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WesternU / College of Graduate Nursing / Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Post-Master’s PMHNP)

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Post-Master’s PMHNP)

The College of Graduate Nursing (CGN) at WesternU pioneered the delivery of a web-based family nursing practitioner program in 1997 – the very first program of its kind in the nation.  Today, that legacy continues with our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Post-Masters PMHNP) program.  The WesternU College of Graduate Nursing offers a seamless progression to earn your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate/credential.

Our hybrid online learning program delivers the knowledge and skills to prepare you for your PMHNP role within a flexible schedule.  Our campus-based seminar intensives, on the WesternU Pomona campus, and clinical experiences in a designated community will prepare you for clinical practice within a variety of healthcare settings.

Learn more about the program by visiting the Requirements page. Soon, you will be providing comprehensive care to patients, families, and communities.

Psych MHNP in practice with two adult seniors

Designed for Nurses with a Master’s Degree

Our innovation continues with the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. Designed for nurses with a master’s degree in nursing, our hybrid/online Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate program integrates online learning with intensive clinical simulation days and clinical experiences in the students’ own community. Students can obtain a PMHNP certificate in as little as 4 semesters.

Why Choose WesternU?

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 college 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 distance learners
  • A chance to join the WesternU nursing alumni who share a lifelong connection with the University

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.

Learn More

Take a look at our visit options and consider attending a WesternU Preview. If you’d like to discuss specifics with an advisor, schedule an advising appointment, online, on campus, or over the phone. When you request additional information we’ll make sure you receive program updates and deadline reminders. Of course, you can always find us on social media.