6 Best Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in Wisconsin (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org
Ready to take your nursing career to the next level? As a graduate of one of the PMHNP programs in Wisconsin serving the needs of patients affected by mental illness, you’ll enjoy a salary of $128,950 annually, plus competitive benefits. You’ll have the option of working in many different settings, too, including psychiatric hospitals, wellness clinics, schools, and physicians’ practices. Wisconsin’s mental health crisis has only gotten worse since the COVID-19 pandemic; as a PMHNP in the Badger State, you’ll be part of the solution. Learn more about the educational options available to you with this list of the 6 best PMHNP programs in Wisconsin.
FOLLOWING ARE THE 6 BEST PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS IN WISCONSIN (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 6 best campus-based and online PMHNP programs in Wisconsin.)
1. University of Wisconsin–Madison - Madison
Programs Offered: DNP (BSN-to-DNP & MSN-to-DNP) and Post-Graduate Certificate
About University of Wisconsin–Madison: The University of Wisconsin–Madison nursing school has more than 100 years of experience in training excellent nursing professionals. The school is a leader in innovative research, producing leaders who have influenced healthcare delivery. Offering some of the best online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin, here, based on your previous nursing degree, you can choose the DNP or a post-master's certificate program.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a registered nurse who aspires to practice at the highest level of nursing, then the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s BSN-to-DNP is an excellent choice. Leading to the PMHNP certification, the program comprises 71 credits. Most students complete this program between three to four years, depending on whether they enroll part-time or full-time.
To earn your doctorate, you’ll take classes in nursing research, program planning, evaluation & quality improvement, nursing & health informatics, and evidence-based practice. The program covers topics such as healthcare & public policy, nursing leadership, health promotion & disease prevention, pathophysiology, and pharmacotherapeutics. In addition, you’ll complete courses in psychiatric mental health.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for this BSN-to-DNP-PMHNP program, you must have a baccalaureate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, applicants must possess an active RN license in Wisconsin. Besides, one year of nursing work experience is required.
MSN-to-DNP Program Details: University of Wisconsin–Madison’s MSN-to-DNP is open to master's prepared PMHNPs who want to pursue a doctorate in nursing. The program requires completion of 32 credits. The coursework covers doctoral topics such as program planning, evaluation & quality improvement, nursing & informatics, leadership & organizational decision-making, and advanced practice nursing courses. Upon completion of the program, you’ll obtain your DNP degree.
MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The MSN-to-DNP program accepts applications from students who have a master’s degree in nursing and a GPA of at least 3.5. This PMHNP program in Wisconsin also requires students to have a valid APRN license. An active and unencumbered RN license is also required.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: University of Wisconsin–Madison’s post-graduate certificate is an 18-credit program that builds on your graduate nursing education. Leading to the PMHNP certification, the program emphasizes mental health for patients across the lifespan.
Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: To apply for this certificate program, you must have a master's or doctoral degree. The program also requires you to possess an active and unencumbered RN license.
Why Choose University of Wisconsin–Madison PMHNP Program
• University of Wisconsin–Madison’s graduate program is ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.• University of Wisconsin–Madison PMHNP is offered in small classes where personalized attention is allowed.
• University of Wisconsin–Madison’s faculty members are doctorally prepared, having rich experiences in advanced nursing practice and nursing research.
• The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s PMHNP program boasts 100% pass rates on the APRN certification exam.
2. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - Milwaukee
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP and Graduate Certificate
About University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee should be on your list if you are interested in applying to one of the best online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin. The school combines rigorous didactic training with diverse clinical experiences to offer PMHNP students a well-rounded education.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s BSN-to-DNP program, leading to the PMHNP certification, comprises a total of 65 credits. The coursework starts with foundational concepts in advanced nursing practice, followed by evidence-based practice core, systems core, PMHNP-related courses, and the DNP project. Some of the classes you attend include epidemiological principles for population health, biostatistics, evidence-based care, outcomes & quality management, information systems, health policy, and healthcare organization & systems leadership.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To qualify for this BSN-to-DNP program, you must foremost have a BSN with an active RN license. The program also requires applicants to possess an active RN license and have at least one year of nursing experience. To apply, you must submit three recommendation letters, a personal statement, a resume, and a writing sample.
Graduate Certificate Program Details: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s graduate certificate program is an on-campus program that takes one year to complete. The 18-credit coursework mainly focuses on psychiatric mental health care of patients suffering from psychiatric & mental disorders. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be prepared to take the PMHNP certification exam.
Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: The graduate certificate program is open to APRNs who have either a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. Also, an active RN license is required. This PMHNP program in Wisconsin also requires applicants to submit three recommendation letters, a resume, and a personal goal statement.
Why Choose University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee PMHNP Program
• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s PMHNP program offers generous financial aid to PMHNP students. Students can apply for loans, grants, fellowships, employment discounts, or military benefits.• The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has been contributing to the state’s nursing workforce for more than 50 years now. Over the years, the school has built strong partnerships with leading healthcare centers throughout the state. Therefore, PMHNP students can expect diverse clinical experiences in a variety of clinical settings.
3. Alverno College - Milwaukee
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master's Certificate
About Alverno College: Alverno College offers one of the faith-based psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin. Guided by the Catholic Franciscan traditions, the school grooms students to achieve personal and professional success. Offering a student-centric learning experience, the school offers solid support starting from enrollment, right until your graduation. With two PMHNP options, the school offers an MSN and a post-master's certificate program.
MSN Program Details: Alverno’s MSN-PMHNP program not only transforms the lives of its students but also empowers them to become effective agents of change. The program comprises 42 credits and includes 600 hours of clinical training. Graduates are prepared to use critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and communication to enhance health outcomes for psychiatric mental health patients of all age groups. They will be able to collaborate & manage an interprofessional healthcare team. After completing the program, you’ll be eligible to take the PMHNP certification exam.
MSN Admission Requirements: To apply for this MSN-PMHNP program, you must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, you must be prepared to submit two recommendation letters, official transcripts, a professional statement, a current resume, and a copy of your active and unencumbered nursing license.
Post-Master's Certificate Program Details: For graduate registered nurses who want to expand their scope of practice by becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Alverno’s certificate program is a great option. This PMHNP program in Wisconsin prepares you for a career as a PMHNP within as little as three semesters. The program’s graduation requirements are based on a gap analysis of your transcripts.
Post-Master's Certificate Admission Requirements: To apply for the post-masters certificate, you must have a master's degree or higher. Also, an active and unencumbered RN license is required. To complete the application, submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and a copy of your RN license is required.
Why Choose Alverno College PMHNP Program
• Alverno College’s PMHNP program boasts of an excellent placement rate, having most graduates find suitable jobs soon upon graduation.• Alverno College is Wisconsin’s first Hispanic-serving institution, enrolling a diverse student population.
• Alverno College offers financial aid to help make your PMHNP education more affordable.
4. Concordia University Wisconsin - Mequon
Programs Offered: Post-Graduate Certificate
About Concordia University Wisconsin: If you are passionate about mental health and want to make a career out of it, then applying to Concordia University Wisconsin’s PMHNP program is an excellent first step. The school offers Christ-centered PMHNP education to prepare advanced practitioners with a holistic approach. For more than 137 years, the school has changed the lives of its students who come from different parts of the nation.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: Concordia’s post-graduate certificate is an 18-credit coursework that prepares you for several career options, including counseling, therapy, mental health practitioner, etc. Within as little as one year, this psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Wisconsin builds your knowledge in neurobiology, neuropathophysiology, psychotherapy, and psychiatric mental health care. In addition, students must also complete 500 clinical hours. The fully online format of the program allows working nurses to continue working while pursuing their advanced practice nurse education.
Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: Among the sought-after online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin, to gain admission into Concordia’s post-graduate certificate, you must have a current certification in an advanced practice nursing specialty. The program also requires applicants to have an MSN or DNP with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also needs you to submit a professional resume, three letters of reference, official transcripts, and an essay.
Why Choose Concordia University Wisconsin PMHNP Program
• Concordia University’s Wisconsin PMHNP program boasts of an excellent job placement rate.• Concordia University’s Wisconsin PMHNP program graduates report an impressive performance on the PMHNP certification exam.
• Concordia University’s Wisconsin PMHNP program is offered in small-sized classes. The close-knit learning environment makes the learning process more engaging and fruitful.
5. Edgewood College - Madison
Programs Offered: ADN-to-MSN and MSN
About Edgewood College: Edgewood College has PMHNP options for both, ADN-prepared nurses as well as registered nurses who have a baccalaureate degree. The school offers two excellent psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin, an ADN-MSN and an MSN. Regardless of the PMHNP program you enroll in, you’ll leave the school fully prepared to offer evidence-based advanced practice nursing care.
ADN-to-MSN Program Details: The ADN-to-MSN program, meant for registered nurses who have an associate degree in nursing prepares graduates for a rewarding career in psychiatric mental healthcare. The fully online program can be completed either full-time or part-time. Because the program integrates 12 MSN credits into the BSN curriculum it allows you to earn your MSN-PMHNP degree sooner than you think. While the ADN-to-BSN coursework comprises 30 credits, an additional 18 credits are required to earn your MSN. Further, the PMHNP courses emphasize psychiatric mental healthcare management for patients across the lifespan.
ADN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: The ADN-to-MSN program is open to applicants who have an associate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.25. Also, a valid and unencumbered RN license is required. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts and a personal statement.
MSN Program Details: Edgewood College’s MSN can be completed within three years of full-time study. The program is entirely online and requires completion of a total of 51 credits in core MSN and PMHNP-related courses. This psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Wisconsin covers topics such as clinical prevention, healthcare systems & policy, evidence-based practice, neuropathophysiology, advanced pathology, advanced physical assessment, pharmacology and diagnosis, management, psychopharmacology & evidence-based treatment.
MSN Admission Requirements: This MSN-PMHNP program is open to BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a GPA of at least 3.0. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, an essay, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Also, a valid and unencumbered RN license is required.
Why Choose Edgewood College PMHNP Program
• Edgewood College’s PMHNP program is more affordable than most other online PMHNP programs in Wisconsin.• Edgewood College’s PMHNP program is based on Dominican values, integrating the art and science of nursing.
• Edgewood College’s PMHNP program is offered in small-sized classes where personalized attention is provided.
6. Milwaukee School of Engineering University - Milwaukee
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master's Certificate
About Milwaukee School of Engineering University: Milwaukee School of Engineering University offers another one of the well-known psychiatric nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin. Here, PMHNP students have two options to choose from, an MSN and a post-masters certificate program. The school is a non-profit private university that offers a close-knit learning environment. So, whether you enroll in the MSN or post-master’s certificate, you’ll receive personalized attention and enjoy an overall satisfying student experience.
MSN Program Details: Milwaukee School of Engineering University’s MSN is a 46-credit program that can be completed within as little as 21 months. The program also includes 630 clinical hours. Graduates are prepared to offer mental health care with a holistic approach. The coursework covers topics such as healthcare policy, research & evidence-based practice, project management, nursing informatics, advanced leadership, and facilitating change in complex healthcare systems. The program also includes a management practicum.
MSN Admission Requirements: This MSN-psychiatric nurse practitioner program in Wisconsin offers rolling admissions, therefore it is preferred that you apply early. To qualify, you must have a BSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires applicants to submit their official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Post-Master's Certificate Program Details: Milwaukee School of Engineering University’s certificate program is designed for APRNs who have a master's or doctoral degree. The certificate coursework spans two years of part-time study. Whereas, full-time students complete the program within as little as 17 months. Consisting of 25 credits, the program mainly covers psychiatric mental health care for individuals & families across the lifespan.
Post-Master's Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for the post-masters certificate, you must have a BSN and an MSN from an accredited university. Applicants must also possess an active RN and APRN license.
Why Choose Milwaukee School of Engineering University PMHNP Program
• Milwaukee School of Engineering University PMHNP students are eligible for the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Center certification for advanced holistic nursing practice.• Milwaukee School of Engineering University’s PMHNP program offers financial aid opportunities, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement assistance.
HOW MUCH DO PMHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN WISCONSIN?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN WISCONSIN EXPECT?
| Hourly | $49.32 |
| Weekly | $1,973 |
| Monthly | $8,550 |
| Annual | $102,590 |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF PMHNP PROGRAMS IN WISCONSIN EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual | |
| Entry-Level | $49.32 | $1,973 | $8,550 | $102,590 | |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $51.68 | $2,067 | $8,960 | $107,500 | |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $58.03 | $2,321 | $10,060 | $120,700 | |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $61.93 | $2,477 | $10,730 | $128,810 | |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $67.69 | $2,708 | $11,730 | $140,800 | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN?
| Hourly | $58.27 |
| Weekly | $2,331 |
| Monthly | $10,100 |
| Annual | $121,210 |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
HOW MUCH DO PMHNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF WISCONSIN?
| Metro | Hourly | Monthly | Annual | ||
| Appleton | $57.33 | $9,940 | $119,250 | ||
| Eau Claire | $58.50 | $10,140 | $121,690 | ||
| Green Bay | $58.48 | $10,140 | $121,640 | ||
| Janesville-Beloit | $59.06 | $10,240 | $122,850 | ||
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $57.54 | $9,970 | $119,680 | ||
| Madison | $59.72 | $10,350 | $124,210 | ||
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis | $56.40 | $9,780 | $117,320 | ||
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $61.80 | $10,710 | $128,550 | ||
| Racine | $56.21 | $9,740 | $116,910 | ||
| Sheboygan | $58.69 | $10,170 | $122,080 | ||
| Wausau | $60.11 | $10,420 | $125,030 | ||
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN VS. OTHER SALARIES
PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN VS. PMHNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Wisconsin PMHNP Annual Salary | Average National PMHNP Annual Salary | Difference | |||
| Number | % | ||||
| $121,210 | $124,680 | -$3,470 | -2.78% | ||
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN VS. PMHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
| Number | % | ||||
| California | $158,130 | -$36,920 | -23.35% | ||
| New Jersey | $143,250 | -$22,040 | -15.39% | ||
| New York | $141,470 | -$20,260 | -14.32% | ||
| Massachusetts | $138,700 | -$17,490 | -12.61% | ||
| Oregon | $136,250 | -$15,040 | -11.04% | ||
| Nevada | $136,230 | -$15,020 | -11.03% | ||
| Washington | $135,590 | -$14,380 | -10.61% | ||
| Connecticut | $131,490 | -$10,280 | -7.82% | ||
| District of Columbia | $131,270 | -$10,060 | -7.66% | ||
| New Mexico | $129,560 | -$8,350 | -6.44% | ||
| Hawaii | $128,310 | -$7,100 | -5.53% | ||
| Iowa | $128,180 | -$6,970 | -5.44% | ||
| Minnesota | $128,160 | -$6,950 | -5.42% | ||
| New Hampshire | $125,780 | -$4,570 | -3.63% | ||
| Rhode Island | $125,250 | -$4,040 | -3.23% | ||
| Texas | $124,660 | -$3,450 | -2.77% | ||
| Illinois | $122,310 | -$1,100 | -0.90% | ||
| Oklahoma | $121,740 | -$530 | -0.44% | ||
| Indiana | $121,730 | -$520 | -0.43% | ||
| Arizona | $121,410 | -$200 | -0.16% | ||
| Wisconsin | $121,210 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
| Delaware | $120,570 | +$640 | +0.53% | ||
| Pennsylvania | $120,550 | +$660 | +0.55% | ||
| Montana | $119,960 | +$1,250 | +1.04% | ||
| Maryland | $119,650 | +$1,560 | +1.30% | ||
| Nebraska | $118,970 | +$2,240 | +1.88% | ||
| Maine | $118,300 | +$2,910 | +2.46% | ||
| Louisiana | $118,210 | +$3,000 | +2.54% | ||
| Idaho | $117,720 | +$3,490 | +2.96% | ||
| Ohio | $117,440 | +$3,770 | +3.21% | ||
| Mississippi | $117,260 | +$3,950 | +3.37% | ||
| Virginia | $116,980 | +$4,230 | +3.62% | ||
| Vermont | $116,610 | +$4,600 | +3.94% | ||
| Colorado | $116,440 | +$4,770 | +4.10% | ||
| Alaska | $116,390 | +$4,820 | +4.14% | ||
| South Dakota | $115,610 | +$5,600 | +4.84% | ||
| Utah | $115,610 | +$5,600 | +4.84% | ||
| Georgia | $115,440 | +$5,770 | +5.00% | ||
| Wyoming | $115,230 | +$5,980 | +5.19% | ||
| North Carolina | $114,450 | +$6,760 | +5.91% | ||
| North Dakota | $113,940 | +$7,270 | +6.38% | ||
| Michigan | $113,780 | +$7,430 | +6.53% | ||
| Missouri | $113,180 | +$8,030 | +7.09% | ||
| Kansas | $111,670 | +$9,540 | +8.54% | ||
| Florida | $110,310 | +$10,900 | +9.88% | ||
| Kentucky | $109,290 | +$11,920 | +10.91% | ||
| South Carolina | $109,130 | +$12,080 | +11.07% | ||
| Arkansas | $107,110 | +$14,100 | +13.16% | ||
| West Virginia | $106,790 | +$14,420 | +13.50% | ||
| Alabama | $106,610 | +$14,600 | +13.69% | ||
| Tennessee | $99,330 | +$21,880 | +22.03% | ||
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN WISCONSIN
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
| Number | % | ||||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $230,270 | -$109,060 | -47.36% | ||
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $121,210 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
| Nurse Midwife | $118,430 | +$2,780 | +2.35% | ||
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $81,930 | +$39,280 | +47.94% | ||
| Registered Nurse | $81,000 | +$40,210 | +49.64% | ||
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $52,610 | +$68,600 | +130.39% | ||
| Nursing Assistant | $36,750 | +$84,460 | +229.82% | ||
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
PMHNP SALARY IN WISCONSIN VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN WISCONSIN
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |||
| Number | % | ||||
| Dentist | $174,810 | -$53,600 | -30.66% | ||
| Veterinarian | $148,680 | -$27,470 | -18.48% | ||
| Optometrist | $134,830 | -$13,620 | -10.10% | ||
| Pharmacist | $132,530 | -$11,320 | -8.54% | ||
| Physician Assistant | $121,630 | -$420 | -0.35% | ||
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $121,210 | $0 | 0.00% | ||
| Physical Therapist | $93,010 | +$28,200 | +30.32% | ||
| Audiologist | $88,820 | +$32,390 | +36.47% | ||
| Occupational Therapist | $82,080 | +$39,130 | +47.67% | ||
| Chiropractor | $80,790 | +$40,420 | +50.03% | ||
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $79,610 | +$41,600 | +52.25% | ||
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |||||
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. WHO ACCREDITS PMHNP PROGRAMS IN WISCONSIN?
| 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 WISCONSIN?
| 6 |
3. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER HOUR IN WISCONSIN?
| $58.27 |
4. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER WEEK IN WISCONSIN?
| $2,331 |
5. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER MONTH IN WISCONSIN?
| $10,100 |
6. ON AVERAGE, HOW MUCH DOES A PSYCHIATRIC NP MAKE PER YEAR IN WISCONSIN?
| $121,210 |
7. WHAT IS THE JOB OUTLOOK FOR PMHNPS IN WISCONSIN?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
| +37.33% |
| (Source: Careeronestop.org) |
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