Arizona PMHNP Programs

Arizona offers seven PMHNP programs, including four institutions with physical campuses in the state and three fully online national programs serving Arizona residents. This comprehensive guide helps you evaluate certificate, master’s, and doctoral pathways based on cost, duration, format, and program features.

Arizona State University PMHNP Program

Phoenix | $605 cpc | Certificate / DNP

Arizona State University’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation offers two PMHNP pathways: an 85-credit DNP program and a 28-credit graduate certificate. Both blend online coursework with on-campus immersions and require 585–1,125 clinical hours in diverse settings, including rural and underserved communities. The DNP includes advanced practice, leadership, and doctoral project components, while the certificate focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic management for APRNs in other specialties. Graduates are prepared for national PMHNP certification with training that integrates multicultural mental health care across the lifespan...read more.

Grand Canyon University PMHNP Program

Phoenix | $750 cpc | MSN

Grand Canyon University’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program blends online coursework with two required on-campus immersions, preparing nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders across the lifespan. The 53-credit curriculum includes advanced sciences, leadership, informatics, research translation, and specialized psychiatric training with 750 supervised clinical hours. ..read more.

Northern Arizona University PMHNP Program

Flagstaff | $399 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Northern Arizona University offers two PMHNP pathways: an MS in Nursing with PMHNP emphasis and a Post-Graduate Certificate. Both programs integrate clinical training throughout the curriculum, focusing on serving rural and underserved communities. The master’s track combines advanced nursing core courses with specialized psychiatric mental health content, while the certificate adapts credit requirements based on prior education. Graduates are prepared for ANCC certification with full prescriptive and diagnostic authority in psychiatric mental health care...read more.

University of Arizona PMHNP Program

Tucson | $1053 cpc | Certificate / DNP

The University of Arizona College of Nursing offers two PMHNP pathways: a 67-credit DNP program and a 34-credit graduate certificate. Both tracks require 720 clinical hours, blending online coursework with on-campus intensives, including RISE sessions and a Clinical Practice Intensive. The DNP focuses on advanced psychiatric practice across the lifespan, while the certificate is designed for APRNs seeking PMHNP certification. Graduates are prepared for national board certification and to serve diverse patient populations in family, pediatric, adult, and geriatric mental health care...read more.

University of Phoenix PMHNP Program

Phoenix | $540 cpc | MSN

University of Phoenix offers online PMHNP MSN and Bridge tracks with a required 5-day on-campus residency and a tuition guarantee that locks rates from enrollment to graduation. CCNE-accredited programs feature up to eight starts per year, one-to-one support, transfer credit options, and faculty who bring extensive real-world practice. Coursework spans advanced assessment, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and psychiatric management across the lifespan with embedded clinical skill checkoffs...read more.

Chamberlain MSN PMHNP Program

online | $735 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Chamberlain University’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways include a 45-credit MSN and a 35-credit Graduate Certificate delivered through 100% online coursework with two required on-site immersion experiences. Both tracks include 650 supervised practicum hours, and Chamberlain’s Practicum Commitment helps secure qualified preceptors. Estimated tuition is $33,075 for the MSN (~2.5 years full-time) and $25,725 for the certificate (~1.5 years full-time), with over 90% of students receiving financial aid. Institutional accreditation is through the Higher Learning Commission...read more.

Purdue Global PMHNP Programs

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

Purdue Global’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways—Certificate, MSN focus, and MSN-to-DNP—run fully online and include VR telehealth and group therapy work. The certificate is about $20,160 over ~1.5 years; the MSN is about $32,760 over ~2 years; the MSN-to-DNP adds doctoral study after the MSN. The program is authorized for Arizona residents.

Wilkes University PMHNP Programs

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

Wilkes University's Passan School of Nursing offers three flexible, 100% online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) tracks with consistently high board pass rates of 95.4%. The university is authorized to enroll students physically located in Arizona for its MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate programs, as it meets the state's educational requirements for APRN licensure. All tracks require 500 clinical hours, with complimentary clinical placement services included, and are designed to prepare advanced practice nurses to serve diverse and underserved populations.

How to Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in Arizona

Across all program types—certificate, MSN, and DNP—total costs range from $9,177 to $105,702, with completion timelines spanning 1 to 4 years depending on the credential and student background.

Quickest PMHNP Programs in Arizona

Fastest Certificate Programs (1-1.5 years):

  • University of Arizona Certificate: 1.25 years (34 credits)
  • Arizona State University Certificate: 1-1.5 years (28 credits)
  • Northern Arizona University Certificate: 1-1.5 years (23-36 credits)
  • Chamberlain University Certificate: 1.5 years (35 credits)
  • Purdue Global Certificate: 1.5 years (48 quarter credits)
  • Wilkes University Certificate: 1.67 years (29 credits)

Fastest MSN Programs (2-2.5 years):

  • Northern Arizona University MSN: 2-2.5 years (48-51 credits) – fastest campus-based option
  • Purdue Global MSN: 2 years (78 quarter credits)
  • Wilkes University MSN: 2.3 years (42 credits)
  • Chamberlain University MSN: 2.5 years (~45 credits)
  • University of Phoenix MSN: 2.5 years (52 credits)
  • Grand Canyon University MSN: 2.5-3 years (53 credits)

DNP Programs (2.5-4 years):

  • University of Arizona DNP: 2.5 years (67 credits) – fastest doctoral option
  • Arizona State University DNP: 3-4 years (85 credits)

Most Affordable PMHNP Programs in Arizona

Certificate Programs by Cost:

  1. Northern Arizona University: $9,177-$14,364 (most affordable)
  2. Arizona State University: $16,940
  3. Purdue Global: $20,160
  4. Wilkes University: $21,779
  5. Chamberlain University: $25,725
  6. University of Arizona: $35,802 residents/$53,703 non-residents

MSN Programs by Cost:

  1. Northern Arizona University: $19,152 (most affordable MSN)
  2. University of Phoenix: $30,420
  3. Wilkes University: $31,542
  4. Purdue Global: $32,760
  5. Chamberlain University: $33,075
  6. Grand Canyon University: $39,750

DNP Programs by Cost:

  1. Arizona State University: $51,450 residents (most affordable DNP)
  2. University of Arizona: $70,551 residents/$105,702 non-residents

Programs Ranked by Minimum GPA Requirements

Most Accessible GPA Requirements:

  • Grand Canyon University MSN: 2.5 GPA (with GMAT 500 or GRE 300)
  • Purdue Global Certificate: 2.5 GPA
  • University of Arizona: 2.75 GPA

Standard GPA Requirements (3.0 minimum):

  • Arizona State University (certificate and DNP)
  • Northern Arizona University
  • Chamberlain University
  • University of Phoenix
  • Wilkes University

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: $9,177 – $35,802 (residents) or $53,703 (non-residents) Duration Range: 1 – 1.67 years

Arizona Campus-Based Certificate Programs

Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff)

  • Cost: $9,177-$14,364 (23-36 credits at $399/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE
  • Duration: 1-1.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: Integrated throughout, NUR 680 comprehensive clinical
  • Format: Fully online
  • Prerequisites: Master’s in nursing or healthcare field preferred; prerequisites within past 5 years
  • Unique Features: Rural health focus, lowest tuition in Arizona
  • GPA: 3.0 in all nursing coursework
  • Special Requirements: IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card, Arizona RN license or multistate eligibility

Arizona State University (Phoenix)

  • Cost: $16,940 (28 credits at $605/credit)
  • Duration: 1-1.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: 585
  • Format: Hybrid with 2-3 campus visits per semester
  • Prerequisites: Board certification in different APRN specialty; prerequisites within past 5 years
  • Unique Features: Individualized transcript reviews, multicultural urban and rural experiences
  • GPA: 3.0 (last 60 hours or applicable master’s)
  • Special Requirements: Interview with faculty, three letters of recommendation

University of Arizona (Tucson)

  • Cost: $35,802 residents/$53,703 non-residents (34 credits at $1,053/credit)
  • Duration: 1.25 years – FASTEST CERTIFICATE
  • Clinical Hours: 720 (highest among certificates)
  • Format: Hybrid with on-campus intensives
  • Prerequisites: Master’s or doctorate as APRN
  • Unique Features: Top 1% global ranking, comprehensive clinical residency, cohort size of 30
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum
  • Special Requirements: NursingCAS application, personal statement, letters of recommendation

National Online Certificate Programs Serving Arizona

Purdue Global

  • Cost: $20,160 (48 quarter credits at $420/credit)
  • Duration: 1.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: 6 clinical credits across four courses
  • Format: Fully online
  • Prerequisites: Master’s in nursing with 2.5 GPA
  • Unique Features: Quarter system, workplace clinicals allowed, 93.7% NP pass rate
  • GPA: 2.5 minimum
  • State Restrictions: NOT available to DC, HI, LA, NY, OR, TN, UT, WA, Guam residents

Chamberlain University

  • Cost: $25,725 (35 credits at $735/credit for NP courses)
  • Duration: 1.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: 650
  • Format: Fully online with two in-person immersion visits
  • Prerequisites: Master’s in nursing from CCNE/NLN CNEA accredited institution
  • Unique Features: Practicum Commitment guarantee, 90%+ receive financial aid
  • GPA: 3.0 cumulative graduate GPA
  • Special Benefits: Military/veterans receive reduced $588/credit rate

Wilkes University

  • Cost: $21,779 (29 credits at $751/credit)
  • Duration: 1.67 years (11 courses over 5 terms)
  • Clinical Hours: 500 (250 hours in two courses)
  • Format: Fully online, 12-week terms
  • Prerequisites: MSN or DNP with 3.0 GPA
  • Unique Features: 95.4% ANCC pass rate, complimentary clinical placement services, Yellow Ribbon program
  • GPA: 3.0 from accredited institution
  • State Authorization: Available in AZ (see full list of 32 authorized states)

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: $19,152 – $39,750 Duration Range: 2 – 3 years

Arizona Campus-Based MSN Programs

Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff)

  • Cost: $19,152 (48-51 credits at $399/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE MSN
  • Duration: 2-2.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: Integrated throughout with extensive practicum experiences
  • Format: Fully online
  • Curriculum: 23 core units + 28 PMHNP emphasis units
  • Unique Features: Rural health specialization, NUR 560 Rural Theory and Health Policy, professional project addressing rural community health
  • GPA: 3.0 in all nursing coursework
  • Special Requirements: Undergraduate nursing research course (B or better), public health nursing course with clinical (B or better), statistics (C undergraduate or B graduate)

Grand Canyon University (Phoenix)

  • Cost: $39,750 (53 credits at $750/credit)
  • Duration: 2.5-3 years
  • Clinical Hours: 750 (250 hours each in three courses)
  • Format: Online with two required on-campus immersions (3-day and 2-day)
  • Curriculum: Core courses in leadership, informatics, translational research; three clinical practicum courses
  • Unique Features: Christian worldview integration, simulation labs, evidence-based practice project
  • GPA: 2.8 OR 2.5 with GMAT 500/GRE 300
  • State Availability: AZ, CO, FL, GA, ID, IL, NV, NM, NC, TX only
  • Transfer: Up to 12 credits (1/3 of program maximum)

National Online MSN Programs Serving Arizona

University of Phoenix

  • Cost: $30,420 standard / $35,685 bridge (52-61 credits at $540/credit + $195/course fee)
  • Duration: 30 months standard / 34-36 months bridge
  • Clinical Hours: Embedded throughout; 5-day mandatory campus residency
  • Format: Online with mandatory residency for competency checkoffs
  • Curriculum: 12 core courses; bridge includes 9 credits nursing foundation courses
  • Unique Features: Tuition guarantee, 5-6 week courses, faculty average 28+ years experience, up to 8 start dates/year
  • GPA: 3.0 minimum
  • Work Experience: 3 years full-time (2 years clinical RN)
  • Bridge Option: For RNs with bachelor’s in non-nursing field

Purdue Global

  • Cost: $32,760 (78 quarter credits at $420/credit)
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Clinical Hours: 6 clinical credits integrated throughout
  • Format: Fully online, quarter-based system
  • Curriculum: 30 core credits + 48 PMHNP credits
  • Unique Features: Clinical at workplace possible, 93.7% NP pass rate, seamless MSN-to-DNP pathway
  • GPA: Not specified but typically 3.0
  • State Restrictions: TN residents cannot enroll; other restrictions apply for NP tracks
  • MSN-DNP Option: All MSN clinical hours apply toward DNP

Chamberlain University

  • Cost: $33,075 (~45 credits; NP courses $735/credit, non-NP $720/credit)
  • Duration: 2.5 years
  • Clinical Hours: 650 supervised practicum hours
  • Format: Fully online with two in-person immersion visits
  • Curriculum: Population health, leadership, pathophysiology, pharmacology, four clinical practicum courses
  • Unique Features: Practicum Commitment guarantee, 90%+ receive financial aid, 11-hour on-campus lab (NR-509)
  • GPA: 3.0 cumulative BSN
  • Accreditation: CCNE across all degree levels
  • Military: Reduced $588/credit for veterans

Wilkes University

  • Cost: $31,542 MSN / $39,803 RN-to-MSN (42-53 credits at $751/credit)
  • Duration: 2.3 years MSN / 3 years RN-to-MSN
  • Clinical Hours: 500 (250 hours in two courses)
  • Format: Fully online, 12-week terms
  • Curriculum: 15 courses over 7 terms (MSN); 18 courses over 9 terms (RN-to-MSN)
  • Unique Features: 95.4% ANCC pass rate (exceeds 90% national average), complimentary clinical placement, Yellow Ribbon program
  • GPA: 3.0 from accredited institution
  • RN-to-MSN: Saves $10,000 and 7 months vs. traditional BSN-then-MSN route
  • Clinical Placement: Sites up to 125 miles, all services included in tuition

DNP-PMHNP Programs

Doctoral programs represent the terminal degree in nursing practice, combining advanced clinical training with leadership, systems thinking, and evidence-based practice scholarship.

Cost Range: $51,450 – $105,702 Duration Range: 2.5 – 4 years

Arizona Campus-Based DNP Programs

Arizona State University (Phoenix)

  • Cost: $51,450 residents (85 credits at $605/credit) – MOST AFFORDABLE DNP
  • Duration: 3-4 years full-time
  • Clinical Hours: 1,125 (EXCEEDS ANCC recommendations – highest in Arizona)
  • Format: Hybrid with 2-3 campus visits per semester to Downtown Phoenix campus
  • Curriculum:
    • Core DNP courses: evidence-based practice, systems thinking, innovation leadership, healthcare policy
    • PMHNP courses: neuropsychopathology, psychopharmacology, mental health assessment/management across lifespan
    • DNP Evidence-Based Clinical Applied Project
  • Unique Features: Partnership organization projects, multicultural experiences in urban underserved and rural areas, up to 30 master’s credits transferable
  • GPA: 3.0 (last 60 hours bachelor’s or applicable master’s)
  • Prerequisites: One year clinical experience preferred
  • Special Requirements: Three letters of recommendation, interview with faculty, background clearance
  • Clinical Placement: Maricopa County students receive arranged placements; others must identify own sites with college approval

University of Arizona (Tucson)

  • Cost: $70,551 residents / $105,702 non-residents (67 credits at $1,053/credit)
  • Duration: 2.5 years – FASTEST DNP
  • Clinical Hours: 720 with multiple advanced practicum rotations
  • Format: Hybrid with on-campus intensives
  • Curriculum:
    • Statistical inference, scholarly inquiry, DNP forum
    • Advanced pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, psychopharmacology
    • Pediatric pharmacotherapeutics (NURS 542)
    • Healthcare informatics, organizational leadership and finance
    • Interprofessional collaboration, geriatric care
    • DNP Project (NURS 922)
  • Unique Features: Top 1% global institution ranking (CWUR 2024), cohort size of 30 students, comprehensive research focus
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum
  • Application: NursingCAS system, personal statement, letters of recommendation
  • Accreditation: CCNE

National Online DNP Programs Serving Arizona

Purdue Global – MSN-to-DNP Pathway

  • Cost: $32,760 MSN portion (78 quarter credits at $420/credit); DNP core $700/quarter credit
  • Duration: 2 years for MSN + DNP continuation
  • Clinical Hours: All MSN clinical hours (6 credits) apply toward DNP
  • Format: Fully online, quarter system
  • Curriculum: Complete MSN coursework then seamlessly transition to DNP core courses
  • Unique Features: Evidence-based project proposal during MSN, no reapplication needed for DNP transition
  • GPA: BSN with upper-level major in nursing
  • Pathway Benefit: Integrated progression eliminates duplicate coursework

Arizona Campus-Based vs. National Online Programs

Arizona Campus-Based Programs

Arizona State University (Phoenix – Downtown Campus)

  • Hybrid format with 2-3 campus visits per semester
  • Maricopa County clinical placement support
  • Multicultural urban and rural Arizona experiences
  • Evidence-based doctoral applied projects in partner organizations
  • Arizona or compact state RN license required

Grand Canyon University (Phoenix)

  • Two on-campus immersions (3-day and 2-day)
  • Simulation lab experiences
  • Christian worldview curriculum integration
  • HLC accredited since 1968
  • Limited state availability (10 states)

Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff)

  • Fully online despite campus location
  • Rural health specialization
  • NUR 680 comprehensive in-person clinical course
  • Professional project addressing rural community needs
  • Most affordable tuition in Arizona

University of Arizona (Tucson)

  • Hybrid with on-campus intensives
  • Top 1% global institution prestige
  • Average cohort size 30 (personalized attention)
  • Specialized pediatric and geriatric focus
  • Highest clinical hours (720-1,125)

National Online Programs

Chamberlain University

  • Fully online except two immersion visits
  • 11-hour on-campus lab component (NR-509)
  • Practicum Commitment guarantee
  • 90%+ students receive financial aid
  • Dedicated preceptor support team
  • Military/veteran discounts available

Purdue Global

  • 100% online, quarter-based system
  • Clinical experiences at workplace permitted
  • 93.7% NP certification pass rate
  • Faculty and preceptor-supported local placements
  • CCNE and HLC accredited
  • State restrictions apply (not available in 9+ states for PMHNP)

University of Phoenix

  • Online with mandatory 5-day campus residency
  • Competency checkoffs during residency
  • Up to 8 start dates per year
  • Tuition guarantee (fixed rates)
  • Transfer credits from 5,000+ institutions
  • Faculty average 28+ years experience
  • Bridge program for non-nursing bachelor’s holders

Wilkes University

  • 100% online, 12-week terms
  • Complimentary clinical placement services
  • 95.4% ANCC pass rate (highest reported)
  • Yellow Ribbon program for veterans
  • Dedicated Student Success Counselor
  • Sites secured up to 125 miles from student
  • RN-to-MSN bridge option saves time and money

Key Decision Factors

Budget Considerations

Most Affordable Overall:

  • Northern Arizona University: $9,177+ certificate, $19,152 MSN
  • Arizona State University: $51,450 DNP (residents)

Best Value National Programs:

  • Purdue Global: $20,160 certificate, $32,760 MSN
  • Wilkes University: $21,779 certificate, $31,542 MSN

Premium Options:

  • University of Arizona: Prestige with highest costs ($35,802+ certificate, $70,551+ DNP)
  • Grand Canyon University: Christian values focus ($39,750 MSN)

Clinical Hours Comparison

Highest Requirements:

  • Arizona State University DNP: 1,125 hours
  • University of Arizona: 720 hours
  • Grand Canyon University: 750 hours

Standard Requirements:

  • Chamberlain University: 650 hours
  • Wilkes University: 500 hours
  • Purdue Global: 6 clinical credits

Program Format Preferences

Fully Online (No Campus Visits):

  • Northern Arizona University
  • Purdue Global
  • Wilkes University

Minimal Campus Requirements:

  • Chamberlain University (two immersion visits)
  • University of Phoenix (5-day residency)

Regular Campus Visits:

  • Arizona State University (2-3 per semester)
  • University of Arizona (on-campus intensives)
  • Grand Canyon University (two immersions: 3-day, 2-day)

Admission Flexibility

Lowest GPA Requirements:

  • Grand Canyon University: 2.5 (with test scores)
  • Purdue Global: 2.5 (certificate)
  • University of Arizona: 2.75

No GRE/GMAT Required: All programs

Most Work Experience Required:

  • University of Phoenix: 3 years full-time (2 years clinical)

Special Features

Clinical Placement Support:

  • Chamberlain: Practicum Commitment guarantee
  • Wilkes: Complimentary placement services (no extra cost)
  • ASU: Maricopa County students receive arranged placements

Financial Aid:

  • Chamberlain: 90%+ students receive aid
  • Wilkes: Yellow Ribbon program for veterans
  • University of Phoenix: Tuition guarantee, employer alliances

Pass Rates:

  • Wilkes University: 95.4% ANCC (highest)
  • Purdue Global: 93.7% NP certification

Unique Specializations:

  • Northern Arizona University: Rural health focus
  • Grand Canyon University: Christian worldview
  • University of Arizona: Pediatric pharmacotherapeutics specialty

Transfer Credits

Most Generous:

  • ASU DNP: Up to 30 master’s credits
  • Purdue MSN-DNP: All MSN clinical hours apply
  • University of Phoenix: 5,000+ institutions accepted

Standard:

  • Grand Canyon: Up to 12 credits (1/3 maximum)
  • Wilkes: Up to 9 credits (3.0+ grade)

State Authorization Considerations

Arizona Residents: All programs available

State Restrictions for National Programs:

  • Purdue Global: NOT available in DC, HI, LA, NY, OR, TN, UT, WA (certificate); additional restrictions for MSN
  • Wilkes University: Available in 32 states including AZ
  • Grand Canyon University: Only 10 states (including AZ)
  • Chamberlain, University of Phoenix: Check specific state authorization

Choosing Your Best Fit

Choose a Certificate Program If:

  • You already hold MSN or DNP
  • Want fastest route to PMHNP (1-1.67 years)
  • Budget $9,177-$35,802 manageable
  • Meet prerequisite requirements (within 5 years)

Best Certificate Choices:

  • Budget: Northern Arizona University ($9,177-$14,364)
  • Speed: University of Arizona (1.25 years)
  • Pass Rate: Wilkes University (95.4%)
  • Clinical Hours: University of Arizona (720)

Choose an MSN Program If:

  • You hold BSN
  • Want comprehensive graduate education
  • Timeline 2-3 years acceptable
  • Budget $19,152-$39,750 manageable

Best MSN Choices:

  • Budget: Northern Arizona University ($19,152)
  • Pass Rate: Wilkes University (95.4%)
  • Financial Aid: Chamberlain (90%+ receive aid)
  • Flexibility: University of Phoenix (8 start dates)

Choose a DNP Program If:

  • You want terminal degree
  • Leadership interests you
  • Timeline 2.5-4 years acceptable
  • Budget $51,450-$105,702 manageable

Best DNP Choices:

  • Budget: Arizona State University ($51,450 residents)
  • Speed: University of Arizona (2.5 years)
  • Clinical Hours: Arizona State University (1,125)
  • Prestige: University of Arizona (top 1% globally)

Application Timeline

12-18 Months Before:

  1. Research programs by budget, format, clinical hours
  2. Verify RN license status
  3. Complete prerequisite courses if needed
  4. Request transcripts
  5. Identify references
  6. Calculate total costs

6-12 Months Before:

  1. Submit applications (top 2-3 programs)
  2. Complete background checks
  3. Prepare personal statements
  4. Request recommendation letters
  5. Complete interviews
  6. Apply for financial aid
  7. Research clinical placement options

3-6 Months Before:

  1. Accept admission
  2. Complete enrollment requirements
  3. Arrange tuition payment
  4. Purchase textbooks
  5. Set up technology
  6. Plan work schedule adjustments
  7. Identify preceptors if self-placement

1-3 Months Before:

  1. Attend orientation
  2. Complete immunizations
  3. Finalize clinical placements
  4. Join student communities
  5. Review prerequisites
  6. Arrange support systems
  7. Prepare study environment

Conclusion

Arizona offers diverse PMHNP pathways through four campus-based institutions and four national online programs. Northern Arizona University provides the most affordable options ($9,177+ certificate, $19,152 MSN) with rural health specialization. Arizona State University delivers comprehensive clinical training (1,125 DNP hours) at resident-friendly prices. University of Arizona combines global prestige with fastest DNP completion (2.5 years). Grand Canyon University integrates Christian values throughout curriculum.

National programs add flexibility: Wilkes University achieves highest pass rates (95.4%) with complimentary placement services; Chamberlain offers Practicum Commitment guarantee with 90%+ financial aid; Purdue Global enables workplace clinicals with quarter-system pacing; University of Phoenix provides tuition guarantee with extensive start dates.

Your ideal program depends on budget ($9,177-$105,702), desired credential, timeline (1-4 years), clinical requirements (500-1,125 hours), format (fully online vs. hybrid), and career goals. Arizona residents benefit from significant savings at ASU and U of A, while national programs offer geographic flexibility and specialized support. Consider pass rates, clinical placement assistance, accreditation, and graduate outcomes when finalizing your decision.