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WesternU / College of Graduate Nursing / MSN/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN/PMHNP)

MSN/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN/PMHNP)

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) address the clients through inter-disciplinary and team-based care that places the patient and family at the center of care. PMHNPs help patients by providing therapies, medications, care coordination and more. We use an evidence-based approach to educate PMHNPs to meet the mental health needs of clients in school systems, community clinics, substance abuse treatment centers, private offices, shelters, hospitals, and more.

College of Graduate Nursing:

  • Culture of Humanism and Health Equity
  • First online MSN-FNP program in the nation (1997)
  • First entry level Masters of Nursing in California (2004)
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Designed for BSN – Prepared Nurses

Our innovation continues with the Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN/PMHNP) program. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, this hybrid program combines online coursework with two virtual seminar weekends per semester, one on-campus seminar weekend each year, and clinical experiences in students local communities. Students can complete the MSN/PMHNP in two years, with an extended-track option available.

Upcoming Events

  • November 2026 Experience WesternU

    Saturday, November 7 at 8:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

    Move forward with confidence. Whether you’re preparing to apply, completing your application, or awaiting an interview, join us to connect with faculty and current students, get your admissions questions answered, and take a closer look at your program. Customize your morning with available workshops, tours, and breakout sessions that support your next steps.

  • Beyond the Scrubs Podcast:The PMHNP Journey

    Wednesday, November 18 at 6:30 PM Pacific Standard Time
    Join us for a podcast-style conversation with WesternU faculty and alumni as we explore the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) profession and the evolving mental health landscape. Hear firsthand how WesternU’s program prepared alumni for their roles as PMHNPs, what they are experiencing in the field, and how they navigated the challenges of graduate school while balancing nursing careers, family responsibilities, and personal commitments. Whether you are a WesternU student exploring your next career step or a practicing nurse considering an advanced degree, this conversation offers valuable insight into the journey toward becoming a PMHNP.