10 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio (Online & Campus) – 2025


Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN

Ohio-based psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners earn $119,680 annually on average. The demand for their services is expected to soar by nearly 49 percent in the next decade. As a graduate of one of the PMHNP programs in Ohio, you’ll be qualified to work with patients of all ages and in practice settings ranging from civilian, military, and veterans’ hospitals to addiction treatment centers and community mental health agencies. Could this be a career path for you? Find out by reading about the 10 best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio for 2025.


FOLLOWING ARE THE 10 BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN OHIO (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 10 best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Ohio.)


1. The Ohio State University - Columbus


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

About the School: If you are looking for a great psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio, Ohio State University – Columbus is a great option. The university offers four pathways to earn a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Ohio State University is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best schools in the nation for nursing, including a ranking for offering one of the top Online Master’s in Nursing program in the nation.

Ohio State University boasts of experienced, dedicated faculty who collaborate with you to develop a plan of study that promotes your success. You will learn through a curriculum based on best evidence-based practices, which promote positive patient outcomes and help improve healthcare for individuals, families, and populations. The university offers experiential opportunities through its global engagement initiatives, research opportunities, and a culture of support and self-care to support all PMHNP students.

Traditional MSN Program Details: If you have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and are ready to advance your career in nursing to the next level, the Traditional MSN program at Ohio State University is a great option. This program is one of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio. Coursework is offered online with synchronous and asynchronous course offerings. Minimal on-campus visits may be required for lab intensives, skills checkoffs, and other important meetings. Full-time students can complete the program in two years. Part-time students usually take three years to graduate.

The PMHP program includes a 64-credit hour curriculum. The courses cover topics such as Neuroscience Principles & Concepts Relevant to Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Therapies Across the Lifespan and Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan.

You can complete clinical requirements locally in your home area. All students in the MSN-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program complete at least 600 clinical hours.

Graduate Entry MSN Program Details: The Graduate-Entry MSN Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program is an excellent option for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree who desire to earn a master’s in nursing and specialization as a PMHNP. This program admits students once each year in the summer semester. The Graduate-Entry MSN-PMHNP pathway is delivered in a hybrid format with a mixture of online and campus-based classes. It is only offered full-time, year-round, and is designed to be completed in three years.

The Graduate-Entry MSN program focuses on four curriculum areas: pre-licensure curriculum, graduate core curriculum, specialty core courses, and clinical experiences. Once pre-licensure courses are complete, you will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and then progress into the graduate and specialty core courses and MSN clinicals.

The Graduate-Entry MSN-PMHNP program includes a curriculum of 103 credits. You will begin the program with pre-licensure courses such as Introduction to Health Assessment, Cultural competence in Healthcare: U.S. & Global Contexts, and Pathophysiology of Altered Health States. After completing pre-licensure courses, you will take graduate and specialty core courses, including Neuroscience Principles & Concepts Relevant to Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan, and Innovation Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice.

Students in the Graduate-Entry MSN program complete a minimum of 600 preceptor-supervised clinical hours.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Ohio State offers another excellent doctoral-level online psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio. The BSN-to-DNP program awards both a master’s and a doctorate in nursing.

The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program is only offered in an online format. You may choose to pursue your studies part-time or full-time. Part-time students can complete the program in four years. Full-time students typically take three years to graduate.

The BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program features an 87-credit hour curriculum. In this pathway, you will study topics, including Innovation & Leadership Development for the DNP Nurse, Advanced Practice Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing, and Ethics in Healthcare Practice, Research, & Policy.

All post-baccalaureate DNP students must complete a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. At least 500 clinical hours will be completed through specialty courses. Another 500 hours are earned through completion of your DNP Scholarly Project. Most hands-on clinical requirements can be completed at your place of employment, with approval from your employer and clinical advisor.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you are searching for an online option to earn a post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ohio State University has a program worth considering. The Post Master’s PMHNP Certificate Program offers master’s-prepared advanced practice registered nurses the opportunity to study online and specialize as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. The online format makes it possible for you to continue working throughout the program.

The Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate program admits students once yearly in the fall semester. The time it takes to complete the program varies and depends upon your previous master’s program coursework. However, most students complete the program in three or four semesters.

Some of the courses required in the Post-Master's Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner pathway include Advanced Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing Therapies Across the Lifespan, Pathophysiology of Altered Health States, and Assessment & Management of Child & Adolescent Mental Health Issues. All Post-Master's PMHNP students complete at least 500 direct-care clinical hours.


2. Case Western Reserve University - Cleveland


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

About the School: Case Western Reserve University-Cleveland has two more options if you are searching for a PMHNP program in Ohio. Located in the north-east corner of Ohio, the school of nursing is recognized globally for being a leader in education through their accredited nursing programs. Many of their graduates have gone on to be the leaders of other nursing programs and associations throughout the world, which speaks well of the preparation you will receive as a student at Case Western Reserve University. The clinical experiences and rigorous coursework of this PMHNP program in Ohio makes it one of the best.

MSN Program Details: The MSN-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program is one of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio. The program admits students once yearly in the fall. You may pursue the MSN-PMHNP part-time or full-time. Part-time students complete the program in three years, and full-time students can graduate in as few as four consecutive semesters.

The MSN-PMHNP pathway features a 45-credit hour curriculum. You will study in classes, including Advanced Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan, Individual & Group Modalities for Family Systems Practice Across the Lifespan, and Modalities for Family Systems Practice for Vulnerable Family Populations.

The MSN-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program includes intensive and NP core course requirements that meet on-campus. Other classes are web-based. In addition to the required coursework, you will complete 720 hours of hands-on clinical practice.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you have a master’s degree in nursing but wish to pursue certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, the Case Western Reserve University Post-Master's Certificate program could be a good option. The program offers a hybrid mix of online course content and short campus-based learning experiences. The program is designed to be completed in 12 months.

The Post-Master's Certificate program allows you to take a few extra courses to enrich your MSN degree with a specialty focus on psychiatric nurse practitioner knowledge and skills. You will study in classes such as Modalities for Family Systems Practice: Vulnerable Family Populations, Theoretical Basis of Practicum & Supervision in Consultation, Collaboration & Mental Health Education, and Leadership for Quality Healthcare within Organizations & Systems. The program includes 500 hours of specialty-relevant clinical practicum.


3. University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati


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

About the School: Two more of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio can be found at the University of Cincinnati. The University of Cincinnati School of Nursing is a pioneer in nursing education, having offered nursing programs for more than 20 years. The school is nationally recognized for its endeavors to promote diversity and inclusion, high academic standards, and support of evidence-based nursing research.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you have your bachelor’s in nursing and one year of work experience as a registered nurse and desire to become a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, the University of Cincinnati has an excellent option. The university offers a BSN-to-DNP with specialization as a PMHNP, which is an excellent PMHNP program in Ohio.

The program is offered in an online format with a few on-campus visits required. On-campus visits include a two-day orientation during the first semester, an optional half-day DNP summer workshop, and one visit in the last semester to defend your DNP project. The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program is designed for part-time or full-time attendance. Full-time students can complete the program in three years or nine semesters. Part-time students typically graduate in four years.

The program features a curriculum of 77 to 82 credits. In this pathway, you will take classes including Theoretical Basis for Clinical Reasoning, Clinical Psychiatric Diagnostics & Management of Adults, and Psychopathological Disorders Across the Lifespan. DNP students in all specialties must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with a Master of Science in Nursing, you can apply to the Post-Master's Certificate PMHNP program at the University of Cincinnati, another excellent psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio. The program is offered in a fully online format and features a two-day virtual program intensive designed to allow you to meet instructors and experience the culture of the university.

The PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate program can be completed in four semesters and includes 19 credit hours. Some of the coursework includes Psychopathological Disorders Across the Lifespan, Neurobiology & Psychopharmacology Life Cycle Perspectives, and Role of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Promoting Health.

The Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate program includes 504 clinical hours. Clinical hours are divided among rotations with pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients in a variety of psychiatric care settings.


4. University of Toledo - Toledo


Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate

About the School: The University of Toledo has a long history of more than 50 years of educating and preparing professional nurses for practice. The College of Nursing offers an innovative nursing curriculum, expert faculty, and a philosophy of care centered on patients, families, and populations. The University of Toledo is ranked among the top nursing schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. With excellent national certification exam pass rates, it is no surprise that the University of Toledo is home to some of the best online PMHNP programs in Ohio.

MSN Program Details: The Master of Science in Nursing-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree at the University of Toledo is offered in a hybrid format with online course offerings, a few on-campus visits, and in-person clinical rotations. Full-time students can complete the program in seven semesters. Part-time students may take up to ten semesters to graduate. The program admits students twice yearly in the spring and fall semesters.

The MSN-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program involves 56 credit hours of coursework, including classes such as Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics, Family & Cultural Diversity Theories, and Advanced Interpersonal Interventions. Students complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours. However, it is not unusual for some students to participate in more than 600 clinical hours.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Toledo is one of the first institutions to offer a psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio that allows you to go from a BSN to a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The BSN-to-DNP track is a great option for baccalaureate-prepared nurses desiring to earn a DNP and become Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. The program can be completed in ten semesters of full-time study.

The BSN-to-DNP program requires students to complete between 69 and 74 credits. In this pathway, you will learn in classes, including Advanced Research for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice, Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics, and Public Policy & Healthcare.

The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program is designed so that coursework is completed during the first two years of the program and clinical rotations and DNP Scholarly Projects are completed in the final two years. All students complete between 1,080 and 1,170 clinical hours.

MSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a master’s-prepared registered nurse looking for an online option to earn your DNP and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, the University of Toledo can help! The school offers a 100% online MSN-to-DNP program with the option to specialize as a PMHNP. You can complete the MSN-to-DNP program in two years full-time or three years part-time.

If you already have your master’s degree in nursing, you can continue your education by receiving a Doctor of Nursing practice. This program includes up to 69 credits of coursework, depending on previous earned and transferable credits. You will study subjects, including Introduction to Biostatistical Methods, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology, and Psychopharmacotherapeutics. All DNP students must complete at least 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: The Post-Graduate Certificate program is a great option for registered nurses who have a current MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and who want to expand their practice to become certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. The program offers three start dates annually in the spring, summer, and fall semesters, making it easy for you to earn your certificate at a time most convenient for you. Once admitted, the online Post-Graduate PMHNP program takes approximately three semesters to complete part-time.

Candidates must complete prerequisite courses including Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, and Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics. The program features a 23-credit hour curriculum and includes a minimum of 560 direct-care clinical hours in various psychiatric care settings.


5. Ohio University - Athens


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

About the School: Ohio University-Athens is home to one of the nation’s largest health-related colleges, the Ohio University College of Health Sciences and Professions. The university is ranked by U.S. News & World Report for having some of the best online nursing programs, making it an excellent choice to pursue a psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio. The university offers four pathways to earn a degree and become eligible to take the national certification examination to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

MSN Program Details: The MSN-PMHNP program in Ohio at Ohio University-Athens is offered in an online format, making it an excellent option for busy nurses desiring to earn a graduate degree and become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Registered nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing and an active, unrestricted license to practice as an RN may apply.

The seven-semester program includes a 38-credit hour curriculum. In this pathway, you will take classes including Neurobiological & Theoretical Bases for Psychiatric Mental health in Advanced Nursing Practice, Psychotherapeutic Treatment Modalities for Advanced Nursing Practice, and Analysis of Evidence-Based Practice for Advanced Nursing Practice.

Clinical practicum begins in the fifth semester and continues through the remainder of the program. All students in the MSN-PMHNP program complete at least 500 clinical practice hours under the direct supervision of an approved preceptor.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The BSN-to-DNP program offers registered nurses with a BSN the opportunity to earn a terminal nursing degree and specialize as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. Candidates seeking admission to this program must have a BSN, an unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse, and two years of professional work experience as an RN.

The program is offered in an online format with a few on-campus intensives. It is designed in a part-time plan of study and can be completed in four and a half years.

The BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program features a 74-credit curriculum. Some of the topics studied in this program include Epidemiology & Population Health, Promotion of Quality Healthcare through Advanced Nursing Practice, and Analysis of Evidence-Based Practice for Advanced Nursing Practice.

Practicum experiences occur throughout the program and include rotations in various psychiatric care settings. By the time you complete the BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program, you will have earned at least 1,000 clinical practice hours.

MSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a master’s-prepared registered nurse with at least two years of work experience looking for one of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio, the Ohio University has an MSN-to-DNP option that could interest you. The MSN-to-DNP program is designed to build upon previous knowledge and skills acquired in your master’s nursing program. The program takes two years to complete and is offered in an online format with a few on-campus intensives.

The MSN-to-DNP program includes a 36-credit hour curriculum. You will study in classes including Promotion of quality Healthcare Through Advanced Nursing Practice, Health Policy & Advocacy for Advanced Nursing Practice, and Informatics for Advanced Practice Nursing. Although the program’s curriculum includes 500 clinical hours, keep in mind that all DNP students must accomplish at least 1,000 post-BSN clinical hours. Therefore, a GAP analysis will determine the number of clinical hours needed on an individual basis.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate program is designed for individuals who have a master’s degree in nursing but desire to expand their advanced practice role to include that of a PMHNP. The program admits students once yearly and is offered in an online format on a part-time basis only. The plan of study is designed to be completed in three semesters.

One of the unique things about this program is that it begins with a clinical placement. The 20-credit hour program focuses on evidence-based practice strategies. The curriculum includes three clinical courses, each with a corresponding clinical practicum, and a culminating DNP Capstone Project. You will complete 500 clinical practice hours over the course of the three-semester program.


6. Kent State University - Kent


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

About the School: Another great option for online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio is offered at Kent State University. The school is dedicated to preparing the next generation of nursing leaders who are ready to succeed in the world. At KSU, you can choose from the MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate pathways to earn your credentials and prepare for eligibility for the national certification exam as a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner.

MSN Program Details: The Kent State University Master of Science in Nursing program with PMHNP concentration is designed to prepare you for an advanced practice nursing role and certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is offered in a fully online format and admits students twice each year in the fall and spring semesters. You may choose a full-time study format which can be completed in two full academic years. Part-time students take three to four years to graduate.

The MSN-PMHNP program features a 46-credit hour curriculum. You will take four major courses: Advanced Nursing Informatics, Health Policy & Advanced Nursing Practice, Theoretical Basis for Nursing Practice, and Methods of Inquiry. Following the major core requirements, you will transition to the PMHNP specialty courses and clinicals. Specialty concentration courses include Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Neurobiology & Psychopharmacology of Major Psychiatric Disorders, and Medication Management & Individual Therapy Practicum. The program includes four practicum experiences through which you will complete a total of at least 600 clinical hours.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you have already earned your BSN and are ready to advance your career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice, the Kent State University BSN-to-DNP program is a great program to consider. This program will allow you to gain the knowledge to advance your career by gaining the leadership and clinical skills you need to succeed as a PMHNP.

The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program option features online core courses, campus-based practice role classes, and clinical experiences near your home. The program typically takes four years to complete. The first two years focus on the advanced practice psychiatric NP role.

After you complete the necessary coursework and clinical hours, you will receive a Master of Science in Nursing and be eligible for certification. The remainder of the program focuses on DNP coursework and clinicals and the DNP Scholarly Project.

The BSN-to-DNP curriculum for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners consists of 71-79 credit hours of coursework. You will study Neurobiology & Psychopharmacology of Major Psychiatric Disorders, Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, and Family & Group Therapy. Students complete between 1,050 and 1,200 preceptor-supervised clinical hours.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The fully online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio offered at Kent State University is a perfect option for registered nurses with a master’s degree seeking a terminal doctorate with a specialization as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. The program, which offers three start dates yearly, can be completed in as few as three semesters.

Over the course of the program, you will complete 25 credit hours and complete 500 clinical practice hours. You will study topics including Individual Psychotherapy, Individual, Organization, & Community consultation, and Family & Group Therapy.


7. Ursuline College - Pepper Pike


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

About the School: Ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top graduate nursing programs in the nation, Ursuline College is a wonderful place to pursue one of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio. The school boasts of outstanding nurse graduate employment rates following licensure and certification, and most graduates pass their national certification exams on the first attempt. With dedicated, doctoral-prepared faculty to lead your academic journey, Ursuline College is an excellent option for earning PMHNP credentials.

MSN Program Details: Baccalaureate-prepared nurses with at least one year of work experience as a registered nurse and a current, unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse in Ohio may apply for the MSN-PMHNP program. The program is offered in a hybrid format with full-time and part-time options. Full-time students graduate in seven semesters. Part-time students usually take ten semesters to complete the program. The MSN program offers start dates in the fall and spring semesters. Students engage in most coursework online but may be required to come to campus for minimal intensive experiences, lab skills checkoffs, testing, and meetings with faculty advisors.

The MSN-PMHNP curriculum consists of 42 credit hours. In this program, you will take classes including Neurobiology & Psychopharmacology, Psychiatric Diagnostics & Management of Children, and Health Promotion, Maintenance, & Restoration. The program includes practicum experiences where you will earn at least 500 hours of hands-on patient care experience in a variety of psychiatric care settings.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Ursuline College offers a BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program in Ohio and allows you to earn a Master of Science in Nursing along the way to your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The program is delivered in a hybrid format including online coursework and in-person laboratory intensives and clinical practicums.

The BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program features a 75-credit hour curriculum. It is designed to be completed in three years full-time. Part-time students may take four or five years to graduate, depending on the course load.

The curriculum includes classes such as Advanced Physiology & Pathology, Advanced Practice Ethical & Legal Responsibilities, and Systems Interventions for Individuals & Groups. The curriculum includes 500 clinical hours. However, some students may need more hours to meet guidelines for DNP clinical requirements, as outlined in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Nationally certified Adult Gerontology CNS, Adult Gerontology Primary Care NPs, Adult Gerontology Acute Care NPs, and Family Nurse Practitioners desiring to add a new certification or transition their roles and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner may apply for admission to the Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate program. The program offers online coursework and in-person clinical experiences. Full-time students can complete the program in two semesters.

The program offers a 16-credit curriculum consisting of four classes: Neurobiology & Psychopharmacology, Systems Interventions for Individuals & Groups, Psychiatric Diagnostics & Management of Adults, and Psychiatric Diagnostics & Management of Children. The program includes 500 hours of direct-contact clinical experience.


8. The University of Akron - Akron


Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate

About the School: The University of Akron offers two options for prospective students seeking online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio. The University of Akron School of Nursing believes “nurses are the backbone of today’s healthcare system.” The university works to prepare strong nurse leaders ready to tackle important healthcare issues, like the need for qualified psychiatric care providers.

MSN Program Details: The MSN program with PMHNP concentration is an excellent option for BSN registered nurses seeking the next step in nursing degrees. Students complete most coursework online and may have a few on-campus visits. The program is offered with part-time and full-time options. Students graduate in two to four years, depending on enrollment status and course load.

The program includes a 46-credit hour curriculum, including nursing core, advanced PMHNP core courses, and advanced PMHNP courses. In this program, you will study in classes such as Psychiatric Mental Health for Advanced Practice Nursing, Clinical Psychopharmacology, and Psychiatric Disorders Across the Lifespan & Group Modalities. Students complete 500 clinical practice hours.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master's Certificate program is another outstanding option for individuals seeking a PMHNP program in Ohio and who already have an MSN degree. Candidates must have a minimum of two years of work experience as a registered nurse and must maintain a current, unrestricted RN license throughout the program. The program is delivered in a hybrid format combining online coursework and face-to-face clinical experiences. It is designed to be completed in three semesters.

The Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate program includes a 26-credit curriculum built upon the foundation of advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. A few classes you will take include Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, Advanced Mental Health Assessment Across the Lifespan, and Clinical Psychopharmacology. You will complete 600 hours of clinical practicum as part of the program.


9. Cleveland State University - Cleveland


Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP

About the School: Cleveland State University is home to another of the best online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Ohio. The School of Nursing boasts of experienced, dedicated faculty with a wide range of specialty areas. Their contributions to the school of nursing enhance your experiences and help promote success as you pursue your academic goals.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Cleveland State University offers a post-baccalaureate-to-DNP pathway for students desiring to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is offered in online, on-campus and blended formats and has part-time and full-time study options available. Full-time students can complete the program in 11 semesters.

The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program in Ohio at Cleveland State University features a 92-credit hour curriculum. The rigorous program includes classes such as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Focus on Care of the Family as a Client, Neuropsychopharmacology, and Clinical Psychopharmacology. Students in the BSN-to-DNP program complete a minimum of 1,020 clinical hours.


10. Walsh University - North Canton


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

About the School: Walsh University offers other great options for PMHNP programs in Ohio. Walsh University is dedicated to top-notch nursing education, which is evidenced by high national certification exam pass rates among students in all levels of the school’s nursing programs. The university is situated near some of the nation’s top hospitals. On campus, you will have access to state-of-the-art learning facilities. Additionally, the university offers global learning opportunities to students in its programs, including those pursuing a degree through some of the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs.

MSN Program Details: Walsh University offers another excellent option for master’s-prepared nurses seeking online PMHNP programs in Ohio. The MSN program with a focus on Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner studies features a distance-learning approach and can be completed in three years. Although most coursework is online, you will be required to come to campus twice to participate in laboratory intensives.

The program includes a 58-credit-hour curriculum. You will study foundation courses, practice application courses, and expert knowledge courses. Classes include Application of Epidemiology to Healthcare Services, Advanced Principles of Psychopathology and Psychiatric Assessment & Interview Techniques. The program includes 600 clinical practice hours.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If a doctoral degree is something you see in your future, the BSN-to-DNP with an option to specialize as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner could be the perfect choice. The BSN-to-DNP program is offered in a distance-learning format with most of the coursework delivered online and two on-campus intensive sessions. Full-time students can complete the program in three to four years. Part-time students usually take five years to graduate.

The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP program features a 74-credit hour curriculum. Coursework includes classes such as Clinical Management of Psychiatric Clients, Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, and Physical Assessment & Interview Techniques.

Students in this pathway complete a minimum of 1,100 clinical hours. You will earn 600 clinical hours through PMHNP clinical work and 500 hours through DNP clinical assignments, including completing a DNP Scholarly Project.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you have a Master of Science in Nursing but want to transition your practice to include psychiatric care, the Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate is an excellent option. This program is among the top post-Master's options for nurses seeking a psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Ohio. The Post-Master's PMHNP program is designed to be completed in one year.

The Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate program features online coursework and hands-on clinical experiences. Students in this pathway complete between 31 and 40 credits, depending on previous transferrable credits. All students in the Post-Master's PMHNP program complete 600 preceptor-supervised clinical hours.


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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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