Arkansas offers one campus-based PMHNP program at Arkansas State University and three fully online national programs serving Arkansas residents (Post University, Purdue Global, and Western Governors University).
Arkansas State University PMHNP Programs
Jonesboro | $500 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Arkansas State University offers two online PMHNP pathways—a 47.5-credit MSN and a 27.5-credit Post-Master’s Certificate—with local clinical placements. Tuition is competitive and flat for U.S. residents, with the MSN estimated at $24K over ~26 months and the certificate at $14K over ~18 months. Both options are ACEN-accredited and train nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. ..read more.
Post University Programs
online | $604 cpc | MSN
Through American Sentinel College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Post University's MSN-PMHNP program offers working nurses a flexible online education with predictable 8-week terms and monthly start dates. The comprehensive curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, and specialized psychiatric nursing courses supported by 630 clinical hours in real-world settings. Students invest about $31,000 over 34 months to develop expertise in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across the lifespan.
Purdue Global PMHNP Programs
online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Purdue Global offers three online PMHNP routes—Certificate, MSN focus, and MSN-to-DNP—with CCNE accreditation and VR-supported learning. Plan on ~$20,160 for the certificate (~1.5 years) and ~$32,760 for the MSN (~2 years), then a DNP phase for the MSN-to-DNP. The program is authorized for Arkansas residents.
WGU PMHNP Programs
online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN
WGU’s PMHNP options use a competency model so students move forward by mastery. Required clinicals are 650 hours in local sites, or 750 for Kansas starts after March 1, 2025. Mentored support and flat-rate terms set a minimum timeline of 2.5 years for the MSN and 1.5 years for the certificate.
How to Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in Arkansas
Across all program types—certificate and MSN—total costs range from $14,025 to $35,775, with completion timelines spanning 1.5 to 3 years depending on the credential and student background. This comprehensive guide helps you evaluate programs based on speed, affordability, admission requirements, and format preferences.
Quickest PMHNP Programs in Arkansas
Fastest Certificate Programs (1.5 years):
- Arkansas State University Certificate: 1.5 years (18 months, 27.5 credits)
- Purdue Global Certificate: 1.5 years (48 quarter credits)
- WGU Certificate: Minimum 1.5 years (33 competency units)
Fastest MSN Programs (2-2.83 years):
- Purdue Global MSN: 2 years (78 quarter credits) – FASTEST MSN
- Arkansas State University MSN: 2.17 years (26 months, 47.5 credits)
- WGU MSN: Minimum 2.5 years (51 competency units)
- Post University MSN: 2.83 years (34 months, 51-54 credits)
Most Affordable PMHNP Programs in Arkansas
Certificate Programs by Cost:
- Arkansas State University: $14,025 (27.5 credits at $510/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE CERTIFICATE
- Purdue Global: $20,160 (48 quarter credits at $420/credit)
- WGU: $21,465 (based on minimum 1.5 years at $6,955/term)
MSN Programs by Cost:
- Arkansas State University: $24,225 (47.5 credits at $500/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE MSN
- Post University: $30,198-$30,794.25 (51-54 credits)
- Purdue Global: $32,760 (78 quarter credits at $420/credit)
- WGU: $35,775 (based on minimum 2.5 years at $6,955/term)
Programs Ranked by Minimum GPA Requirements
Most Accessible GPA Requirements:
- Purdue Global Certificate: 2.5 GPA
- WGU: 3.0 GPA in five prerequisite courses
Higher GPA Requirements:
- Arkansas State University: 3.25 cumulative GPA (most competitive)
- Post University: 3.0 GPA
PMHNP Certificate Programs
Certificate programs serve nurses who already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and seek psychiatric mental health specialization. These accelerated pathways prepare graduates for PMHNP board certification.
Cost Range: $14,025 – $21,465 Duration Range: 1.5 years
Arkansas Campus-Based Certificate Programs
Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)
- Cost: $14,025 (27.5 credits at $510/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE CERTIFICATE IN ARKANSAS
- Duration: 1.5 years (18 months)
- Clinical Hours: 14.5 clinical credits across six practicum courses
- Format: Online (7-week accelerated sessions)
- Prerequisites: MSN from ACEN/CCNE-accredited program; may need gap courses (0-9 credits)
- Gap Courses: Advanced Clinical Physiology, Advanced Clinical Pharmacology, Advanced Assessment (if not completed within eligibility requirements)
- Unique Features: Lifespan-focused practicum progression, U.S. News ranked among “Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas” (2024)
- GPA: 3.25 cumulative MSN (highest requirement in Arkansas)
- Special Requirements: Satisfactory background check, not financial aid eligible
- State Restriction: Clinicals must be completed in states where A-State has State Operating Authority
- Accreditation: ACEN
National Online Certificate Programs Serving Arkansas
Purdue Global
- Cost: $20,160 (48 quarter credits at $420/credit)
- Duration: 1.5 years
- Clinical Hours: 6 clinical credits across four courses (NU672, NU674, NU676, NU678)
- Format: Fully online, quarter-based system
- Prerequisites: Master’s in nursing with 2.5 GPA
- Unique Features: Quarter system for faster progression, workplace clinicals allowed, 93.7% NP pass rate (2024)
- GPA: 2.5 minimum (most accessible GPA requirement)
- State Restrictions: NOT available to DC, HI, LA, NY, OR, TN, UT, WA, Guam residents
- Accreditation: CCNE and HLC
- Special Benefits: Clinical at workplace possible, seamless MSN-DNP pathway
Western Governors University (WGU)
- Cost: $21,465 (based on minimum 1.5 years at $6,955/six-month term + $200/term learning resources fee)
- Duration: Minimum 1.5 years (33 competency units)
- Clinical Hours: 650 direct patient care hours (750 for Kansas licensure after March 1, 2025)
- Format: Competency-based education, fully online
- Prerequisites: MSN or terminal nursing degree from accredited institution
- Unique Features: Flat-rate tuition per term (unlimited courses), dedicated Program Mentor, competency-based progression
- GPA: No specific GPA mentioned, but highly competitive admissions
- State Restrictions: NOT available to CA, DC, LA, NY, ND, WA residents
- Accreditation: CCNE and NWCCU
- Special Benefits: Yellow Ribbon Program participant, average loan debt less than half national average
- Core Courses: May transfer NP core (pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment) if completed in prior MSN
MSN-PMHNP Programs
Master’s programs prepare BSN-prepared nurses for advanced practice as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. These comprehensive programs include core graduate nursing courses plus specialized PMHNP training.
Cost Range: $24,225 – $35,775 Duration Range: 2 – 2.83 years
Arkansas Campus-Based MSN Programs
Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)
- Cost: $24,225 (47.5 credits at $500/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE MSN IN ARKANSAS
- Duration: 2.17 years (26 months)
- Clinical Hours: 14.5 clinical credits across six practicum courses
- Format: Online with 7-week accelerated sessions, multiple start dates
- Curriculum:
- Core Courses (11 credits): Research Design, Theory Development, Health Care Policy, Professional Role Development
- Support Courses (9 credits): Advanced Physiology, Pharmacology, Assessment
- Advanced Practice (27.5 credits): Six seminars + six practicum courses
- Practicum Progression: Lifespan approach from children → adolescents → adults → older adults → trauma → substance use disorders
- Unique Features: Focus on underserved populations, comprehensive exam in final semester, ranked among “Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas”
- GPA: 3.25 undergraduate cumulative (highest in Arkansas)
- Work Experience: 1,500 RN practice hours prior to admission
- Special Requirements: CPR, TB test, Hepatitis B immunization, professional liability insurance ($1M/$3M), minimum “B” in all courses
- State Restriction: Clinicals in states where A-State has State Operating Authority
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Student Limit: Maximum 15 credits per semester
National Online MSN Programs Serving Arkansas
Purdue Global
- Cost: $32,760 (78 quarter credits at $420/credit)
- Duration: 2 years – FASTEST MSN COMPLETION
- Clinical Hours: 6 clinical credits integrated throughout
- Format: Fully online, quarter-based system
- Curriculum: 30 core credits + 48 PMHNP credits
- Core Courses: Advanced Nursing Roles, Theoretical Foundations, Evidence-Based Practice, Clinical Epidemiology, Health Policy, Healthcare Delivery Models
- PMHNP Courses: 12 specialty courses including neuroscience, psychopharmacology, three diagnosis/management courses with clinical components
- Unique Features: Clinical at workplace possible, 93.7% NP pass rate, faculty/preceptor-supported local placements
- GPA: Not specified (typically 3.0)
- State Restrictions: TN residents cannot enroll; additional restrictions for PMHNP track (DC, WA residents excluded)
- Accreditation: CCNE and HLC
- MSN-DNP Pathway: All MSN clinical hours apply toward DNP
Post University (American Sentinel College)
- Cost: $30,198-$30,794.25 (51-54 credits)
- Duration: 2.83 years (34 months)
- Clinical Hours: 630 total across 15 clinical credits
- Format: Fully online, 8-week courses taken one at a time
- Curriculum: 18-21 core credits + 33 specialty credits
- APEA 3P Exam: Required after first three courses (N 512, N 521, N 522PE); additional 3-credit Diagnostic Reasoning course if not passed
- Practicum Progression: Five preceptorship experiences (N 561, N 563, N 565, N 567, N 569) – lifespan and specialty focus
- Unique Features: Monthly start dates, practice-focused curriculum, student success advisors
- GPA: 3.0 BSN minimum
- Work Experience: Minimum one year full-time nursing clinical role in last three years
- State Restrictions: NOT available to AZ, CA, DC, Guam, LA, MD, NY, OR, PR, TN, US Virgin Islands, UT, WA residents
- Accreditation: CCNE and NECHE
- MSN for MSN-Holders: Can earn second MSN in as few as 11 courses with transcript evaluation
Western Governors University (WGU)
- Cost: $35,775 (based on minimum 2.5 years at $6,955/six-month term + $200/term resources)
- Duration: Minimum 2.5 years (51 competency units) due to clinical requirements
- Clinical Hours: 650 direct patient care hours (750 for Kansas licensure after March 1, 2025)
- Format: Competency-based education, fully online
- Curriculum: 17 courses including Professional Presence, Advanced Nursing Roles, Quality Outcomes, Informatics, Leadership, three “3Ps” (pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment), four PMHNP specialty courses, three clinical internships
- Unique Features: Flat-rate tuition (unlimited courses per term), dedicated Program Mentor, personalized Degree Plan, curriculum by practicing NPs, ANCC-certified
- GPA: 3.0 cumulative in five prerequisite courses OR BSNU from WGU
- Prerequisites: Anatomy/Physiology I & II with lab (4 credits each), Statistics (3), Human Growth/Development (3), Pharmacology (2) – all C- or above
- Work Experience: One year clinical RN experience strongly preferred, actively working as RN
- State Restrictions: NOT available to CA, DC, LA, NY, ND, WA residents
- Accreditation: CCNE and NWCCU
- Transfer Credits: None accepted for this program
- Admissions: Highly competitive with limited spots
Arkansas Campus-Based vs. National Online Programs
Arkansas Campus-Based Programs
Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)
- Online delivery despite campus location
- 7-week accelerated sessions with multiple start dates
- Most affordable in Arkansas ($14,025 certificate, $24,225 MSN)
- Highest GPA requirement (3.25)
- ACEN accreditation
- Focus on underserved and diverse populations
- Lifespan-focused practicum progression
- Six practicum courses across all age groups
- U.S. News ranked among “Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas”
- State Operating Authority restrictions for clinical placements
- Not financial aid eligible (certificate only)
National Online Programs
Purdue Global
- 100% online, quarter-based system
- Fastest MSN completion (2 years)
- Most accessible GPA (2.5 certificate)
- Clinical at workplace permitted
- 93.7% NP certification pass rate (2024)
- CCNE and HLC accredited
- Faculty/preceptor-supported placements
- Seamless MSN-DNP pathway
- State restrictions apply (9+ states excluded)
- International students not eligible
Post University
- 100% online, 8-week courses
- Monthly start dates for flexibility
- One course at a time (no concurrent courses)
- APEA 3P Exam checkpoint after initial courses
- 630 clinical hours across five preceptorships
- Student success advisors provide one-on-one support
- CCNE and NECHE accredited
- MSN-holders can earn second MSN
- Available in 43 states (13 excluded including neighbors LA, TN)
- Mid-range affordability ($30,198+)
Western Governors University (WGU)
- Competency-based education model
- Flat-rate tuition per six-month term
- Progress by demonstrating mastery (no credit hours)
- Dedicated Program Mentor throughout
- Minimum 2.5 years due to clinical requirements
- 650-750 clinical hours depending on state
- Highly competitive admissions
- Yellow Ribbon Program for veterans
- Average loan debt less than half national average
- CCNE and NWCCU accredited
- No transfer credits accepted
- Six states excluded from enrollment
Key Decision Factors
Budget Considerations
Most Affordable Overall:
- Arkansas State University: $14,025 certificate, $24,225 MSN (best value in Arkansas)
Best Value National Programs:
- Purdue Global: $20,160 certificate, $32,760 MSN
- WGU: $21,465 certificate, $35,775 MSN (competency-based allows acceleration)
Mid-Range Option:
- Post University: $30,198-$30,794 MSN
Clinical Hours Comparison
Standard Requirements:
- WGU: 650 hours (750 for Kansas)
- Post University: 630 hours
- Purdue Global: 6 clinical credits
- Arkansas State: 14.5 clinical credits
Clinical Flexibility:
- Purdue Global: Workplace clinicals permitted
- WGU: Local community placements with university support
- Post University: Five distinct preceptorship experiences
- Arkansas State: Must complete in State Operating Authority states
Program Format Preferences
Fully Online:
- All programs (Arkansas State, Purdue Global, Post University, WGU)
Session Structure:
- Arkansas State: 7-week accelerated sessions
- Post University: 8-week courses, one at a time
- Purdue Global: Quarter-based system
- WGU: Competency-based (self-paced within terms)
Start Date Flexibility:
- Post University: Monthly start dates (most flexible)
- Arkansas State: Multiple start dates per year
- Purdue Global: Quarter system start dates
- WGU: Rolling admissions
Admission Flexibility
Lowest GPA Requirements:
- Purdue Global: 2.5 (certificate only)
Standard GPA:
- Post University: 3.0
- WGU: 3.0 in prerequisite courses
Highest GPA:
- Arkansas State: 3.25 (most competitive in Arkansas)
Work Experience Required:
- Arkansas State: 1,500 RN practice hours documented
- Post University: 1 year full-time clinical nursing in last 3 years
- WGU: 1 year strongly preferred, actively working recommended
- Purdue Global: Not specified
Special Features
Curriculum Innovations:
- WGU: Competency-based education (progress by mastery)
- Arkansas State: Lifespan-focused six-seminar series
- Post University: APEA 3P Exam checkpoint
- Purdue Global: Quarter system enables faster completion
Financial Aid:
- WGU: Yellow Ribbon Program, average debt less than half national average
- Arkansas State Certificate: NOT financial aid eligible
- Arkansas State MSN: Financial aid eligible
- Purdue Global: Standard federal financial aid
- Post University: Financial aid available
Pass Rates:
- Purdue Global: 93.7% NP certification (2024 graduates)
- Arkansas State: Prepares for ANCC certification exam
- WGU: ANCC-certified curriculum
- Post University: Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification
Student Support:
- WGU: Dedicated Program Mentor + course instructors
- Post University: Student Success Advisors one-on-one
- Arkansas State: Faculty support with 7-week session structure
- Purdue Global: Faculty and preceptor-supported placements
Accreditation
CCNE Accreditation:
- Purdue Global
- Post University
- WGU
ACEN Accreditation:
- Arkansas State University
Additional Institutional Accreditation:
- WGU: NWCCU (Northwest Commission)
- Post University: NECHE (New England Commission)
- Purdue Global: HLC (Higher Learning Commission)
Transfer Credits and Pathways
Transfer Flexibility:
- Arkansas State: Gap courses for certificate (0-9 credits if prerequisites not current)
- Purdue Global: Seamless MSN-DNP pathway
- Post University: Transcript evaluation for MSN-holders earning second MSN
- WGU Certificate: May transfer NP core courses (pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment)
- WGU MSN: No transfer credits accepted
Advanced Pathways:
- Purdue Global: All MSN clinical hours apply toward DNP
- Post University: MSN-holders can complete PMHNP in ~11 courses
- WGU: Separate post-master’s certificate option
State Authorization Considerations
Arkansas Residents: All programs available
State Restrictions for National Programs:
Purdue Global:
- Certificate NOT available: DC, HI, LA, NY, OR, TN, UT, WA, Guam
- MSN restrictions: TN (all tracks); DC, WA (PMHNP specifically)
Post University:
- NOT available: AZ, CA, DC, Guam, LA, MD, NY, OR, PR, TN, US Virgin Islands, UT, WA
- Available in 43 states/territories
WGU:
- NOT available: CA, DC, LA, NY, ND, WA
- Available in 42 states
Arkansas State University:
- Clinicals must be completed in states where university has State Operating Authority
Choosing Your Best Fit
Choose a Certificate Program If:
- You already hold MSN or DNP
- Want fastest route to PMHNP (1.5 years)
- Budget $14,025-$21,465 manageable
- Meet prerequisite requirements
Best Certificate Choices:
- Budget: Arkansas State ($14,025) – most affordable in Arkansas
- Flexibility: Purdue Global (workplace clinicals, quarter system)
- Innovation: WGU (competency-based, flat-rate tuition)
- Accessibility: Purdue Global (2.5 GPA minimum)
Choose an MSN Program If:
- You hold BSN
- Want comprehensive graduate education
- Timeline 2-2.83 years acceptable
- Budget $24,225-$35,775 manageable
Best MSN Choices:
- Budget: Arkansas State ($24,225) – most affordable in Arkansas
- Speed: Purdue Global (2 years) – fastest completion
- Flexibility: Post University (monthly start dates, one course at a time)
- Innovation: WGU (competency-based, flat-rate allows acceleration)
Choose Arkansas State If:
- Arkansas resident seeking in-state program
- Most affordable option priority ($14,025 certificate, $24,225 MSN)
- Strong academic record (3.25 GPA)
- 1,500 documented RN practice hours
- Prefer 7-week accelerated sessions
- Lifespan-focused practicum approach appeals
- U.S. News ranking important
- ACEN accreditation acceptable
- Can complete clinicals in State Operating Authority states
Choose Purdue Global If:
- Want fastest MSN completion (2 years)
- Clinical at workplace appealing
- Quarter system fits your schedule
- 93.7% pass rate important
- 2.5 GPA makes certificate accessible
- Seamless MSN-DNP pathway desired
- CCNE accreditation required
- Not restricted by excluded states
Choose Post University If:
- Monthly start dates needed
- Prefer one course at a time
- Student Success Advisor support valued
- Mid-range budget acceptable ($30K+)
- 8-week courses fit schedule
- APEA 3P checkpoint structure helpful
- Available in your state (43 states)
- MSN-holder seeking second MSN quickly
Choose WGU If:
- Competency-based education appeals
- Want to accelerate through known material
- Flat-rate tuition beneficial (unlimited courses per term)
- Dedicated Program Mentor support valued
- Yellow Ribbon benefits apply (veterans)
- Lower loan debt priority
- Can commit to 2.5 year minimum
- Not in excluded states (CA, DC, LA, NY, ND, WA)
- Competitive application process acceptable
Application Timeline
12-18 Months Before:
- Research programs by budget, format, clinical requirements
- Verify RN license status and renewal
- Document RN practice hours (Arkansas State requires 1,500)
- Complete prerequisite courses if needed
- Request transcripts from all institutions
- Identify recommendation letter sources
- Calculate total program costs including fees
6-12 Months Before:
- Submit applications to top 2-3 programs
- Complete criminal background checks
- Prepare personal statements/application essays
- Request 3 letters of recommendation (WGU specific format)
- Complete program-specific requirements
- Apply for financial aid
- Research clinical placement options in your state
3-6 Months Before:
- Accept admission offer
- Complete enrollment requirements
- Arrange tuition payment or payment plan
- Purchase textbooks/learning resources
- Set up technology platforms
- Plan work schedule adjustments
- Identify potential preceptors if applicable
1-3 Months Before:
- Attend orientation sessions
- Complete immunizations (Arkansas State: CPR, TB, Hepatitis B, Influenza)
- Obtain professional liability insurance (Arkansas State: $1M/$3M)
- Finalize clinical placements
- Join student communities
- Review prerequisite materials
- Prepare study environment and routine
Conclusion
Arkansas offers one campus-based program and three national online PMHNP options with costs ranging from $14,025 to $35,775. Arkansas State University provides the most affordable pathways ($14,025 certificate, $24,225 MSN) with lifespan-focused practicum experiences and U.S. News recognition, though requiring the highest GPA (3.25) and 1,500 documented RN hours.
National programs add diversity: Purdue Global achieves fastest MSN completion (2 years) with 93.7% pass rates and workplace clinical flexibility; Post University offers monthly start dates with one-course-at-a-time structure and extensive student support; WGU delivers competency-based innovation with flat-rate tuition allowing unlimited courses per term and Yellow Ribbon benefits for veterans.
Your ideal program depends on budget ($14,025-$35,775), desired timeline (1.5-2.83 years), GPA standing (2.5-3.25), work experience documentation, clinical flexibility needs, and learning format preferences. Arkansas State best serves budget-conscious students with strong academics. Purdue Global suits those wanting speed and workplace clinicals. Post University appeals to those needing maximum start date flexibility. WGU fits self-directed learners wanting competency-based progression.
Consider accreditation preferences (ACEN vs. CCNE), state authorization for clinical placements, financial aid eligibility (Arkansas State certificate excluded), pass rates, student support structures, and clinical hour requirements when finalizing your decision. All programs prepare graduates for ANCC/AANP certification and advanced psychiatric mental health practice across diverse care settings.