Ready to take the next step on your professional nursing journey? Washington State is currently in the grips of a mental health crisis, and as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner in the Evergreen State, you’ll be able to do something about that. Salaries are high for PMHNPs in Washington, averaging $144,250 a year. Your specialized skills and training will also give you unmatched job security. Many PMHNP programs in Washington offer part-time and full-time enrollment options, so you won’t have to give up working to go back to school if you prefer not to. The list below of the 5 best PMHNP programs in Washington could be your first step toward a dynamic new career.
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 5 best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Washington.)
About University of Washington: University of Washington offers one of the best online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Washington. Whether you desire to make a difference in your community or want to play top-level leadership roles, this nursing school’s PMHNP program equips you with the relevant skillset to achieve your professional & personal aspirations.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: This BSN-to-DNP program is a three-year study plan that seamlessly helps you obtain a terminal nursing degree. The program combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical experiences to prepare graduates to work in a variety of patient care settings such as correctional facilities, schools, community health centers, and home health agencies, to name a few. The program offers a perfect balance of online and on-campus learning by offering 50% of courses in person and 50% of the courses online.
In the first year of this PMHNP program in Washington, you’ll learn about leadership, health equity, health systems & policy, quality improvement, and wellness & health promotion. Year two of the program focuses on topics such as pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, and pharmacology. The third year mainly entails completing the remaining didactic courses and continuing with the clinicals. The third year also requires students to complete a DNP project.
Why Choose University of Washington PMHNP Program
• University of Washington nursing school is ranked among the nation’s best nursing schools as per the U.S. News & World Report.About Pacific Lutheran University: If you prefer the close-knit environment of a small PMHNP school, then Pacific Lutheran University is a great pick. The school is Washington’s leading school, offering students the benefit of learning in an environment where the faculty knows students by their names. Here, PMHNP students can choose from three options, including a BSN-to-DNP, an MSN-to-DNP, and a post-graduate certificate.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: One of the best psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Washington, this BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program comes with part-time and full-time options. On a part-time basis, you can complete the program within three years, whereas if you enroll full-time, you can graduate within four years. The program comprises a total of 90 semester credits, covering topics such as evidence-based practice, organizational & systems leadership, analytical methods, and epidemiology & biostatistics. The program also includes classes in policy & politics, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacotherapeutics, and evaluation & outcomes research. Students also attend classes in assessment, diagnosis & management, and psychiatric mental health care for individuals & families across the lifespan.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: Whether you are a masters prepared APRN or a non-APRN, this MSN-to-DNP will equip you with doctoral-level knowledge and specialized skills in psychiatric mental health care. The exact credit requirements for this program are based on a gap analysis. Upon completion of this program, you’ll earn a doctorate and be prepared to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: Designed for APRNs who want to expand their scope of practice by adding the PMHNP certification, this post-graduate certificate is a quick route to becoming a highly-skilled PMHNP. This PMHNP program in Washington mainly focuses on psychiatric mental health care of mental health patients in a variety of healthcare settings.
Why Choose Pacific Lutheran University PMHNP Program
• Pacific Lutheran University PMHNP program’s small-sized classes provide personalized attention and allow for an engaging learning experience.About Washington State University: Washington State University offers employable PMHNP training by providing ample hands-on experiences. Also, because the school actively engages in innovative research to resolve some of the pressing healthcare issues, students can explore many insightful learning opportunities. Here, you can choose from two excellent PMHNP programs, a BSN-to-DNP or an MSN-to-DNP.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Among the well-known psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Washington, WSU’s BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program is a practice-based program that prepares graduates for the highest level of clinical expertise. The program can be completed within three to four years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. The coursework comprises 77 credits and includes 1140 hours of clinical training. The program includes classes in the analytical foundations for practice inquiry, organizational systems & leadership, evidence-based practice, advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology and healthcare law, policy & analysis. Students also take courses in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis & management of adults & geriatrics. The program also requires students to complete a DNP project towards the end.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: The MSN-to-DNP-PMHNP is an excellent choice if you seamlessly want to earn a doctorate and PMHNP certification. This psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Washington consists of 72 credits and 1140 practicum hours. Students mainly complete courses in the doctoral core and PMHNP specialization, after which they earn a DNP and are prepared to sit for the PMHNP certification exam.
Why Choose Washington State University PMHNP Program
• Washington State University is one of the highest recipients of funding from the NIH.About Gonzaga University: Gonzaga University’s PMHNP programs are guided by Jesuit traditions, preparing graduates to provide patient care with a holistic approach. Here, you can choose from three PMHNP options, including, an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, and a second MSN degree. The 100% online format of Gonzaga’s PMHNP programs easily fits into the lives of working nurses.
MSN Program Details: Gonzaga’s MSN-PMHNP program prepares graduates for psychiatric mental health nursing practice in a variety of healthcare settings. The coursework comprises 47 credits and spans nine semesters. While the program is fully online, students must be prepared to attend five on-campus immersions. This MSN-psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Washington covers topics such as information technology, evidence-based practice, contemporary health environment, and clinical prevention for diverse populations. Also, students attend classes in advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, health assessment, and psychiatric mental health concepts.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program combines rigorous didactic courses and diverse clinical experience in psychiatric mental health. The program comprises 78 credits and at least 1,000 hours of clinical experience. While the average completion time of this program is five years, you can complete it sooner, provided you enroll full-time. Upon completion of the core graduate courses, PMHNP-related courses, the DNP project, and clinical experiences, you will be well-versed in playing leadership roles where you’ll positively influence healthcare delivery.
Second MSN Degree Program Details: If you already have an MSN in another specialization and are now aspiring to enter the field of psychiatric mental health care, then this second MSN degree program is right for you. The program comprises 47 credits and includes 660 clinical hours. Students take classes in MSN core and in the PMHNP specialty. Upon completing this program, you’ll earn your second MSN and be prepared to take the PMHNP certification exam.
Why Choose Gonzaga University PMHNP Program
• Gonzaga University has been offering high-quality online education since 2004. The PMHNP programs effectively meet the high standards of the school’s online education. Besides, the online classes allow 24/7 access to accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses.About Seattle University: If you want to transform mental health care, then obtaining your PMHNP training from Seattle University is a good idea. By offering two excellent PMHNP programs in Washington, the school nurtures leaders who are prepared to lead & transform healthcare systems. Here, there are two PMHNP options, a BSN-to-DNP and a post-doctorate certificate.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program spans three to four years and trains you to provide psychiatric mental health care for individuals & families across the lifespan. You’ll be prepared to work in hospitals, outpatient facilities, and community centers, serving diverse patient populations. Some of the topics covered in the BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP coursework include clinical reasoning, leadership in healthcare systems, health informatics, population-based healthcare, and quality improvement processes & methodologies. Students also attend classes in healthcare policy and the healthcare system.
Post-Doctorate Certificate Program Details: If you are a current NP with a doctorate and want to expand your scope of practice, then Seattle University’s post-graduate certificate is an excellent choice. The program builds on your advanced practice doctoral nursing education and requires you to complete courses only on psychiatric mental health. As a graduate of this program, you’ll be eligible to take the PMHNP certification exam.
Why Choose Seattle University PMHNP Program
• Seattle University’s PMHNP programs provide students with diverse clinical experiences at some of the leading healthcare organizations.Hourly | $50.81 |
Weekly | $2,033 |
Monthly | $8,810 |
Annual | $105,690 |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual | |
Entry-Level | $50.81 | $2,033 | $8,810 | $105,690 | |
1-4 Years of Experience | $59.81 | $2,393 | $10,370 | $124,410 | |
5-9 Years of Experience | $64.52 | $2,581 | $11,180 | $134,200 | |
10-19 Years of Experience | $73.32 | $2,933 | $12,710 | $152,510 | |
20 Years or More Experience | $80.69 | $3,228 | $13,990 | $167,840 | |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Hourly | $65.19 |
Weekly | $2,608 |
Monthly | $11,300 |
Annual | $135,590 |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Metro | Hourly | Monthly | Annual | ||
Bellingham | $57.46 | $9,960 | $119,520 | ||
Bremerton-Silverdale | $57.80 | $10,020 | $120,220 | ||
Kennewick-Richland | $61.85 | $10,720 | $128,640 | ||
Longview | $62.89 | $10,900 | $130,820 | ||
Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $61.11 | $10,590 | $127,100 | ||
Olympia-Tumwater | $62.58 | $10,850 | $130,160 | ||
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $67.26 | $11,660 | $139,900 | ||
Spokane-Spokane Valley | $59.90 | $10,380 | $124,600 | ||
Wenatchee | $62.19 | $10,780 | $129,350 | ||
Yakima | $58.29 | $10,100 | $121,250 | ||
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Average Washington PMHNP Annual Salary | Average National PMHNP Annual Salary | Difference | |||
Number | % | ||||
$135,590 | $124,680 | +$10,910 | +8.75% | ||
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
Number | % | ||||
California | $158,130 | -$22,540 | -14.25% | ||
New Jersey | $143,250 | -$7,660 | -5.35% | ||
New York | $141,470 | -$5,880 | -4.16% | ||
Massachusetts | $138,700 | -$3,110 | -2.24% | ||
Oregon | $136,250 | -$660 | -0.48% | ||
Nevada | $136,230 | -$640 | -0.47% | ||
Washington | $135,590 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
Connecticut | $131,490 | +$4,100 | +3.12% | ||
District of Columbia | $131,270 | +$4,320 | +3.29% | ||
New Mexico | $129,560 | +$6,030 | +4.65% | ||
Hawaii | $128,310 | +$7,280 | +5.67% | ||
Iowa | $128,180 | +$7,410 | +5.78% | ||
Minnesota | $128,160 | +$7,430 | +5.80% | ||
New Hampshire | $125,780 | +$9,810 | +7.80% | ||
Rhode Island | $125,250 | +$10,340 | +8.26% | ||
Texas | $124,660 | +$10,930 | +8.77% | ||
Illinois | $122,310 | +$13,280 | +10.86% | ||
Oklahoma | $121,740 | +$13,850 | +11.38% | ||
Indiana | $121,730 | +$13,860 | +11.39% | ||
Arizona | $121,410 | +$14,180 | +11.68% | ||
Wisconsin | $121,210 | +$14,380 | +11.86% | ||
Delaware | $120,570 | +$15,020 | +12.46% | ||
Pennsylvania | $120,550 | +$15,040 | +12.48% | ||
Montana | $119,960 | +$15,630 | +13.03% | ||
Maryland | $119,650 | +$15,940 | +13.32% | ||
Nebraska | $118,970 | +$16,620 | +13.97% | ||
Maine | $118,300 | +$17,290 | +14.62% | ||
Louisiana | $118,210 | +$17,380 | +14.70% | ||
Idaho | $117,720 | +$17,870 | +15.18% | ||
Ohio | $117,440 | +$18,150 | +15.45% | ||
Mississippi | $117,260 | +$18,330 | +15.63% | ||
Virginia | $116,980 | +$18,610 | +15.91% | ||
Vermont | $116,610 | +$18,980 | +16.28% | ||
Colorado | $116,440 | +$19,150 | +16.45% | ||
Alaska | $116,390 | +$19,200 | +16.50% | ||
South Dakota | $115,610 | +$19,980 | +17.28% | ||
Utah | $115,610 | +$19,980 | +17.28% | ||
Georgia | $115,440 | +$20,150 | +17.45% | ||
Wyoming | $115,230 | +$20,360 | +17.67% | ||
North Carolina | $114,450 | +$21,140 | +18.47% | ||
North Dakota | $113,940 | +$21,650 | +19.00% | ||
Michigan | $113,780 | +$21,810 | +19.17% | ||
Missouri | $113,180 | +$22,410 | +19.80% | ||
Kansas | $111,670 | +$23,920 | +21.42% | ||
Florida | $110,310 | +$25,280 | +22.92% | ||
Kentucky | $109,290 | +$26,300 | +24.06% | ||
South Carolina | $109,130 | +$26,460 | +24.25% | ||
Arkansas | $107,110 | +$28,480 | +26.59% | ||
West Virginia | $106,790 | +$28,800 | +26.97% | ||
Alabama | $106,610 | +$28,980 | +27.18% | ||
Tennessee | $99,330 | +$36,260 | +36.50% | ||
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
Number | % | ||||
Nurse Anesthetist | $222,610 | -$87,020 | -39.09% | ||
Nurse Midwife | $135,780 | -$190 | -0.14% | ||
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $135,590 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
Registered Nurse | $101,670 | +$33,920 | +33.36% | ||
Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $81,940 | +$53,650 | +65.47% | ||
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $69,950 | +$65,640 | +93.84% | ||
Nursing Assistant | $42,430 | +$93,160 | +219.56% | ||
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
Number | % | ||||
Physician | $253,760 | -$118,170 | -46.57% | ||
Podiatrist | $196,130 | -$60,540 | -30.87% | ||
Physician Assistant | $145,390 | -$9,800 | -6.74% | ||
Pharmacist | $138,580 | -$2,990 | -2.16% | ||
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $135,590 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
Optometrist | $125,760 | +$9,830 | +7.82% | ||
Veterinarian | $124,200 | +$11,390 | +9.17% | ||
Physical Therapist | $101,130 | +$34,460 | +34.07% | ||
Audiologist | $95,320 | +$40,270 | +42.25% | ||
Occupational Therapist | $94,450 | +$41,140 | +43.56% | ||
Speech-Language Pathologist | $93,690 | +$41,900 | +44.72% | ||
Chiropractor | $86,410 | +$49,180 | +56.91% | ||
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
5 |
$65.19 |
$2,608 |
$11,300 |
$135,590 |
10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
+51.34% |
(Source: Careeronestop.org) |