ELM-MSN: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Specialty

This specialty master’s program prepares students for roles as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners for clients with psychiatric and mental health problems across the lifespan. Students learn to work respectfully and collaboratively with clients/consumers who are experiencing severe or chronic mental illnesses to determine biopsychosocial healthcare needs within a complex and changing environment. Theory and clinical coursework focuses on assessment; differential diagnosis and disease management; intervention planning; individual, family, and group psychotherapy; health promotion; and disease prevention. Mental-health-related policy, and the application of research and evidence-based practice, informs the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.                                                                                           

The inherent equality and worthiness of those who are vulnerable and disenfranchised; the role of spirituality; the value of diversity; and the ability to engender hope, empowerment, self-responsibility, and a meaningful role in life are threaded throughout the program. Graduates are eligible to apply to the California Board of Registered Nursing for certification as a nurse practitioner, and may apply for national PMHNP certification through examination. 

Contact the School of Nursing for specific program availability and locations. Prelicensure coursework must be completed prior to beginning advanced practice nursing coursework.

Requirements

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Units in parentheses are classroom/clinical units.

Admission

University graduate admission and program-specific requirements must be met before an application is complete (see Admission to the University). Program-specific application requirements are available online.

International students should contact Graduate and Professional Admissions for application procedures.