Alaska PMHNP Programs

Alaska offers nurses a focused selection of pathways to become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, with one program based at the University of Alaska Anchorage and six fully online programs from institutions outside Alaska. This combination ensures nurses can find programs that match their learning preferences, budget constraints, schedule requirements, and career goals while addressing Alaska’s critical need for psychiatric mental health providers.

UAA PMHNP Programs

Anchorage | $528 cpc | Certificate

The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a post-master’s Graduate Certificate in PMHNP designed for currently certified advanced practice nurses seeking a psychiatric-mental health scope of practice. Delivered in a hybrid format, the 24-credit program includes short on-campus intensives each semester and 750 clinical hours completed within Alaska. Coursework builds psychopharmacology, assessment/diagnosis, psychotherapy, and consultant–liaison skills to provide family-centered care across the lifespan. Most students finish in 1–2 years; estimated in-state tuition is about $12,672 (24 credits at $528/credit), with additional costs for fees and clinical requirements...read more.

Nightingale College PMHNP Program

online | $550 cpc | MSN

Nightingale College’s MSN-PMHNP is a fully online, 55-credit program completed in about 24 months, with one required in-person seminar and faculty-supported precepted clinicals. The curriculum blends 547.5 didactic hours with 810 clinical contact hours (1,380 total), preparing graduates for ANCC PMHNP certification, prescriptive practice where allowed, and evidence-based care across the lifespan. Estimated tuition is about $34,750 (tuition plus per-semester resource fees). The program is state-authorized for enrollment in 21 states—including Alaska—so Alaska-based RNs are eligible to enroll and complete clinicals consistent with local requirements.

Post University Programs

online | $604 cpc | MSN

Post University delivers its MSN with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialization entirely online through the American Sentinel College, emphasizing one-course-at-a-time progression and flexible scheduling. The CCNE-accredited program combines 36 didactic credits with 15 clinical credits totaling 630 hands-on hours in precepted psychiatric settings. At a cost of about $31,000 over nearly three years, graduates are prepared to provide comprehensive mental health care across all age groups.

Purdue Global PMHNP Programs

online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP

Purdue Global delivers the PMHNP Certificate, MSN focus, and MSN-to-DNP online with CCNE accreditation and immersive VR assignments. Typical totals are $20,160 for the certificate (~1.5 years) and $32,760 for the MSN (~2 years); the MSN-to-DNP proceeds after completing the MSN. The program is authorized for Alaska residents.

WGU PMHNP Programs

online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN

WGU offers two 100% online PMHNP tracks that use competency-based progress, not credit hours. Students complete 650 local clinical hours, and work one-to-one with a Program Mentor. Flat-rate tuition per six-month term lets faster progress lower total cost; the MSN requires at least 2.5 years, and the certificate at least 1.5 years. ..read more.

Wilkes University PMHNP Programs

online | $751 cpc | Certificate / MSN / RN to MSN

Wilkes University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Post-Graduate PMHNP certificate programs are authorized for student enrollment in Alaska. The curriculum has been determined to meet the state's educational requirements for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licensure. Students residing in Alaska can pursue their Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner training through Wilkes while receiving complimentary clinical placement support.

How to Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in Alaska

Selecting the right PMHNP program is a significant decision that will shape your clinical expertise, professional network, and financial investment. This guide organizes your options by degree level and delivery format, helping you identify programs that align with your educational background, career aspirations, and personal circumstances.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – PMHNP Programs

Cost Range: $30,198 to $35,775
Duration: 2 to 3 years

MSN-PMHNP programs represent the foundational credential for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Alaska-accessible MSN options range from competitively priced programs to those offering unique value propositions through specialized support services.

Post University offers the most economical MSN option at $30,198-$30,794.25 over approximately 2 years and 10 months, delivering courses in focused 8-week formats taken one at a time. Wilkes University provides an MSN at $31,542 over 2.3 years with complimentary clinical placement services included in tuition. Purdue Global charges $32,760 for a 2-year quarter-based program with a strong 93.7% certification pass rate. Chamberlain University costs $33,075 over 2.5 years and serves over 90% of students receiving financial assistance with their Practicum Commitment guarantee. Nightingale College offers an MSN at $34,750 over 2 years with an exceptionally comprehensive clinical structure featuring 18 progressive practicum courses. Western Governors University provides a unique competency-based MSN at $35,775 minimum over at least 2.5 years, allowing self-paced acceleration through material students already know.

All MSN programs require 500-832.5 clinical hours (most fall in the 630-750 range) and prepare graduates for ANCC PMHNP-BC certification. Consider whether you value lowest cost, clinical placement support, financial aid availability, competency-based flexibility, or extensive practicum progression when selecting among MSN options.

RN-to-MSN Bridge Programs

Cost Range: $39,803
Duration: ~3 years

For ADN-prepared nurses, Wilkes University offers an RN-to-MSN pathway at $39,803 over 3 years. This 53-credit program includes bridge courses for the BSN-to-MSN transition and saves approximately $10,000 compared to completing a traditional BSN-then-MSN sequence. The program includes the same 500 clinical hours and complimentary clinical placement services as the standard MSN track. This pathway works well for associate degree nurses seeking to advance directly to graduate education while maintaining full-time employment, though students should note that no pass-through BSN degree is granted as part of the RN-to-MSN program.

Post-Master’s Certificates and Post-Graduate Certificates

Cost Range: $12,672 to $21,779
Duration: 1 to 2 years

Certificate programs provide the most streamlined pathway for nurses with existing master’s or doctoral degrees to add PMHNP specialization. These programs focus exclusively on psychiatric mental health content without repeating foundational graduate coursework.

University of Alaska Anchorage offers Alaska’s only in-state option—a Graduate Certificate at approximately $12,672 for Alaska residents (24 credits at $528/credit)—exclusively for nurses already certified as advanced practice nurses in other specialties. Out-of-state students may access reduced tuition through the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP). Purdue Global provides a Postgraduate Certificate at $20,160 over 1.5 years using a quarter-based system. Western Governors University offers a competency-based Post-Master’s Certificate at $21,465 over a minimum 1.5 years with flat-rate per-term pricing enabling acceleration. Wilkes University charges $21,779 for a 29-credit certificate over 1.67 years with included clinical placement services.

Certificate programs typically require 500-750 clinical hours depending on the institution and whether prerequisite “3 Ps” courses (advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment) were completed in prior graduate work. Verify your transcript carefully to understand which prerequisites you’ve already satisfied, as this significantly impacts total program cost and duration.

Certificates work best for nurses with MSN or DNP degrees in other specialties, those returning to psychiatric nursing after years away, or advanced practice nurses expanding their scope to include mental health populations.

Alaska-Based Program with Hybrid Delivery

University of Alaska Anchorage Graduate Certificate

University of Alaska Anchorage offers Alaska’s only locally-based PMHNP program—a Graduate Certificate exclusively for nurses already certified as advanced practice nurse practitioners in other specialties who want to expand their scope to include psychiatric mental health care.

Key Features:

  • Cost: $12,672 (Alaska residents) at $528/credit; $27,072 (non-residents) at $1,128/credit
  • WRGP Eligible: Students from 14 western states may qualify for Alaska resident tuition rates
  • Duration: 1-2 years (24 credits) depending on individual scheduling and gap analysis
  • Clinical Hours: 750 hours completed exclusively within Alaska
  • Delivery: Hybrid format with 1-2 campus visits per semester for short intensives; distance learning via video conferencing at scheduled times
  • Clinical Placement: Priority placement in or near student’s home community when possible; assignments based on preceptor availability
  • Schedule: Clinical hours align with preceptor’s work schedule (typically Monday-Friday)

Requirements:

  • Graduate nursing degree (MSN or DNP) from CCNE or ACEN-accredited institution
  • Active, unencumbered Alaska RN license (must remain active throughout program)
  • Active, unencumbered Alaska APRN license
  • National certification as advanced nurse practitioner in another specialty
  • Gap analysis determines if “3 Ps” courses required

Advantages:

  • Only Alaska-based option with local faculty, in-state clinical sites, and Alaska-focused curriculum
  • Significantly lower cost for Alaska residents and WRGP-eligible students from western states
  • Immersive Alaska experience across both urban and rural settings
  • Local professional networking for future practice opportunities in Alaska
  • Familiarity with Alaska healthcare systems, regulations, and unique population needs
  • Access to university resources including libraries, academic support, and career services

Limitations:

  • Exclusively for already-certified nurse practitioners (not available to nurses seeking first NP credential)
  • All clinical hours must be completed in Alaska (cannot be completed outside the state)
  • Hybrid format requires Alaska campus visits 1-2 times per semester
  • Admits once per year with specific application deadlines (check website for current dates)
  • Prerequisite verification required through gap analysis; may need additional coursework

Best For: Certified nurse practitioners living in Alaska who want to add psychiatric mental health to their existing practice scope, nurses planning to practice primarily in Alaska who value local clinical connections and reduced tuition rates, WRGP-eligible students from western states seeking in-state tuition benefits, and those who appreciate Alaska-focused education addressing unique healthcare challenges in frontier, rural, and underserved communities.

Fully Online Programs (No Alaska Campus)

Programs with Minimal In-Person Requirements

Chamberlain University requires two in-person visits for immersion and intensive experiences over the 2.5-year program. The program provides Practicum Commitment guarantee with dedicated preceptor support and serves over 90% of students receiving financial assistance. Clinical experiences include 650 practicum hours with experienced PMHNPs or psychiatrists.

Nightingale College features a unique structure with one mandatory 3-day in-person seminar in Salt Lake City during Semester 2 for applied field experience and competency validation through hands-on skills training and service-learning. The program delivers an exceptionally comprehensive 832.5 total hours (810 clinical contact hours + 22.5 applied field experience hours) across 18 progressive practicum courses over 2 years.

Programs with Complimentary Clinical Placement Services

Wilkes University stands out by including complimentary clinical placement services built into tuition—a dedicated placement team handles site identification, preceptor coordination, documentation organization, and compliance monitoring at no additional cost. The program reports a 95.4% ANCC pass rate, significantly exceeding the 90% national average. Students also receive individualized support from a dedicated Student Success Counselor from enrollment through graduation. The MSN requires 500 clinical hours, and no GRE or GMAT required for admission.

Programs with Competency-Based Models

Western Governors University offers a competency-based education model where students progress by demonstrating mastery rather than accumulating credit hours. The flat-rate tuition of $6,955 per six-month term allows unlimited course completion per term, enabling accelerated progression for self-directed learners. Each student receives a dedicated Program Mentor plus course instructors. Clinical hours (650-750 depending on state) are completed in home communities with university approval support. Average student loan debt for WGU graduates is less than half the national average.

Post University delivers courses in 8-week formats taken one at a time, with clinical hours completed within each 8-week period. Students must pass the APEA 3P Exam after completing the first three “3 Ps” courses before progressing. The program offers monthly start dates for maximum flexibility and charges $588-$603.75 per credit hour.

Programs with Traditional Quarter/Semester Systems

Purdue Global operates on a quarter-based system at $420 per quarter credit for master’s programs. Clinical experiences can be completed at convenient locations or even at student’s workplace. All clinical hours from the master’s program apply toward the DNP if students continue their education. The program reports a strong 93.7% average certification pass rate (July 2025 data).

Nightingale College uses traditional semester-based delivery with 12-week terms over six academic semesters. The program features an innovative structure with 18 separate practicum courses (MSN 631-651), each providing approximately 45 clinical hours for progressive skill development. This granular approach allows students to build competency incrementally across child, perinatal, adult, and geriatric populations with increasing independence and complexity at each stage.

Advantages of Fully Online Programs

Programs without Alaska campuses offer significant benefits:

  • Maximum scheduling flexibility with no travel to campus required
  • Learn from anywhere in Alaska accommodating students in remote communities far from Anchorage
  • Self-paced options (WGU’s competency-based model, Post’s sequential courses)
  • Complete most/all work asynchronously around shift work and family obligations
  • No commuting costs or time critical in Alaska where travel can be expensive and weather-dependent
  • Broader program selection provides more options than the single in-state certificate
  • Clinical placement support (Wilkes, Chamberlain) valuable for Alaska students who may face challenges securing rural or remote sites

Best For: Nurses who cannot regularly travel to Anchorage for campus visits, those living in rural or remote Alaska communities without local higher education access, self-directed learners comfortable with online formats, nurses with demanding work schedules or family obligations requiring maximum flexibility, students seeking MSN or RN-to-MSN pathways (not available through UAA’s certificate-only program), and those who value comprehensive clinical placement support.

State Authorization Considerations

Not all online programs accept students from all states. Verify Alaska authorization before applying:

All listed programs currently accept Alaska residents, though authorization status can change. Always verify current state authorization and APRN licensure requirements before enrolling.

Key Decision Factors

Cost Considerations

Most Affordable Options:

Best Value Features:

  • Western Regional Graduate Program: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, and Washington residents may qualify for reduced tuition at UAA
  • Financial assistance: Chamberlain serves 90% of students receiving aid
  • Included clinical placement: Wilkes and Chamberlain provide support at no extra charge
  • Competency-based savings: WGU’s flat-rate per term enables acceleration to reduce costs
  • Veterans benefits: Wilkes and WGU participate in Yellow Ribbon program

Time Commitment

Fastest Completion:

Most Flexible Pacing:

  • WGU: Competency-based model allows self-paced acceleration
  • Post University: Sequential 8-week courses with monthly start dates
  • 100% online programs: Eliminate travel time critical in Alaska’s vast geography

Clinical Placement Support

Highest Support:

  • Wilkes University: Complimentary clinical placement services built into tuition with dedicated placement team handling all logistics
  • Chamberlain University: Practicum Commitment guarantee with preceptor support
  • UAA: Priority placement in or near student’s Alaska home community when possible

Moderate Support:

  • Most online programs provide clinical approval processes and guidance
  • Faculty assist with site approval and contract establishment

Student Responsibility:

  • Several programs require students to identify and secure own preceptors
  • Consider your professional network and ability to leverage existing Alaska healthcare relationships

Alaska-Specific Considerations:

  • Finding preceptors in rural/remote Alaska can be challenging due to limited psychiatric providers
  • UAA’s local connections may ease placement for Alaska-based students
  • Travel requirements for clinical sites may add significant costs given Alaska’s geography
  • Telehealth opportunities increasingly allow remote clinical supervision, though hands-on experience still required

Special Program Features

  • Alaska Focus: UAA emphasizes rural, frontier, and Alaska Native population health
  • Competency-Based: WGU offers assessment-driven, self-paced progression
  • Complimentary Placement: Wilkes includes clinical placement services at no extra cost
  • Exceptional Pass Rates: Wilkes (95.4%) and Purdue Global (93.7%) exceed national averages
  • Progressive Practicum: Nightingale College offers 18 separate practicum courses for incremental skill building
  • No GRE/GMAT: Wilkes does not require standardized testing
  • Monthly Starts: Post University offers year-round enrollment flexibility

Making Your Decision

The “best” PMHNP program aligns with YOUR unique situation. Consider:

Educational Goals:

  • Do you already hold NP certification in another specialty? (UAA certificate exclusively for certified NPs)
  • Are you seeking your first NP credential? (Online MSN programs)
  • Do you have an ADN and want to advance directly? (Wilkes RN-to-MSN)
  • Do you have MSN/DNP in another field? (Certificate programs)

Financial Reality:

  • Are you an Alaska resident who qualifies for in-state tuition? (UAA offers significant savings)
  • Do you qualify for WRGP from a western state? (Access Alaska resident rates at UAA)
  • Do you need substantial financial aid? (Chamberlain serves 90% receiving assistance)
  • Are you a veteran? (Wilkes and WGU participate in Yellow Ribbon)
  • Can you accelerate through competency-based programs to reduce costs? (WGU)

Location and Schedule:

  • Do you live in or near Anchorage and can accommodate campus visits? (UAA hybrid)
  • Are you in rural/remote Alaska requiring fully online delivery? (Most online programs)
  • Can you travel out-of-state for brief immersions? (Chamberlain, Nightingale)
  • Do shift work or subsistence activities require maximum flexibility? (Fully online asynchronous programs)

Clinical Support Needs:

  • Can you leverage existing Alaska healthcare relationships for clinical sites? (UAA with local connections)
  • Do you need comprehensive placement services? (Wilkes included, Chamberlain guaranteed)
  • Are you willing to travel within Alaska for clinical rotations? (May be necessary given limited psychiatric providers in rural areas)
  • Can clinical hours align with Monday-Friday schedules? (Typical preceptor availability)

Learning Style:

  • Do you prefer traditional semester-based progression? (Nightingale, Purdue Global)
  • Does competency-based, self-paced learning appeal to you? (WGU)
  • Do you prefer focused, sequential courses? (Post University 8-week format)
  • Does gradual skill-building through 18 practicum courses suit your development? (Nightingale)
  • Do you value face-to-face Alaska-focused education? (UAA hybrid)

Alaska-Specific Considerations:

  • Do you plan to practice primarily in Alaska? (UAA provides Alaska-focused education and networking)
  • Are you interested in serving Alaska Native populations? (UAA emphasizes culturally responsive care)
  • Do frontier and rural health challenges interest you? (Alaska-based program addresses unique geographic barriers)
  • Will you need telehealth skills for remote practice? (Increasingly important in Alaska’s geography)

Start by identifying your must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Verify current Alaska state authorization for all programs and understand Alaska APRN licensure requirements. Review prerequisite requirements carefully—especially the “3 Ps”—to understand true program costs and time to completion. Contact Alaska Board of Nursing to confirm educational requirements for PMHNP licensure in Alaska.

Attend virtual information sessions, speak with current students (especially those in Alaska), request detailed plans of study, and ask about Alaska-specific clinical placement support. For the UAA program, schedule a meeting with the faculty advisor to discuss gap analysis and determine your individualized plan of study.

Alaska’s PMHNP program options ensure you can find a pathway matching your needs—whether you prioritize local Alaska connections and reduced tuition (UAA), maximum online flexibility (WGU, Post), comprehensive clinical support (Wilkes, Chamberlain), exceptional pass rates (Wilkes, Purdue Global), innovative practicum structure (Nightingale), or direct ADN-to-MSN progression (Wilkes). With thoughtful evaluation of your circumstances against program features, you’ll identify the PMHNP program positioning you for certification success and meaningful impact addressing Alaska’s critical shortage of psychiatric mental health providers across the state’s diverse urban, rural, and frontier communities.