Ohio offers eight CCNE-accredited PMHNP programs ranging from $20,756 to $72,576 for master’s degrees, with completion times spanning 1.5 years to 4 years depending on program type and enrollment pace.
| School | Est. Cost Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland State University | MSN: $31K Cert: $23K DNP: $59K | – CCNE accredited with clinical placement support. – Online MSN plus Post-Bacc DNP option. – 48–92 credit tracks with local clinicals. – Ranked #1 Ohio public university for social mobility. |
| Kent State University | MSN: $21K Cert: $21K | – Fall and spring starts with flexible pacing. – 34–50 credit plans with four practicum blocks. – Online delivery with 600+ clinical hours. – CCNE accredited with clear RN experience rules. |
| Mount Carmel College of Nursing | MSN: $45K Cert: $23K | – Small classes with 10:1 faculty ratio. – 500+ clinical hours across adult, geriatric, pediatric. – 100% job placement within 12 months. – Strong clinical encounter requirements by age group. |
| Ohio State University | MSN: $73K Cert: $24K–$34K BSN→DNP: $73K GEM: $87K–$97K | – Online specialty tracks with research access. – 600 clinical hours across three courses. – Multiple paths for nurses and non-nurses. – CCNE accredited with strong medical center ties. |
| Ohio University | MSN: $23K Cert: $13K BSN-DNP: $43K MSN-DNP: $24K | – Online with no GRE/GMAT and 15-week courses. – 750 clinical hours and CCNE accreditation. – Part-time pacing with 15% scholarship for eligible tracks. – Broad transfer credit policy (up to 9 credits). |
| Ursuline College | MSN: $55K DNP: $71K Cert: $15K | – NLN Center of Excellence designation. – 500 clinical hours across three blocks. – Adult and pediatric psychiatric coverage. – CCNE accredited with fall and spring starts. |
| University of Toledo | MSN: $38K–$46K DNP: $65K–$78K Cert: $15K–$18K | – CCNE accredited with ProMedica clinical system link. – 780–1,170 clinical hours depending on track. – 52–74 credit plans with population-based clinicals. – Strong preceptor network across MI and OH. |
| Wright State University | MSN: $36K | – 46-credit program with 560 clinical hours. – Three practicum blocks (112, 168, 280 hours). – Psychiatric RN experience required. – Recognized as a Best Online Graduate Nursing Program. |
PMHNP Programs List for Ohio Nurses
Includes in-state as well as applicable national online programs.
Cleveland State University PMHNP Program
Cleveland | $636.70 cpc | Certificate
Cleveland State University offers a fully online MSN-PMHNP (48 credits over six semesters) and a 15-month Post-Graduate Certificate, both with clinical placements arranged near students’ communities. The MSN includes 780 supervised clinical hours and coursework in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, psychiatric assessment, neuropsychopharmacology, and theory-based care across the lifespan. Taught by engaged, tenure-track faculty, the programs emphasize evidence-based practice and prepare graduates for national PMHNP certification and roles in diverse settings. CSU is CCNE- and HLC-accredited and recognized for exceptional social mobility, providing flexible options for working nurses...read more.
Kent State PMHNP Program
Kent | $612 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Kent State University offers two fully online PMHNP pathways—an MSN concentration and a post-graduate certificate—each 34 credits with no campus visits and fall/spring starts. The curriculum covers advanced assessment, psychopathology, neurobiology, psychopharmacology, individual psychotherapy, and family/group therapy. Students complete four supervised practicums (individual therapy, medication management, family/group therapy, and a final NP role immersion) in diverse clinical settings. Estimated tuition is ~$20,756 for Ohio residents; typical timelines are about 2–3 years (MSN) and 1.5–2 years (certificate), and graduates are ANCC PMHNP exam–eligible...read more.
Mount Carmel PMHNP Program
Columbus | $980 cpc | MSN
Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers two online PMHNP pathways—an MSN (46 credits) and a post-graduate certificate (22–25 credits)—with three on-site immersions. Both tracks include 500 supervised clinical hours across adult, pediatric, and geriatric populations and maintain a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Full-time students can finish in about 18 months (certificate in ~12–18 months), and graduates are eligible for ANCC PMHNP certification. The program reports 100% employment within 12 months of graduation...read more.
Ohio State PMHNP Program
Columbus | $972.50 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
Ohio State University’s College of Nursing offers four PMHNP pathways—MSN (62 credits), Post-Master’s Certificate (plan varies), BSN-to-DNP (88 credits), and a Graduate Entry MS for non-nurses. Programs use a distance-learning format with flexible full- or part-time pacing and include 600 precepted clinical hours supported by faculty and established health-system partnerships. Typical timelines range from ~1–2 years (certificate) and ~2–2.5 years (MSN) to ~3–4 years (BSN-DNP) and ~3 years (Graduate Entry), with estimated MSN tuition of ~$72,576 for Ohio residents (~$86K non-residents). Outcomes include ~75% employment within 12 months and a nationally ranked online DNP program among public institutions...read more.
Ohio University PMHNP Program
Athens | $584 - $658 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
Ohio University offers four online PMHNP pathways that are CCNE-accredited and built for working nurses. The MSN and certificate tracks include 750 clinical hours and prepare graduates for ANCC certification. The BSN-DNP track includes 1,000 total clinical/practicum hours, while the MSN-DNP adds doctoral-level practicum and immersion. Students study part-time in 15-week terms, can transfer up to nine credits, and may qualify for a 15% scholarship...read more.
Ursuline College PMHNP Program
Pepper Pike | $946 - $1,312 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
Ursuline College’s Breen School of Nursing offers three PMHNP pathways—MSN (42 credits), BSN-to-DNP (75 credits), and a 16-credit post-graduate certificate—preparing clinicians to assess, diagnose, and treat mental illness across the lifespan. Designated an NLN Center of Excellence and ranked #34 nationally (#3 in Ohio) by U.S. News & World Report, the program blends online and face-to-face options with fall and spring starts for working nurses. Learners complete a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours split across adult, pediatric, and systems-based psychiatric practicums with strong emphasis on psychopharmacology and therapy. Typical timelines: MSN ~2–2.5 years, certificate ~12–18 months, and BSN-to-DNP ~3–4 years (full-time)...read more.
UToledo PMHNP Programs
Toledo | $730 - $883 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
UToledo’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways include an online MSN, a post-bacc DNP, and a 21-credit graduate certificate, all with limited on-campus labs and clinicals. Backed by ProMedica partnerships and practicing faculty, students complete 780–1,170 supervised hours across diverse psychiatric settings. Flexible full- or part-time plans and competitive in-state tuition help many graduates secure roles before finishing...read more.
Walden University PMHNP Programs
Fully Online | $775 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Walden University’s fully online PMHNP pathways allow Ohio nurses to advance from the BSN, MSN, or post-master’s level into psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner roles without relocating or pausing their careers. Ohio students receive practicum placement assistance via the Practicum Pledge and benefit from a virtual skills lab that supports hands-on preparation in assessment, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology. The programs are designed to prepare graduates for PMHNP certification and to serve in a variety of mental health settings across Ohio.
Wright State PMHNP Program
Dayton | $780 cpc | MSN
Wright State University’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP MSN is a 46-credit, two-year program that blends 24 credits of graduate nursing core with 22 credits of specialty coursework and 560 supervised clinical hours across three practicums. Delivered primarily online, it includes a two-day on-campus health assessment and required Tuesday on-campus sessions during practicum terms, with individualized study plans for second-master’s and post-master’s students. Admission typically requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and recent psychiatric experience, plus a two-step application, background check, and references. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANPCB certification and are prepared for comprehensive psychiatric care—including assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management—supported by strong community clinical partnerships...read more.
Chamberlain MSN PMHNP Program
online | $735 cpc | Certificate / MSN
The Chamberlain University MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program, based in Columbus, OH, offers both a 45-credit MSN track and a 35-credit Graduate Certificate option delivered entirely online. Accredited by the CCNE, the programs include 650 supervised practicum hours that train nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan using evidence-based therapies and medication management. The MSN track can be completed in about 2.5 years for approximately $33,075, while the Graduate Certificate takes around 1.5 years at an estimated cost of $25,725.
Nightingale College PMHNP Program
online | $550 cpc | MSN
Nightingale College’s MSN-PMHNP is a 55-credit program completed in about 24 months, delivered fully online with one short in-person seminar and faculty-supported precepted clinicals. Learners complete 547.5 didactic hours and 810 clinical contact hours while mastering assessment, diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy for ANCC PMHNP certification readiness. The estimated total cost is about $34,750 (tuition plus resource fees). The program is authorized in Ohio, enabling Ohio RNs to enroll and complete clinical placements aligned with state requirements.
Post University PMHNP Programs
online | $604 cpc | MSN
Post University's approach to the PMHNP degree is sequential and focused, with students taking one course every 8 weeks to complete the 51-54 credit hours over about 34 months. The curriculum systematically progresses from foundational advanced practice courses to 33 specialized psychiatric credits, including a Diagnostic Reasoning course required if the initial APEA 3P competency exam is not passed. The final preceptorship (N 569) is a culminating experience requiring 135 hours to demonstrate synthesis of all PMHNP knowledge and clinical skills.
Purdue Global PMHNP Programs
online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Purdue Global offers three online PMHNP options: Postgraduate Certificate, MSN focus, and MSN-to-DNP. Estimated totals are ~$20,160 for the certificate (~1.5 years) and ~$32,760 for the MSN (~2 years); the MSN-to-DNP continues after the MSN. The university is authorized to offer these programs to Ohio residents.
WGU PMHNP Programs
online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN
WGU’s PMHNP programs emphasize flexibility and outcomes: you progress by proving skills, not sitting through seat time. The MSN track typically takes at least 2.5 years and the certificate about 1.5, each requiring 650 clinical hours arranged near home. Ongoing support from mentors and instructors keeps momentum high from start to finish.
Wilkes University PMHNP Programs
online | $751 cpc | Certificate / MSN / RN to MSN
Wilkes University provides Ohio RNs with three CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways delivered 100% online with flexible 12-week courses and multiple start dates. Ohio students complete clinical practicums at psychiatric-mental health sites across the state with support from Wilkes' dedicated placement team that secures preceptors and coordinates all required documentation. The programs prepare Ohio nurses for national PMHNP certification with tuition options ranging from $21,779 for the post-graduate certificate to $31,680 for the DNP track.
Choosing a PMHNP School in Ohio
TLDR: Quick Program Recommendations
Choose Kent State University if you want the lowest tuition for Ohio residents ($20,756 MSN/certificate) with flexible fall and spring start dates and customizable academic scheduling.
Choose Ohio University if you want affordable tuition ($23,360 MSN) with no GRE/GMAT requirements, 15% scholarship eligibility, up to 9 transfer credits, and 750 clinical hours in 15-week courses.
Choose Wright State University if you want competitive pricing ($35,880 MSN) with U.S. News recognition as a “Best Online Graduate Nursing Program” and strong community partnerships.
Choose University of Toledo if you want ProMedica healthcare partnership with 780 clinical hours and graduates who often secure employment before graduation.
Choose Mount Carmel if you want the fastest MSN completion (18 months) with 10:1 student-faculty ratio, 100% employment within 12 months, and specific population encounter requirements.
Choose Cleveland State University if you want #1 Ohio public university for social mobility with dedicated clinical placement support and 1,088 DNP clinical hours.
Choose Ursuline College if you want National League for Nursing Center of Excellence designation with face-to-face or online course options and fall/spring start dates.
Choose Ohio State University if you want access to the country’s most comprehensive health sciences center with cutting-edge research despite higher tuition ($72,576 MSN).
Master’s-Level PMHNP Program Comparison
Kent State and Ohio University offer the most affordable MSN options for Ohio residents at $20,756 and $23,360 respectively, while Mount Carmel provides the fastest completion at just 18 months. Ohio State commands premium pricing but delivers comprehensive health sciences center resources.
| School | Total Cost (OH Residents) | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kent State University | $20,756 | 2-3 years | 675 hrs |
| Ohio University | $23,360 | 2-3 years (6 semesters) | 750 hrs |
| Cleveland State University | $30,562 | 2 years | Embedded in practicum courses |
| Wright State University | $35,880 | 2-3 years | 560 hrs |
| University of Toledo | $38,000-$46,000 | 2.5-3 years | 780 hrs |
| Mount Carmel | $45,080 | 18 months | 500 hrs |
| Ursuline College | $55,104 | 2-2.5 years | 500 hrs |
| Ohio State University | $72,576 | 2-2.5 years | 600 hrs |
Key Differentiators:
- Lowest Cost: Kent State at $20,756, followed closely by Ohio University at $23,360
- Fastest Completion: Mount Carmel completes in just 18 months full-time
- Most Clinical Hours: University of Toledo requires 780 hours, followed by Ohio University (750) and Kent State (675)
- Student-Faculty Ratio: Mount Carmel maintains 10:1 ratio with individualized attention
- Employment Outcomes: Mount Carmel reports 100% employment within 12 months
- Special Features: Ohio University offers 15% scholarship, no GRE/GMAT, up to 9 transfer credits; Wright State requires psychiatric nursing experience (1 year full-time or 2 years part-time)
- Population Requirements: Mount Carmel requires minimum 25 encounters each with adult, pediatric, and geriatric patients plus therapy hours
- Research Access: Ohio State provides cutting-edge research in comprehensive health sciences center
- NLN Recognition: Ursuline designated as National League for Nursing Center of Excellence
- Social Mobility: Cleveland State ranks #1 public university in Ohio for social mobility (U.S. News)
DNP-PMHNP Program Comparison
Cleveland State offers the most affordable DNP at $58,616 with the highest clinical hour requirement (1,030-1,170), while Ohio University provides competitive pricing ($43,260) with CCNE accreditation and flexible part-time options.
| School | Total Cost | Duration | Practice Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University BSN-DNP | $43,260 | 3 years | 1,000 hrs |
| Cleveland State University | $58,616 | 4 years | 1,088 hrs |
| University of Toledo | $65,000-$78,000 | 3.5-4 years | 1,030-1,170 |
| Ursuline College | $70,950 | 3-4 years | 500 PMHNP + DNP residency |
| Ohio State University | $72,583 | 3-4 years | 600+ clinical + DNP immersion |
DNP Highlights:
- Most Affordable: Ohio University’s BSN-DNP at $43,260, saving $15,356 compared to Cleveland State
- Most Credits: Cleveland State requires 92 credits (highest); Ohio University requires 70 credits (lowest)
- Total Hours: University of Toledo requires the most practice hours (1,030-1,170); Cleveland State specifies 1,088 detailed hours
- ProMedica Partnership: UToledo benefits from healthcare system collaboration with practicing faculty
- Doctoral Requirements: All programs include DNP project/scholarly work and advanced leadership competencies
- Format Options: Ursuline offers both face-to-face and online options for flexibility
- Clinical Distribution: Cleveland State breaks down hours: 960 PMHNP clinical + 90 assessment + 30 population health
- Completion Timeline: Ohio University completes in 3 years full-time (fastest); others require 3.5-4 years
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Comparison
Ohio University offers the lowest certificate cost at $12,860 for Ohio residents, while Kent State matches this affordability ($20,756). Mount Carmel provides the fastest completion at 12-18 months with accelerated intensive format.
| School | Cost Range (OH Residents) | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University | $12,860 | 1-1.5 years (3 semesters) | 750 hrs |
| Ursuline College | $15,136 | 1-1.5 years | 500 hrs |
| University of Toledo | $15,000-$18,500 | 1.5 years part-time | 780 hrs |
| Kent State University | $20,756 | 1.5-2 years | 675 hrs |
| Mount Carmel | $22,540 | 12-18 months | 500 hrs |
| Cleveland State University | $22,921 | 1.25 years | Embedded in practicum |
| Ohio State University | $24,000-$34,000 | 1-2 years | 600 hrs |
Certificate Highlights:
- Lowest Cost: Ohio University at $12,860, followed by Ursuline at $15,136
- Fastest Completion: Mount Carmel completes in 12-18 months with preceptors/sites secured upfront
- Most Clinical Hours: University of Toledo requires 780 hours (highest); Ohio University requires 750
- Prerequisites: Most programs require advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment completed within 5 years
- Current Certification: Ursuline requires board certification as AG-CNS, AGPCNP, AGACNP, or FNP; Mount Carmel requires any current APRN certification
- Transfer Credits: Cleveland State accepts transfer credits for advanced practice core courses (B or better, completed within 5 years)
- Credit Variability: Ohio State range (25-35 credits) reflects comprehensive syllabi review and individualized planning
- State Restrictions: UToledo limits clinical experiences to Michigan and Ohio only
- 15% Scholarship: Ohio University offers scholarship eligibility for certificate students
Admissions Requirements Comparison
| School | Minimum GPA | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
| Kent State University | 3.0 (2.75 starting spring 2026) | Fall and spring starts |
| Ohio University | 3.0 (BSN), 3.2 (DNP) | Rolling |
| Wright State University | 3.0 | Not specified |
| University of Toledo | 3.0 | Via NursingCAS |
| Mount Carmel | 3.0 | Rolling |
| Cleveland State University | 3.0-3.25 | Priority: Apr 15, Rolling after |
| Ursuline College | 3.0 recommended | Fall and spring starts |
| Ohio State University | 3.0 | Rolling |
Admission Notes:
- All programs require BSN from CCNE-, ACEN-, or CNEA-accredited institutions and active RN licensure
- Wright State University uniquely requires psychiatric nursing experience (1 year full-time or 2 years part-time)
- Kent State is lowering GPA requirement to 2.75 starting spring 2026 and eliminating statistics prerequisite
- Ohio University requires no GRE/GMAT and conducts web-based faculty interviews
- Ohio State uses HireVue platform for recorded online video interviews with holistic application review
- University of Toledo uses NursingCAS application system and restricts clinicals to Michigan/Ohio
- Cleveland State offers three annual intake opportunities (Fall, Spring, Summer) with priority deadline April 15
- Most programs require 2-3 professional letters of recommendation (master’s-prepared preferred)
- Application fees range from $25 (Ursuline) to $30 (Mount Carmel) to standard graduate school fees
- Certificate programs typically require existing APRN certification or master’s in nursing
- International students must provide English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS) at most institutions