Georgia offers eight PMHNP programs with costs ranging from approximately $9,702 to $166,564.
Programs take between 12 months to 4 years to complete depending on program track and enrollment status.
High Level Program Comparison Table
| School | Est. Cost Range | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | BSN–DNP: ~$42.3K Certificate: ~$9.7K | – One of the lowest-cost BSN-to-DNP PMHNP programs in Georgia. – Hybrid format with cohort locations in Augusta and Athens. – 1,100+ total clinical and residency hours – 100% PMHNP pass rate reported over the last 5 years. |
| Brenau University | Certificate: ~$26.3K | – Strong psychotherapy emphasis. – Monthly in-person weekend intensives – Narrative medicine and trauma-informed care – Dual-enrollment option into the DNP available. |
| Emory University | DNP: ~$166.6K Certificate: ~$54.3K | – Private nursing school with strong clinical rigor. – Heavy focus on psychotherapy across multiple modalities. – 1,000+ clinical hours with specialty and inpatient exposure. – Best fit for highly competitive applicants. |
| Georgia College & State University | MSN: ~$15K–$22K Certificate: ~$5K–$7K | – Very affordable public PMHNP option for Georgia residents. – Cohort-based online program with minimal campus visits. – Dedicated clinical coordinator for in-state placements. – Strong balance of cost, structure, and flexibility. |
| Georgia Southern University | BSN–DNP: ~$21K Certificate: ~$14K | – One of the lowest-cost DNP PMHNP pathways in the state. – More than 95% online with an MSN exit option. – Focus on rural and underserved populations. – Clinical placements limited to GA and SC. |
| Georgia State University | MSN: ~$23.2K Certificate: ~$12.7K–$20.4K | – Urban clinical access throughout metro Atlanta. – Balanced adult and child psychiatric training model. – Faculty-supported clinical paperwork and guidance. – Solid mid-cost public university option. |
| Mercer University | MSN: ~$47.9K/year DNP: ~$41.4K/year | – Strong integration of leadership and systems coursework. – 780+ clinical hours at the master’s level. – Good fit for students targeting leadership growth. |
| Valdosta State University | MSN: ~$18.8K Certificate: ~$14.5K | – Family-focused PMHNP track with integrated primary care. – 675 clinical hours across diverse psychiatric settings. – Low-cost public university option in south Georgia. – Highly individualized certificate pathway. |
PMHNP Program Summaries for Georgia
Augusta University PMHNP Programs
Augusta | $441 cpc | Certificate / DNP
Augusta University’s PMHNP tracks are delivered in a hybrid model with interactive web-based classes and required campus activities, and students must live in Georgia or South Carolina for clinicals and site visits. The college reports a 100% PMHNP board pass rate over the last five years, and graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANP certification. The Post-BSN to DNP program spans ~3–4 years depending on pace, while the Post-Master’s Certificate typically finishes in about a year at a notably lower overall cost. ..read more.
Brenau University PMHNP Programs
Gainesville | $845 cpc | Certificate
Brenau University’s Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificate is a 15-month, four-semester program designed for working nurses, delivered mostly online with monthly weekend intensives in North Atlanta. The 26-credit curriculum blends psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and four clinical practicums across the lifespan; students may also dual-enroll in the DNP to fast-track a doctorate. Estimated tuition is about $26,338, with graduates prepared for evidence-based evaluation, prescribing, and treatment in both in-person and telehealth settings. ..read more.
Emory University PMHNP Programs
Atlanta | $1,936 cpc | Certificate / DNP
Emory’s PMHNP options include a 86-credit DNP track (with 1,080 direct clinical hours) and a 26-credit post-graduate certificate (720 clinical hours). Both use a flexible distance-friendly model—mixing live virtual sessions, asynchronous coursework, and scheduled intensives—so students can learn from their home region while completing local clinicals. Emory also offers the Blake Scholars Program, a fully funded post-graduate certificate focused on child and adolescent behavioral/mental health...read more.
Georgia College & State University PMHNP Program
Milledgeville | $400 t0 $600 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Georgia College & State University’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathway offers a 39-credit MSN and a 23–32-credit Post-Master’s Certificate delivered primarily online with weekly Thursday live sessions and brief on-campus immersion labs. Both tracks require 570 clinical hours in Georgia, with a dedicated Clinical Coordinator assisting with preceptor placement. The cohort admits each summer and can be finished in about 2–3 years (MSN) or 1–2 years (certificate), depending on course load and prior coursework...read more.
Georgia Southern PMHNP Programs
Statesboro, Savannah | $272 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / DNP
Georgia Southern offers two fully online PMHNP pathways—a Post-BSN to DNP (with an optional MSN exit) and a Post-Master’s Certificate—with mostly asynchronous coursework and some live sessions. Clinical practicums must be completed in Georgia or South Carolina with qualified preceptors. The DNP track is estimated at about $21k over three years, while the certificate pathway is about $14k over ~two years (or ~$7k if completed in one year). ..read more.
Georgia State University PMHNP Programs
Atlanta | $414 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Georgia State’s PMHNP options include an MSN and a Post-Master’s Certificate delivered in a web-enhanced distance format with mandatory on-campus sessions and regular live WebEx classes. The MSN costs about $23.2K in-state for 48 credits and can be finished in 5 full-time semesters (7 part-time), while the certificate ranges from $12.7K–$20.4K over ~3 semesters depending on transfer credit/gap analysis. Graduates are eligible for national PMHNP certification (ANCC or AANPCB). ..read more.
Mercer University PMHNP Programs
Macon | $1,285.50 cpc | BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
Mercer’s Georgia Baptist College of Nursing offers three PMHNP pathways delivered in a blended format that pairs synchronous online coursework with on-site labs and supervised clinicals in Atlanta. Estimated annual costs range from about $41.4k for the DNP tracks to $47.9k for the MSN, with program lengths spanning ~17–28 months for the MSN, ~2.5–3 years for the BSN-to-DNP, and ~2 years for the Post-Master’s DNP. Experienced faculty provide personalized guidance and help align clinical placements with each student’s goals, and all tracks prepare graduates for ANCC or AANP PMHNP certification. ..read more.
South College PMHNP Programs
Atlanta, Marietta | $310 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Georgia nursing professionals can complete the PMHNP program fully online through South College, with hands-on practicum hours arranged at approved Georgia clinical locations. Both the MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate options focus on psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifespan psychiatric care. Graduates meet eligibility requirements to sit for the national PMHNP certification exam.
Valdosta State University PMHNP Programs
Valdosta | $329 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / DNP
Valdosta State University offers two Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks through its College of Nursing and Health Sciences: a 57-credit MSN program and a 44-credit Post-Master's Certificate program. Both programs are delivered in a hybrid format combining online coursework with weekend campus meetings and require 675 clinical hours in diverse psychiatric settings. The programs are accredited by CCNE and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing, preparing graduates to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues across the lifespan...read more.
Walden University PMHNP Programs
Fully Online | $775 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Walden University’s 100% online PMHNP programs provide Georgia nurses with accessible pathways—BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, MSN-PMHNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate—to address the state’s urgent mental health care shortages from Atlanta to rural South Georgia. Featuring the Practicum Pledge, Walden partners with students to secure clinical placements throughout the Peach State, backed by a virtual skills lab and expert faculty guidance. With affordable tuition after the Believe & Achieve Scholarship and no entrance exams required, Georgia nurses can seamlessly advance to doctoral or master’s-level psychiatric practice and improve mental health outcomes statewide.
Chamberlain MSN PMHNP Program
online | $735 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Chamberlain University offers two CCNE-accredited PMHNP options—an MSN (~2.5 years) and a Graduate Certificate (~1.5 years)—delivered 100% online with 650 supervised practicum hours and dedicated preceptor support via the Practicum Commitment. Georgia nurses can complete coursework anywhere while leveraging Chamberlain’s Atlanta (1100 Altmore Avenue, Sandy Springs) and Stockbridge (100 Southcrest Drive) campuses for student services, skills support, and local connections; both locations offer an Evening/Weekend option for added flexibility. The curriculum spans advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychiatric assessment, differential diagnosis, and psychotherapy, plus two required in-person immersions to sharpen hands-on competencies. Together, the flexible schedule, campus resources, and coordinated clinical placement help working RNs progress efficiently toward PMHNP readiness in Georgia.
Nightingale College PMHNP Program
online | $550 cpc | MSN
The CCNE-accredited MSN-PMHNP program at Nightingale College is a 55-credit hour program designed for completion in just 24 months and is delivered primarily through online instruction. The curriculum is comprehensive, requiring 810 clinical contact hours, and is specifically structured to prepare graduates to sit for the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam. Critically, Nightingale College's MSN-PMHNP program is fully authorized to enroll students who are residents of Georgia.
Post University PMHNP Programs
online | $604 cpc | MSN
The program has an estimated cost of approximately $30,198 to $30,795 and typically takes about 34 months to complete on a full-time basis, utilizing a focused, one-course-at-a-time schedule. Admission is limited to RNs with an unencumbered license, a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of recent full-time clinical work experience. Notably, a prerequisite for advanced clinical courses is successfully passing the APEA 3P Exam, demonstrating mastery of the core Advanced Practice Nursing concepts.
Purdue Global PMHNP Programs
online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Purdue Global's PMHNP programs are authorized in Georgia, offering three online tracks with tuition of $420 per quarter credit hour for master's-level coursework: a Postgraduate Certificate, MSN with PMHNP focus, and MSN-DNP pathway. Georgia nurses complete clinical experiences with qualified preceptors in local communities, gaining hands-on training in diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy, and prescribing psychotropic medications across the lifespan. All programs are CCNE-accredited and prepare Georgia graduates for national certification exams through ANCC or AANP, leading to APRN licensure eligibility in the state.
WGU PMHNP Programs
online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN
The PMHNP MSN and certificate at WGU use mastery-based progress instead of credit counts. Clinicals require 650 local hours, increasing to 750 for Kansas starts after March 1, 2025. Program Mentor guidance and flat-rate terms yield minimum lengths of 2.5 years (MSN) and 1.5 years (certificate).
Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in Georgia
TLDR: Quick School Selection Guide
Choose Augusta University if you want the most affordable certificate option ($9,702) or the lowest-cost BSN-to-DNP program ($42,312) with a 100% board pass rate over 5 years.
Choose Brenau University if you want to dual enroll in both certificate and DNP programs simultaneously to graduate with both credentials faster.
Choose Emory University if you want the most comprehensive clinical training (1,080 DNP hours, 720 certificate hours) from a nationally recognized institution.
Choose Georgia College & State University if you’re seeking the most affordable MSN program ($15,000-$22,000) with minimal on-campus requirements and dedicated clinical placement support.
Choose Georgia Southern if you want a 95%+ online program with MSN exit option and year-round study flexibility at low in-state tuition ($21,006).
Choose Georgia State University if you need the fastest MSN completion (20 months full-time) with low tuition ($23,172) and strong clinical placement assistance.
Choose Mercer University if you want comprehensive DNP pathways (BSN-to-DNP or Post-Master’s) with 780-1,020 clinical hours.
Choose Valdosta State University if you’re interested in the unique Family PMHNP specialization combining primary and psychiatric care ($18,753 MSN).
MSN-PMHNP Programs Comparison for Georgia
Georgia State University offers the fastest MSN completion at just 20 months full-time, while Georgia College & State University provides the most affordable option at $15,000-$22,000.
Valdosta State stands out with its unique Family PMHNP track combining primary and psychiatric care.
| School | Cost | Duration | Clinical Hours | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia College & State | $15,000-$22,000 | 2-3 years | 570 | Online + immersions |
| Georgia Southern | Not offered (DNP only) | — | — | — |
| Georgia State University | $23,172 | 20 months FT | 590 | Hybrid |
| Mercer University | $47,908/year | 17-28 months | 780 | Hybrid |
| Valdosta State | $18,753 | 2 years FT | 675 | Online + practicum |
Key Differentiators:
- Most affordable: Georgia College & State University ($15,000-$22,000)
- Fastest completion: Georgia State University (20 months)
- Most clinical hours: Mercer University (780 hours)
- Unique specialization: Valdosta State University (Family PMHNP combining primary and psychiatric care)
- Minimal campus requirements: Georgia College & State (1-3 days per semester)
Georgia DNP-PMHNP Programs Comparison
Augusta University offers the most affordable BSN-to-DNP pathway at $42,312 with an impressive 100% board pass rate over 5 years.
Emory University provides the most extensive clinical training with 1,080 direct clinical hours, though at a premium price point.
| School | Cost | Duration | Clinical Hours | Entry Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | $43K | 3 years FT, 4 years PT | – 1,183 total hrs – (840 clinical + 135 lab + 300 DNP residency) | BSN-to-DNP |
| Emory University | $167K | 2.5 years FT | – 1,080 direct clinical hrs – 90 simulation + 120 DNP practicum | BSN-to-DNP |
| Georgia Southern | $21,006 | 3 years | – 630 hrs – (720 for full DNP) | BSN-to-DNP with MSN exit option |
| Mercer University | $41,447/year | 2.5-3 years | – 1,020 hrs – (780 clinical + 240 immersion) | BSN-to-DNP |
| Mercer University | $41,447/year | 2 years | – 960 hrs – (780 clinical + 180 immersion) | Post-Master’s DNP |
Key Differentiators:
- Most affordable BSN-to-DNP: Augusta University ($42,312)
- Lowest annual cost: Georgia Southern ($21,006 total)
- Most clinical hours: Emory University (1,080 direct clinical hours)
- MSN exit flexibility: Georgia Southern (exit after 43 credits)
- 100% board pass rate: Augusta University (5-year track record)
- Post-Master’s DNP option: Mercer University (2 years, 58 credits)
Post-Master’s Certificate PMHNP Programs Comparison
Augusta University offers the most affordable certificate at just $9,702 with 504 clinical hours in one year.
Emory University requires minimum 1 year psychiatric RN experience and provides 720 clinical hours.
Brenau University uniquely allows dual enrollment with DNP programs.
| School | Cost | Duration | Credits | Clinical Hours | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | $10K | 1 year | 22 | 504 hrs | Most affordable; for certified NPs |
| Brenau University | $27K | 15 months PT | 26 | Not specified | Dual DNP enrollment option |
| Emory University | $55K | 1-1.5 years FT | 26 | 720 hrs + 45 simulation | Requires 1 year psych RN experience |
| Georgia College & State | $5K-$K | 1-2 years | 11-23 | 570 hrs | Individualized based on gap analysis |
| Georgia Southern | $14K | ~2 years | 19 | 630 hrs | For certified APRNs only |
| Georgia State University | $12K-$21K | 12 months | 26-43 | 500 hrs | Gap analysis determines credits |
| Valdosta State | $15K | 1-2 years | 44 | Varies hrs | Individualized program of study |
Key Differentiators:
- Most affordable: Augusta University ($9,702)
- Lowest minimum cost: Georgia College & State ($4,394 if minimal gap)
- Fastest completion: Georgia State University (12 months) and Augusta University (1 year)
- Most clinical hours: Emory University (720 hours)
- Dual enrollment option: Brenau University (certificate + DNP simultaneously)
- Most flexible: Georgia College & State and Valdosta State (highly individualized)
Admissions Requirements Comparison
| School | Minimum GPA | Application Deadline | Experience Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | Not specified | Rolling (applications open Aug 8, 2025 for Fall 2026) | Must reside in GA or SC |
| Brenau University | Not specified | Rolling | MSN degree required for certificate |
| Emory University | Not specified | Rolling | 1 year FT psych/mental health RN experience |
| Georgia College & State | 2.75 (last 60 hours) | July 17, 2026 | 1 year clinical practice (more preferred) |
| Georgia Southern | 3.0 | March 1 | 1 year FT RN experience; must reside in GA or SC |
| Georgia State University | 2.75 | May 15 | 1-2 years clinical practice preferred; 1 year psych experience or 250-500 volunteer hours |
| Mercer University | 3.0 (2.75-2.99 conditional for MSN; 3.2 for DNP, 3.0-3.19 conditional) | Rolling | 1 year RN experience (MSN); none required for DNP |
| Valdosta State | Not specified | Rolling | Current RN licensure |