5 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Washington (Online & Campus) – 2025


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

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.


FOLLOWING ARE THE 5 BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN WASHINGTON (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 5 best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Washington.)


1. University of Washington - Seattle


Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP

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.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: University of Washington’s BSN-to-DNP program is open to BSN-prepared registered nurses who have an active RN license. The program also requires applicants to submit their documents, including transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

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.
• University of Washington offers an interprofessional learning environment where PMHNP students are groomed for collaborative practice and innovative research.


2. Pacific Lutheran University - Tacoma


Programs Offered: DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP) and Post Graduate Certificate

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.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for this BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program, applicants must foremost have a BSN and an active RN license. The program also requires applicants to submit their transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

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.


MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The MSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program requires you to have an accredited MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires you to have an active RN license and a current APRN license, in case you already are certified in an area of advanced practice nursing. Other admission requirements include submission of documents and a copy of your licenses.

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.


Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: To gain admission into this post-graduate certificate, the program requires you to have an MSN or a DNP and an active RN and APRN license. To apply, you must be prepared to submit the required documents along with your online application.

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.
• Pacific Lutheran University’s PMHNP is one of the most affordable psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Washington.
• Pacific Lutheran University offers generous financial aid with almost 99% of students receiving some sort of financial assistance.


3. Washington State University - Spokane


Programs Offered: DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP)

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.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To gain admission into this BSN-to-DNP program, you must have an accredited BSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, an active RN license in your state of practice is required. Additionally, the submission of documents such as a resume, an RN license, three references, and all your transcripts.

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.


MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for the MSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program, you must have an accredited MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, you must possess an active and unencumbered RN license.

Why Choose Washington State University PMHNP Program

• Washington State University is one of the highest recipients of funding from the NIH.
• Washington State University’s PMHNP programs are taught by a highly accomplished faculty that stays invested in your journey of becoming a doctorally trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
• Washington State University’s PMHNP programs offer generous financial aid & scholarships to make your education rather affordable.


4. Gonzaga University - Spokane, WA


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

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.


MSN Admission Requirements: To be eligible for this MSN-PMHNP program, applicants must have a BSN from an accredited university. Also, you must have an active RN license. The application requirements also include the submission of official transcripts, two recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and a current resume.

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.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program reviews applications from BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a GPA of at least 3.0. Other admission requirements include the submission of recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a copy of your current RN license, and a professional resume.

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.


Second MSN Degree Admission Requirements: To qualify for the second MSN degree, you must have an accredited MSN with an active certification in another specialty. To qualify, you must have a GPA of at least 3.0. The admission requirements also require applicants to submit their transcripts, two recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and a current RN license.

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.
• Gonzaga University’s PMHNP programs are quite affordable when compared to other online PMHNP programs in Washington. Moreover, the programs also offer scholarships & financial aid opportunities to further bring down the cost of your education.


5. Seattle University - Seattle, WA


Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP and Post-Doctorate Certificate

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.


BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To qualify for this BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program, you must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0. Also, along with having an active RN license, students must be prepared to submit documents such as a professional resume, transcripts, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. This psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Washington also requires applicants to have completed prerequisite courses in psychology, physiology, microbiology, statistics, and chemistry.

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.


Post-Doctorate Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for this post-doctorate certificate, you must have an accredited DNP and a current NP certification.

Why Choose Seattle University PMHNP Program

• Seattle University’s PMHNP programs provide students with diverse clinical experiences at some of the leading healthcare organizations.
• Seattle University’s PMHNP programs offer an interprofessional learning environment where students engage in interprofessional collaboration & practice.


VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



HOW MUCH DO PMHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN WASHINGTON?


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


Hourly$50.81
Weekly$2,033
Monthly$8,810
Annual$105,690
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


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


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)


WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PMHNP SALARY IN WASHINGTON?


Hourly$65.19
Weekly$2,608
Monthly$11,300
Annual$135,590
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)


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


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)



PMHNP SALARY IN WASHINGTON VS. OTHER SALARIES


PMHNP SALARY IN WASHINGTON VS. PMHNP SALARY IN THE NATION


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)


PMHNP SALARY IN WASHINGTON VS. PMHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES


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)


PMHNP SALARY IN WASHINGTON VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN WASHINGTON


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)


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


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)



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED


1. WHO ACCREDITS PMHNP PROGRAMS IN WASHINGTON?


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 WASHINGTON?


5


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


$65.19


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


$2,608


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


$11,300


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


$135,590


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


10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030)
+51.34%
(Source: Careeronestop.org)



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