +$60,470 | +75.40% |
| Dental Hygienist | $80,130 | +$60,540 | +75.55% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $72,900 | +$67,770 | +92.96% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits PMHNP Programs In North Dakota?
| 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 North Dakota?
| 1 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Hour In North Dakota?
| $67.63 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Week In North Dakota?
| $2,705 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Month In North Dakota?
| $11,720 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Psychiatric NP Make Per Year In North Dakota?
| $140,670 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For PMHNPs In North Dakota?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
| +48.28% |
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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