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)
Designed for Nurses with a Master’s Degree
We offer:
- A rigorous program of study that produces graduates who are in demand and highly respected by their employers
- A flexible program that allows you to balance your work and family commitments with your education
- A program with the highest level of accreditation
- Faculty experienced at facilitating distance learning
- Long humanistic tradition of treating patients as people first; treating students as colleagues; and fostering camaraderie among students
- Student support services for your distance education
- A chance to join the WesternU nursing alumni who share a lifelong connection with the University
Upcoming Events
Answer the Growing Need: Become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thursday, July 16 at 12:00 PM Pacific Standard TimeBe a part of our brand new Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree and certification pathways from the ground up! During this virtual Q&A session you will: Learn about this highly sought-after specialization from faculty experts. Discover how our flexible learning format will complement your lifestyle. Understand the value of a PMHNP degree and certification in the industry. Hear about how to become a competitive applicant for the Fall cohort. This session has been designed with your specific questions in mind so, be sure to write down all of your thoughts!During these sessions you will have an opportunity to participate in other College of Nursing Events in you looking to gain knowledge in multiple nursing pathways.
August 2026 Experience WesternU
Saturday, August 22 at 8:30 AM Pacific Standard TimeThinking about a career in healthcare but not sure which path is right for you? Experience WesternU is designed for prospective students and early-stage pre-health explorers who want to learn more about healthcare professions, educational pathways, and opportunities available at WesternU. Get to know WesternU, our programs, and our community. During check-in, get your day started at our Health Professions/Resource Fairwhere you will be able to explore the diverse world of health professions and access resources available to you on your journey!The Health Professions/Resource Fair [8:30am-9:30am] will be right at the center of our university with several booths for you to visit including: Health Professions Colleges/Programs – Osteopathic Medicine, Podiatric Medicine, Physician Assistant Studies, Graduate Nursing, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Optometry, Dental Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Health Administration, Medical Sciences Masters Programs WesternU University Departments/Resources – Office of Admissions, Office of International Students and Scholars, Center of Disability and Health Policy, The Daumier (Campus Housing) External Support for Prospective Student – Clinical experience/Direct Patient Care, Military Partners, Shadowing Opportunities, Standardized Test Preparation, Volunteering/Community Service Opportunities Next, Choose Your (3) Breakout Sessions [9:30am-12:15pm]: Current Student Panel – Hear how students chose their profession and what their journey has been like. Financial Aid & Funding Your Education – Learn about tuition, scholarships, financial planning, and paying for professional school. Exploring Healthcare Careers – Compare professions, discover career pathways, and learn about salary expectations, job outlooks, and educational requirements. Program-Specific Interactive Sessions – Participate in hands-on experiences and learn directly from faculty and students within individual healthcare programs. Why Attend? Explore a variety of healthcare careers in one place. Learn the differences between professions such as medicine, nursing, physician assistant studies, pharmacy, dentistry, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, optometry, healthcare Administration, Medical Sciences and more. Hear firsthand from current students and healthcare educators. Gain clarity and confidence as you begin your pre-health journey. Discover which healthcare path may be the best fit for your interests and goals. Whether you’re just beginning to explore healthcare careers or looking to narrow your options, Experience WesternU will help you take the next step toward your future.